HRA Executive Director Jason Hale resigns

In a press release dated Nov. 9, the Cook County Housing Redevelopment Authority announced the resignation of Executive Director Jason Hale. Hale has been the executive director for the past two and a half years.

According to the press release, Hale’s last day as Executive Director will be Dec. 6, but he has agreed to stay on as Interim Executive Director through the end of 2024 as the HRA Board works to recruit his replacement. Earlier this year Hale also served as Interim Economic Development Authority Executive Director as that group looked to fill the vacancy left by Teresa Bajda in August.

The HRA Board has consistently expressed their appreciation for Hale during their meetings. In the press release, several accomplishments from Hale’s time as executive director were cited. It read, “In that time the HRA has built an organization from the ground up, secured over $3 million and 50 acres for housing in Cook County, laid the groundwork for over 150 new housing units, and has helped save 45 existing, affordable units.”

Details on what is next for Hale have not yet been made available. When WTIP reached out to Hale about his resignation, he provided a written statement:

I have truly enjoyed this community, and I believe in and am proud of the work we have accomplished in the past two and a half years. There is no one reason, rather several that led to my decision to conclude my role as Executive Director. Personally, after months of consideration, we have determined it is the right decision for our family. Professionally, the need for housing in Minnesota is great: I am hoping to make an impact by continuing this work across the region in my next role.

The table is set for more housing to be built, and I sincerely believe in the people and future of Cook County.

Hale’s resignation comes shortly after the resignations of County Administrator James Joerke, County Attorney Molly Hicken, and Bajda’s aforementioned resignation. Hale has been part of the hiring process with the EDA, and previously confirmed that the group has conducted interviews with several strong candidates, but they have yet to announce that a new executive director has been selected.

Kirsten Wisniewski November 9, 2024