Meet the Active Party
William J. Joyce - Village President
William and his family have proudly called the Village of Steger home for generations. As a lifelong resident, deeply rooted in the community as members of St. Liborius Church. A lifelong resident William has dedicated himself to serving and improving the village through professional expertise and civic engagement. With over 34 years of experience at Amtrak, William is a Senior Field Engineer and Project Manager, recognized for his leadership and innovation. A proud member of IBEW Local 134 and Local 794, he brings unparalleled expertise and dedication to every role he undertakes. William’s devotion to Steger extends beyond his professional accomplishments. Elected as a Village Trustee in 2015, William has worked tirelessly to enhance the community. His service also includes 20 years as a Firefighter/EMT, active membership in the Economic Development Committee, and participation in the Project Management Institute. These roles showcase his dedication to improving Steger and ensuring its prosperity. William's devotion to family is at the heart of his motivation. As the father of William Jr. and Madalyn, he strives to create a brighter future for the village. Following in the footsteps of his father Elmer Joyce Sr., Steger’s respected Fire Chief of over 25 years, William continues a proud legacy of community service. Currently, he serves as President of the Steger Kiwanis Club and Lieutenant Governor of the Illinois-Eastern Iowa District of Kiwanis International, exemplifying leadership and service. His proven dedication, experience and vision make him a trusted leader for Steger's growth and success.
James J. Piacentini - Village Clerk
Lifelong Public Servant and Community Advocate
Jimmy is a lifelong resident of the Village of Steger, where he and his wife Patty raised their daughter, Rachel. A devoted member of Saint Liborius Church, Jimmy has served as a Trustee for the Crete Township Board for 20 years, demonstrating his commitment to community leadership. With 50 years of service as a Firefighter/EMT, Jimmy has also worked tirelessly to address public health issues in the area. As a photographer for MABAS and the son of Marsha, Steger's first female trustee, Jimmy carries forward a proud legacy of service and dedication. His lifelong commitment to Steger makes him a trusted advocate for progress and community well-being.
Steve Thurmond - Village Trustee (incumbent candidate)
Experienced Leader and Dedicated Volunteer
Steve has served as a Village Trustee for Steger for the past four years and has been a resident of the village for 26 years. He lives with his wife, Sheila, and is the proud father of Cody and Rachel and grandfather to Landon. Steve brings over 35 years of professional expertise as General Manager and Project Specialist for Meredith's Culligan Water of Broadview, specializing in water treatment. A member of St. Liborius Church and the Sons of the American Legion, Steve has a long history of community involvement, including serving as a Cub Scout leader, sports coach, and parent booster for Bloom Trail schools. He is well-known for his commitment to supporting and fundraising for local organizations.
James Hanus - Village Trustee
Dedicated Tradesman and Community Leader
James is a longtime resident of Steger and the proud owner of Cabinet Fabrications, a cabinet shop serving the village. With a strong commitment to public service, James served as Commissioner for five years on the Steger Police and Fire Board. He is also a 15-year member of the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Local 272 and an active member of St. Liborius Church. Married to Patty for 40 years, James is a devoted father to three grown sons: James, Tommy, and Steven. His leadership in business, community service, and family values demonstrates his dedication to building a stronger, thriving Steger for all residents.
Starlena "Star" Kaminski - Village Trustee
Educator, Mentor, and Advocate for Youth
Star is a third-generation Steger resident who raised her three children—Jessica, Jason, and Alyssa—in the community she loves. For 23 years, she has proudly served Steger School District 194, including 20 years as a librarian and currently as Administrative Assistant to the Principal at Steger Primary Center, the school she attended as a child. Star was honored with the 2024 Steger School District Outstanding Service Award and is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the Honor Society of Education. A longtime member of the Steger PTA, Team Mom for youth sports, and Treasurer for Boy Scout Pack 173, Star has dedicated her life to mentoring and supporting Steger’s next generation.
