Ian Holzhauer: 2026 candidate for DuPage County Board District 5 (4-year term)

Bio

Office sought: DuPage County Board District 5 (4-year seat)

Party: Democrat

City: Naperville

Age: 44

Previous offices held: Naperville City Council

Q&A

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

I think leadership is about giving people something to believe in that is bigger than themselves. Now, more than ever, with a people need to believe local government functions for them. I am proud of both DuPage and Naperville's progress in the past decade. Specifically, I'm most proud of our ability to explicitly focus government on growing solving social services challenges. This includes much greater coordination and support for Loaves and Fishes (in both governing bodies), a greater investment in mental health, and more accountable policing. I'm most motivated to assist with continuing our growing focus on mental health services.

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?

While I don't currently sit on the County Board, I've championed a dedicated mental health unit in the Naperville Police Department. I think in combination with the county's amazing investment in the CRC, something similar to the Naperville program on a county-wide law enforcement level could also be a game changer. Additionally, I believe my years of experience in government have taught me the value of building relationships with staff, and the importance of making myself available to constituents in person and on social media.

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

Five years in municipal government have taught me the longest-term money-saving and revenue-raising initiatives are rarely flashy. They involve long-range planning, making sure that infrastructure improvements are coordinated, and that development advances regional economic goals. In other words, long-range planning trumps short-term solutions.

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 would love to see incremental public transit improvements. The new Northern Illinois Transit Agency is creating the opportunity for more integration in transit scheduling. I've personally tested connections between Pace and Metra and think there are definite areas for improvement. I think much of the issue is just providing more attention, and we are moving in the right direction.

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 think there has been an appropriate amount of bipartisan input on the DuPage County Board. Any Board member, regardless of party, would have my number and I'd maintain an open line of communication. We're all elected to best represent our districts, and the more we work toward a common goal the better a result for the 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 think it is appropriate given the substantial sacrifice involved in leading a county of this size and complexity.

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

The decline in federal support for social services programs in the past two years has placed an enormous strain on local units of government. Essentially, we are serving a larger population of people in need with less resources. Aside from changes at the federal level, we need to continue to prioritize life-saving services (like food, mental health, and other essential social services).