Position for which you are a candidate: Elgin Council Member

Growing up in Elgin with a single mother and sisters, I learned invaluable lessons about perseverance, self-reliance, and treating everyone with dignity. These principles continue to guide me today.

My decision to run for Elgin City Council stems from a pivotal moment during my previous Latino/x leadership training. An instructor’s words resonated deeply: “sometimes you have to take an opportunity because life has given you the privileges, skills, and opportunities to put you there. You take the opportunity to push the door further open for those after you.” This philosophy, combined with my 2023 campaign experience, strengthens my commitment to expanding opportunities for all Elgin residents.

Having worked in state government, I’ve witnessed how dedicated public servants can build community trust and dismantle barriers. I’m eager to apply these insights directly to Elgin. My priorities focus on four key areas: driving economic development, strengthening infrastructure, advancing sustainability initiatives, and maintaining low tax rates.

My unique blend of local roots and government experience positions me to bring fresh perspectives to the Council while honoring our community’s values.

What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?

As a bilingual (English/Spanish) public servant with deep community roots, I plan to combine my immense wealth of experiences to make a positive contribution to City Council. I am an alum of U-46. Attended DePaul University receiving a bachelor’s in Political Science & Latin American/Latino Studies and a master’s in International Public Service.

I’ve built a career bridging communities and breaking down barriers. I have over 10 years of experience in higher education, primarily in federal regulatory compliance which equipped me to navigate complex government guidelines effectively. Over 9 years in community engagement which gave me an understanding on how to work with and build trust in the community. Over 5 years in state government and economic development. I dedicate my time supporting marginalized owned businesses to access state resources and work to remove systemic barriers. My work has earned recognition, including Negocios Now’s “Latinos 40 under 40” (2020) and Wintrust Community Banks’ Latinx Community Award (2021).

My approach to leadership is data-driven and community-centered. I am known to seek feedback to ensure I am serving the community well.

Elgin shaped my life journey from high school mentor who guided me toward higher education to local scholarships that enabled my college career. I’m running to reinvest in the community that invested in me, bringing my expertise in regulatory compliance, community building, and economic development to Elgin City Council.

What will be your highest priorities if elected?

Economic Development – Growing our economy requires strategic investment across downtown, eastside, and westside of Elgin. My approach focuses on:

1. Enhancing Business Support: A) Increase accessibility of local business resources; B) Strengthening existing business networks and C) Address retail leakage ($240 million annually according to Elgin Development Group 2021 Retail Market Analysis)
2. Community-Driven Development: A) Create an Economic Development Advisory Group with diverse representation including Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, Elgin Development Group, Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA), business leaders, Explore Elgin, artists, representatives of Planning and Zoning, stay at home parents, workforce, etc. They would focus on policy recommendations and community engagement.
3. Strategic Growth: A) Retain and expand existing businesses; B) Attract new enterprises and C) Develop targeted solutions

Economic development is my top priority because it drives everything from infrastructure to workforce opportunities to reducing those confronting homelessness. By keeping more consumer spending local, we can maintain low taxes while building a more resilient economy.

This plan emphasizes transparency, community input, and measurable outcomes to ensure Elgin’s prosperity for years to come.

I will participate in the candidate meet & greet: