Bloom Township Board Sworn In

There was a celebration in the Bloom Township garage recently. Several Bloom Township residents showed up to witness the Bloom Township board being sworn in. On Tuesday May 18th

Taking their oaths again were Bloom Township Supervisor TJ Somer, Joe Stanfa, Highway Commissioner, Carla Matthews, Clerk, trustees Cheryl Franklin and Michael Noonan.

The board welcomed two new trustees, Jacqelene Stewart and Don Garcia who were voted in after Kevin Watson and Laretta Adams retired.

“As a supervisor, as a CEO, I couldn’t ask for a more supportive board” said TJ Somer. “This is a board I can trust, a board that has been the life and breath of Bloom Township. I wanted to say to the bottom of my heart to Kevin and Laretta, thank you.” Both trustees have served the residents of Bloom Township for over twelve years.

The Bloom Township board presented gifts to the retiring trustees. It was then time to swear in the mostly returning board. Luciano Panici, Judge of the Illinois Circuit court swore in most of the board, then Thomas Stanfa gave the oath to his nephew Joe Stanfa the Bloom Township Highway Commissioner.

Each member of the new board stood up to express their thanks for being elected to serve the Bloom Township residents.

Bloom Township offers many programs, some are unavailable right no due to COVID restrictions, please contact them at 708-754-9400 for information on programs available.

For Bloom Township Supervisor, TJ Somer, he was sworn in for his 7th term. Somer and his team were instrumental in getting the Bloom Township food pantry open. He and the board are working on new initiatives.

“We will continue to operate and expand current programs, and we will take the lead on spearheading a collaborative effort with the 12 communities of the Township to address the serious homeless issue that exists” said Somer.

Jacqelene Stewart, one of the new trustees can’t wait to get to work for the Bloom Township residents.

“I can’t wait to get the ball rolling” Stewart said. “I want to mention diversity and inclusion. In 2009, I became the first African American individual elected in Steger. I mention that because progression does not have to be loud. I believe Bloom Township is progressing.”

Lifelong Chicago Heights resident and new Bloom Township trustee, Don Garcia told the audience his plans as well. “I can’t wait to get started and to work for all of you.”

For Joe Stanfa the Bloom Township Highway Commissioner he summed up the unity of the Bloom Township Board. “I’m happy to keep my family name and the Bloom Township name proud. There has never been a day on this Bloom Township board where nobody has done anything illegal or unethical, keep Bloom strong.”