Mary Mesa: 2026 candidate for Lake County Board District 17

Bio

Office sought: Lake County Board District 17

Party: Democrat

City: Lake Barrington

Age: 61

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 I believe we have an obligation to leave Lake County in a stronger position for the next generation where families can feel safe, businesses can thrive, and future generations can afford to live and work. That means supporting safe neighborhoods, protecting clean air and water and protecting our natural spaces, ensuring residents have access to public services, and maintaining Lake County’s strong financial position, including its balanced budget and AAA credit rating.

This can be achieved through thoughtful planning, responsible fiscal management, and strong partnerships with our local communities, labor unions and skilled trades, businesses, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. I want to bring a practical approach and continue to protect the quality of life that makes Lake County a great place to live while making it more affordable.

What motivates me most is our youth and the responsibility we have to the next generation. I want to make sure our young people have the same economic opportunities, personal freedoms, clean air and water, and the ability to build a good life that generations before us were fortunate to enjoy in this country.

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?

As a challenger, I would bring a fresh perspective, accessibility, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. For decades, the district has often followed the same approach without fully listening to the concerns and priorities of its residents. I would make it a priority to listen to the community, evaluate the facts, and consider different perspectives before making decisions.

My priority would be to ensure that we put our environment first in the decisions we make. Responsible growth and environmental stewardship do not have to be competing goals. We can make thoughtful decisions that support our residents, strengthen our community, and protect our environment for future generations.

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

To increase revenue, we must focus on economic development that expands the tax base without harming our environment. Attracting and retaining businesses, supporting redevelopment, and making it easier to invest in Lake County.

Pursuing grants and outside funding to maximize available federal and state funding for infrastructure, transportation, public safety, environmental projects, and economic development.

Regularly review fees and contracts, and look for opportunities to renegotiate or consolidate.

To save money, I would focus on improving efficiency through consolidating duplicative services. Lake County has already eliminated or consolidated several special districts, I would continue looking for opportunities to share services, consolidate administrative functions, and eliminate unnecessary duplication.

Lake County already uses joint purchasing to obtain better pricing. I would look for additional opportunities to combine purchasing, technology, fleet, facilities, and other administrative services.

Saving money can make government more efficient, too. Expanding online permitting, payments, records, and other self-service options will reduce paperwork and staff.

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

One service that deserves additional attention is transportation connectivity, particularly for seniors, residents with disabilities, and people who do not have convenient access to a vehicle. Improved public transportation options will also attract job seekers to live, work, and play in Lake County.

I would support expanding existing services such as Ride Lake County, Pace, and Metra. The County can work with municipalities, townships, transit agencies, and neighboring counties to identify gaps in service and determine where additional routes, on-demand transportation, or better connections to Metra and Pace would have the greatest benefit.

Funding should come first from existing transportation resources, state and federal grants, and better coordination among existing providers. I would want a clear analysis showing the specific service gap, expected ridership, cost per rider, and measurable benefit to residents.

The goal should be simple: make it easier for residents who need transportation to get to work, medical appointments, shopping, and transit connections while using existing taxpayer resources as efficiently as possible.

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

Yes. Lake County residents expect their elected officials to work together on issues that affect their daily lives, regardless of political affiliation. If elected, I would focus on building relationships with colleagues from all over the county.

Listening to different perspectives and looking for common ground before taking positions, is a skill we need to be a good public servant. I would rely on the guidance of elected officials who have proven track records for getting things done regardless of party affiliation.

We must have bipartisan representation for all committees such as the county budget, public safety, transportation, and economic development to ensure all residents have their voices heard.

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 County Board members should be fairly and appropriately compensated for the time and responsibilities required of the position. I believe at a minimum, compensation should be in line with inflation.

However, since I have not yet served on the County Board, I do not think it would be appropriate for me to say that the current compensation is too high or too low. I would need to understand the actual time commitment involved, including Board meetings, committee meetings, and community engagement.

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

The most important issue facing the county and my district is keeping the cost to taxpayers under control. Fiscal responsibility, well-maintained infrastructure, and providing access to public services without raising taxes is what residents expect and need in tough economic times.

I will oppose tax breaks for large corporations. Prioritize capital projects intended to improve traffic flow, public safety, economic development, and infrastructure while pursuing federal funding. I will support and maintain the Lake County balanced budget and AAA credit rating.