The Village of St. Joseph is taking steps to streamline zoning, permitting, and code enforcement functions with the appointment of a new zoning administrator and plans to create a formal Community Development Department.

The Village Board of Trustees is looking to appoint current Village Administrator Joseph Hackney, who is recognized for his qualifications, knowledge, and experience in land use planning and zoning oversight.

The resolution also outlines the board’s support for establishing a Community Development Department, designed to consolidate planning, zoning, permitting, and code enforcement into one streamlined office. This department would modernize the village’s internal capacity to manage growth and enforce regulations effectively.

As part of this plan, the board will discuss the hiring of a Permit and Code Enforcement Technician by spring 2026. Funding for the position has already been allocated in the village’s appropriations ordinance, and the role will provide direct support to Hackney in his dual capacity as Village Administrator and Zoning Administrator.

Should the board approve the resolution, it will take effect immediately, with Hackney officially assuming his expanded role and the village embarking on plans to bolster its development and enforcement capacity going forward.