Meet Khemarey "Khem" Khoeun: Candidate For Skokie At-Large Trustee

SKOKIE, IL — Current Trustee Khemarey "Khem" Khoeun is running for Trustee At-Large in Skokie's April 1 election.

Khoeun has over 20 years of professional experience in product management and civic engagement, including serving as Skokie Park District Commissioner from 2017 to 2021 as the first Cambodian-American woman elected to public office in the U.S. She was elected Village Trustee in 2021, becoming the first Asian American woman on the board.

She is running against Joseph Nowik, Keith A. Robinson and Gail Schechter for Skokie At-Large Trustee.

Learn more about Khoeun and her goals for Skokie:

Age (as of Election day)

44

Campaign website

keithandkhem.com

Education

Bachelor’s Degree, Social Work Loyola University

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

The most pressing issues facing our board are ensuring we protect residents from property tax increases, supporting small businesses to strengthen our local economy, and making strategic investments in our infrastructure.

Skokie has maintained flat property taxes for over 35 years, and I’m committed to continuing that legacy of fiscal responsibility. I will work to ensure we make smart, efficient budget decisions that avoid placing additional burden on our residents — continuing to say no to property tax increases while growing our revenue base through thoughtful economic development, not higher taxes.

I will continue supporting small businesses, which are the backbone of our community. From helping entrepreneurs navigate the startup process to revitalizing our commercial corridors like Downtown Skokie and Main Street, I will champion policies that help small businesses thrive and bring vibrancy to our neighborhoods.

At the same time, we must invest in our infrastructure — from roads, sidewalks, and water systems to digital infrastructure and sustainability efforts — to ensure Skokie remains a safe, accessible, and future-ready community for all.

And importantly, I will continue working in collaboration with other elected officials and government stakeholders at the county, state, and federal levels to bring additional resources and funding to Skokie — expanding opportunities for investment in our infrastructure, economic development, and community well-being without increasing the burden on local taxpayers.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

My unique combination of lived experience, professional expertise, and dedication to effective and inclusive governance sets me apart from other candidates. With over 20 years in public service, community organizing, and the private sector, I have a deep understanding of residents’ needs and local businesses’ challenges.

• Community-Centered Leadership: I prioritize collaborative, inclusive leadership, ensuring everyone has a voice. As a child of immigrants, I know the importance of creating safe spaces for engagement.
• Proven Track Record: With over 20 years of experience in public service, community organizing, and private-sector innovation, I bring a deep understanding of how to build partnerships, advocate for change, and drive sustainable progress.
• Economic Development with Fiscal Responsibility: I am committed to no property tax increases and ensuring economic development benefits all residents without placing a financial burden on them. My approach supports small businesses and prioritizes sustainable growth while keeping Skokie’s financial stability intact.
• Institutional Knowledge: At a time when Skokie will have its first mayor and potentially a completely new board, I bring valuable institutional knowledge and an understanding of our community’s needs. This experience ensures continuity, stability, and effective leadership as we navigate this transitional period.

In sum, my focus on inclusive leadership, proven results, economic growth, and institutional knowledge positions me to serve Skokie effectively during this pivotal moment in our community’s history.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

N/A

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

In addition to fiscal responsibility, small business support, and infrastructure investment, my campaign is defined by a deep commitment to equity, inclusive governance, and sustainability — values that reflect who we are as a village and where we need to go.

I am committed to fostering meaningful community engagement in decision-making by making information more accessible to all residents. This involves enhancing our Village website with content that is clear, concise, intuitive, and easy to navigate, as well as increasing opportunities for community engagement. By providing safe and welcoming spaces for residents to share their perspectives, we can ensure they not only respond to policies, but also actively participate in shaping the future of our village.

To ensure Skokie continues to be a diverse and welcoming community, I am committed to promoting housing development and affordability. This includes supporting a well-rounded mix of housing options and working closely with stakeholders to address evolving housing needs. Achieving this requires a comprehensive housing study and the creation of a land trust. These tools will enable us to develop effective policies that promote, rather than obstruct, development and establish achievable benchmarks and milestones.

Environmental sustainability is another key focus of my campaign. Skokie continues to work on its ambitious but achievable sustainability plan, and I am committed to advancing efforts in green infrastructure, energy efficiency, and long-term environmental stewardship. By supporting these initiatives, we can ensure that Skokie remains a sustainable, climate-resilient community for future generations, while also enhancing the quality of life for our residents today.

