Will County Gazette

Justin Ozinga, a mayoral candidate in Frankfort, Illinois, has criticized the current Mayor Keith Ogle for what he describes as a "lack of consistency" that has undermined trust and hindered development in the area. Ozinga expressed these views in a Facebook post dated February 13.

"One of the biggest frustrations I've heard from residents, developers, and business owners is the lack of trust/commitment in the current mayor," said Ozinga, according to Facebook. "Time and again, he has shown strong verbal support for new projects, only to reverse course without explanation. This lack of consistency has cost stakeholders valuable time and money and has given Frankfort a bad reputation. His lack of experience in leadership is costing Frankfort residents new jobs, homes and lower taxes."

The upcoming mayoral election in Frankfort is set for April 1, 2025, aligning with the consolidated election. The incumbent, Mayor Keith Ogle, who has been in office since 2021, is seeking re-election. Justin Ozinga announced his candidacy in September 2024.

Screenshot of Facebook Post | Facebook

According to a press release from LFI Real Estate, a coalition of residents and business leaders has accused Mayor Ogle of mismanagement and obstruction regarding a senior housing development project known as the Gardens of Frankfort. This project aims to create a manufactured housing community for residents aged 55 and older. Despite receiving zoning approval from Will County Court in 2003 and initial verbal support from Ogle in 2021, the project has encountered delays and has not yet been presented to the Board of Trustees for approval.

Concerns about infrastructure priorities under Ogle's leadership have also been highlighted. A sanitary sewer study conducted in 2024 revealed capacity issues within southern Frankfort's sewer systems. Steve Gutschenritter, a senior engineer and long-time resident, said: "I believe the village has spent way too much of its resources in the wrong areas. It really needs to be spent to maintain and improve our sewer and water before some of the other items we are spending on."

Ozinga shared his personal frustrations with proposed developments on his Facebook post. He mentioned that one project had received "overwhelming initial support," but despite significant investment of time and money, it was ultimately dismissed. He recounted an interaction with Mayor Ogle where he was told: "It’s an election year and truth be told Mrs. Ogle doesn’t want a boutique hotel in this location (NW corner of Elwood and White), she prefers it stays grass."

Ozinga has resided in Frankfort for 21 years where he raised his five daughters. He is running for mayor as said on his campaign website.