Election 2025: Orland Township Highway Commissioner Candidate William Brennan

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, 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.

Candidate:

William Brennan

Campaign website:

Orland Township GOP

Office sought:

Orland Township Highway Commissioner

Town/city of residence:

Tinley Park

Party affiliation:

Republican

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

No.

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Insurance and Financials Services Agency Owner

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

Village of Tinley Park Trustee. Public Safety Chairman and Mayor Pro-Tem

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

Rising Costs and High Taxes. With costs skyrocketing and inflation soaring over the last few years taxpayers want and deserve relief. I think with cooperation between The Villages of Tinley Park and Orland Park there is ample opportunity for cost savings thru IGA’s (inter-governmental agreements) with roadway projects and the purchasing of materials and services. I believe I am the individual best suited to be the conduit to work with all involved parties to make this happen.

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

If you look at our current political environment, I think it’s apparent that voters are looking for a change, such as candidates with new ideas and new priorities. While I respect my opponents, I believe I would bring a fresh face to the office with new ideas and perspectives. My experience as Village Trustee will also be an asset to the office because of my in depth understanding of how budgeting and project bidding makes our local government function and operate.

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

I think for far too long Orland Township has faced too much complacency. Residents have approached me about the services they are receiving and feel the cost just isn’t up to par with the taxes they are paying. The township has over 22 miles of roads and they haven’t received the attention they deserve. Our infrastructure is far too important to not be front and center of our attention. I believe with cooperation from our Village partners we can achieve meaningful growth and maximize our tax dollars so they are being best spent on the residents and programs they depend on.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Increasing transparency in the management of taxpayer funds is crucial for fostering public trust and accountability, particularly as technology continues to evolve. By leveraging advanced digital tools and data-analytics, Orland Township can enhance transparency by providing real-time access to financial information and project outcomes and allowing citizens to see how their tax dollars being utilized. Implementing effective management processes ensures resources are allocated efficiently and responsibly minimizing waste and maximizing impact. Together these strategies will help create a framework that not only improves technological integration but will also reinforce the responsible stewardship of public funds.

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

Well beyond my wife and children being my proudest accomplishment but I would say that starting my own business at 26 years old. I took a leap and risked everything to bet on myself. I knew the hard work that lay ahead but knew with dedication and hard work it would be worthwhile in the end. In my local government career I would say that holding the line on taxes and not raising them in Tinley Park the past two years while also continuing providing the exemplary services our residents deserve.

Why should voters trust you?

Well first I would say that I was born and raised here. I am proud to call Tinley Park and Orland Township home. Professionally my clients depend on me for the things they cherish most, their homes and retirement assets and more. Lastly and most importantly I would say that I value and respect relationships and seek them out. In today’s day in age I think being available digitally (online) is certainly important but nothing can ever replace the importance of being physically and readily available to assist our residents.

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

I want to show the taxpayers that they are getting a good return for their money. I understand people’s frustration that costs are rising, yet they do not feel like they are getting value for their money. Roads and bridges are most indicative of this because we see and know our infrastructure needs improvement but we live in a world of scarce resources. If elected, I would be focused on making sure we allocate our resources in the most efficiently and effectively as possible to maintain our roads.

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

I think that handling tax payer money is the most important aspect of being an elected official. Respecting the tax payer should be the very first consideration when making any decisions of elected officials. My personal fiscal policy has always been to make every dollar go further. Look for savings at every angle and take advantage of State, County or Federal grants. Always look to participate in State and/or Village bidding projects to partner and receive reduced rates on any programs, contracts and services.

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?

While not necessarily a topic that pertains to the Orland Township Board it is vitally important Orland Township maintains safe and navigable roadways to assist our Public Safety partners in keeping and maintaining safe road ways. We have an obligation to make sure our roads and fire hydrants are accessible and in good working condition 24/7 365 days a year. With support of the Orland Township Board and neighboring communities this will be a non-negotiable item and is top priority.

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

N/A

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?

Similar to my above answer the Highway department oversees 22 miles of unincorporated roadways. It is imperative we maintain a high level of quality roadways to continue to assist our partners on the public safety side to protect our residents. Equally important to the tax base as our roadways are the key to generating tax revenues for other village services. I see opportunities to reduce the tax burden on our residents by cooperating and working with our Village and State partners thru multiple joint programs and bid projects.

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

No

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

My journey as public servant has been driven by a commitment to improve the lives of my neighbors and ensuring our community thrives. As a homegrown candidate I am deeply rooted in our community. I want voters to know I am dedicated to the people I serve and I believe public service is a privilege. I will never take your vote of trust for granted and I intend to make sure all voices are heard. Communication will be paramount to my position in the township. As a business owner I have honed my skills in resource management and strategic decision making, allowing me to understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and innovation in driving local growth. My dedication to transparency and accountability make me the best candidate as I believe in putting the community first and fostering open dialogue with all constituents. I believe we can build a brighter and better Orland Township grounded in trust, collaboration and shared success for all.