Taglia Sworn In As New OP Township Trustee

Jim Taglia has gone from the role of advisor to policy maker, and his new position as trustee leaves with another vacancy to fill.

The Township is now looking for someone to finish out the remaining two years of Taglia’s term as Collector, an elected position. The 46-year-old CPA served in that capacity for two years.  

Taglia was sworn in on May 31 to complete remaining two years on the term of who resigned to take a new position in Atlanta.  A life-long Oak Parker, Taglia is married and has five children ranging in age from six to 13.

The terms of both positions expire in 2013.

The Collector is elected but has a non-voting role on the Township Board, attends meetings and participates in discussions on Board policy. In addition, the Collector often serves as the Oak Park Township’s at-large representative at conferences and association meetings.

As a trustee, Taglia will participate in formulating and approving the policy, personnel and financial practices.  Four trustees and the Township Supervisor have the authority to vote on all township matterss.

For Taglia, becoming the collector was a way to become engaged in township government. Now he will play an even bigger role in township government, such as what will happen with the that will move from the Oak Park Arms to across the street from the current facility.

“The Township does a lot of good things for seniors,” he said. “That work allows them to be independent and live their lives with dignity and self respect….That new facility is a great acquisition and a great location. It will add a lot in the end.”  

While Collector, Taglia served as a non-voting board member and as a member of the Senior Services Committee. In November 2010, he was named the Elected Official of the Year by the Illinois Townships Association of Senior Citizens Services Conference for his contributions to senior welfare.

In addition to seniors, Oak Park Township aids youth, the mental health community and financially challenged residents.

Residents can apply online by logging on to the Township website or stop by the township office at 418 S. Oak Park Ave. For more information contact Gavin Morgan, the township manager, at 708-383-8005.  The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. June 22.  A decision could be made as early as June 28, the next Township board meeting, officials said.

Applicants must be 18 years of age, be a registered voter and live in the Township for at least one year.