Finally, my leadership is rooted in collaboration and coalition-building — working across government levels and community sectors to bring in additional resources, amplify community voices, and create solutions that reflect the collective vision of Skokie’s diverse residents.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills needed to handle the responsibilities of this position. -

• Inclusive Governance: As the co-chair of the committee working on revising Skokie’s Village Seal, I led efforts to engage Indigenous communities, ensuring their voices were heard in a meaningful way. This work exemplifies my commitment to equity, inclusivity, and community engagement.
• Civic Leadership: During my time as the Director of Organizing for a major immigrant-led coalition in Chicagoland, I worked with 23 partner organizations to create meaningful change. This experience sharpened my ability to build coalitions, advocate for policies that empower communities, and drive social justice initiatives.
• Community Development: I have played a significant role in revitalizing key areas in Skokie, including working with Westfield to secure continued investment in Skokie and focusing on the revitalization of the Main Street commercial corridor. These experiences have honed my ability to manage complex projects and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to deliver results.
• Fiscal Responsibility: As a product manager and in my previous roles in nonprofit leadership, I have gained extensive experience in managing budgets, leading teams, and making strategic decisions that ensure long-term sustainability. This experience has prepared me to make sound data-driven decisions and ensure that Skokie remains financially stable.

These accomplishments demonstrate my ability to deliver results, foster collaboration, and navigate the complexities of local governance — all of which will allow me to effectively serve the people of Skokie.

Why should voters trust you?

Voters should trust me because I have a proven track record of delivering results, prioritizing the needs of the community, and remaining committed to integrity and transparency. My dedication to inclusive governance is rooted in my own experiences as a first-generation immigrant and as someone who has spent over 20 years working directly with diverse communities to create positive change.

I have always prioritized people over politics, whether it’s through my work advocating for immigrant rights, revitalizing Skokie’s business districts, or ensuring that the voices of historically marginalized groups are heard in local decision-making. My background in both civic engagement and professional leadership means I have the skills to navigate complex challenges, make informed decisions, and advocate for what’s best for Skokie.

As a candidate, I am committed to no property tax increases, fostering small business growth, and investing in Skokie’s future — all while maintaining the values of equity, sustainability, and community collaboration. I’ve consistently followed through on my promises, and I will continue to do so as your Trustee.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

If I win this position, the accomplishment that would make my term in office a success is achieving tangible, long-term improvements that benefit all of Skokie’s residents — from maintaining our no property tax increases policy to revitalizing our local economy and ensuring that our infrastructure is robust, sustainable, and prepared for future growth. Success to me means working collaboratively with community members and stakeholders to create policies that reflect our shared values and priorities. If, at the end of my term, Skokie is more united, more resilient, and more prosperous, then I will consider my work a success.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

As a candidate, I believe in fiscal responsibility and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively. Skokie has maintained its no property tax increases policy for 35 years, and I am committed to upholding that legacy. I believe we can continue to make smart investments in our community, without overburdening taxpayers, by prioritizing efficient, transparent budgeting and focusing on long-term solutions.

Government spending should be directed toward projects that enhance our infrastructure, support small businesses, and promote the well-being of all residents. At the same time, I believe in accountability—ensuring that every dollar is spent with clear goals in mind and that residents see a direct benefit from the investments we make.

As Trustee, I will work to ensure that our fiscal policies are both responsible and forward-thinking, balancing the immediate needs of our community with planning for future growth and sustainability. My goal is to make decisions that reflect the best interests of taxpayers while fostering continued prosperity for Skokie.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

Skokie continues to be a safe and welcoming community. However, like many other towns, we must remain proactive in addressing crime concerns, particularly hate incidents and violent crime. A thriving community is built on public safety, which requires investment in early intervention and prevention, in addition to response.

Safety also involves addressing root causes and preventing harm before it happens. This includes using both quantitative and qualitative data to identify trends early on, especially those related to hate incidents and hate crimes, and taking decisive action before these incidents escalate.

I also strongly support our current co-responder program, where mental health professionals and law enforcement work together to respond to calls involving behavioral health crises, substance use, or individuals in distress. This approach not only gives residents the proper care they need but also allows officers to concentrate on crime prevention and response. We must continue to invest in and strategically expand resources for this program, so it becomes a more accessible and effective tool for the entire community.

Furthermore, prevention requires investment in community-building, youth programming, mental health support, and strong neighborhood relationships—proven approaches that foster safety and belonging. It's not just about policing; it's about creating a culture of care, trust, and accountability throughout Skokie.

Finally, I believe we should invest in neighborhood watch programs and other community-driven initiatives that encourage residents to look out for one another. Collaborating as a community to identify and address problems before they escalate can be just as effective as traditional law enforcement methods.

By combining data-driven strategies, innovative public safety models, and community-centered investments, we can address crime more effectively and ensure that everyone in Skokie feels safe and supported.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

Skokie has made great strides in commercial and residential development over the years, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve seen, especially in revitalizing areas like Downtown Skokie and Westfield Old Orchard. However, I believe there is always more we can do to ensure that development aligns with the needs and values of our community.

