Winnetka Village Manager Robert Bahan Retires

WINNETKA, IL — Village Manager Robert Bahan is officially retiring this month after 15 years of serving in the role in Winnetka.

To support a smooth leadership transition, Bahan will continue working with the village on special projects and will serve as an advisor before officially retiring in early 2026.

Throughout his time as Winnetka's Village Manager, Bahan planned and implemented extensive infrastructure improvement, including the Stormwater Management Program, the Downtown Streetscape Plan, major road and bridge projects and utility system upgrades.

He also developed the village's first economic development program, resulting in key developments such as Tala Coffee, Chase Bank and the One Winnetka project. Village officials also credited Bahan for the village's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Under his stewardship, Winnetka maintained its tradition of sound financial management, earning awards for excellence in budgeting and financial reporting, all while preserving the Village’s AAA bond rating," officials said in a statement.

Prior to his service in Winnetka, Bahan served as the Village manager in Clarendon Hills and held key administrative roles in Woodridge and Wilmette.