Election 2025: Orland Township Trustee Candidate Kristin Hawksworth

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.

Candidate:

Kristin Hawksworth

Campaign website:

Orland Township Together

Office sought:

Orland Township Trustee

Town/city of residence:

Orland Park

Party affiliation:

Non-partisan

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.

Former Public Youth Services Librarian, 8 1/2 years

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

N/A

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

The township has a positive history of transparency, fiscal responsibility and community engagement and as part of the Orland Township team of incumbents and community invested newcomers I will help build on these past achievements with a fresh perspective and energy.

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

I come from a background of public and community service and advocacy. Aside from my previous work as a librarian, I am a longtime volunteer in our schools as well as with Moms Demand Action and BeSMART for Kids. I have experience and interest in working for the benefit of our community as a whole.

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

I am on the Orland Township Together slate of 4 incumbents and 3 newcomers. I don't see myself as a challenger, but someone with fresh perspective and deep community involvement who can positively add to an experienced and accomplished team

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

As a mom of three, who 8 years ago, together with my husband, intentionally chose Orland Township as the place to make our home, I have a vested interest in the existence of accessible and effective community services. I will be serving your family with the same passion and energy that I serve my own - committed to financial responsibility along with protecting and growing township services as they have meaningful impact on us all.

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

I have spent my adult life creating and fostering connections - in my past career and currently as a volunteer and advocate. As a librarian, I worked with all ages - providing programing and services from infants to seniors. As a volunteer, I have interacted throughout the community - with students, teachers, school administration, community leaders, local and state government, and beyond. I will bring these connections with me to the township and continue to grow the circle with positivity. There are no need for politics here.

Why should voters trust you?

I have no higher political aspirations. I care deeply about my community and simply want to be part of making it a better place.

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

My goal is to increase the community service relationship with our high schools and community colleges, to eventually offer an internship program where students can explore future careers in local government and public service. I would also like to support a current township employee's goal of creating a community garden to fruition.

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

Our job is to be responsible with your tax dollars. For the past 8 years, Orland Township has kept the tax levy flat while continuing to increase community services through volunteerism and smart corporate partnerships and we intend to continue in this manner.

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?

N/A

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?

N/A

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?

I am so excited for this opportunity to serve the community that I love and that is my home.