Together for a Thriving
Orland Township

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Orland Township Together Slate

Meet our candidates

Paul O'Grady
Orland Township Supervisor
Patrick Feldner
Trustee
Mary Fuesel - Orland Township Together
Marie Fuesel
Trustee
Michael Maratea
Trustee
Kristin Hawksworth
Trustee
John Lynch
Highway Commissioner
Reem Odeh
Clerk

Under the steadfast leadership of Supervisor Paul O’Grady, Orland Township has consistently prioritized the well-being of its residents by delivering essential services and fostering a vibrant community spirit. 

  • Our comprehensive health services encompass immunization clinics, wellness programs, and fitness classes, ensuring accessible healthcare for all. (Orland Township) 
  • We are dedicated to our senior community, offering activities, transportation, and the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to promote active and healthy lifestyles. (Orland Township)
  • Our Youth & Family Services provide counseling, community outreach, and prevention programs, nurturing the next generation. (Orland Township)
  • Our Food Pantry supports residents in need, and our General Assistance program offers financial aid during economic hardships. (Orland Township) 

Looking ahead, we remain committed to enhancing these services, ensuring they evolve with the community’s needs. By engaging with residents and embracing innovative solutions, we strive to maintain Orland Township as a model of effective governance and community support. (Orland Township)

Together, we will continue to build a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community where every resident feels valued and supported.

Paul O’Grady has dedicated his life to serving the residents of Orland Township with compassion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives. As the Township Supervisor since 2009, O’Grady has worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for all residents, with a special focus on seniors and vulnerable populations. His leadership is rooted in a genuine desire to uplift the community, foster meaningful connections, and ensure that every resident has access to the services they deserve.

Throughout his tenure, O’Grady has spearheaded numerous initiatives that reflect his deep commitment to Orland Township. Under his guidance, the Township became home to one of Illinois’ first pet food pantries, ensuring beloved pets stay with their families during challenging times. His leadership extends to education as the president of the Orland Township Scholarship Foundation, where he has helped raise over $300,000 to support local high school students pursuing higher education. O’Grady’s vision for a thriving community is evident in every program he has championed, from supporting seniors with vital services to organizing engaging community events like fundraisers and local gatherings that bring people together.

Paul O’Grady’s dedication to Orland Township is deeply personal. Having experienced the challenges faced by seniors in his own family, he is passionate about being a strong advocate for the most vulnerable members of the community. Inspired by his parents’ end-of-life experiences, O’Grady strives to ensure that all residents receive the dignity, care, and support they deserve.

Beyond his public service, O’Grady is an accomplished attorney and the owner of Peterson, Johnson, and Murray law firm. He brings a wealth of professional expertise to his role as Supervisor, complemented by his academic credentials, including a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Juris Doctorate from Loyola University, and a Certificate in Executive Management from the FBI’s Quantico VI program. His leadership style is defined by fiscal responsibility, resourcefulness, and a belief in the power of volunteerism to create meaningful change.

Paul O’Grady’s vision for Orland Township is as vibrant as it is inclusive. He continues to prioritize keeping taxes low while maximizing resources to deliver high-quality services. Under his administration, Orland Township has become a model of effective governance, blending tradition with innovation to meet the evolving needs of its residents. With a proven track record and an unwavering dedication to his community, O’Grady is committed to continuing his work to make Orland Township a place where families thrive, seniors feel supported, and every resident has a voice.

Patrick Feldner has been a cornerstone of the Orland Township community for nearly three decades, bringing an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of its residents. As a Trustee and trusted partner of Supervisor Paul O’Grady, Feldner shares a deep commitment to fostering a township where every resident feels supported and valued. His leadership is defined by a thoughtful approach to service, financial stewardship, and a drive to make a lasting impact.

Feldner’s professional journey exemplifies innovation and a passion for problem-solving. As the founder of Defin.Net Solutions and CAIRS Solutions, he has spent over two decades delivering cutting-edge IT solutions and supporting critical causes like adoption and foster care. His technical expertise, combined with a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Computer Science from the Illinois Institute of Technology, equips him to bring a strategic perspective to the Township’s operations.

