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Oak Park honors two 25-year employees as residents raise potholes, tree hazards and truck-parking concerns
Summary
Council recognized Scott Lamar and Tom Oakes for 25 years of service; during public comment residents urged the city to finish 10 Mile Road work, repair Rosewood, inspect a dangerous tree on Pearson Street, and address semi-truck parking at a shopping center.
Oak Park council honored two longtime city employees and heard several resident complaints about local street and safety issues during its Monday meeting.
City Manager Eric Tungate and others recognized Scott Lamar (Public Works) and Officer Tom Oakes for 25 years of service. Deputy City Manager Dave DeCoster described Lamar’s lengthy Public Works career, his time as general foreman and his role across divisions, saying Lamar has "dedicated his career to making Oak Park a better place." Director Steve Cooper praised Officer Oakes’ 25-year career in public safety, noting his training role, fire-inspection work and certifications in arson investigation.
Oakes, who spoke at the meeting, thanked the city for 25 years of service and urged council to remember the breadth of responsibility carried by combined police and fire staff. "You guys put a huge burden on these guys," he said, referring to the combined public-safety roles.
During the public-comment period, callers raised several neighborhood concerns. A phone caller identifying as Sandy Cleggman said resurfacing on 10 Mile Road was delayed beyond a March target and described eastbound-lane problems, requesting clearer communication and faster completion. Resident Sylvia Kravitz said Rosewood remains badly damaged from truck traffic related to nearby school construction and asked when repairs will be scheduled; staff said streets are prioritized by condition and encouraged residents to contact Public Works.
Kenya Spratt told the council that a large tree at 14531 Pearson Street appears unstable after a wind event and nearby sewer work and asked the city to inspect the site. City Manager Tungate said staff would follow up. Kenneth Sherman said semi-trailers have been using a shopping center at Tennant and Coolidge for long-term parking and asked for enforcement.
Council members closed the meeting with community announcements, including World Dance Day and a Juneteenth sponsorship call, and thanked staff and retiring employees.
