Lake County incumbent, board chair challenged by longtime public safety professional

Veteran incumbent Democrat Sandy Hart is being challenged by Republican Ben Grum in his first run for public office to represent District 13 on the Lake County Board.

Hart has served on the county board for 12 years, the last six as chair. Leadership positions are selected by the full board every two years following the November general election.

Hart said the county board has advanced many projects and initiatives and wants to continue making a difference in communities.

“It’s my full-time job doing this work,” she said. “I'm very passionate about it.”

Grum, a police commander in Lake Forest, says he has been a public safety professional for 22 years and wants to improve community safety and quality of life.

“I am committed to community policing strategies, expanding mental health resources and supporting proactive emergency responses,” he said.

District 13 includes Lake Bluff and portions of Gurnee, North Chicago and Waukegan. County board members also serve as Lake County Forest Preserve District commissioners. Both candidates are Lake Bluff residents.

Hart said the county has delivered on accountability and transparency by making all county board and committee meetings available to view live or on video after the fact.

Other accomplishments include providing funds for stormwater improvement projects; creating the countywide Ride Lake County bus service for seniors and those with disabilities; expanding behavioral health services and helping launch the 211 referral service.

She said the consolidated communications and emergency operations center being built on the Lake County government campus in Libertyville will provide faster, more coordinated emergency response and benefit taxpayers.

Grum said the board lacks law enforcement representation and he would provide “real-world” experience to policymaking and public safety, which is the foundation of community priorities.

Grum said recruiting new business is needed to reduce the reliance on residential taxes, and the county should look for areas to cut spending and explore partnerships and new revenue sources.

Proper staffing for the sheriff’s office and jail and state’s attorney’s office also are critical needs, he added.

Hart says the sheriff’s office makes operational decisions.

In District 13, flooding is “really an enormous issue,” Hart said, adding that she works closely with municipal partners and the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission to alleviate problems.

Hart said she is proud to have drawn attention to “deplorable” housing conditions at Halsey Village at Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, and will continue working with local leaders and others on a plan to benefit military families.

Grum said his independence will allow him to work across party lines and foster a more collaborative approach. If elected, Grum said, he will be committed to bridging gaps and prioritizing open communication and shared goals.