Residents and local leaders gathered at Mayor Robert Straz’s campaign town meeting on Feb. 27 at the Marist SportsPlex, showing their support and discussing the city’s future.
The event brought out regional leaders, including Oak Lawn Mayor Terry Vorderer and Alsip Mayor John D. Ryan, along with current and former aldermen, reinforcing Straz’s long-standing influence in Palos Heights.
Ald. Michael McGrogan, who has served on the council since 2001, credited Straz with leading the city from financial struggles to stability.
“I’ve watched Bob manage the city from the depths of near bankruptcy all the way into great financial shape,” McGrogan said. “More importantly, the city employees have the utmost respect for Bob and all of his accomplishments.”
Straz emphasized his financial management, pointing to the city’s 23-year budget surplus and the $12 million in grants secured for community improvements.
“When we took over, we were staring at a financial cliff,” Straz said. “I remember looking at the numbers and thinking, ‘How do we turn this around?’ We made tough choices, tightened the budget, and focused on long-term planning. That’s how we built reserves and put the city on solid footing.”
He explained how the city’s strong financial position has allowed it to leverage matching grants. “We put up 20%, and the agency covers the other 80%. Without cash on hand, we couldn’t take advantage of these opportunities,” he said.
Straz also pointed to the city’s booming real estate market and the return of young families.
“Years ago, people looking for a home would head to La Grange or Western Springs. Now, they’re coming here,” Straz said. “We’ve worked hard to enhance our neighborhoods, improve public spaces, and support our schools. That’s why families see Palos Heights as a place to settle down and raise their children.”
He highlighted the city’s quality-of-life factors, from top-tier schools and a four-year college to a nature reserve and a highly regarded hospital.
Straz also detailed infrastructure upgrades under his leadership, including new streetlights, landscaped medians, improved intersections, and upgraded crosswalks.
“We wanted to create a more welcoming and walkable city,” he said. “And we’ve built community traditions that bring people together—our farmers market, car show, and Christmas festivities. Residents don’t have to leave town to enjoy quality events with their families.”
Downtown revitalization remains a key focus, with $600,000 allocated in this year’s budget for remodeling efforts. Straz said improving parking and modernizing storefronts are critical to maintaining the city’s charm while encouraging economic growth.
“We’re addressing concerns about parking and business development,” Straz said. “We have a plan, and we’re going to follow through.”
Oak Lawn Mayor Terry Vorderer praised Straz’s impact on the local business scene.
“I met Bob a few years ago, and he has greatly improved the quality of his business community here,” Vorderer said. “I often use his restaurants now, where I never used to come.”
Alsip Mayor John D. Ryan was also in attendance, reflecting regional support for Straz’s leadership. City Treasurer James Daemicke, who is seeking reelection, was present as well.
Former Palos Heights Ald. Jerry McGovern (4th) and business leader John Weglarz, along with his son Blake, were among the many attendees showing continued support for Straz’s campaign.
As the election nears, Straz reaffirmed his commitment to financial responsibility, infrastructure improvements, and making Palos Heights even more appealing to residents and businesses.
“I’ve lived in this town for over 45 years. I was a banker for 45 years, with 25 of those years spent in Palos Heights,” he said. “I know what businesses need, I know what residents need, and I’ll keep using my financial management background to help the city grow.”
Straz’s campaign remains focused on maintaining stability, embracing innovation, and fostering community growth.
Candidate Forum
The League of Women Voters of the Palos Orland Area is conducting Palos Heights candidate forums on March 6 at 6 p.m. at the Palos Heights Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St.
There will be three forums on the same evening, each having its own time slot in this order: Mayor, Treasurer and 2nd Ward Alderman.
Sponsor is the Palos Area Chamber of Commerce.
Could you get your poor former city clerk a campaign sign in my yard at 12201 Harold. Thanks so much!!!