Neighbor News
Orland Park Chamber of Commerce Board Issues Statement Regarding Forum
Pekau attacks chamber after his own forced cancellation of the event as a political stunt
It’s truly unfortunate that Mayor Pekau has chosen to attack the Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce instead of addressing the real issue at hand. The cancellation of the Mayoral Forum stemmed directly from his refusal to agree to the pre-established terms meant to ensure a fair and impartial platform for all candidates.
Let’s prioritize solutions and unity over personal attacks. Our community deserves better! Vote Jim Dodge and the Orland Park for All slate to bring respect back to village hall.
Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors released the following statement on March 6, 2025:
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Issues Statement on March 7 Mayoral Forum Cancellation and Subsequent Communication
Orland Park, IL – (March 6, 2025) – The Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors wishes to address the recent contention surrounding the cancellation of the March 7 Mayoral Forum, announced in our Facebook post dated February 24.
The decision to cancel the Forum was not taken lightly and followed extensive discussions and a vote by the full Board. We remain committed to hosting events that promote open exchange of ideas and showcase the candidates’ visions for Orland Park as they pertain to our members and the business community. However, it was essential for discussions to occur in a fair and impartial environment.
In advance of the event, we outlined clear and non-negotiable conditions aimed at ensuring this impartiality. We were left with no viable option but to cancel the event when these conditions were not met. We understand that this decision may have disappointed some in our community, but we firmly believe that integrity and fairness must be prioritized in our political processes.
Additionally, we are disheartened by the recent criticisms directed at our CEO by an elected official in public statements. Our CEO has consistently demonstrated commendable professionalism, dedication, and integrity in serving the Chamber. Her work over the past year has been characterized by her commitment to facilitating open dialogues among all parties involved. Criticisms aimed at her personally are not only misplaced but undermine the nonpartisan role that the Chamber seeks to uphold.
We also feel compelled to respond to uncalled-for remarks aimed at one of our Board members, who has consistently demonstrated professionalism and dedication to the greater good of the community and political neutrality. This Board member has focused on collaboration and community interests. Our Board stands united in support of both our CEO and Board member, as they both exemplify the values we promote as a Chamber.
As a Board, we are resolute in our commitment to political impartiality. We will continue to serve as a platform for dialogue and growth within our community, free from partisan influences. Our mission is to support local businesses and create a favorable environment for economic development, and we will not waver in these principles. Thank you for your understanding and continued support. We encourage community members to reach out to us with any questions or concerns, as we value open dialogue and transparency in our efforts.
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