In his role as Trustee, Feldner has championed accessible and affordable health services, ensuring that essential programs reach those in need. His property tax refund assistance program has saved families significant amounts of money, showcasing his commitment to responsible financial management and community support. Feldner consistently seeks innovative ways to maximize Township resources, ensuring funds are directed where they will have the greatest impact.

Beyond his professional achievements, Feldner is deeply invested in the personal growth and well-being of Orland Township residents. As a youth football and wrestling coach, he has mentored countless young athletes, fostering teamwork, discipline, and confidence. His personal connection to adoption fuels his collaboration with local services to address challenges faced by adoptive families.

Feldner’s dedication to the community is also reflected in his personal life. Alongside his wife, Carol, a speech-language pathologist, he has raised three accomplished children who embody the values of education and service. Together, the Feldners are proud to call Orland Township home, enriching their lives by traveling, exploring new cultures, and staying connected to their community.

Patrick Feldner believes in the transformative power of kindness and collaboration. He approaches public service with the philosophy that every voice matters and that differences of opinion can lead to stronger solutions. With a track record of impactful initiatives and a heartfelt commitment to the Township’s future, Feldner looks forward to continuing his work to ensure Orland Township remains a thriving and inclusive community for all.

Marie Fuesel joins the Orland Township Together slate as a trusted advocate with deep community roots and a steadfast commitment to the residents she has called neighbors for 45 years. Her addition to the slate strengthens a shared mission to provide exceptional programs and services that meet the needs of every Township resident.

As a long-time Orland Township resident, Marie brings a unique perspective shaped by decades of community involvement and professional experience. Currently serving as an account associate at HUB International, she is a licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Agent with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Governor State University. Her professional expertise is matched by her dedication to using these skills to benefit the community.

Marie’s passion for service is evident in her volunteer work. As a board member for the Andrew Weishar Foundation, she supports families navigating the challenges of adolescent and young adult cancer. Her advocacy extends to the American Red Cross, where she earned the prestigious 2024 Westbury Leadership Award for her leadership and efforts to promote lifesaving blood donations throughout Greater Chicago.

Beyond her professional and charitable achievements, Marie is a pillar of the Orland Township community. Born and raised in Orland Park, she has actively participated in local initiatives, from volunteering as a Brownie troop leader to serving as a substitute teacher at Cardinal Bernardin Grade School. These experiences have strengthened her connection to the community and informed her commitment to preserving and expanding vital Township programs.

Marie is deeply dedicated to ensuring accessible and affordable services for all residents. She firmly believes in protecting current programs and advocating for new initiatives that address the evolving needs of the community. With her extensive volunteer experience, family-oriented values, and professional expertise, Marie is a dynamic addition to the Orland Township Together slate.

By joining the slate, Marie Fuesel reinforces a collective vision of progress, compassion, and commitment to making Orland Township a thriving community for all. Her dedication to service and strong connection to the Township promise to leave a lasting impact for generations to come.

Michael Maratea brings a lifetime of dedication to education, community service, and leadership to his role as an Orland Township Trustee. A retired educator with 34 years of experience in the Orland Park area, Michael has profoundly impacted countless lives as a sixth-grade teacher and team leader at Grissom Middle School for 17 years. Beyond the classroom, his commitment to mentorship and athletic excellence spans over four decades, most notably in tennis, where he recently celebrated his 500th win at Andrew High School.

Michael’s commitment to Orland Township extends far beyond education and sports. As the Chair of Youth and Family Services, he has worked tirelessly to connect local youth with vital resources, fostering an environment where young people can thrive. His leadership as a Trustee has also been pivotal in revitalizing programs such as the Youth Commission and hosting the Township’s first Mindful Event to address mental health issues. His vision includes establishing a Mental Health Commission to provide robust support for residents, further demonstrating his dedication to the community’s well-being.

