Moving Forward: A Perspective from Inform Orland Park

By: Kathy Fenton for Inform Orland Park

As engaged and informed residents of Orland Park, we wish to address the recent discourse surrounding the proposed change in lead legal counsel from Klein, Thorpe & Jenkins to Ancel Glink, and the claims of conflict of interest that have arisen in light of this decision. While it is essential to ensure that our local government maintains transparency and integrity, we believe the criticisms directed at this transition overlook the larger historical context of actual conflicts of interest experienced under previous administrations.

First and foremost, we would like to highlight the direct relationship between Klein, Thorpe & Jenkins and campaign funding, particularly noting their large contributions made directly to Keith for Mayor, People Over Politics, and Cindy Katsenes. This firm, as reported, has made significant financial contributions to various campaign funds within Orland Park. Such direct financial ties raise legitimate concerns about the motivations behind legal and administrative decisions. We argue that these affiliations constitute a far more apparent conflict of interest than the mere perception of potential bias because of Ancel Glink’s previous work with James Dodge during his candidacy as he battled unfounded claims by the Pekau regime in an attempt to throw Jim Dodge off of the ballot as Pekau made any and all attempts to rob the public of Pekau’s predicted demise.

It’s important to recognize that Klein, Thorpe & Jenkins has long held a contract with the village, an arrangement which, while legal and strategic at the time, has drawn scrutiny given the significant campaign donations received by candidates supported by the firm. Candidates like Keith Pekau and Cynthia Katsenes benefitted from these donations while retaining ties with entities that financially supported their political endeavors, creating a more complicated web of allegiance between governance and private interests.

Furthermore, we must address the allegations regarding Trustee Joni Radaszewski’s partner, Paul Shaheen, who serves as the Vice President at Horton Insurance. Yes, the same Horton Insurance that contracted privately with disgraced former Mayor Pekau and enjoyed a contract that cost taxpayers a million dollars more than another company. Radaszewski’s personal relationship raises questions of propriety, particularly as it compares to the administrative landscape that some have deemed a “conflict.” The public perception of loyalty can be just as important as the reality, and having direct familial or partner connections with entities engaged in local governance can lead to perceived biases in decision-making processes.

Regarding the staffing changes initiated by the new board, we should also consider the merits behind hiring experienced professionals like George Koczwara and the decision to engage with Ancel Glink, who are well-respected within the legal community. The qualifications of these individuals are rooted in their expertise, as evidenced by Trustee Dodge referencing Ancel Glink's comprehensive legal manuals. Their selection reflects a strategy aimed at modernizing our village’s legal framework and refining our governance processes in ways that reflect a new direction and commitment to effective management.

Another topic that seems to really get under the skin of the Pekau leftovers is the hiring of the Village’s new PR firm. The decision to contract with PubliCity Communications indicates forward thinking and smart, strategic maneuver intended to enhance community relations and transparency. Nabeha Zegar, PubliCity Communications founder and President, is the former communications and marketing director of Orland Park. Her work and efforts elevating the village's communication platforms and presence is strategically on point and the best option for the community.

Additionally, we would also encourage the community to consider the motivations behind the objections raised by certain trustees. It is understandable that transitions can be contentious, particularly when they reflect a broader political shift. However, suggesting that these transitions are fundamentally based on ‘conflicts’ without acknowledging the preceding climate of interwoven campaign financing perpetuated by the former administration undermines the integrity of our local discourse.

We at Informed Orland Park believe it is crucial to examine the facts with nuance and context. The change in legal counsel to Ancel Glink is not merely a business decision, it’s a pivotal moment in our governance that aims to break away from the historical entanglements of the past.

By refocusing on objective qualifications and the future interests of our community, we can move forward without being mired in the conflicts that have sometimes defined our local politics. It is our hope that dialogue continues to revolve around genuine merit and community interests, rather than rehashing political affiliations that no longer serve Orland Park’s best interests.

Inform Orland Park is a group of concerned Orland Park residents committed to keeping our fellow residents informed on issues in Orland Park. Inform Orland Park is a Political Action Committee registered with the Illinois State Board of Elections.