Evanston’s community development director, Johanna Nyden, announced Tuesday that she’s leaving to take a similar position with the Village of Skokie.
Nyden has been Evanston’s community development director since 2017 and had previously held other positions, including economic development manager, since joining the city in 2010.
“It is a bittersweet departure,” said Nyden. “My experiences in Evanston have indelibly shaped my career trajectory. As I move forward to this next chapter, I will always cherish my time serving this great community.”
“Nyden has been a champion of building on Evanston’s mission to be the most livable city,” said Interim City Manager Luke Stowe. “We will miss her contributions to the team. We thank her for her service to the City of Evanston and wish her the best in this new position.”
During her tenure, Nyden was part of many community and economic development initiatives and projects.
They included the development of Trader Joe’s and other mixed-use developments; codification of new uses like micro-distilleries, brew-pubs and cannabis dispensaries; redevelopment of the Howard Street corridor; adoption of an updated building code, expansion of affordable housing opportunities, and investment in planning for the CTA’s Red-Purple Modernization.
“The Village of Skokie is very fortunate to have an individual with Johanna’s breadth of experience, professionalism and credentials joining the team as community development director,” said Skokie Village Manager John Lockerby.
Nyden grew up in Evanston and attended Evanston Township High School. She and her family currently live in Skokie.
Another critical Evanston official leaves the sinking ship. People need to watch committee meetings and see the shenanigans and disrespect newer members of the council display. Last night Devon Reid left his seat and walked behind the Mayor over to corporation council and showed him a page of Roberts Rules of Order to prove a point.
The “same thirty people “ that plagued the last administration are in full voice at every public comment session. Will Junad Rizkie please come back, I miss his repertoire.
Why would anyone want to work for the city?
Evanston’s loss is Skokie’s gain. Johanna is a true talent and will be sorely missed. I wish her the best in her new role.