Local residents gathered for an afternoon of food, fellowship, and focused community dialogue on June 26, as Village of Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge teamed up with Illinois State Representative Patrick Sheehan for a special community luncheon. Hosted by the Orland Park Public Library at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., the event provided a unique, face-to-face opportunity for neighbors to connect directly with their local and state representatives.

The heart of the afternoon centered on a lively and constructive open conversation, where community members brought forward their ideas, questions, and priorities. Two major themes dominated the discussion: keeping Orland Park neighborhoods safe and addressing the growing challenges of economic affordability. Both leaders expressed deep gratitude to the packed room of attendees who stepped up to share their voices, emphasizing that local government thrives when residents are actively engaged. The choice of the public library as the venue highlighted the building’s role as a vital anchor for local civic life.