Joanne R. Johnson: 2025 candidate for Buffalo Grove village board

Bio

Office Sought: Buffalo Grove village board (Vote for 3)

City: Buffalo Grove

Age: 64

Occupation: Retired

Previous offices held: Village Trustee since 2015; Vice President & Treasurer, Vernon Township Mental Health Board; Planning and Zoning Commissioner, and BG Days Committee Member

What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the village board respond to it?

Buffalo Grove’s biggest challenge is unfunded mandates from the state. Per a 1970 agreement with the state, municipalities are entitled to 10% of state income tax per capita, but that has been reduced to less than 7%.

At the same time, the General Assembly continues to pass legislation that puts financial strain on local budgets. One of the most pressing issues is the pension crisis. While pension reforms were introduced in 2010 to address this unsustainable burden, there is now discussion about reversing those reforms.

Proposed changes to Tier 2 pensions for fire and police personnel would have serious financial consequences for Buffalo Grove.

To tackle these challenges, I’ve built strong relationships with our state representation and actively work to advocate for our community’s needs. As a long-standing member of the Legislative Committee for the Northwest Municipal Conference — a regional organization representing over 1.3 million residents — I collaborate with leaders across the region to push for positive change.

Additionally, I regularly travel to Springfield to meet with lawmakers, attend hearings, and advocate for legislation that protects Buffalo Grove’s interests.

How would you describe the state of your community's finances? What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years? Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed?

Our village maintains a strong financial position with responsible debt management and strategic pension contributions. We fully fund pension obligations, ensuring future stability without increasing the property tax levy for six straight years. Our unassigned fund balance is projected at $19.39 million, exceeding the 35% reserve goal outlined in our financial policy.

With responsible fiscal policies, our focus remains on infrastructure, public safety, and economic development while maintaining financial resilience. As an example, our staffing levels are the lowest among comparable communities. To maintain a balanced budget, we regularly evaluate expenditures, streamline operations, and eliminate inefficiencies while ensuring essential services remain strong.

What do you see as the most important infrastructure project the community must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?

Buffalo Grove remains committed to the Infrastructure Modernization Program (IMP) to ensure high-quality service, protect property values, and minimize disruptions. With 75% of projects funded by outside sources, we are making strategic investments in infrastructure and public safety while maintaining strong financial stewardship.

We successfully repurposed a building for public works and are using the former facility to house Fire Station 25 during its rebuild. Once complete, Station 26 will relocate there. We are also evaluating the police station and village hall, with flexibility to adjust plans if financial conditions change.

Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach an agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board.

As a village trustee, I work best in a collaborative environment. My experience serving on several boards has taught me that open communication, active listening, and a results-driven approach are key to effective governance. My goal is to prioritize common ground among board members through respectful dialogue. I have learned that research-based decisions are a best practice.

This proved extremely successful in developing BG’s new brand, as well as development policies such as the Lake Cook Corridor Plan. With input from relevant groups and focusing on solutions rather than obstacles, I find myself engaging in productive discussions that result in forward-thinking decisions.

Lastly, I believe an elected official must be transparent and engaged with the community. Our Community Champions program is a great example of transparent and open communication with our residents and businesses.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

Since 1988, I’ve been deeply engaged in Buffalo Grove, leading initiatives that make a real difference. I spearheaded the successful referendum to create Lake County’s first Community Mental Health Board and served as its vice president and treasurer.

I also support local nonprofits as President of GiveNKind, which donated over $17 million in essential products to Chicago area nonprofits last year. From volunteering as a room mom to serving as an elected trustee, I’ve always stepped up to lead, serve, and strengthen our community. In every organization I served, I was chosen for a leadership position. I’m ready to keep working for the residents of Buffalo Grove!

What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?

Let’s Make Buffalo Grove the Place to Be! Exciting things are happening in Buffalo Grove, and I want to take our community to the next level! With The Clove nearing completion next year, we have a unique opportunity to create an entertainment district that brings people together and makes our village a true destination. Imagine a vibrant area stretching from The Clove to Karge Rotary Green Park, where families and individuals can enjoy:

• Live entertainment — comedians, storytellers, and music.

• Community events — chess tournaments, yoga, meditation, garden club demonstrations.

• Great food and drinks — supporting local restaurants with unique carryout options and alfresco dining.

With enhanced crosswalks to better connect these spaces, we expand our village’s gathering areas and keep our residents engaged right here in Buffalo Grove — no need to go elsewhere for great food, great drinks, and great fun! This is about growing our community, supporting local businesses, and creating memorable experiences for all. Let’s make it happen together!