First Ward Alderman Michael Price is seeking re-election, aiming to continue his focus on community engagement, local development, and financial stability.
Price, who was appointed to the Palos Hills City Council in 2018 to fill an unexpired term, won election the following year and was re-elected in 2021. He now faces challenger Haytham Elyyan, running for public office for the first time.
“This is the community I’m invested in,” Price said. “I want to enrich it in any way I can.”
With decades of experience in public service, Price said communication with residents remains a top priority. “All voices are valued and should be heard,” he said. “I learn so much just by talking with residents, and it motivates me to do better.”
Price said public service has always been at the heart of his work, both in and out of city government. “I’ve been in human services my whole life. Serving people feels right to me—it’s always been what I do,” he said.
Throughout his tenure, Price has worked on securing funding for local parks and infrastructure, including helping the city obtain a state grant for park improvements. He also collaborated with city officials to present the project to state agencies.
His latest project, a butterfly garden in Bennett Park, is designed to provide a peaceful outdoor space for residents. “It’s going to be a tranquil area—just a place where people can sit, reflect, and be still,” he said.
Price is involved in local service organizations, including Sertoma and the Chamber of Commerce, and sees such groups as key to supporting the community. “Service organizations support communities in ways government often cannot,” he said.
In addition to his work on the council, Price has a 35-year background in public service, having worked with the Bridgeview Park District, the American Red Cross, Pillars Community Health, and the DesPlaines Community Center. He volunteers with Elsie’s Food Pantry and supports senior programs through Palos Hills’ New Horizons Club and the 39ers Club. Price is also an advocate for veterans, having organized personal care packages for residents at the Illinois Veterans Home and helped launch the Field of Honor tribute at Moraine Valley Community College.
As a member of the Finance Committee, Price said he supports balanced budgets and responsible spending, with a goal of maintaining Palos Hills’ low property tax rate. “Taxes are a concern for everyone,” he said. “I want our city property taxes to remain among the lowest in the Chicago suburbs.”
He also noted business growth in the First Ward and acknowledged challenges like traffic congestion that come with development. “It’s a good problem to have, but we need to manage it,” Price said. “With all this growth, I want to make sure we’re enriching the quality of life, not just expanding for the sake of it.”
Price chairs the Community Resources Committee and is a member of the Economic Development Committee. He said he values a common-sense approach to city government and long-term planning. “I’m not about being in the spotlight—I’m about serving,” Price said.
Price and his wife, Kara, have lived in Palos Hills for more than 30 years. When he’s not working on city matters, residents may spot him at Cholula Mexican Grill. “I love it there,” he said. “It’s one of my favorite spots.”
He said he aims to continue supporting local services and responding promptly to constituent concerns. “Fairness and communication matter,” Price said. “I make it a point to respond to residents quickly, usually within 24 hours.”
Election Day is April 1. Early voting is underway.
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