On Tuesday, December 9, Ericka Vetter was sworn in as 7th Ward alderperson. Mayor Jim Hortsman appointed Vetter to fill the seat left by Denise Danihel, who resigned in October after 10 years of exemplary service on the City Council. Vetter’s term expires in May 2027.
“Ericka has big shoes to fill, but I believe she is up to the challenge,” Hortsman said. “She is familiar with the workings of the City Council and she brings a wealth of professional and volunteer experience to the table. I’m looking forward to working with Ericka to support the needs of 7th Ward residents.”
Previously, Vetter served as city treasurer from 2021 to 2025. She also served on the Oak Forest Social Services Corporation and the Police Pension Board. Professionally, Ericka is the director of events at Chicago Gaelic Park in Oak Forest. She has more than 20 years of corporate experience in sales, event planning, management, and event consulting.
In addition to her civic and professional responsibilities, Ericka has served as board secretary for the Fierke Education Center's Parent Teacher Organization, and as a volunteer for Oak Forest Flag Football and Cheer program and Oak Forest Girls’ Softball.
A lifelong resident of Oak Forest and a graduate of Oak Forest High School, Ericka earned a bachelor's of science in public relations from Illinois State University.