Pekau sworn in as new mayor of Orland Park

Photo array by photographer Steve Neuhaus

Keith Pekau was sworn in as Orland Park’s new mayor at ceremonies held at the Orland Park Village Hall on Monday night, May 15, 2017.

Pekau won a decisive election over 24-year incumbent Mayor Dan McLaughlin, who was criticized for seeking to dramatically increase his salary, making him a full-time mayor while retaining the village’s full-time Village Manager and full-time deputy Village Manager.

McLaughlin’s salary hike from $40,000 a year to $150,000 would also have resulted in a massive increase in a pension for him during his new term, had he won.

Pekau said he would take the salary, as it was mandated by the village board prior to the election — salaries cannot be changed during an incumbent politician’s term in office and must be done by the prior administration before the election.

But Pekau said he would not take the pension, which would be estimated at $110,000 and would have been paid by Orland Park village taxpayers.

Pekau with wife Betty (center) and daughter Amanda. Photo courtesy of Steve Neuhaus

Pekau talks to reporters following board meeting. Photo courtesy of Steve Neuhaus

Pekau gets down to business during his first meeting as mayor. Photo courtesy of Steve Neuhaus

Pekau congratulated by his wife Betty as daughter Amanda looks on. Photo courtesy of Steve Neuhaus