Election 2025: Orland Township Assessor Candidate Antonio Rubino

ORLAND TOWNSHIP, IL — The consolidated election is April 1, and Orland Township leadership will inevitably see a shakeup.

Three separate slates will vie for Township spots including supervisor, clerk, highway commissioner, and trustee. Twelve candidates are jockeying for four trustee spots.

Incumbent Orland Township Supervisor Paul O'Grady and his Orland Township Together slate includes clerk candidate Reem Odeh, highway commissioner candidate John Lynch (a current trustee), and trustee candidates Michael Maratea (incumbent), Kristin Hawksworth, Patrick Feldner (incumbent), and Marie Fuesel.

For the Orland Township United slate, current Orland Township Assessor Rich Kelly tops the ticket as supervisor candidate, with incumbent clerk Cindy Murray, current highway commissioner Antonio Rubino for assessor, Tracy Sullivan for highway commissioner, and trustee candidates Michael Schofield, Lena Matariyeh, Danny Flores, and Kelly Metzger.

Several declared Republican candidates are trying for spots, as well. Appearing as Republican candidate for clerk is Shannon Olson. Competing for highway commissioner is Republican candidate William Brennan. Republican candidates Kenneth Duffy, Frank Williams, Kenneth Soltis, and Matthew Keane, Jr. will also contend for trustee spots.

Patch provided candidates with a questionnaire. Their answers are now published in candidate profiles.

Candidate:

Antonio Rubino

Campaign website:

Orland Township United

Office sought:

Orland Township Assessor

Town/city of residence:

Tinley Park

Party affiliation:

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

Yes

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Law enforcement professional with over 22 years of experience. Currently serving as Orland Township Highway Commissioner. Also a family business owner, operating Rubino’s Italian Imports.

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

Current Orland Township Highway Commissioner, Former Township Trustee

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

One of the most significant challenges is maintaining high-quality township services while keeping taxes low. As Highway Commissioner, I have successfully managed operations for four years without increasing the tax levy, and I will continue to prioritize responsible budgeting. Additionally, public safety, infrastructure improvements, and youth services remain key areas of focus. I plan to leverage my experience in law enforcement and local government to ensure residents receive the services they need efficiently and effectively.

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

Committed to fiscal responsibility, I have successfully held the line on taxes with no increases while ensuring accountability and efficiency within the Highway Department. Under my leadership, the Township Road Fund has been significantly strengthened, making the department more streamlined, effective, and financially secure.

By reducing spending and consolidating services where necessary—without compromising quality—I have improved operations while reinvesting savings to build stronger financial reserves. Additionally, I have enhanced services and communication, creating a more accessible and efficient Highway Department for residents.

I have expanded services without increasing costs to taxpayers. To better serve the community, I extended office hours, implemented a comprehensive road improvement program, and introduced electronic recycling along with year-round secure document shredding. I have also pursued grant funding to support township initiatives and established programs such as prescription drug take-back and cellphone donations for seniors.

The Rubino Recycling Initiative alone has generated over $130,000 in revenue for the Road District, demonstrating my commitment to innovative, cost-effective solutions that benefit the community. My focus remains on maintaining and improving essential services while upholding strong financial stewardship.

I am running for the open position left by current Assessor Rich Kelly.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Leveraging my law enforcement experience to support safer neighborhoods.

Ensuring well-maintained roads, sidewalks, and drainage systems without unnecessary tax increases.
Expanding support for youth and family services, including programs that enhance quality of life.

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

Successfully managed the Orland Township Highway Department for four years without increasing the tax levy

Over two decades of experience in law enforcement, ensuring public safety and community trust.

Operated a successful family business, demonstrating leadership, financial management, and community involvement

Why should voters trust you?

I have built my career on service, integrity, and accountability. My record of responsible governance, fiscal discipline, and commitment to the community speaks for itself. Voters can trust me to make decisions in their best interest and continue delivering effective, transparent leadership.

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

I will continue to build on the success of Orland Township Assessor Rich Kelly’s platform by ensuring residents receive the support they need when navigating tax appeals and exemptions with Cook County.

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

I strongly believe in responsible spending and maximizing every taxpayer dollar to provide essential services efficiently. My track record as Highway Commissioner proves that we can maintain high service levels without increasing tax burdens. I will continue to advocate for budget-conscious policies and transparent financial management.

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?

As a law enforcement professional with over 22 years of experience, I understand the importance of proactive policing, strong community relationships, and well-funded public safety programs. Enhancing collaboration between law enforcement agencies, township officials, and community organizations will help prevent crime and keep our neighborhoods safe.

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

Smart, balanced development is key to sustaining economic growth while preserving community character. We need to ensure new developments align with infrastructure capacity, maintain property values, and bring long-term benefits to residents and businesses.

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?

Residents want responsible commercial growth that attracts quality businesses while minimizing congestion. Investing in road improvements, zoning policies that encourage smart development, and business incentives for family-owned and community-focused establishments will help achieve these goals.

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

No, I intend to serve my full term.

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

I am a dedicated public servant, law enforcement leader, and committed community member. My leadership style is based on integrity, fiscal responsibility, and putting residents first. I will continue working hard to improve township services, maintain strong public safety, and keep taxes low while ensuring Orland Township remains a great place to live and work.