Name: Sarah Brittin Position for which you are a candidate: East Dundee Village President Why are you seeking this position? I am seeking the position of Village President because I believe in the importance of strong, collaborative leadership that puts community engagement and transparency at the forefront. Over the past four years as a Village Trustee, I have worked to ensure that residents have a clear window into the board’s decision-making process and that their voices are heard in shaping the future of East Dundee. I want to continue fostering an open and productive dialogue between the village board, staff, [...]

Name: Henry Fixemer Position for which you are a candidate: Dundee Township Trustee Why are you seeking this position? I am running for Dundee Township Trustee because I believe in contributing to my community. Last fall, a neighbor suggested I run, but I was undecided until I learned that the Dundee Township 708 Mental Health Board is at risk of being undermined by far-right members of the township board. Because I am a future mental health practitioner, that was the deciding factor. In an ideal world, neighbors should care for each other. This is what the Mental Health Board is [...]

Name: Mark W. Smith Position for which you are a candidate: Elgin Council Member Why are you seeking this position? First and foremost, I want to express my deep love for Elgin. I have been proud to call this city my home since 2009, moving here shortly after my retirement following a fulfilling 22-year career in the United States Army. Though I may be considered a transplant, Elgin quickly captured my heart when I joined the Elgin Police Department later that same year. In my role as an officer, I had the privilege of meeting and interacting with the wonderful [...]

Name: Diana Alfaro Position for which you are a candidate: Elgin Council Member Why are you seeking this position? 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 [...]