3 Contend For Oak Forest Mayoral Seat: Election 2025

OAK FOREST, IL — Election Day is finally here, and Oak Forest will come out of it with its first new mayor in nearly two decades.

First elected in 2009, current Mayor Hank Kuspa did not seek re-election. Three candidates are vying for his spot: Donald Guisinger, James Hortsman, and Ken Keeler.

Patch sent a questionnaire to all candidates. Their answers are available in candidate profiles linked below:

• Donald Guisinger
• James Hortsman
• Ken Keeler

In his questionnaire, Guisinger stressed building out the economic development department, to help attract new businesses to the city's struggling stretches. He also wants to see the city's streets cleaned of litter and debris.

"My vision is to see this city grow into a vibrant and thriving community," Guisinger said. "I'm running because I believe we're on the wrong path, and because I’m invested in this city, I want to put us on the right path so the next generation can feel safe and confident in starting their families here."

See more of his answers here.

Current 6th Ward Alderman Hortsman would focus on bringing in businesses to our city and working beside the administrative team "to ensure that we continually grow and improve.

"We will be having three bargaining units coming to the table, which will require great attention. We need to continue to be fiscally sound with all the items we have, especially infrastructure. We have been working diligently on infrastructure."

See more of his answers here.

Candidate and businessman Keeler wants to focus on sidewalk and street repair, planting and maintenance of trees, and making Oak Forest more business friendly.

See more of his answers here.

Polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Not sure of your polling place? Look it up here.