Elwood Names Fred Hayes as New Village Administrator

Hayes brings extensive leadership experience to the role, including prior service as police chief.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

The Village of Elwood, Illinois has appointed Fred Hayes as its new Village Administrator. Hayes, who previously served as police chief in Elwood and Joliet, will now oversee day-to-day municipal operations, guide long-term planning, and support the village board in advancing Elwood's strategic goals.

Why it matters

The Village Administrator role is a critical position that helps set the direction for a community. Hayes' appointment brings a seasoned law enforcement leader to the role, which could help strengthen public safety and community relations in Elwood.

The details

Fred Hayes has a long history of leadership roles in the region, including serving as the former police chief in both Elwood and the larger neighboring city of Joliet. In his new role as Village Administrator, Hayes will be responsible for overseeing Elwood's day-to-day municipal operations, guiding the village's long-term strategic planning, and supporting the elected village board.

  • Hayes was appointed as Elwood's new Village Administrator on February 8, 2026.

The players

Fred Hayes

The newly appointed Village Administrator of Elwood, Illinois, who previously served as police chief in Elwood and Joliet.

Elwood Village

A municipality located in Illinois that has named Fred Hayes as its new Village Administrator.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

In his new role, Hayes will work closely with the Elwood Village Board to set priorities and implement initiatives to move the community forward.

The takeaway

The appointment of a seasoned law enforcement leader like Fred Hayes as Elwood's Village Administrator signals the village's commitment to strong community leadership and public safety as it charts its future course.