On Sunday August 14, I completed my fifth year working for the good people of Oak Park.

I wanted to put up a short note thanking everyone with whom I have had the great pleasure to work with, from all walks of life, in Oak Park and Chicagoland. Despite the challenges of the Great Recession much has been accomplished. The community has been every bit as impressive and unique as I had expected when I was recruited here five years ago.

With a top flight, high caliber staff in place, dedicated elected officials, and an engaged and engaging civic infrastructure, the future promises to be as special as the past. Elected officials and staff are well aware of Oak Park’s courageous, can-do history.

So after five years, deep in the trenches, I am pleased to report that from everything I have seen the community and its local governments’ commitment to service, diversity, innovation, compassion, and excellence remains strong and vibrant. In fact, it appears to be in the collective DNA!

Your help and support has been deeply appreciated!