This story is about Our Town. It is written by Simone Boutet. The name of the town is Oak Park — Latitude 41 degrees, 8 minutes, Longitude 87 degrees, 7 minutes.
Six months ago, I decided to run for trustee to further the values that make Oak Park special. I now want to thank you, Oak Park, for working for our town through political and civic life. You have confirmed my belief in our town time after time.
You proved that inclusion means not judging a book by its cover. On the street or at an el stop, I would stop and talk to strangers. I learned never to predict how people might react — even the toughest-looking guys were soft-hearted and warm. You were experts and you were ordinary folks. You thanked me for running, smiled and encouraged me.
You energized me with your passionate opposition to the Albion development and your willingness to fight for your principles. You fight to preserve Oak Park’s assets, including its historic architecture, walkability, trees and open space.
You marched, you organized and you continue to fight for progressive values at all levels of government.
Decades ago and through today, you have worked hard for integration and diversity.
You amazed me with your insight and advocacy on issues as diverse as affordable housing, equity and education, the environment, restorative justice, women’s issues, the arts, you name it.
This is the Oak Park I love.
But you have also voiced serious concerns that are not being addressed by village government:
Empty-nesters and young families alike echo my fear that rising taxes may force them out while they also remain committed to funding high-quality education. I will fight to create a plan for our community that prioritizes expensive projects to manage your tax dollars the way you manage your checkbook. I will not spend money that we do not have in our budget.
Instead of development for development’s sake, I want to focus on projects that meet community needs. I will work to develop affordable housing options and advocate for commercial development that brings jobs in our community.
I continue to hear about poor employee morale and its effect on customer service. I will advocate for pro-social management policies that allow employees to contribute and be their best selves.
Neighbors feel left out of the business of government. Our village deserves a board of trustees that will openly engage with the community on the issues. The board needs to continually earn the public’s trust.
We need to work on these issues now. I commit to you, Oak Park, that if elected, I will do everything I can to fulfill the trust you have placed in me.
Thank you for your vote. And thanks to all of the candidates, who through debate and discussion, have enabled the voters to make an informed decision.