Rickert, Cunningham, Akemann win in Kane Co. races

Kane County treasurer::

Kane County Treasurer David Rickert rolled to a convincing win Tuesday night, defeating challenger Joseph Lowery 78,509 to 42,870, with all 299 precincts reporting, unofficial totals show. Rickert, a Republican, had stressed his office's adaptability to technology, which helped cut costs and spur productivity. His office also created a new searchable database on its website for taxpayers to find information as part of his promise of transparency in the office. In addition to his work with other offices to publish the Quick Guide to Property Taxes, Rickert's office came up with a drive-through property tax bill drop box.

Kane County clerk::

Incumbent Republican Jack Cunningham fended off two challengers with plenty of breathing room Tuesday, defeating Democrat Mavis Bates and Green Party candidate Jose del Bosque, according to unofficial vote totals.

Cunningham had 77,571 votes with all 299 precincts reporting. Bates had 39,236 votes and del Bosque 5,359. All candidates were from Aurora. Cunningham campaigned on how his office became more user-friendly, with more automated and accessible records for the public. He said it allowed him to reduce staff and stay within budget. Cunningham also serves as president of the National Association of County Recorders, Elected Officials and Clerks.

Kane County circuit judge:

Former Kane County State's Attorney David Akemann defeated Elgin attorney John Dalton Tuesday night to become circuit judge in the 16th Judicial Circuit. Akemann had 73,576 votes to Dalton's 45,989 with all 299 precincts reporting, according to unofficial vote totals. Akemann, an Elgin Republican who was state's attorney from 1992 to 2000, campaigned on a platform of experience and “common sense” decision-making. Dalton, an Elgin Democrat with no prior experience holding elected office, had pledged to refuse attorney donations in his campaign and address a backlog of criminal cases. Akemann will serve a 6-year term.