Meet Nathan Norman: Candidate For Skokie Trustee, District 2

SKOKIE, IL — Nathan Norman is running to represent District 2 in the Skokie April 1 election.

Norman is a public-service professional with 13 years of experience in local and state government, according to his campaign website. During his career, Norman has served as Evanston’s Manager of Workforce Development and Illinois’s Director of Reentry, and he is currently the Senior Director of

Workforce Development at Oakton College.

He is running for District 2 Trustee against Alison Pure-Slovin.

Learn more about Norman and his goals for Skokie:

Age (as of Election day)

41

Campaign website

Nathan4Skokie.com

Education

Masters of Public Policy and Administration

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

Community engagement and transparency are the most critical issues facing our district. I intend to address these challenges by creating more opportunities for residents to have a voice in local government through participatory processes, community forums, and advisory councils.

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

I am more qualified academically and professionally. I have 13 years of government experience and expertise, while the alternate candidate does not. My experience includes both the local and state levels of government.

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

The current board has not been responsive, supportive, or respected the community's opinion.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I was prompted to run for office because I am passionate about public service. I also decided to run because the current board has several failed projects around the village, and I want to restore trust and transparency in the Village Board.

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

I served under three mayors in municipal government and have led successful public safety, youth development, and workforce development efforts. My proven track record of success is rooted in collaboration, accountability, and trust.

Why should voters trust you?

I took the ethics pledge because public service is a privilege that comes with great responsibility. Integrity, accountability, and transparency are the foundation of good governance. By committing to ethical leadership, I reaffirm my dedication to serving Skokie residents honestly and fairly. I will always put the community's interests above personal or political gain.

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

Investing in bike-friendly infrastructure, improving public transit, and promoting electric vehicle charging stations. Also, it is essential to invest in energy-efficient public buildings, retrofit municipal buildings for energy efficiency, and incentivize green construction practices.

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

It is the village's duty to be fiscally responsible. We should also leverage our resident's expertise and establish a participatory budgeting process that includes residents in the decision-making process.

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?

I have a background in violence prevention and was a member of the executive leadership team of the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention. We need to be proactive and work with our local law enforcement to deter crime and actively combat instances of violence. I would conduct outreach efforts and meet with residents who have experienced violent crime to prevent future acts of violence.

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

I like that the village is encouraging affordable housing and mixed-use options for housing. However, we must ensure that the village enforces the affordable housing ordinance.

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?

Key areas of improvement need to be centered around maintaining infrastructure and projects. The way I would approach achieving this and making sure projects are implemented with efficiency are the following:

• Ensure the project improves the daily lives of Skokie residents.
• Make sure the project is financially responsible and brings long-term value.
• Ensure it aligns with environmental best practices and promotes energy efficiency.
• Ensure it serves all residents, including those in underserved areas.
• Ensure that the community is engaged in the decision-making process.
• Lastly, I would ensure the project would benefit bicyclists and make Skokie more walkable.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Always treat other people how you would like to be treated.

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

I am deeply committed to public service and the Skokie community. Public service is a privilege that comes with great responsibility. Furthermore, integrity, accountability, and transparency are the foundation of good governance. By committing to ethical leadership, I reaffirm my dedication to serving Skokie residents with honesty and fairness. As District 2 Trustee Village Trustee, I promise always to put the interests of the community above personal or political gain.