New Oak Forest 2nd Ward Alderman Chosen To Replace Late Rich Simon

OAK FOREST, IL — An Oak Forest man has been appointed to serve as 2nd Ward alderman after former Alderman Rich Simon died earlier this month, officials said.

Joe McCarthy was officially appointed at Tuesday's City Council meeting. According to Oak Forest Mayor Hank Kuspa, McCarthy was endorsed by Simon to fill his seat shortly before his death.

BEFORE: Oak Forest Alderman Rich Simon Dies Week Before Resignation: Officials

"Joe has big shoes to fill, but Alderman Simon thought he was up for the challenge and so do I," Kuspa said at a Tuesday meeting. "Alderman Simon gave Joe his blessing shortly before he passed away. We believe he's the right choice to lead the city's 2nd Ward."

McCarthy will serve as alderman until the seat is up for election in April of 2025. From there, McCarthy can choose to run for reelection.

City officials told Patch McCarthy works as a project manager at Dual Temp Companies. He is also a union pipefitter and a graduate of Oak Forest High School. He and his wife and kids live in McCarthy's childhood home in Oak Forest.

"I cannot say enough good things about Oak Forest," McCarthy said in a statement. "When my children were active in sports, I was lucky to help coach their teams. Now, I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the community I have called home for nearly 50 years."