For commercial development, the focus should be on attracting businesses that not only bring jobs and economic growth but also contribute to the character and vibrancy of our town. I support efforts to continue revitalizing Skokie’s Main Street commercial corridor, making it a destination for residents and visitors alike. Collaboration with local businesses, developers, and the community will be essential to ensure that new development is sustainable and enhances the overall quality of life in our village.

In terms of residential development, I believe it’s important to maintain a balanced mix of housing options to ensure Skokie remains an affordable and diverse community. We need to continue working toward solutions that allow for growth while respecting the character of our neighborhoods. This includes affordable housing and housing that meets the needs of different generations and income levels, whether through new developments or adaptive reuse of existing structures.

Overall, my approach to development would focus on ensuring that growth is sustainable, responsible, and inclusive, balancing the interests of residents, businesses, and the environment. I believe that by working together with all stakeholders, we can build a Skokie that grows thoughtfully while preserving the qualities that make it such a great place to live.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

When it comes to development in Skokie, there are several key areas where I believe improvements or additions are most wanted by residents:

• Mixed-Use Development: There is a growing desire for more walkable, mixed-use spaces where people can live, work, and shop in the same area. This type of development promotes a vibrant community, reduces the need for car travel, and encourages local business growth. To make this happen, we would need to update zoning regulations, incentivize developers, and work with local businesses to ensure these areas are both accessible and appealing to residents.
• Affordable Housing: As Skokie continues to grow, there’s an increasing need for affordable housing options that cater to a range of incomes. Skokie’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and we must ensure that people from all backgrounds have access to quality housing. To address this, I support the creation of a land trust and conducting a comprehensive housing study to understand the true needs of our community and develop actionable policies that promote affordable housing development while maintaining the integrity of our neighborhoods.
• Green and Sustainable Development: Many residents have expressed interest in more green spaces, parks, and environmentally sustainable buildings. Incorporating sustainable design, energy-efficient buildings, and green infrastructure into development projects will not only improve the quality of life but also help Skokie become a more climate-resilient community. To achieve this, we will need to continue building on our ambitious sustainability plan, incentivize green building practices, and prioritize eco-friendly public spaces.
• Public Transportation and Infrastructure: As Skokie grows, it’s essential that we invest in expanding our public transportation options and improving infrastructure to support the increased development. This includes better access to transit, safer pedestrian pathways, and modernized roads to reduce congestion. Collaboration with regional transportation agencies will be crucial to bringing these improvements to fruition.

To make these developments a reality, we will need a clear vision, collaboration with developers, residents, and stakeholders, as well as a commitment to ensuring that growth is balanced with the needs of our community. By aligning development with Skokie’s values of inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement, we can ensure that future growth benefits everyone.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

One of the most powerful lessons I learned is that leadership shows up in many different ways, and that effective leadership doesn’t always have to be the loudest or most vocal. It’s about understanding when to step forward and when to step back, listening carefully to those around you, and acting with integrity and purpose. True leaders bring people together, create spaces for collaboration, and ensure that every voice is heard. My approach to leadership is about being thoughtful, consistent, and impactful — leading through actions that reflect the needs of the community, not just through words.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I believe in change that is meaningful, intentional, and grounded in our shared values as a community. Change for the sake of change can be destabilizing and short-sighted — leaving us drifting from the very foundations that make Skokie a strong, welcoming place to call home. As we look toward the future, it’s not enough to simply do things differently — we must do them with purpose, compassion, and collective vision.

In this moment, as our community faces transitions and a pivotal opportunity to shape what comes next, it’s critical that we come together to heal the divisions that have taken root. We need to listen to one another, build bridges, and move forward not with fear or resentment, but with hope and shared responsibility. My approach to leadership is about bringing people together — not pushing them apart — and ensuring that any changes we pursue are inclusive, equitable, and strengthen the fabric of our community.

I am committed to advancing policies that reflect unity, inclusion, and long-term sustainability — where the voices and needs of all residents are recognized and respected. Whether it’s protecting Skokie families by ensuring no property tax increases, supporting small businesses as the backbone of our local economy, promoting affordable and diverse housing options, or investing in infrastructure and vibrant commercial corridors, my focus remains on solutions that uplift the whole community.

We are at an important crossroads. With the right leadership, grounded in lived experience, a balance of fresh perspectives and institutional knowledge, we can build a future that honors where we’ve been — and boldly embraces where we’re going. I’m here to ensure that Skokie’s progress continues with thoughtfulness, integrity, and a firm commitment to the values we all hold dear.