Lightfoot names new buildings commissioner, says he’s first Native American to head city department
Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Friday named a new head of the Chicago Buildings Department and said he’s the first Native American commissioner of a city department.
Matthew Beaudet had been serving as the acting commissioner at the Buildings Department, which oversees construction permits and building codes, since Judy Frydland stepped down in June after five years at the helm. He has been the department’s first deputy commissioner since 2011.
Marlene Hopkins will be promoted to first deputy in the department, Lightfoot said.
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“This city was built on world-renowned architecture and urban design, and through these historic appointments, we are truly building on that legacy and laying the bricks for a foundation of new business, investment and development in every neighborhood,” Lightfoot said in a statement.
Beaudet serves as the legal counsel and on the Council of Elders for the Montaukett Tribe of Indians in Long Island, New York, according to Lightfoot’s office.
Lightfoot credited Beaudet with helping streamline the city’s building code and speed up the process of getting permits and inspections for businesses.
He will need to be confirmed by the City Council.
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Twitter @_johnbyrne
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