Palatine appoints public works director

A familiar face has been appointed Palatine's new director of public works.

Matt Barry, the village's assistant village engineer since 2000, will step into the position effective Jan. 1.

He succeeds Acting Public Works Director Elias Koutas, who was tapped to fill the role after Andy Radetski retired after 23 years.

“Matt has demonstrated tremendous leadership, dedication and customer focus during his tenure as the assistant village engineer,” Village Manager Reid Ottesen said in a statement.

Barry will continue to focus on integrating engineering aspects into the long-term public works infrastructure planning process. He was appointed by Ottesen, who said Barry's knowledge of the community and engineering and educational background will be key.

Barry graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville with a degree in civil engineering. He also holds a master's degree in public administration.