Juan Beto Ruiz: 2026 candidate for Lake County Board District 16

Bio

Party: Democratic

Office sought: Lake County Board District 16

City: Round Lake Beach

Age: 39

Occupation: IT/Data Manager

Previous offices held: None

Q&A

Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

I am running because the people in this district have no representation on the board, no one who is fighting for us. Our area has needs — affordable housing, jobs, training. My opponent was removed from the committee that works on affordable housing, the Broadband committee that offers free computers and training to underserved communities, and the Stormwater Management Commission that leads capital projects to reduce flood damage to homes and roads — all because he didn’t attend the meetings. That is WRONG. I care about my community and we deserve to have someone represent us.

If you are an incumbent, describe a few important initiatives you’ve led. If you’re not an incumbent, describe a few ways you would contribute to the board.

To start: I will show up! My opponent does not show up to the meetings where decisions are being made to bring funding, opportunities, and programs to our area. He does not fight for us where it matters most. I have been speaking with people across this district and will continue to learn from them about what they need. I will bring their concerns and ideas to the County Board, and make sure that I am communicating back to my district about opportunities and programs so they are well informed. I have worked in our community schools for over fourteen years and I understand the needs that we face. I am working every day to provide food, supplies, and assistance to my neighbors who just want to live the American dream. On the County Board, I will be a fierce advocate for funding for programs that address job training, economic development, improved roads and sidewalks, and support services like rental assistance. We need someone who takes this job seriously and not just the paycheck. I am that person.

Is there a specific service or amenity that is lacking in the county? If so, how do you propose to provide and fund it?

The county has done a good job with services but more needs to be done to ensure people are aware of the things being offered. For example, workforce development is a great service but I’m not sure how many job-seekers know to look there. Residents can get certifications, resume support, attend job fairs, and so much more. The programs are there, they just need to be better advertised. There are a number of affordable ways to do this; as a board member, it will be a priority for me to make sure my neighbors know what services are available to them.

Lake County Board members also serve as forest commissioners. What do you consider the biggest priority or need in your district from the forest preserve side?

Now that the $155 million referendum has been approved, it is essential that District 16 has active, engaged representation on the LCFPD Board. I will show up and champion projects in our area. Forest preserves are essential for long-term environmental — and economic — sustainability. I am committed to protecting open space, clean air and water, and advancing flood mitigation efforts that benefit our communities and improve quality of life.

With the county's budget being squeezed by federal funding cuts and other factors, what initiatives would you support to increase revenue and/or save money?

I would focus on efficiency and accountability. I support shared services with other governments across the county to reduce duplications. I also support responsible economic development, maximizing state grants, and ensuring fees and contracts are cost effective. I will always protect essential services and make budget decisions transparently with the public. Above all, I will be present to vote on the County's budget. My opponent did not show up to vote for these services. People are hurting, especially in my district. I understand that the County is evaluating what programs should be kept running if federal funding goes away, and I definitely support that process. If that means reallocating funds to help people with basic human needs, like food and shelter, I will fight for that.

What is the single most important issue facing your district, and how should the county address it?

ICE activity targeting people in my community is the single most urgent issue facing the 16th district. That’s why I have been working with Mano a Mano and Round Lake Unidos. Although the County Board does not have the authority to stop or even significantly limit ICE, I will continue to work to educate my community on “Know your Rights’ and volunteer at the local food drive. For the one vote limiting ICE activity where the Forest Preserves does have jurisdiction its own property my opponent was not present. I promise to be present and never to be silent.

The County Board does have the ability and responsibility to address conditions that affect residents’ stability and well-being. I will champion affordable housing by advocating for increased investment in housing development and preservation, supporting partnerships with municipalities and nonprofits, and prioritizing policies that keep families housed and communities strong. I am disappointed that my opponent had to be removed from the committee that works on affordable housing because, again, he didn’t show up for meetings. I will be the voice that has been missing.

Why are you the best person to serve in this role?

I bring experience, compassion, and a strong commitment to serving this district with honesty and heart. This community has always been my home. I grew up in Round Lake and I am raising my two daughters here. I volunteer locally, support small businesses, and work directly with families in need. My community knows me and knows I will show up, consistently, with integrity.

I believe public service means representing constituents, not special interests. My opponent has taken almost $300,000 from special interest groups. Only 3.5% of those campaign funds came from Lake County and 0.7% came from District 16. He apparently believes this election can be bought, because it’s clear showing up is not his strategy: he has missed over 60% of his scheduled meetings and was not present to vote on the most recent Forest Preserves budget.

Showing up matters because funding decisions for things like housing, road projects, and opioid prevention and treatment are made at County Board meetings. If you’re not there, your community has no voice. I will consistently show up to advocate for District 16 and ensure our residents are represented when it counts.