frankfort illinois library logo graphic.5

Frankfort Library Board Reorganizes with New Officers, Seeks to Fill Vacancy

Spread the love

The Frankfort Public Library District Board of Trustees underwent a significant transformation Thursday night, swearing in five new members, electing a new slate of officers, and announcing an immediate search to fill a vacant two-year seat.

The reorganization followed the formal adjournment of the previous board’s term, marking a new chapter for the library’s governance.

Trustee Lori Evenhouse was elected as the new board vice president, with Trustee Jeffrey Otway taking the role of secretary and Trustee Karen Miner named treasurer. They join President Look, who continues in his role, to form the new officer team.

The election followed the administration of the oath of office to five recently elected trustees: Evenhouse, Otway, Miner, Autumn Faris, and Emily Meszaros. Their arrival creates a majority of new faces on the seven-member board.

Immediately after organizing, the new board addressed its first major piece of business: a vacancy for a two-year term that was left open after the recent election. According to the board, the vacancy must be posted for 15 days. Applications for the position will be accepted through June 7, with the board planning to hold a special meeting in June to review the candidates and vote to appoint a new trustee.

“The new board has big shoes to fill, but I feel they have a good group,” Otway said during his first comments as a trustee.

In his welcoming remarks, President Look emphasized the importance of teamwork for the newly formed board. He noted the “collaborative nature of the board and the importance of being informed and leveraging everyone’s strengths.”

Other new trustees also expressed their readiness to serve. Trustee Meszaros noted she was happy to be on the board and pointed to increased circulation numbers as a positive sign for the library. Trustee Evenhouse said she has a fondness for the library and looks forward to being a good steward.

As the new board took shape, the previous board took a moment to honor its outgoing members. A resolution was passed in recognition of the service of David Drisko, John Karabis, John Schneider, and Brooks Stenoish, who officially concluded their terms.

The new board also finalized its structure by making committee appointments. The new assignments are:

  • Policy & Personnel: Trustees Evenhouse, Meszaros, and Otway

  • Finance: Trustees Otway and Miner

  • Building & Grounds: Trustees Faris and Miner

  • Strategic Planning: Trustees Look, Faris, Meszaros, Otway, Miner, and Evenhouse

The new board will hold a tentative orientation during a special meeting scheduled for June 17 at 7 p.m.

Latest News Stories

Will-County-Jail-e1750123778582

Will County Jail Faces Major Staffing Crisis as 70 Employees Eligible to Retire by 2030

County officials warn of potential budget impact as adult detention facility grapples with unprecedented turnover Will County's adult detention facility is heading toward a staffing crisis that could significantly impact...
will-county-board.3

Will County Health Department Reports Sharp Decline in Overdose Deaths

2025 fatalities running 40% lower than previous year, officials attribute success to expanded Narcan distribution Will County is experiencing a significant reduction in overdose deaths, with 2025 fatalities running 40%...
will-county-board

Solar Project Extensions Approved as Industry Faces Permitting Delays

Three solar energy projects received 180-day extensions from Will County's Land Use & Development Committee Thursday as developers continue working through lengthy permitting processes with utility companies and other agencies....
will-county-board.3

Committee Approves Truck Terminal Despite Residential Concerns

A Monee Township truck terminal received approval from Will County's Land Use & Development Committee Thursday despite concerns about its proximity to residential areas. The committee voted 5-1 to approve...
will-county-board

Will County Health Department Faces Funding Uncertainty as Federal Grants Under Review

Multiple revenue sources threatened as department seeks legislative support for public health programs Will County Health Department officials are closely monitoring potential federal funding cuts that could impact multiple programs...

Will County Land Use Meeting Briefs

LAND USE ACTIONS Accessory Dwelling Unit Rules Modified: The committee recommended approval of text amendments allowing accessory dwelling units to exceed current building area limitations in certain circumstances. The changes...
will-county-board.2

Public Health and Safety Committee Meeting Briefs

Sunny Hill Nursing Home Tour Praised: Committee members who attended the May 9 tour of Sunny Hill Nursing Home praised the facility's condition and operations. Member Raquel Mitchell called it...
Medicaid-logo

Federal Reconciliation Bill Targets Medicaid, SNAP Programs

Will County Legislators Briefed on Potential Local Impacts Federal legislation making sweeping cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs could significantly impact Will County residents and services, county legislators learned...
will-county-board.2

Will County Approves Modified $756 Million Transportation Plan Despite Terminology Debate

Will County's Public Works and Transportation Committee approved a five-year, $756 million transportation improvement plan on June 3, but not before a heated debate over whether to call it a...
will-county-board.3

Will County completes major projects while others move forward

Will County's facilities team has completed several major projects while advancing others throughout the county, officials reported during a Capital Improvements & IT Committee meeting Monday. The Old Courthouse Plaza...
will-county-board.3

Will County Accepts $140,000 Developer Donation for Road Improvements

Will County's Public Works and Transportation Committee accepted a $140,143.90 donation from a developer in lieu of constructing traffic improvements along Laraway Road. The donation comes from the Lakes Park...
will-county-board.2

State Legislative Session Wrap-Up Shows Mixed Results

Will County's state legislative priorities saw mixed results as the Illinois General Assembly concluded its spring session on May 31, with several key bills advancing while others stalled. The Legislative...
will-county-board.2

Will County expands safety initiatives across facilities

Will County has implemented new safety protocols and training programs across its facilities, including the selection of department safety monitors and participation in community health education events. Each county department...
will-county-board.3

Leglislative Committee Meeting Briefs

Federal Grant Deadline Extended: The Surface Transportation Reauthorization deadline has been extended to May 30 for policy submissions, with both House and Senate committees actively seeking stakeholder input ahead of...
will-county-board.3

Speed Limits Reduced on Two Township Roads

The committee approved new speed zones for two township roads based on engineering studies showing current limits exceed safe driving speeds. Offner Road in Green Garden Township will have a...