Oak Park council appoints Stephanie Crawford after interviews with five finalists

Oak Park City Council voted unanimously Jan. 29 to appoint Stephanie Crawford to a council seat vacated earlier this year, concluding a public interview process that included five finalists selected from 22 applicants.

City Manager Eric Tungate moderated the evening’s interviews, explaining that each finalist would be asked the same five questions to keep the process consistent. The council heard roughly 30‑minute interviews from Juanita Bell, Stephanie Crawford, Larminder Davis, Joella Dean and Mark Schulman before moving into deliberations.

“The Oak Park Charter dictates that any council vacancy must be filled within 30 days,” Tungate said during introductory remarks explaining the timeline and rules for the appointment. The appointee will serve through November 2025, the staff statement said.

Candidates emphasized different priorities during their interviews. Juanita Bell highlighted senior housing, revitalizing neighborhood block clubs and efforts to encourage residents to shop locally. Stephanie Crawford, who served on the city’s arts and cultural diversity commission and described experience reviewing contracts and statutes in her work, focused on public‑space improvements and continued revitalization of the 9 Mile corridor and Shepherd Park projects. Larminder Davis discussed mental‑health informed responses and school safety; Joella Dean emphasized community engagement and service; and Mark Schulman pointed to public safety, infrastructure maintenance and economic development as central concerns.

Council members praised the finalists’ experience and local knowledge during deliberations. Council member Radnor moved to appoint Stephanie Crawford; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll‑call vote. Council member Hector, Mayor McClellan, Council member Radnor and Mayor Pro Tem Whitehead all voted yes. “Motion carried unanimously,” the mayor said after the vote.

City staff told the council they will schedule an oath of office for Crawford before the special council meeting on Feb. 3 and plan a ceremonial swearing‑in at that regular session. Staff also thanked the 22 applicants who had submitted materials for the vacancy and said the city will keep their names on file for future opportunities.

A member of the public, Ken Sherman of Jerome Street, urged the council during public comment to select a candidate who would look at Oak Park’s long‑term needs. The mayor and council members closed the meeting by thanking applicants and staff for organizing the public appointment process; the meeting then adjourned.