President Stavropoulos Letter

March 12, 2026

Dear Village Residents,

I would like to share that Village Manager, Jean Heckman, will be retiring from her current role as Village Manager, effective June 12, 2026.

Since joining this Administration in the Spring of 2021 and previously as Village Treasurer and RedTail Interim Manager, Jean has provided steady leadership and guidance during a very important time for the Village of Lakewood.

Over the past several years, she has worked closely with staff, appointed and elected officials, the community, vendors, suppliers, developers, state and federal representatives, stakeholders and the list goes on and on, in order to advance a number of key initiatives, strengthen village operations and help position Lakewood for continued success.

Jean’s commitment to public service, collaborative leadership style and focus on improving the delivery of Village services have made a meaningful impact across the Village. Many of the operational improvements and projects completed since 2021 reflect her dedication to moving the Village forward, with unwavering support of Village staff – even when faced with unrealistic and unreasonable requests and the unprofessional behavior from a select few.

On behalf of the Village, I want to thank Jean for her service and leadership, Personally, I am thankful to have had the opportunity to have worked with and to know Jean.

Please join me in wishing her the very best in whatever she may do next.

More information regarding transition plans will be shared as it becomes available.

Thank you,

 

David Stavropoulos

Village President