On February 24, the Oak Forest City Council appointed 5th Ward Alderman Jim Emmett as mayor pro tem to act in Mayor Jim Hortsman’s stead as he recovers from a medical issue. Emmett will perform mayoral duties, such as presiding over meetings or signing documents, to ensure continuity in government services. Mayor Hortsman is expected to return to duties in early spring.
“Mayor Hortsman is in good spirits,” said City Administrator Moses Amidei. “Although we will keep him informed on daily activities, we want to give him the time and space he needs to fully recover. We look forward to having him back at City Hall soon.”