As an economist, Jennifer brings a clear-eyed understanding to public finance: “there is no magic money.”

She knows that every dollar spent by Lake County Government comes from its residents, and she is committed to making sure those dollars are used to provide essential services—like public safety, infrastructure, and health—with maximum impact and fiscal responsibility. Her economic expertise drives her insistence on efficiency, sustainability, and transparency in government operations.

Jennifer has been a strong advocate for open, accountable governance. She championed the public recording and posting of all committee meetings so that residents can witness firsthand how decisions are made and how tax dollars are spent. She also led efforts to require that all vendors disclose any financial ties or contributions to County Board Members—an important step toward safeguarding public trust and ensuring integrity in the procurement process.

As a member of the Finance Committee, Jennifer is known for her rigorous scrutiny of county contracts, budgets, and policies. She is proud that both Lake County and the Lake County Forest Preserve District have earned a AAA bond rating—the highest rating possible—placing them among a select group of top-rated public entities nationwide. This rating saves taxpayers money by lowering borrowing costs and allows the county to reinvest in priorities that support economic development, small businesses, and the high quality of life that makes Lake County such a great place to live and work.

As Chair of the Public Works, Planning, and Transportation Committee, Jennifer brings bold leadership and a clear sense of urgency to one of Lake County’s most pressing challenges—revitalizing aging infrastructure. With over $1 billion in deferred maintenance facing the County, Jennifer has led efforts to increase funding for critical projects including roads, bridges, grade separations, and stormwater systems. Her advocacy has already resulted in measurable improvements, reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and elevating the overall quality of life for residents across Lake County.

Jennifer understands that sustainable economic development and livable communities begin with infrastructure that is built for both today and tomorrow. Under her leadership, the County has prioritized safer, more connected communities—closing dangerous sidewalk gaps, expanding bike path networks, and adopting a "complete streets" approach that makes room for non-motorized travel. These efforts are not only enhancing public safety but are also building healthier, more vibrant neighborhoods.

With over $800 million programmed over the next five years, the Lake County Division of Transportation is transforming the way the County approaches mobility and growth. Jennifer champions innovation, supporting the use of cost-effective technologies like advanced seal coaters that extend pavement life and reduce repair costs. She also advocates for expanded train grade separations to eliminate dangerous, time-wasting delays at rail crossings—improving safety for motorists and supporting businesses that rely on smooth, efficient logistics.

Jennifer has been a driving force behind Lake County’s bold commitment to sustainability, co-sponsoring the 2020 resolution that pledged that Lake County will achieve “Net Zero” greenhouse gas emissions. The ambitious goal to cut emissions and waste by 90% by 2040 has inspired a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at building a cleaner, healthier future. From requiring that new capital projects meet Net Zero standards to increasing the County’s fleet of electric vehicles, Jennifer is pushing for systemic changes that reduce our carbon footprint and modernize our operations.

Her efforts include launching energy audits for all County departments, expanding composting programs, installing energy-efficient lighting, and securing sustainable energy contracts. She’s also advancing the use of native landscaping, “bird-safe” architectural design, and the installation of EV charging stations across the County. Jennifer believes that environmental responsibility is not optional, it is essential to the health and prosperity of every Lake County resident.

Beyond policy, Jennifer is leading the charge for cleaner air and water, championing measures to reduce yard waste burning and preserve natural ecosystems. She sees every environmental initiative as both a public health priority and an opportunity to lead by example in the fight against climate change, starting right here at home.

Jennifer knows that wetlands are not just beautiful landscapes—they are vital natural defenses that reduce flooding, protect property, and support biodiversity. That’s why she has strongly supported robust funding for the Stormwater Management Commission and its forward-thinking initiatives, including resilient building design requirements, increased watershed protection grants, and voluntary buyouts for residents in flood-prone areas. These programs reflect Jennifer’s commitment to long-term solutions that protect both people and the environment.

Her passion for the Lake County Forest Preserves inspired her run for County Board, and she’s proud to have helped expand them by securing additional acreage in preserves like Libertyville’s Wilmot Woods. As Vice Chair of the Forest Preserve Planning Committee, she plays a key role in acquiring strategic lands that strengthen ecological resilience while keeping operations lean and effective for taxpayers.

Jennifer was thrilled to see voters approve the 2024 referendum to increase funding for land acquisition and development, and she’s working diligently to ensure that investment supports long-lasting benefits. She’s especially proud of the Bess Bower Dunn Museum and the educational and cultural programming that reaches thousands of residents every year. From concerts at Independence Grove to hands-on environmental education, Jennifer champions programs that bring people closer to nature—and to one another. She firmly believes that our Forest Preserves are a community treasure and will always fight to protect them for future generations.

As a trained economist, Jennifer is relentless in her pursuit of smarter government. She believes that increasing efficiency isn’t just good policy, it is a responsibility to taxpayers. Jennifer has led efforts to streamline County operations by encouraging shared services and equipment across departments, reducing duplication, and maximizing public investment. These efforts have helped make government leaner while preserving the high quality of service Lake County residents deserve.

One of Jennifer’s forward-looking initiatives is exploring the consolidation of 911 and public safety services into a centralized, modern facility. This move will improve response times, reduce redundancy, and provide a coordinated hub during large-scale emergencies—from severe weather events to public health crises. She sees this as a critical investment in the County’s resilience and safety.

Jennifer has also supported efforts to reduce the tax burden by consolidating and dissolving redundant taxing bodies, including certain mosquito abatement and sanitary sewer districts. Her vision is clear: deliver better outcomes through smarter management, and make sure every public dollar is working as hard as the residents who earned it.

Jennifer serves on the county’s Technology Committee, where she is a passionate advocate for expanding digital access and equity for all residents. With a focus on broadband accessibility, Jennifer works to ensure that every household, regardless of income or location, has the reliable, high-speed internet service necessary for modern life. This commitment is rooted in the belief that broadband is not a luxury, but a fundamental tool for participation in today’s society.

In addition to broadband expansion, Jennifer supports programs that provide residents with the devices they need to fully engage: whether it’s a laptop for a student, a tablet for a senior connecting with a doctor via telehealth, or a hotspot for an employee attending a virtual meeting. 

As an educator, Jennifer also emphasizes the importance of digital literacy and safety, ensuring that residents not only have access to technology but also understand how to use it confidently and securely. Through partnerships with libraries, schools, and community organizations, literacy programs help bring technology training and support to every corner of the county.

Jennifer believes that when residents are digitally connected, the entire county benefits from stronger educational outcomes and expanded job opportunities to better public health outcomes and deeper civic engagement. Her work on the Technology Committee is driven by a vision of a more productive, inclusive, and fulfilled community where every resident has the tools to thrive in the digital age.