I am writing to ask for your vote for the newest Oak Park Village Trustee candidate, Brian Straw. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Brian a bit this winter, and I am impressed. When we first met, we got straight into discussing issues — housing, equity, local economics (including that ever-present tax burden). It was clear from the word go that Brian is intelligent, has fresh and viable ideas, and is a voice for progressive policies.
But where he really stands out is his temperament, experience, and passion for social justice. Brian is an intelligent litigator, yes, but he is also a caring father and husband, a great conversationalist, and someone who truly “walks the talk.” From working the Obama campaign at his alma mater (University of Michigan), to representing transgender people and asylum seekers pro bono, to serving locally in Oak Park on the Transportation Commission, Brian has a proven record of service. He is the “whole package” when it comes to a trustee candidate.
And as important it is to me that a candidate represent my values, it is equally important to me that representatives have the chops to address the nuts and bolts work of a trustee. Platitudes only get so far when it comes to municipal governance. When a street is blocked by a pile of leaves, a sidewalk is broken, an intersection is unsafe for walkers, bikers, and drivers alike, and parking burdens negatively impact renters, homeowners, and small businesses, we need people on the board who will listen and work to address these more mundane issues promptly and with care. Those are the issues that, when properly addressed, make Oak Park the best place to live and raise our kids.
So, please join me and vote for Brian.
Andrea Button
Former Oak Park village trustee