The spring of 2025 ushered in a remarkable season of political change across Chicago’s south suburbs, as voters made pivotal decisions that introduced a wave of historic leaders while reelecting trusted incumbents.
The swearing-in ceremonies held in May marked not only significant milestones in diversity but also a renewed momentum for governance within communities stretching from Glenwood to Richton Park.
In Glenwood, civic engagement was paramount as Toleda Hart was elected as the village’s first Black woman mayor.
With a rich background in grassroots organizing, Hart’s victory embodies a significant shift in a community that is becoming increasingly diverse.
Her campaign values emphasized collaboration and equity, igniting hopes among residents that her administration will mirror these ideals.
Hazel Crest also marked a historic moment with the election of Sandra Alexander, the first female mayor in the village’s history.
Having served across various capacities in local government—including as a 911 dispatcher and deputy clerk—Alexander’s extensive experience offers a unique perspective as she embarks on her mayoral journey.
After retiring from her previous roles, she returned to governance as a trustee and successfully ran for mayor, bringing a wealth of institutional knowledge to her new position.
Sauk Village witnessed a groundbreaking election with Marva Campbell-Pruitt, who not only became the first woman to serve as mayor but also leads the village’s inaugural all-female elected board.
A retired educator and former school superintendent, Campbell-Pruitt has a distinguished history in community leadership and is anticipated to focus on transparency, youth engagement, and strategic development within the village.
Both Campbell-Pruitt and Alexander represent a significant achievement for Black women in leadership roles, reflecting a progressive trend in the region.
Farther north, Libertyville’s Mayor Donna Johnson was reaffirmed in her position, continuing her groundbreaking tenure as the first Black woman in this traditionally conservative suburb.
Her leadership has garnered respect for its practical approaches, effectively bridging diverse perspectives in a community undergoing demographic changes.
Johnson’s re-election indicates strong resident support for her growth vision, which seeks to balance community preservation with progressive development.
In Thornton Township, State Senator Napoleon Harris was sworn in as the new supervisor, marking the beginning of a new chapter in local governance by succeeding Tiffany Henyard.
A former NFL player, Harris has established a reputation in Springfield for his coalition-building efforts, and his leadership is expected to refocus on financial stewardship and improved constituent services in one of the state’s largest townships.
The swearing-in ceremony attracted notable figures, highlighting the significance of this transition in leadership.
Meanwhile, Matteson reaffirmed its commitment to stability as Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin was re-elected for a third term, earning nearly 90 percent of the vote.
Her tenure has been marked by significant economic revitalization efforts, including attracting Amazon and fostering small business growth, securing the village’s reputation as “The Diverse Mecca of Cook County.”
Chalmers-Currin’s administration has not only prioritized job creation but also improved the village’s financial standing, with an upward shift in its credit rating and increased sales tax revenue.
The May 6 swearing-in ceremony celebrated not just her victory but also the entire slate’s success, which included re-elections for Village Clerk Yumeka Brown and trustees Adam Shorter and Carolyn Palmer, along with newcomer Stacy Leak.
In Richton Park, Mayor Rick Reinbold was sworn in for an impressive seventh term in office, underscoring a long legacy of public service that reflects the community’s continuous support for his leadership.
With his wife by his side during the ceremony, Reinbold’s ongoing tenure signifies confidence in the future direction of Richton Park.
Elections in Bremen Township introduced new faces as Joyce Daniels, Kimberly Bond, Anita Sanchez, and Clerk Carolyn Carter took on roles as trustees, while Willie Jones was elected as the assessor.
These new leaders will play pivotal roles in shaping township initiatives, including community outreach and administrative operations.
Overall, the spring 2025 elections are a clear indicator of a community-driven desire for change while also honoring established leadership.
The narrative of this political transition features both groundbreaking milestones and a testament to the importance of experienced leadership in paving the way for a collaborative, equitable future.
With an eye towards growth, transparency, and public trust, south suburban communities are poised to embark on a new chapter defined by representation and inclusive progress.
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