The Wednesday Journal sent questionnaires to each person running for public office in 2025. The Journal’s questions are in bold and the candidate’s responses are below.
Political experience
I’m involved in local activism and participate in campaigns that interest me in every election cycle. I am a member of The People’s Lobby, a social justice advocacy group. My work there has focused on bail reform, and the organization played a crucial role in passing the Pretrial Fairness Act.
Community experience
I give back to my community by leveraging my business experience, analytical thinking, and social nature. I am currently a member of the Financial Advisory Committee at Oak Park Township and serve as Vice President at Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation. Bickerdike is a major affordable housing provider on the northwest side, managing over 250 buildings with several midrise developments underway. Both roles have provided me with valuable experience in budgeting, audits, performance reviews and board governance.
What are the greatest challenges facing the Oak Park Public Library?
One of the most pressing challenges facing the library is leadership. In the absence of an Executive Director, critical executive functions that require ED approval are currently in limbo. Additionally, directors and managers are overextended, often taking on the responsibilities of an ED while managing their already demanding workloads. There is a strong likelihood that a new ED will be installed before new trustees take office. If that occurs, my primary focus as a trustee would be to ensure strong accountability mechanisms are in place—particularly during the crucial early stages of the new ED’s tenure—to support a smooth transition.
In the face of national attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion policies, how will you protect and enforce DEI at the library?
The library has taken meaningful steps, including its anti-racism initiatives and Book Sanctuary Community policy. As a trustee, I would work to protect and strengthen these policies, ensuring they are not just preserved but fully implemented. Beyond policy, trustees must actively engage with the community, making it clear why these values matter and building public support. DEI policies only hold weight if they are defended and put into practice. It takes the whole village to do that.
When a new executive director is hired, how will you help ensure a smooth transition and strong leadership?
As a trustee, I would begin by establishing clear lines of communication between the board and the new executive director. My first step would be to review the board’s current onboarding plan—if one exists—to understand the framework for the transition. I would also facilitate a deep dive into OPPL’s mission, ensuring that everyone is aligned and operating from the same organizational ‘North Star.’ With a shared understanding and open communication, I’d focus on building a collaborative relationship with the executive team by setting up practical oversight measures.
What is your take on the library as a third space, or place outside home and work that allows locals to connect with their community?
Third spaces are incredibly valuable—and increasingly rare—in the United States. Many places where you might meet friends, relax, or enjoy recreational activities now come with a price tag. Everything between home and work has become commodified, and we all deserve access to spaces free from financial pressures. I believe that true community is fostered in these free, welcoming third spaces, which are essential for maintaining a cohesive, effective society. In my view, libraries are among the last strongholds of public space. While much of America focuses on privatization and commodification, libraries remain a vital, unmonetized resource for community connection.
What should the policy be on banning books at the OPPL?
I am against banning books. The OPPL has already passed several resolutions protecting intellectual freedom, which align with my values—especially initiatives like the Book Sanctuary Community. I would assess the effectiveness of these policies and consider whether they need to be further strengthened to ensure that our commitment to open access to ideas is maintained.
Please add final thoughts not covered in this questionnaire. These responses may appear online.
I stand behind our library’s core values. If elected, I won’t allow book banning, and I’ll protect your privacy from ChatGPT and other data collection software. I’m committed to making sure everyone has access to our meeting spaces, investing in youth services, and keeping our library safe. Learn more at colinforoakpark.com and feel free to contact me at [email protected].
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