During his tenure on the District 135 School Board, including two years as Vice President, Michael championed initiatives that left a lasting legacy. From implementing a 1-to-1 technology program to introducing full-day kindergarten and preserving the honors program, he consistently put the needs of families and students first. As Chair of Finance, he ensured fiscal responsibility and the safeguarding of taxpayer resources, a commitment he continues to uphold as a Trustee.

Michael’s connection to Orland Township runs deep. Married to Julie, a longtime speech pathologist, and the proud father of four sons, Michael’s family life exemplifies his dedication to the community. Whether attending Township events, coaching sports, or volunteering, he is an ever-present leader who believes in accessibility and responsiveness. “I owe it to the taxpayers to attend almost all of the events the Township sponsors,” he states, underscoring his resolve to remain deeply engaged with the residents he serves.

As Michael seeks re-election, his priorities remain clear: increasing youth involvement, enhancing mental health support, and continuing the impactful initiatives he has championed. With his unwavering dedication, leadership, and deep ties to Orland Township, Michael Maratea stands as a vital advocate for families, youth, and the future of the community. His work reflects a steadfast commitment to making Orland Township a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Kristin Hawksworth brings a dynamic blend of dedication, experience, and a passion for community service to her candidacy as Orland Township Trustee. A long-time volunteer and former public librarian, Kristin has spent her life fostering connections and supporting programs that make a meaningful impact. For the past eight years, she has proudly called Orland Park home, alongside her husband Dan and their three children, Maia, Lucy, and Ruby.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Ripon College and a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Sciences from Dominican University, Kristin is deeply attuned to the importance of accessible and effective community services. Her years of service in Youth Services as a public librarian have given her a firsthand understanding of the vital role local programs play in enriching lives. “These programs are essential for our community, and I’m committed to protecting and growing this key local support network,” she states.

Kristin’s volunteerism reflects her steadfast commitment to making Orland Township a better place for all residents. From serving as Co-President of the Music Parents Association at Meadow Ridge and Century Schools to volunteering at Century’s library, Kristin has continually worked to support local youth and families. She also actively supports organizations like Moms Demand Action and Be SMART for Kids, advocating for safer communities.

As a Trustee candidate, Kristin brings not only her professional expertise but also her personal dedication to the community she loves. Her passion for preserving and expanding essential programs, coupled with her belief in the transformative power of education and advocacy, make her an invaluable asset to the Orland Township Together slate. Kristin emphasizes, “I have the time, energy, and passion needed to serve as an informed and active trustee for Orland Township.”

When not volunteering, Kristin enjoys traveling with her family, exploring food and cultural history, and cooking. An avid reader, she finds joy in searching for treasures in thrift and used bookstores, reflecting her appreciation for heritage and discovery. Kristin’s vision for Orland Township is one of inclusivity, growth, and progress, and she is ready to bring her wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role of Trustee. With her leadership, Orland Township can continue to thrive as a vibrant, supportive community for generations to come.

John Lynch has been a cornerstone of Orland Township’s progress and development for over 35 years, bringing a wealth of leadership, technical expertise, and an unwavering dedication to his community. As a Trustee since 2015, appointed by Supervisor Paul O’Grady and re-elected for two terms, John has gained invaluable experience in addressing the needs of Orland Township residents. His proven track record as Trustee makes him uniquely qualified to take on the role of Highway Commissioner, where his skills and vision can make a lasting impact.

John’s career in construction is deeply rooted in family tradition and decades of hands-on expertise. Starting at the age of seven alongside his father, a member of Local #5, John built a foundation in brickwork, concrete, and high-rise construction. His career advanced rapidly, leading him to co-found Lally Bros. Masonry, which grew under his leadership from three members to over 60 union workers. His extensive experience in blueprint reading, project management, finance, and legal operations equips him with the technical and administrative acumen needed to manage Orland Township’s highways effectively.

In addition to his success in construction, John’s tenure with Local #9 electrical union further broadened his expertise, allowing him to contribute to critical infrastructure projects such as power restoration, emergency repairs, and rail maintenance. This comprehensive background ensures that John understands the complexities of infrastructure and is prepared to handle the demands of the Highway Commissioner role with confidence and skill.

