How can we ensure that Oak Park will be affordable, accessible, and equitable for future generations? How can we leverage Oak Park’s natural advantages in location, economic development, and education for the benefit of all Oak Parkers — and also for those people who are destined to be Oak Parkers but just don’t know it yet?
Of the candidates for village trustee, one individual offers a combination of experience and vision that is unparalleled, and that person is Deno J. Andrews.
As a friend of Deno’s, I have a unique perspective on his character and his qualifications. He is a man of passion and compassion.
He feels strongly about the village in which he was raised, and in which he and his wife Allison are raising their children. He is the kind of person who will put the interests of the entire community well above any kind of personal agenda.
He also cares deeply about his fellow human beings and translates that caring into results.
At Felony Frank’s, Deno has built a successful business in one of Oak Park’s most challenged business districts, around the basic moral premise that everyone deserves a second chance. He has backed that up through the work of his nonprofit, Rescue Foundation, which won the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation’s Big Idea grant this year. He continues to make great strides in his mission-driven work to provide job opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Deno has a work ethic that I have rarely seen in other people. Those fortunate enough to be his friend know if he says he is going to do something, he does it. And he always takes the care and consideration to make sure he does it well.
He will, without question, live up to his campaign pledges. I have no doubt that he will be a relentless voice for transparency, equity and sound budgeting practices at the board table.
And you will never have to worry whether Trustee Deno Andrews will return your call or email, follow up on an issue with village staff, or answer a question you have about a process or procedure in village hall with anything less than complete honesty and candor.
If you vote to elect Deno Andrews to the village board on April 4, a great local elected official is exactly what you will get.
Adam Salzman
Oak Park