Protecting Our Land and Water
Lake County’s wetlands, forest preserves, aquifers, and waterways are essential to our quality of life, and they play a critical role in flood control, water quality, and wildlife habitat. When these systems are degraded or lost, communities often pay the price through increased flooding, environmental damage, and costly mitigation down the line.
I support a policy of no net loss of wetlands and believe we should continue working toward a goal of net gain to improve wetland function, including water storage and water quality. Protecting these resources isn’t about stopping growth; it’s about making sure development decisions are made responsibly and with long-term impacts in mind.
I support voluntary wetland preservation and restoration efforts, the strategic use of mitigation, grant funding, and watershed-based planning that targets resources where they are most effective. By strengthening wetland systems and protecting open land, we can reduce flood risk, protect drinking water, and preserve the natural spaces that define Lake County.
Good stewardship means thinking ahead; because once water is gone, we don’t get it back.
Responsible Government That Works for Us
Public business should be done in public. Open government builds trust, and trust leads to better decisions.
That means clear communication, accessible information, and careful planning that respects taxpayers and protects public dollars from waste. Good government isn’t about slogans or flashy headlines. It’s about responsibility, follow-through, and making decisions that will make sense years down the road.
Openness fosters integrity and confidence that officials act in the public's best interest. As a Lake County Board member, I will act with integrity and fiscal responsibility while continuing and strengthening transparent practices.
Attainable Housing and Affordability
I support housing strategies that increase housing opportunities, improve quality of life, and address environmental impact. Housing should work for people at every stage of life, rather than force them out when circumstances change. Today, too many families, seniors, people with disabilities, and young adults find themselves squeezed by housing costs or limited options that don’t reflect real-life needs.
At the county level, that means supporting coordinated housing initiatives, encouraging zoning approaches that allow a range of housing types, and working with municipalities, developers, and community partners to remove barriers that limit supply. Housing policy should balance growth with community stability and fairness, not leave residents priced out of the places they helped build.
Affordability means protecting tax dollars through efficiency in services, minimal waste, and maximizing valuable outcomes aimed at opposing tax increases and minimizing the tax burden on citizens and businesses.
This isn’t about telling people how to live. It’s about making sure people have choices when life happens.
Supporting Mental Health and Wellness
Mental health challenges affect families and people across Lake County, regardless of age, background, or income. From young people navigating school and social pressures, to adults balancing work and caregiving, to older residents facing isolation or health changes, access to timely, coordinated support matters.
I'll advocate for mental health awareness, prevention, and partnerships between schools, healthcare providers, nonprofits, employers, and county services. By working together, we can reduce stigma, improve access to care, and help residents and families connect to the resources they need when they need them.
County government has an important role to play in coordination, funding oversight, and making sure residents know where to turn for help. Supporting mental health isn’t just about responding in moments of crisis — it’s about strengthening individuals, families, and communities over the long term.
Economic Growth and Community Safety
As growth continues in Lake County, I believe development decisions should be made carefully and openly. Large or high-impact projects — including data centers and other intensive land uses — should be evaluated with a clear understanding of environmental impact, infrastructure capacity, emergency services needs, and long-term community compatibility.
County government plays an important role through zoning, land-use decisions, permitting, and coordination with local and regional partners. Responsible development means planning for long-term impact and avoid shifting costs onto the residents.
Keeping our neighborhoods safe requires thoughtful policy, strong partnerships, and a focus on prevention as well as accountability. Community safety isn’t just about enforcement — it’s about addressing root causes, strengthening coordination, and making sure systems work together effectively.
Smart growth means asking hard questions up front so our communities aren’t left dealing with unintended consequences later.