Orland Park Village Board Appoints George Koczwara as Village Manager

Mayor Pro Tem announced, Downtown Orland Park development reviewed

The Village of Orland Park is pleased to announce the appointment of George Koczwara as Orland Park Village Manager, following a special meeting held on May 12, 2025.

Koczwara, who previously served as Orland Park’s Village Manager, returns to the position armed with extensive experience and a deep understanding of the community.

Koczwara’s credentials include a significant tenure as the Village Manager of Orland Park and prior experience as Deputy City Manager for the City of Crystal Lake.

His comprehensive expertise in municipal finance, community development, and operational management positions him as uniquely qualified to lead Orland Park during this pivotal time of growth and development.

Orland Park Mayoral candidate Jim Dodge Nov 2024 — Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge

“George’s deep knowledge of our community and proven track record make him an invaluable asset for our village,” said Mayor Jim Dodge. “We are excited to welcome him back into this important role. His competence and reliability are qualities that will help guide Orland Park into the future.”

During the same special meeting, the Village Board also reviewed a crucial contract regarding the downtown Orland Park redevelopment project, highlighting the administration’s commitment to revitalizing the downtown area and enhancing economic opportunities.

In addition, the board appointed a new Mayor Pro Tem, Trustee Joanna Liotine Leafblad, who will serve as mayor in the instance of the mayor’s absence.

The Village of Orland Park looks forward to the positive impacts of Koczwara’s return as Village Manager and the new leadership structure in place to serve the community effectively.

For more information about Village initiatives and updates, please visit orlandpark.org.

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Ray Hanania is an award-winning opinion columnist, author & former Chicago City Hall reporter (1977-1992). A veteran who served during the Vietnam War and the recipient of four SPJ Peter Lisagor Awards for column writing, Hanania writes weekly opinion columns on mainstream American & Chicagoland topics for the Southwest News-Herald, Des Plaines Valley News, the Regional News, The Reporter Newspapers, and Suburban Chicagoland.

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