Jose S. Martinez: 2026 candidate for Lake County Board District 1

Bio

Office sought: Lake County Board District 1

Party: Democrat

City: Antioch

Age: 46

Previous offices held: Village of Antioch Trustee, Antioch Planning and Zoning Commissioner

Q&A

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

As a blue-collar union man, I am committed to giving back to the community that has given me so much throughout my life. I believe District 1 deserves a strong, independent voice on the County Board.

I bring a unique combination of experience, having served as an elected official in the Village of Antioch and dedicated 28 years to public service, including 26 years as a Metra conductor. These experiences have given me a firsthand understanding of the challenges working families, seniors, and local businesses face every day.

Illinois faces growing challenges, including an ever-increasing tax burden, concerns about government accountability, and an economy that continues to struggle in certain sectors. Property taxes in Illinois are among the highest in the nation, driving families and businesses to seek opportunities elsewhere.

As your County Board representative, I will work to promote fiscal responsibility, increase transparency in government, and advocate for policies that support economic growth while protecting taxpayers. I will bring a common-sense, working-class perspective to the board and ensure the voices of District 1 residents are heard.

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?

District 1 is an open seat, and Illinois faces real challenges with its tax burden and cost of living. In Antioch, I have helped demonstrate that responsible budgeting can make a difference. As a member of the Village Board, we reduced the property tax levy while continuing to deliver essential services and invest in critical infrastructure investments. The Village of Antioch announced on April 30, 2026 that the Village Board reduced the property tax levy from originally proposed 4.98% to 2.3%. We also reduced our 2027 general fund operating budget by 9.5%, added no new staff positions, and funded $14 million in capital improvements without taking on new debt. I will bring that same commitment to Lake County by controlling spending, protecting tax payers and ensuring government lives within its means while continuing to make the investments needed to support our communities.

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

To strengthen Lake County’s financial future, I would work to grow the tax base by encouraging responsible commercial and industrial development, supporting the redevelopment of vacant properties, and attracting businesses that create quality jobs. I also believe economic development incentives should be regularly evaluated to ensure they are producing meaningful results and benefiting both residents and taxpayers.

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 Lake County needs to improve and expand its mass transit options.

As a 28-year railroad employee, I understand firsthand how important reliable transportation is to working families, seniors, people with disabilities, and local businesses. That is why I would advocate for restoring full service on the North Central Service Line and expanding rail service to include weekends. Reliable rail service is an economic driver for the communities along the line and for Lake County as a whole.

Our focus cannot stop with Metra. We should also expand Pace services, including Dial-a-Ride programs, to provide dependable transportation for residents who cannot easily access traditional routes. Better transit options help connect people to jobs, healthcare, shopping, and community resources.

These investments must be accompanied by accountability. If taxpayers are funding public transportation, state agencies and transit authorities must justify those expenditures and demonstrate that residents are receiving reliable service and meaningful value in return.

As a County Board member, I will advocate to ensure Lake County receives its fair share of transportation funding and services.

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

There needs to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the County Board.

In my role on the railroad where I serve the public every day, I don’t always know what side of the aisle they agree with. I serve them all the same, regardless of their political views. That is the same approach I bring to public office.

As the only registered Democrat currently serving on the Antioch Village Board, and I’ve learned that getting things done requires working with people regardless of political affiliation.

On the County Board, I will listen to all sides, build relationships across the aisle, and look for common ground whenever possible. We can disagree on politics while still agreeing on our responsibility to provide effective, efficient government and do what is best for the residents of Lake County.

At the end of the day, Midwest values of common sense, hard work, looking out for your neighbor, and doing what’s right should be the cornerstone of how we govern Lake County.

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

I believe the compensation for county board members is fair for the time commitment required. I would not support increasing the pay at this time. I do, however, support proposed changes to the County Board’s attendance policy. County Board members should be held accountable for fulfilling the responsibilities they were elected to perform. Taxpayers have a right to expect that their elected representatives will attend meetings, participate in discussions, and be engaged in the work of governing.

I would support reducing compensation for unexcused absences and establishing clear attendance standards that apply equally to all board members.

Public service is a commitment, and those entrusted with serving on the County Board should take that responsibility seriously. As a County Board member, I will be present, prepared, and accountable to the residents I represent.

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

The biggest issue facing District 1 is the cost of government and the burden it puts on taxpayers. People in Antioch, Lindenhurst, Wadsworth, and Old Mill Creek work hard for their money. They deserve a county government that is responsible with every tax dollar.

As an Antioch Village Trustee, I know firsthand that we can control spending, find efficiencies, and still provide the services people depend on. On the County Board, I’ll bring that same common sense approach by identifying waste, eliminate unnecessary duplication, and ensuring tax payers receive the most value out of every dollar we spend.

At the same time, we must continue to grow our tax base by supporting local businesses, attracting quality employers, and encouraging responsible economic development. Expanding commercial and industrial opportunities can help reduce the burden on homeowners while creating jobs and strengthening our local economy.

We can achieve this growth while preserving the urban, suburban and agricultural character, our open spaces, and quality of life that make District 1 a great place to live, work, and raise a family.