Nicole Ziomek: 2026 candidate for Lake County Board District 19

Bio

Office sought: Lake County Board District 19

Party: Republican

City: Long Grove

Age: 53

Previous offices held: Precinct Committeeperson

Q&A

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

I am running for the Lake County Board because I want to help improve the quality of life for the people who call our community home. Families are facing increasing pressure from high taxes and the rising cost of living, and I believe county government has a responsibility to use our resources wisely. As a County Board member, I would be committed to being a responsible steward of both our financial and physical resources, looking for ways to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and ease unnecessary burdens on residents. My goal is to make thoughtful decisions that protect our communities and ensure that Lake County remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

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?

I bring a strong commitment to listening to residents, community involvement, and being a responsible steward of taxpayer resources. I understand the importance of listening to different perspectives and finding practical solutions. My priorities would be fiscal responsibility, transparency, and protecting the quality of life in our communities. I would look for ways to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and make sure we are getting value for every taxpayer dollar. I also want to protect our open spaces and forest preserves while supporting responsible development. Most importantly, I would bring a willingness to listen, ask questions, and make decisions based on what is best for the residents of Lake County.

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

I would focus first on saving money and improving efficiency before looking to increase taxes on residents. I would support regularly reviewing County programs and contracts to identify waste, duplication, and opportunities to negotiate better pricing. I would also look for opportunities to share services with municipalities or other government agencies when that can reduce costs without reducing services. On the revenue side, I would support responsible economic development that expands the County’s tax base without placing unnecessary burdens on existing taxpayers. I would also look for available state and federal grants and other outside funding opportunities before relying on local taxpayers. My priority would be making sure we are good stewards of the resources we already have—finding efficiencies, reducing waste, and getting the most value possible for every taxpayer dollar.

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 one area that deserves more attention is connecting residents with the services and resources that already exist in Lake County. Sometimes the issue isn't that a service doesn't exist, but that residents don't know where to find it or how to access it. I would support improving communication and coordination among the County, municipalities, nonprofits, and community organizations so residents can more easily find help with housing, healthcare, transportation, and other needs. Before creating new programs, I would first look at whether we can improve or expand existing services and whether partnerships or available state and federal funding can help cover the cost. My priority would be finding practical solutions that help residents without unnecessarily increasing the burden on taxpayers.

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. I believe there is always room for more bipartisanship and cooperation, especially at the local level. County government should be about solving problems and serving residents, not simply about political differences. I would make a point of listening to Board members from both parties, looking for common ground, and working together on issues where we share the same goals. I also believe building relationships outside of Board meetings is important. If we can focus on the issues, listen to different perspectives, and keep the needs of Lake County residents at the center of our decisions, we can accomplish more together.

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 compensated for the time and responsibility the position requires, while also being mindful that their compensation comes from taxpayers. I would want to look at the current compensation in the context of the workload and responsibilities of the position before proposing changes. If adjustments are considered, I would support a transparent, objective process based on comparable county boards and the actual responsibilities of the position, rather than having elected officials simply determine their own raises. My priority would be making sure compensation is reasonable and responsible while keeping the focus on serving the residents of Lake County and being good stewards of taxpayer dollars.

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

I believe one of the most important issues facing District 19 is the growing financial pressure on families, particularly the burden of taxes and the overall cost of living. Residents want to know that their tax dollars are being used wisely and that County government is doing everything it can to control costs. I would focus on reviewing spending, looking for waste and efficiencies, and making sure County programs are delivering results. I would also support greater transparency so residents can clearly see where their tax dollars are going. My goal would be to protect the quality of life in District 19 while being a responsible steward of the resources our residents provide.