As a Trustee, John has demonstrated a strong commitment to community initiatives that have transformed Orland Township. His leadership contributed to the development of a state-of-the-art food pantry, the renovation of Township offices to house the Secretary of State facility, and improvements to parks, trails, and parking infrastructure. These accomplishments highlight his ability to combine technical expertise with community-focused leadership to deliver results that matter to residents.

John’s dedication to public service extends beyond his professional achievements. As Chairman of Youth and Family Services, a member of the scholarship foundation board, and Finance Chairman under Supervisor O’Grady, he has consistently worked to enrich the lives of Orland Township residents. His collaborative approach and deep understanding of the community make him an ideal candidate to oversee and enhance the Township’s infrastructure.

With his unmatched construction expertise, leadership experience, and proven commitment to the residents of Orland Township, John Lynch is ready to bring his skills to the role of Highway Commissioner. He is determined to ensure that the Township’s roads, parks, and infrastructure remain safe, efficient, and well-maintained for generations to come.

Reem Odeh for Orland Township Clerk

Reem Odeh brings a wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and a passion for justice to her candidacy as Orland Township Clerk. With nearly two decades of legal expertise as the founder of The Law Offices of Reem H. Odeh, P.C., she has been a trusted ally for countless individuals, guiding them through complex legal matters and advocating for fairness and equality. Now, Reem is ready to bring her skills and commitment to serve the residents of Orland Township in a new capacity.

As a devoted mother to three accomplished young adults, Reem understands the challenges families face and the importance of community-centered leadership. Her extensive volunteer work highlights her deep connection to Orland Township and her dedication to its most vulnerable residents. From providing pro bono legal assistance to low-income families and seniors to advocating for more affordable property taxes, Reem’s actions reflect her unwavering belief in the power of service.

Reem’s professional and academic achievements underscore her qualifications for this role. A graduate of St. Xavier University with a Bachelor’s Degree and John Marshall Law School with a Juris Doctorate, she combines legal acumen with a heart for community advocacy. She is also a certified hearing officer, having received her training and certification as a municipal administrative hearing officer on June 19, 2013—a role that further demonstrates her ability to navigate complex administrative processes with precision and fairness. Her efforts to fight for seniors and families struggling with rising property taxes demonstrate her readiness to tackle the issues that matter most to Orland Township residents.

Reem’s leadership extends beyond her legal career. Featured in the book “I Speak for Myself,” she has consistently used her voice to amplify the needs of others, inspiring action and meaningful change. “It is vital that members of the community with the knowledge and resources to help others step up and run for public office,” she shares. Her decision to join the Orland Township Together slate reflects her belief in creating a brighter future for all.

As Clerk, Reem Odeh will bring unparalleled dedication, integrity, and a deep understanding of the needs of Orland Township residents. Her commitment to transparency, fairness, and effective governance will strengthen the Township’s ability to serve its community. With her leadership, Reem aims to make Orland Township a place where every voice is heard, every challenge is met, and every resident is supported.

Under the leadership of Supervisor Paul O’Grady, Orland Township has made significant strides in enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Initiatives such as the expansion of the Food Pantry, the establishment of the Pet Pantry, and the awarding of scholarships through the Orland Township Scholarship Foundation have addressed critical community needs. (Orland Township)

Additionally, the Township has hosted job fairs and back-to-work programs to support employment opportunities. (Patch)

Looking ahead, our vision for Orland Township includes:

  • Enhanced Senior Services: Building upon existing programs to offer more comprehensive support for our senior citizens.

  • Youth Engagement: Developing initiatives that encourage active participation from younger residents, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.

  • Economic Development: Collaborating with local businesses to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities within the Township.

  • Health and Wellness Programs: Expanding access to health services and promoting wellness activities for all residents.

  • Infrastructure Improvements: Investing in the maintenance and enhancement of our roads, parks, and public facilities to ensure a safe and pleasant environment.

By continuing to prioritize transparency, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement, we aim to build upon our past achievements and work towards a brighter future for all residents of Orland Township.

Vote for the Orland Township Together Slate

On April 1st 2025!

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Paid for by Orland Township Together 

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