Election 2025: Orland Fire District Board Candidate Jennifer May

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:

Jennifer May

Campaign website:

Together, Protecting & Supporting on Facebook

Office sought:

Fire Protection District Board

Town/City of Residence:

Orland Park

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race):

None

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

No answer provided.

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Registered Nurse for 25 years currently working at a local University of Chicago Same Day Surgery Center.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

None.

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

It seems there has been recent confusion among residents regarding rumors of a merger with neighboring Fire Departments and we can confirm that no such merger is being considered. Orland Fire Chief, Michael Schofield, confirmed these rumors are unfounded at our last Board meeting. It is our intention that Orland Fire Protection District continue to provide the exemplary services our community has come to rely on .

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

Danielle Dorsey, Christian Barcelona and I are proud to be the only candidates fully endorsed by the Orland Firefighters and Dispatchers and we will establish and open discourse by listening to their concerns and ensuring their needs are met.

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

I would never venture to comment the current board has failed, but it is my opinion that our department is one of the BEST in the nation and would hope to continue to maintain that status.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

It is my belief that my 20 + year background as an Emergency / Trauma Nurse provides a unique lens in Emergency Management Services and it is my intention to bring that knowledge to the table. I'm familiar with the trying circumstances they can be faced with upon entering a home of a person in critical condition, not to mention the harrowing situations they are faced with and can potentially be life threatening. It is my top priority to support our Heroes by listening to their concerns and needs in order to continue to ensure they have the tools they need to provide the absolute best service to which we are accustomed.

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

As a proud graduate of the University of Illinois Champaign Urbana enjoying a successful 25 year career as a Nurse, and single mom, I have raised three wonderful children. Tess May, Physician Assistant, Trevor May, a local Mechanical Engineer and Maggie May, a Chick Evans Scholar currently a junior, studying at U of I for Physical Therapy. These are my greatest achievements. Now, I am deeply committed to and have the time to focus on our wonderful community and the safety of our residents.

Why should voters trust you?

I have no political affiliation and would simply like to give back to the community.

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

To continue investment in resources and technology so our Orland Park Fire Protection District can continue to receive the most advanced training to accommodate our community's growing needs.

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

Fiscal accountability by being a good steward of taxpayer dollars through transparency will remain a top priority while maintaining the highest level of service

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

None.

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

I have volunteered for local charities providing support to families struggling with debilitating health conditions as well as financial difficulties and now volunteer at my current position at University of Chicago Same Day surgery as Wellness Champion providing fellow employees with health and wellbeing guidance.