Chambana Sun

Khalil Zaied, the Public Works Director for the City of Champaign, has announced his resignation from that position effective March 8, 2024. Zaied is moving out of state to attend to private, family matters. Zaied has served as the City’s Public Works Director since October 17, 2022.

In his resignation statement, Zaied expressed, “It is with a heavy heart I announce my resignation from this wonderful organization that has provided me with so many new opportunities to work collaboratively with Champaign’s residents, elected officials, staff, and community partners. I want to thank City Manager Dorothy David for entrusting me to lead the talented and dedicated staff at the Public Works Department. While I find it necessary to step down, I can assure Champaign’s residents and leaders that the department is well-equipped to continue providing the same high level of City services they have come to expect.”

City Manager Dorothy Ann David acknowledged Zaied's departure, stating, “It has been a pleasure working with Khalil and his extensive knowledge, experience, and leadership skills will be missed. Khalil has been an active and engaged member of our community and the City’s executive team, and I have nothing but the best wishes for him and his family.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Zaied highlighted several accomplishments achieved under his leadership, including the initiation of the $35 million phase two of the Garden Hills Drainage Improvements Project, increasing department staffing levels, conducting detailed evaluations of City-owned facilities, and implementing solutions for infrastructure maintenance and sustainability.

Looking ahead, a nationwide recruitment process will be launched to find a new Public Works Director for the City of Champaign later this spring.