Spring 26 OP Newsletter

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

Dear Orland Park Residents,

As summer arrives, I find myself reflecting on what truly makes Orland Park special. It’s not just our parks, programs or events, but the people behind all of it. The volunteers who show up early and stay late. The staff who go above and beyond. The neighbors who bring ideas, energy and heart to everything we do together. That spirit is alive and well in our Village, and I am proud to lead a community that continues to demonstrate it every single day. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the State of the Village Address on March 31. It was a wonderful evening and a chance to celebrate how far we’ve come and look ahead with optimism. If you missed it, a recording is available on our YouTube channel at youtube.com/@VillageofOrlandPark. This past year was full of moments that reminded us of the power of coming together. The return of the Taste of Orland Park to the Village Center, a full season of free concerts, movies and markets at Centennial Park West all succeeded because of the collaborative effort of dedicated staff, generous volunteers, local organizations and residents who care deeply about this community. That same collaborative energy carried into our community nights and neighborhood discussions, where residents shared thoughtful ideas and constructive feedback. I’m deeply grateful to Congressman Sean Casten, Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon, Vice Consul General of Ireland in Chicago Pádraig Manning and Darvin President Will Harris for joining us at recent gatherings. Their presence reflects a growing spirit of partnership between local, county and state leaders built on open dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the people of Orland Park. I also want to extend a sincere thank you to the members of our Village’s boards and commissions, both those newly established and those that have expanded their reach. These dedicated residents are doing meaningful work on behalf of this community, bringing diverse perspectives and a genuine commitment to representing the voices of their neighbors. Their contributions strengthen everything we do, and I am grateful for their service. This summer carries even more reason to celebrate. As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, we have a wonderful opportunity to gather, reflect and renew our sense of community pride. I warmly invite you to join us over Memorial Day weekend for the inaugural Red, White and Blue BBQ Fest and Parade, as well as our annual Memorial Day Ceremony. These are moments worth sharing with neighbors, family and friends. You will find details on these events and the full America 250 celebration lineup within the pages of this publication as well as at orlandpark.org/America250. Orland Park’s strength has always come from its people, and that has never been more evident than it is today. Thank you for the time, energy and care you invest in this community. If you ever have questions, ideas or concerns, please reach out to jimdodge@orlandpark.org or call (708) 403-6100. Staying connected is how we keep moving forward, together.

Warm regards, James V. Dodge Mayor of Orland Park

orlandpark.org | Spring 2026 |

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