Endorsements: Ishmael, Martin, Taylor for Kane County Board

There are primaries in three Kane County Board races: between Democrats in District 3, and Republicans in districts 5 and 11.

In District 3, we endorse challenger Donald Ishmael over incumbent Jennifer Laesch, who hasn't shown much interest in retaining the job, having failed to fill out our candidate questionnaire or show up for the candidate interview. She also has missed several recent county meetings. Ishmael doesn't have prior experience in public office and still has much to do to get up to speed on the issues, but he overcame a difficult childhood, believes in public service, and as a unionized rail employee, brings diversity of background to the job.

In District 5, we endorse incumbent Melisa Taylor over challenger Bill Lenert. We have no doubt either candidate could do a good job and both seem knowledgeable, but Taylor is a dedicated, informed board member doing a good job. There's no reason to make a switch.

In District 11, where there is no incumbent, both candidates seem able, but retired attorney John Martin has the edge over Thomas Matson by virtue of his long record of civic involvement and his many years of experience appearing before the county board in his job.