Samuel Forzley: Candidate For Lemont Village Trustee

LEMONT, IL — The consolidated election, which features several local races, will be held on Tuesday. As a way to help keep voters informed, Patch offers candidate questionnaires for all candidates in local races.

One of those races in Lemont is the race for Village Trustee. There are five candidates running for three 4-year terms.

One of those candidates is Sam Forzley; Forzley recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire, and his answers can be found below:

Your name:

Samuel Forzley

Campaign Website/Facebook:

PARTY OF LEMONT

Office sought:

Village board

Town/City of Residence:

Lemont

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for.

No

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Optometrist 33 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

PRESIDENT ILLINOIS OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION
PRESIDENT LEMONT HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

Born and raised in Lemont I have seen tremendous growth in our community. Lemont's boundaries are well-defined. Thus, we must control our growth. I will make sure this growth is controlled so that the police department, public works department and infrastructure continues to meet the needs and standards of all our residents. I will make sure all housing meets the high standards of Lemont's comprehensive plan. We cannot stop growth, but we must control the growth as it affects all the taxing bodies.

If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board or plan to change?*

I opened and operated Forzley Eye Clinic in 1991 and sold it in 2022. Thus, I will bring knowledge and experience to help small businesses achieve their plans to succeed. In 2001, I built a small 8 home subdivision. I understand what is necessary to meet the high quality standards for new residents who want to live and raise their family in Lemont.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

Lemont is the 16th safest town in the State of Illinois. Continuing to support our police and keep our residents safe has always been the number one priority.

Our publics works is second to none, keeping our city clean our streets clear and our water running with the lowest water/sewer rate in the state, thus making Lemont the best place to live and raise a family.

Economic growth over the last few years had made Lemont a destination to eat, shop and enjoy recreation. I will continue to partner and invest in making Lemont a destination that is second to none.

Lemont has a rich history and tradition which we must continue to embrace. Our forefathers have laid the groundwork to make Lemont what it is today. We look to the future but treasure the past.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As past president of both the Illinois Optometric Association and Lemont High School Education Foundation, I have the experience leading people to work together to meet common goals.

As president of the IOA, I lead the board in balancing our budget along with creating a surplus for our members.

As president of the Lemont High School Education Foundation, our board was able to raise thousands of dollars for the students of Lemont High School allowing them to achieve their greatest academic potential. Being a good listener and understanding what is best for everyone allowed me to accomplish these goals.

Why should voters trust you?

Those that have known me for the past 65 years know I have built my reputation on honesty, integrity, transparency and kindness.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

My term in office would be a success by being able to give the people of Lemont the best quality of life that they truly deserve.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

Governmental finances are no different from running a business or a household - we must balance our checkbook. I will ensure that we balance our budget, and control spending while increasing revenue through economic growth and being fiscally responsible.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

We are fortunate to live in the 16th safest town in the state of Illinois. This is not by coincidence. Continuing to have a strong police department is key to this continued success.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

We need to encourage first-rate business development, so our residents have quality places to shop, eat and visit. We need to make sure builders meet the high building standards for all our residents while controlling growth.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

We need to improve parking in our downtown. I will continue to look for areas to provide this for our residents as well as looking for ways to improve our recreation and infrastructure investment.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Married for 39 years to my wife Missy, raising 4 children in Lemont - 3 who currently live in town, and 4 (soon to be 5) grandchildren who also live in Lemont, I have been blessed beyond belief. My family is the heart and soul of my existence. Seeing my kids and grandkids grow up and live in Lemont is the greatest gift I could ever ask for. I want everyone in Lemont to have the same wonderful experience living in this town as I have.

I respectfully ask for your vote.

Lemont Election Guide 2025: What’s On The Ballot, What To Know

Here are the candidates for Lemont Village Trustee:

• Village Trustee (vote for three)
  • Ken McClafferty
  • Kevin Shaughnessy
  • Samuel Forzley
  • Dave Maher
  • Mark Pawlak