MEET MATT
Matt Hickey is a dedicated and approachable leader who believes in the power of community collaboration. With over 26 years of experience in finance and urban planning, he’s committed to ensuring Libertyville remains a thriving, welcoming place for everyone. He is a husband, father, public servant, and community volunteer known for his friendly and down-to-earth approach. Matt has a genuine passion for listening to residents and working together to make Libertyville the best it can be.
About My Life & Experience
My name is Matthew Hickey, and it’s been an honor to serve as your Libertyville Trustee and Chair of the Village Finance Committee for the past four years. Working alongside fellow trustees, Village administration, local businesses, and civic partners, I’ve seen firsthand the strength of our community.
My wife, Nicole, and I moved to Libertyville in 2005, and from the moment we arrived, we knew this was home. We’ve built our careers here, raised our family, and created lasting memories. Our daughter is now a sophomore at Libertyville High School, and we’ve added two rescue dogs, Piper and Joey, to our family. Like many of you, we cherish being part of this incredible community.
My passion for how neighborhoods and cities grow led me to earn a Master’s in Urban Planning & Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. For over 26 years, I've worked as a lender and equity investor, helping build housing, create community spaces, support nonprofits, and revitalize neighborhoods. I’ve collaborated with resident-led groups, developers, and local governments to ensure every investment benefits the people it serves.
As a Trustee, hearing your hopes and concerns for Libertyville has been one of the most rewarding parts of my service. You’ve told me what matters most to you:
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Getting Involved: You’re passionate about shaping Libertyville’s future and want clearer, more accessible ways to contribute your talents and expertise.
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Supporting Local Businesses: You love our shops and restaurants and want to see them thrive, while preserving the unique charm of our downtown.
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Renewing Parks & Public Spaces: You envision our parks as vibrant hubs for connection, with public art, activities, and better access through bike paths and sidewalks.
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Balancing Growth: You care about keeping Libertyville a place future generations can call home, ensuring thoughtful growth that doesn’t strain our infrastructure or push housing costs too high.
With my background in finance and urban planning, I’ve focused on responsible spending, smart investments, and partnerships that strengthen Libertyville’s future. I’ve served on the Adler Arts Center Board, contributed to the Village Comprehensive Plan, and currently serve as Secretary of the Libertyville Connect Coalition – a nonprofit dedicated to helping pre-teens teens make positive life choices.
Libertyville isn’t just a place on the map – it’s home. On April 1, 2025, I’d be honored to have your support for Mayor. Let’s keep making Libertyville a place we all love – Together.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT -
Present and Past
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Village of Libertyville – Trustee & Finance Committee Chair | 2021 to present
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Libertyville Connect Coalition – Secretary | 2023 to present
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Libertyville Township Democratic Organization – Committeeperson & Treasurer | 2017 to 2023
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Winchester House Advisory Board – Member | 2019 to 2021
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Adler Arts Center – Secretary | 2018 to 2021
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Libertyville Comprehensive Plan Commission – Commissioner | 2018 – 2020
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Mercy Housing Lakefront – Co-Chair, Lake County Advisory Board | 2017 – 2020
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Court of Liberty Grove HOA – Member, Treasurer & President | 2010 – 2011 & 2014 – 2015
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Affordable Housing Corporation of Lake County – Member & Vice Chair | 2006 – 2011
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Lake County Affordable Housing Commission – Commissioner | 2006 – 2011