Mayor Gerald Bennett, who has led Palos Hills for more than four decades, announced his campaign for re-election, pledging to preserve the city’s charm while advancing infrastructure, public safety, and recreational opportunities. Bennett, who took office in 1981 at the age of 30, has overseen transformative progress in the city while maintaining one of the lowest property tax rates in Cook County and eliminating bonded indebtedness.
“When I started as mayor, I wanted to create a sense of community,” Bennett said. “That’s still my mission today—to ensure Palos Hills remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Bennett’s tenure has been marked by major accomplishments, including a $10 million stormwater management initiative that reduced flooding for over 700 homes and nearly $60 million in recent commercial investments. These projects, funded through grants rather than tax increases, reflect his focus on minimizing residents’ financial burdens.
“These projects are years in the making,” Bennett said. “But we’ve been able to fund them without passing the costs onto residents, and that’s a win for everyone.”
However, this election brings a fresh dynamic as Alderman AJ Pasek, a long-time community leader and 3rd Ward alderman, has entered the race. Pasek, who has lived in Palos Hills with his wife, Claudia, since 1989, brings over 30 years of experience in public service. As chairman of the Golf Course Committee and a member of various legislative committees, he has been a steadfast advocate for transparency in city governance.
“I’ve had the utmost privilege and honor representing the 3rd Ward,” Pasek said. “I want to continue perpetuating transparency across the entire council, department heads, and residents. I plan on applying all my focus and attention directly towards the people and city of Palos Hills.”
While Bennett emphasizes continuity and long-term strategic planning, Pasek aims to bring fresh leadership to Palos Hills. His campaign centers on reevaluating and updating city policies, with a focus on clear communication and accountability. Pasek’s bid offers an alternative vision for the city after Bennett’s 45-year tenure as mayor.
Under Bennett’s leadership, Palos Hills has become a hub of growth and collaboration. Local businesses such as Peppo’s and Valley Inn thrive alongside new ventures like a luxury spa, and the city has revitalized parks and expanded recreational programming. “Eighty percent of a community’s business often comes from outside its borders,” Bennett said. “If people want to shop and dine in Palos Hills, that benefits everyone.”
For Pasek, however, the key to the city’s success lies in fostering open dialogue and ensuring residents feel heard. “I believe creating transparency across the board is critical,” he said.
As the 2025 mayoral election approaches, the stakes are high. Palos Hills residents will weigh decades of experience and progress under Bennett’s leadership against Pasek’s call for greater transparency and a renewed focus on the community. Both candidates bring deep ties to the city and a shared passion for its future, ensuring a spirited and meaningful election ahead.
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