Will County Gazette

Frankfort Trustee Jessica Petrow has made a public statement criticizing Mayor Keith Ogle's leadership and conduct. In a video posted on March 27, 2025, Petrow addressed issues she perceives within the Village Hall and urged residents to vote.

Petrow accused Mayor Ogle of cronyism, lack of transparency, and poor treatment of women in politics. She said that under Ogle's administration, there is a pattern of mismanagement and unethical campaign tactics that harm Frankfort’s future.

As one of two women currently on the Frankfort Board of Trustees, Petrow highlighted her exclusion from student government involvement despite repeated requests. "I pleaded with Keith to stay involved in Student Government! He said ‘No’. He was better positioned to educate our youth," she said.

Petrow criticized Ogle for marginalizing trustees by ignoring their talents and insights. She noted that under former Mayor Jim Holland, she held leadership roles which were removed by Ogle. "Under Holland, I served as a Community Events Chair and Economic Development Chair... Under Ogle, I was removed from all positions!" she explained.

Petrow also accused Ogle of favoritism in appointments without transparency. "The Mayor receives them [applications], does not communicate his process...and makes an appointment!" she said.

She claimed that Board Meetings are scripted and important discussions occur in unrecorded Committee meetings. "The Board Meetings that are televised or recorded are all scripted!" Petrow revealed.

Petrow further alleged unethical campaign tactics by Ogle, including sign removal and slanderous statements against her during her second Trustee campaign. "I had to send our current mayor a cease-and-desist letter due to fabrications and slander," she disclosed.

Additionally, Petrow pointed out campaign violations involving the illegal use of the Village logo on materials. "He knows you cannot use the village logo but he did so anyway!" she emphasized.

In conclusion, Petrow called for change in leadership to ensure ethical governance in Frankfort. "We need someone in that center seat that listens to you! We need someone...who treats ALL people with respect," she urged residents.

Her full statement can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15m8faqWq5/.

Information from this article can be found here.