Susan M. Smentek: 2026 candidate for DuPage County Forest Preserve Board District 1
Bio
Office sought: DuPage County Forest Preserve Board District 1
City: Elmhurst
Party: Democrat
Age: 60
Previous offices held: Elmhurst Park District Board Commissioner
Q&A
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
I’m running for Forest Preserve Commissioner because our forest preserves matter deeply to me — both personally and professionally. My love of nature began early, and as a mom of three, I’ve enjoyed sharing our preserves with my family including our dog. I want to ensure these natural areas remain healthy, welcoming, and accessible for all residents.
With more than 20 years working professionally in parks and recreation, I’ve seen how thoughtfully managed green space strengthens communities. Our preserves offer more than scenic views — they provide places to hike, camp, fish, paddle, picnic, and gather with family and friends. They improve quality of life while protecting wildlife habitat and natural resources.
Access and stewardship especially motivate me. We are one district in one county, and our forest preserves connect us all. I want residents — no matter where they live — to feel connected to these spaces and to care for them responsibly so they remain a legacy we are proud to leave behind.
I bring experience, vision, and a commitment to thoughtful governance in service to our entire community.
If you are an incumbent, describe your two biggest contributions to the board. If you are a non-incumbent, describe two ways you would contribute to the board.
First, I would bring more than 20 years of parks and recreation management experience and the perspective of an elected park board commissioner to the District’s planning and oversight. I have overseen capital projects and facility improvements, balancing community needs, long-term maintenance, and responsible use of public funds. On the Elmhurst Park Board, I helped open two new parks, replace three playgrounds, and plan the new Wagner Community Center. As an Illinois Master Naturalist, I would support science-based restoration and measurable goals for our woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and streams.
Second, I would help the District connect more residents with their preserves. I have served on boards involved in fundraising for youth arts programs and volunteered with school parents and scout groups. Professionally, I have planned and delivered public programs for people of all ages and abilities. I would use that experience to listen to residents, strengthen partnerships, and advocate for better access. Where suitable parcels are identified in older, more developed parts of DuPage, I would strongly support strategic land acquisition.
What role should the forest preserve play in preserving historic buildings on its land?
Historic buildings can give visitors a deeper sense of place and help tell the story of DuPage County before these lands became forest preserves. Properties such as Graue Mill, St. James Farm, Kline Creek Farm, and the Mayslake Peabody Estate are part of that story. Preserving them can create opportunities for education and public use alongside the District’s work to protect natural areas.
The District should evaluate each structure on its historical significance, condition, and potential public use. Restoration is only one cost: upgrades to meet applicable ADA accessibility requirements and ongoing upkeep can also be substantial. When a building has lasting value and a sustainable plan, it may serve as an educational resource, program space, or community gathering place. Partnerships with nonprofit and community organizations may help support that work.
Preservation decisions should be transparent and financially responsible. We need to care for the historic places entrusted to the District while ensuring each investment serves the public and supports its long-term mission.
How would you rate the job the commission is doing to develop existing forest preserves and make them accessible to residents? How would you approach things differently?
I would rate the District’s work positively. Its Recreational Accessibility Plan provides a strong foundation, and dedicated staff coordinate ADA programs and accommodations. The all-terrain wheelchair program is a practical example of helping more residents experience the preserves. I would build on that progress.
The District’s own plan found that many people did not know what accessible programs and accommodations were available. I would prioritize clear information for each preserve about trails, facilities, adaptive equipment, and how to request assistance. I would also encourage the district to seek regular feedback from visitors, disability advocacy organizations, and recreation partners, then use it to guide improvements and staff and volunteer training.
Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. As trails and amenities are improved, I would consider the needs of visitors with different abilities while protecting sensitive habitats. Residents should be able to find an opportunity that works for them and everyone should feel welcome when they arrive.
What is the most important issue facing the forest preserves in your district and how should it be addressed?
The most pressing issue is sustaining the quality of our preserves as the cost of caring for them rises. Residents expect healthy habitats, safe trails and facilities, and welcoming experiences. Delivering all of that depends on skilled staff, even as personnel, health care, and maintenance costs increase. Climate change puts added pressure on natural areas and infrastructure.
The District is already leading by example with its net-zero-designed DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center and solar power at several facilities. I would build on that work while asking how each investment affects operating costs over time. I would support long-term financial planning, appropriate reserves, competitive compensation, and timely maintenance so small problems do not become expensive ones. Grants and outside partnerships can help stretch public dollars.
Our responsibility is to sustain and improve the preserves residents love while supporting the people who care for them. Good decisions today will help keep these places healthy and welcoming for everyone in DuPage.