Election 2025: Tinley Park District Board Candidate Donald E. Sachnoff

TINLEY PARK, IL — The consolidated election is set for April 1, with early voting underway and wrapping up March 31.

Three spots are up for grabs on the Tinley Park-Park District Board of Commissioners, with six candidates jockeying for the seats. Candidates align with slates led either by incumbent Mayor Michael Glotz, or challenger Michael Maloney.

Running under Glotz's One Tinley Park slate are Lisa Butler, Donald Sachnoff, and David J. Viglielmo

Incumbents Lisa O'Donovan, Marie Ryan, and Don Cuba are with Maloney's Tinley Together slate.

Patch provided a questionnaire for all candidates. Their responses are now published in candidate profiles.

Candidate:

Donald E. Sachnoff

Campaign website:

One Tinley Park

Town/village of residence:

Tinley Park

Position sought:

Park District Board of Commissioners

Party affiliation (if partisan race):

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.

Retired.

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

Hazel Crest Park Board, Hazel Crest Park Board President

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

The Park District faces several critical challenges: maintaining low crime levels at our facilities, fiscal responsibility, cleaning up the TPMHC, and organizing the 4th of July fireworks. We plan to strengthen our partnership with the Village to ensure the safety of our residents, while also fostering a close relationship with our police department. To enhance our operations, we will immediately terminate the contract with the current project manager, Michael Maloney, who is being paid $11,250 per month. This position should have undergone a request for proposals (RFQ). The cleanup of the TPMHC should be carried out by professionals, involving collaboration with the Village. The 280 acres belong to the residents, not just the Park District or the Village, and it is essential that we develop it in a way that provides lasting enjoyment and generates revenue for future generations.

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

I have lived in Tinley Park for 35 years, and I chose to raise my family here because I love this community and what it has to offer. As an independent thinker, my decisions will be based solely on what is best for the Park District. I refuse to let local legislators dictate our actions. It is disheartening to witness current commissioners allowing the Park District to become politicized under the influence of Senator Hastings and State Representative Bob Rita, who is also Ashley Rubino’s father.

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

I have a deep affection for our Park District, and it troubles me greatly that it has been caught in the political fray. I consider the current staff to be my friends and neighbors, and I will work diligently to prevent such circumstances from occurring again. The current board of commissioners has failed the staff and the community by not shielding them from political interference.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Several residents have voiced concerns about the Dog Park. I will propose a town hall meeting with nearby residents to address their complaints and work collaboratively to find solutions.

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

Having been a member of the Hazel Crest Park District as both a board member and president for almost eight years, I feel my experience will serve the Tinley Park District well.

Why should voters trust you?

I am committed to full transparency and accountability.

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

I aim to lead the effort to bring back the fireworks to McCarthy Park in collaboration with my fellow commissioners, Park District staff, and the Village of Tinley Park. Together with the Village and Tinley Park residents, we will develop the 280 acres in a way that benefits our community.

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

I believe in fiscal responsibility, which includes resisting unnecessary tax increases, allowing taxpayers to keep more of their hard-earned money. It is vital to prioritize smart investments that provide value to our residents. I will thoroughly review all expenditures related to the TPMHC to ensure we are protected.

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?

Tinley Park is currently safer than ever, thanks to the efforts of the Village in maintaining safety. I believe the current commissioners have not done enough to collaborate with our local police department to prevent vehicle break-ins at the pool. I plan to meet with the Tinley Park Police Chief to discuss recommendations for the Park District.

What is your view of the Village's approach to commercial and residential development?

Mayor Glotz, the Village Board, and the staff have done an excellent job attracting new development, which has helped keep taxes low. Over the past four years, they have successfully brought in $500 million in new development, which is impressive. More development means more opportunities for real estate tax revenues, enabling improved services for our community.

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?

I feel the village’s approach to both commercial and residential development is the correct approach.

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

I have no intention of stepping down early.

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

I served five years active duty with the US Air Force separating as a Captain and went into the US Army Reserves and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. I have worked with many people in both branches of the service without issue both managing and working side by side. I have a teaching certificate in Mathematics and I work as an Adjunct Professor at Governors State University. I have worked with the youths in and around our community by officiating sports – Baseball, Softball, Basketball and Volleyball.