Election 2025: Orland Fire District Board Candidate Danielle Dorsey

ORLAND PARK, IL — The consolidated election is set for April 1, and some new faces could be joining the Orland Fire Protection District Board of Trustees.

Two, six-year terms are up for grabs, as well as one unexpired two-year. Six are vying for the former, and three for the latter.

Running for the six-year seats are incumbent Beth Damas Kaspar, incumbent Commissioner Donald "DJ" Jeffers, and Bridget Tolan on the Fiscal Voices for Fire Safety Slate.

Also running on slate Together, Protecting & Supporting Orland Fire are Danielle Dorsey, Christian Barcelona, and Jennifer May.

Both Tolan and May are seeking the unexpired seat, as well as Steven Troglio.

A third slate also has two candidates—Mark Mitchell and Paris Stirrat—running for the six-year seats.

Patch issued candidate questionnaires, and answers are now published in candidate profiles.

Early voting began March 17.

Candidate:

Danielle Dorsey

Campaign website:

Together, Protecting & Supporting - Orland Fire Trustee Candidates

Office sought:

Orland Fire Protection District Board

Town/City of Residence:

Orland Park

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race):

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

No, I come from a blue collar family with no political ties.

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Event Manager - I have 15+ years of management experience, as well as 10+ years of business experience.

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

N/A

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

The most pressing issues facing our board are a lack of transparency, wasteful spending, and delays in purchasing necessary equipment. I am committed to fostering open and honest relationships both within the board and with the community. Our decisions affect everyone, and the residents deserve to be kept informed about what is happening. Additionally, I will look into the reasons behind the current board's hesitation in purchasing essential equipment for the department and work to address and resolve this issue.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The current board appears to be facing challenges in working together effectively, offering transparency to both the community and one another, and prioritizing the best interests of the fire department and residents. However, I have developed a strong working relationship with the two remaining trustees, and I am confident that we will be able to work together to ensure the best outcomes for both the Orland Park residents and the Fire Department

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

The current board has let the community down by spreading misinformation in an attempt to manipulate residents into voting in their favor. They have kept other board members uninformed when it comes to important decisions, and have denied residents in certain areas the same level of care that others receive. This lack of transparency and fairness is unacceptable, and it’s time for a change that prioritizes the needs of all residents equally.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Politics have no place in the fire department, yet it seems that many of the issues currently affecting the department are driven by political agendas. If given the opportunity to serve as trustee, I aim to be both a voice for the community and a voice for the department, ensuring that decisions are made based on what’s best for everyone, not political interests.

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

I have experience as a business owner and manager of a large statewide and multi-state team. Additionally, I’ve been a passionate advocate for my daughter and other children battling cancer. Through my involvement with the Advocate Children's Family Advisory Council, I’ve learned to use my voice, knowledge, and eagerness to learn to improve the patient experience. More recently, I’ve become a beacon of hope for families with critically ill children by volunteering with Make-A-Wish Illinois.

Why should voters trust you?

I have been a resident of Orland Park for over 30 years, attending K-8 in District 135 before moving on to District 230. Now, I am proud to raise my own children in this wonderful community, with them attending the same great schools I once did. As a mother, I am committed to raising my children in the same incredible Orland Park that I was fortunate to grow up in. I am here for the community, and I am here to support the men and women who protect us all.

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

To be truthful, I don't believe this question can be answered with certainty. There is still a lot of work to be done, especially when running for a six-year term, and many challenges may arise along the way. However, I am hopeful that the Orland Fire District will continue to be the outstanding entity it is, and I am committed to being a significant part of ensuring they can serve the community efficiently and effectively, as they always have.

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

Fiscal responsibility is crucial. Without proper funding, we lack access to the necessary supplies and equipment needed to do the job effectively. Careless spending means that money is diverted from other important areas, potentially causing harm in those areas. It's essential that we allocate resources wisely to ensure we're not burdening the residents further.

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

No, I am fully committed to the task at hand, for as long as needed.

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

I am running alongside two truly remarkable candidates—Christian Barcelona, and Jennifer May and we are the only three candidates being endorsed by the Fire Fighters Union, we are also endorsed by Local 399 and Orland Fire District Trustees Angela Greenfield and Tina Zekich. I personally am also endorsed by Local 134. In the short time we've worked together, we've already developed a strong and effective collaboration. We are all community-minded, intelligent, and dedicated individuals, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together if given the opportunity. Thank you!