Lincolnwood Welcomes Back Former Planning Manager as New Community Development Director

Doug Hammel returns to lead key development projects in the village

Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:50pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a collection of architectural models, blueprints, and planning tools arranged elegantly on a clean, white seamless background, conceptually representing the various elements of community development and urban planning.A collection of tools and models symbolize the meticulous planning and development work that goes into shaping a community's future.Lincolnwood Today

The Village of Lincolnwood has announced the appointment of Doug Hammel as its new Community Development Director, effective May 4, 2026. Hammel previously served as the village's Planning and Economic Development Manager for over seven years, playing a key role in major initiatives like the District 1860 mixed-use development and the Carrington senior housing project. After gaining additional experience as the Deputy Director of Community Development in Glenview, Hammel is now returning to Lincolnwood to take on this new leadership role.

Why it matters

Hammel's return to Lincolnwood comes at a critical time as the village prepares for the redevelopment of the Lincolnwood Town Center, a major commercial hub. His extensive experience in managing complex development projects and his institutional knowledge of the community will be invaluable assets as Lincolnwood navigates this next phase of growth and transformation.

The details

During his previous tenure in Lincolnwood, Hammel was instrumental in guiding the planning and zoning process for the District 1860 mixed-use development, as well as the Carrington senior housing project and the Lincolnwood Town Center concept plan. After leaving Lincolnwood in 2017, he served as the Deputy Director of Community Development for the Village of Glenview, where he gained additional experience that he will now bring to his new role in Lincolnwood.

  • Hammel will assume the role of Community Development Director on May 4, 2026.
  • He previously served as Lincolnwood's Planning and Economic Development Manager for over seven years, from 2017 to 2024.

The players

Doug Hammel

The new Community Development Director for the Village of Lincolnwood, with over 25 years of experience in both the private and public sectors, including his previous role as the village's Planning and Economic Development Manager.

Anne Marie Gaura

The Village Manager of Lincolnwood, who praised Hammel's technical and leadership skills, as well as his institutional knowledge of the community.

Jesal Patel

The Mayor of Lincolnwood, who expressed excitement about Hammel's return and his experience in managing complex development projects, particularly the District 1860 project.

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What they’re saying

“I'm very excited to return to Lincolnwood in the role of Community Development Director. My previous time with Lincolnwood was very satisfying, both personally and professionally, highlighted by the development of District 1860. Now, as the community prepares for its next great opportunity, I have the privilege of rejoining the Lincolnwood team and working with local residents and businesses.”

— Doug Hammel, Community Development Director

“Doug brings strong technical and leadership skills as well as incredible institutional knowledge back to Lincolnwood as our new Director. He will be able to take his experience in managing complex development projects to immediately step in to take the lead on the redevelopment of the Lincolnwood Town Center.”

— Anne Marie Gaura, Village Manager

“Having worked with Doug during his time in Lincolnwood, especially on the District 1860 project, I'm excited to see him return as our new Community Development Director.”

— Jesal Patel, Mayor

What’s next

Hammel will begin his new role as Lincolnwood's Community Development Director on May 4, 2026, where he will immediately focus on leading the redevelopment of the Lincolnwood Town Center, a major commercial hub in the village.

The takeaway

Hammel's return to Lincolnwood represents a homecoming for an experienced community development professional who has a proven track record of guiding complex projects and a deep understanding of the village's priorities. His leadership will be crucial as Lincolnwood embarks on the next phase of its growth and development.