In the small village of Hopkins Park, located 75 miles south of Chicago, Mayor Mark Hodge is leading a remarkable transformation, bringing new hope to the community where he was born and raised. His leadership has become a beacon of progress as the village works to overcome longstanding challenges.
Hodge’s connection to Hopkins Park runs deep. He spent his early years in the village, attending Lorenzo Smith Elementary School, named after the first superintendent, Lorenzo R. Smith. Today, the school’s halls are filled with children who know their mayor personally. For many of these young residents, Hodge is the only mayor they have ever seen in their lifetime.
“I’ve been mayor for 10 years now, and most of the kids here are between kindergarten and eighth grade. I’m the only mayor they’ve ever known,” Hodge said. His presence is familiar to them, and they are always excited when he visits.
Growing up in Hopkins Park, Hodge remembers a much different way of life. “We had outhouses and coal stoves,” he recalled. The rural village had minimal infrastructure and few opportunities. Hodge left in 1979 at the age of 17 to join the U.S. Marines. His journey took him far from his hometown, eventually leading to a long career with the California Department of Corrections. After nearly 30 years of service, Hodge retired—but he never forgot Hopkins Park.
“Throughout my career, I developed leadership skills, and I knew I wanted to bring those skills back to my community,” he said. “I had a strong desire to modernize Hopkins Park and make a difference here.”
In 2015, Hodge was elected mayor. His return to public service came with challenges. The village was severely under-resourced. “When I took office, we didn’t even have a lawnmower,” Hodge said. Since then, the village has acquired essential equipment, including three snow removal vehicles, and has made strides in improving public services.
One of the village’s recent achievements is the installation of its first natural gas line, a milestone that has been a long time coming. Additionally, plans are underway to bring high-speed internet to the area, addressing a critical need for students and businesses alike. “It’s heartbreaking to see kids eager to learn but lacking the tools and resources they need,” Hodge said. “We have to change that.”
Economic development is another priority for Hodge. In the heart of the village, a new family-owned business, Ewa’s Pizza, recently opened its doors. It is the village’s first pizzeria and one of only three restaurants in town. “We have very few businesses here, so hearing about new ones coming in is a big deal,” Hodge said. He hopes to attract more businesses to create jobs and spur economic growth in Hopkins Park.
Despite its struggles, the village offers a sense of peace and simplicity that Hodge cherishes. “There’s something special about sitting under a tree with your family, drinking lemonade, and enjoying a barbecue,” he said. “It’s a way of life you don’t find in big cities.”
Hodge’s return to Hopkins Park was met with mixed emotions from his family. His children, who live in California, were initially hesitant about his decision. “They weren’t thrilled, but they understood that I wanted to be happy,” he said. “Now, they visit and support me.”
Under Hodge’s leadership, Hopkins Park is slowly but surely regaining its vibrancy. He takes pride in the progress the village has made and remains focused on its future. “The past 10 years have flown by,” he said. “It’s been incredibly rewarding. I’m honored to serve my community and be part of its growth.”
As Hodge looks ahead, his goals are clear: continue improving infrastructure, bring in well-paying jobs, and provide opportunities for future generations. He is determined to ensure that Hopkins Park can thrive and compete with other communities.
“We need to attract industries and businesses that will create good jobs for our residents,” Hodge said. His vision for the village includes a balance of modernization and preserving the simple joys that make rural life special.
Mayor Mark Hodge’s journey is a testament to the power of returning home and giving back. His story is an inspiration to those who dream of making a difference in their communities. Hopkins Park is on the path to renewal, thanks to his dedication and leadership.
