Streator hires new community development director

Streator officials have appointed Dean Chalkey as its new community development director.

Chalkey, a lifelong Streator resident, will begin his new role on Monday, Feb. 10.

According to a news release, Chalkey has more than 30 years of experience in the civil engineering consulting industry, will be responsible for revitalizing the city’s economic development initiatives, especially following the recent closure of the Owens-Illinois facility, which resulted in the loss of about 150 jobs.

His duties also will include overseeing the city’s zoning and community planning programs and working with property owners to promote Streator’s vacant and underutilized properties.

He will assist City Engineer Jeremy Palm with capital improvement projects, streamlining the city’s engineering services and reducing the need for outsourcing.

Chalkey most recently worked with a civil engineering firm serving clients across North Central Illinois. He has held senior positions, including principal/vice president, division manager and senior project manager. He has been a member of the Streator Plan Commission.

His experience includes working on large infrastructure projects, subdivisions, hotel and retail developments, as well as industrial and warehouse expansions across several counties, including La Salle, Livingston and Bureau.

Chalkey lives in Streator with his wife, two daughters, and their two French bulldogs, Walter and Eddie.