Skokie To Vote For First New Mayor In 26 Years: Election 2025

SKOKIE, IL — For the first time in almost 30 years, on Election Day, Skokie residents will vote for a new mayor.

Three candidates are running for the mayor's seat, which has been held by current Mayor George Van Dusen since 1999. With Van Dusen not seeking reelection, on Tuesday, Skokie voters will either cast their votes for Charles Isho, Ann Tennes or David "Azi" Lifsics for Mayor.

Tennes, a former Skokie communications director, and Lifsics, an attorney, spoke with Patch about key issues in Skokie. Isho did not respond to an interview request from Patch and hasn't attended any public forums. No profiles or interviews with Isho are available online.

See related:

• Meet Ann Tennes: Candidate For Skokie Mayor
• Meet David "Azi" Lifsics: Candidate For Skokie Mayor

Village Budget and Fiscal Policy

Lifsics: "Skokie has a top-tier police department, and we must ensure officers have the funding, training, and equipment necessary to do their jobs effectively."

Isho: "I am committed to work together with law enforcement, to prioritize the safety of our schools and neighborhoods. A secure environment is essential for families and businesses to prosper."

Commercial and Residential Development

Tennes: "It is essential that the Village create an economic development plan for the community. This plan would address how to shore up businesses in all sectors and neighborhoods of Skokie so that the Village has a set plan to support and increase economic growth."

Lifsics: "Skokie has done an admirable job balancing growth with maintaining the character of our community. However, as we look to the future, we must ensure that development is intentional, sustainable, and serves the long-term interests of residents and businesses alike."

Isho: "Attracting businesses to Skokie is key to increasing revenue, reducing taxes on residents and creating more jobs for our community. I will focus on making Skokie a hub for thriving businesses while ensuring economic growth benefits everyone."

Rat Problem

Tennes: "Reviewing the Village’s approach to rodent abatement. It’s clear to residents and business owners that more is needed to get this problem under control. As mayor, I will pursue regional and innovative approaches to the issue."

Lifsics: According to Lifsics' campaign website, if elected he plans to restore twice-a-week garbage collection to reduce the rat population, improve sanitation and improve the quality of life for Skokie residents.

Isho: "I will work with residents to keep Skokie's streets and alleys clean, tackling rodent problems and ensuring a healthy, welcoming village. A clean environment is a vital part of a thriving community."