Lisle to swear in new police chief

After 31 years working his way up the ranks, James Kosatka will be sworn in tonight as Lisle’s new police chief.

The village board is expected to approve his appointment, announced last week by Mayor Joe Broda, before the official ceremony.

Kosatka has served as deputy chief since 2002 and been acting chief since Michael Damico retired last month.

During his tenure, Kosatka rose from officer to patrol sergeant and then detective sergeant before assuming his role as deputy chief. He received his bachelor’s degree in business management from Benedictine University in 2007.

Broda said Kosatka is an ideal choice because he worked in nearly every branch of the department during his many years of service.

Broda said Kosatka also is known for promoting the concepts of continuing education, physical fitness and cross-training between internal departments to keep officers well-rounded and engaged in their jobs.

Earlier this month, Kosatka said he tries to lead his officers by example.

“I am about treating people the way you want to be treated,” he said.