Hunt cites tremendous support in earning GOP Kane Auditor nod

Terry Hunt, a Big Rock trustee, finished tops in a three-way race Tuesday night to secure the Republican nod for Kane County auditor.

With all precincts reporting, unofficial results show Hunt with 14,863 of votes, followed by Laura Wallett and Karl Regnier with 12,559 and 5,687 votes, respectively.

“First and foremost, I had tremendous support from my family and friends who made this whole thing possible. It’s a monumental task getting your message out,” Hunt said.

While Tuesday’s contest decided who would represent the GOP in the November election, one could argue that it was the de facto election because no Democrat has filed to run for the post.

Longtime Auditor Bill Keck decided not to seek another term and endorsed Hunt.

In the campaign, Wallett, of South Elgin, stressed that she was the only practicing public accountant in the race. She said the auditor should take a more active role in examining expenditures and offer suggestions to department heads on how to save money.

Regnier, of North Aurora, said the auditor should take a back seat to department heads, who determine their own budget, and he wanted to keep things status quo.

Hunt emphasized his background also as an accountant and stressed his experience in the private sector and as a coach to help sides build consensus.

“Everybody is concerned with taxes and spending — in Springfield and Washington as well,” he said.