Ericka Polanco Webb: 2026 candidate for DuPage County Board District 3 (2-year term)

Bio

Office sought: DuPage County Board District 3 (2-year term)

Party: Democrat

City: Burr Ridge

Age: 41

Previous offices held: Gower School District 62 Board of Education Member

Q&A

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

I am running because I believe county government should be accessible, accountable, and responsive to the everyday needs of the people it serves. Our community deserves leadership that shows up, listens, communicates clearly, and follows through. I want to expand access to resources and opportunities, support youth and families, help seniors age with dignity, strengthen public safety, promote responsible fiscal management, and ensure every community has a voice.

One issue that especially motivates me is access to mental-health services. Too many residents, particularly young people, seniors, families in crisis, and communities furthest from opportunity, do not know where to turn or face barriers to receiving timely support. As a mother who advocated for a child with special needs, I understand how access to the right resources can change the trajectory of an individual and an entire family. I want the county government to bring those services closer to the people who need them most.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you’ve led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

N/A

What initiatives would you support to increase revenue and/or save money?

I would support smart economic development that attracts investment, retains local businesses, creates good-paying jobs, and expands the commercial tax base without increasing the burden on homeowners. We should also redevelop vacant or underused properties and pursue grants, regional partnerships, and innovative funding opportunities. To save money, I support transparent budgeting, timely forecasting, long-term planning, and regular reviews of county spending to identify inefficiencies or duplication. My approach is simple: grow the tax base, spend responsibly, protect essential services, and keep affordability at the center of every decision.

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

I believe DuPage County needs stronger infrastructure in unincorporated communities, including safer roads, sidewalks, drainage, lighting, and better access to transportation. We should also strengthen labor and workforce development by creating clearer pipelines into skilled trades, apprenticeships, and good-paying careers. Another critical need is expanded long-term substance-use treatment and psychiatric care, so residents and families have support beyond short-term crisis intervention.

These investments should be funded through responsible multi-year planning, state and federal grants, partnerships with labor, healthcare providers, and municipalities, and the strategic reuse of underutilized properties. We should also identify efficiencies within the existing budget and grow the commercial tax base to reduce pressure on homeowners.

Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?

I believe bipartisan cooperation on the County Board has been working well. County government is most effective when members remain focused on practical solutions, respect differing perspectives, and work across party lines to serve residents. I would continue fostering collaboration while evaluating each issue independently and making decisions based on what is best for DuPage County.

What is your stance on county board members' pay? Is it too high, too low, or just right? Would you propose any changes?

Based on the information currently available to me, I believe the compensation for County Board members is appropriate. I do not propose any changes at this time. Any future consideration should be based on transparent data, the responsibilities of the position, fiscal conditions, and what best serves DuPage County taxpayers.

What is the most important issue facing the county in your district and how should it be addressed?

The most pressing issues facing District 3 are interconnected: food insecurity, poor mental and physical health outcomes, housing affordability, and inadequate infrastructure in unincorporated communities. Addressing them requires coordinated county action that expands access to food and healthcare, supports stable and affordable housing, and invests in sustainable roads, drainage, sidewalks, lighting, and transportation. Every resident deserves access to the resources and infrastructure needed to live safely and thrive.