• Accessible Healthcare: Increase access to healthcare services by expanding clinics, supporting telehealth programs, and providing mobile health units, especially in rural or underserved areas.
• Mental Health Services: Enhance mental health support by integrating services into schools, workplaces, and community centers, and increasing funding for mental health professionals and crisis intervention teams.
• Healthy Living Initiatives: Promote healthy living through public campaigns, expanding parks and recreational facilities, creating walking and biking trails, and offering free or low-cost fitness programs.

To enhance mental health services at the county level, I advocated for the establishment of an Ad-Hoc Committee, and am the chair of this committee with the goals of accomplishing the following:

1. Expanding Access to Care: Work to increase the availability of mental health services by establishing more local clinics and partnering with existing healthcare providers to integrate mental health care into primary care settings. This includes expanding telehealth options to reach underserved or rural areas.
2. Funding for Mental Health Programs: Advocate for increased funding for county-level mental health services through grants, state funding, and budget allocations. This would support the hiring of more mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and social workers.
3. Crisis Intervention Services: Develop and fund 24/7 crisis intervention teams that can respond to mental health emergencies, reducing the burden on law enforcement and providing appropriate care to those in crisis. This could include mobile crisis units and collaboration with local hospitals for urgent care.
4. School-Based Mental Health Programs: Implement mental health programs in schools to provide early intervention and support for students. This could include hiring school counselors, offering mental health education, and creating peer support networks to address issues before they escalate.
5. Community Awareness and Education: Launch public awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage people to seek help when needed. This could involve workshops, seminars, and partnerships with local organizations to educate the community about mental health issues and available resources.
6. Support for Vulnerable Populations: Focus on providing specialized mental health services for vulnerable populations, such as veterans, the disabled, the elderly, the homeless, and individuals with substance use disorders. Tailored programs can address the unique challenges these groups face.
7. Workplace Mental Health Initiatives: Encourage local employers to implement workplace mental health programs, including employee assistance programs (EAPs), mental health days, and wellness initiatives that promote mental well-being.
8. Peer Support Programs: Establish peer support groups and programs within the community where individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges can provide support and guidance to others. This fosters a sense of community and shared understanding.
9. Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Train law enforcement officers in mental health first aid and crisis intervention to ensure that they are equipped to handle situations involving individuals with mental health issues appropriately and compassionately.
10. Data-Driven Planning: Use data and research to identify gaps in existing mental health services and develop targeted interventions. This could involve conducting community needs assessments to inform future planning and resource allocation.
11. Creating a County Mental Health Task Force: Establish a task force comprising mental health professionals, community leaders, and residents to regularly assess the state of mental health services in the county and recommend improvements. This task force could also oversee the implementation of new initiatives.
12. Promoting Insurance Coverage: Work with state and local leaders to ensure that mental health services are adequately covered by insurance plans, including Medicaid, to reduce financial barriers to accessing care.

By taking these steps, we can create a comprehensive mental health support system that ensures all residents have access to the care they need, when they need it.

Public safety in Jo Daviess County starts with respect, for the men and women who serve in law enforcement and for the communities they protect. Our deputies, local police, and first responders step into difficult situations every day, often as the first and only line of response in a rural county with limited resources. They deserve not only our appreciation, but also the tools, training, and staffing needed to do their jobs safely and effectively. Supporting law enforcement means investing in modern equipment, ongoing training, and collaborative partnerships that help them respond to everything from emergencies to the growing number of mental health-related calls.

At the same time, strong public safety is built on trust and shared responsibility. We can support law enforcement while also strengthening the systems around them, expanding mental health services, improving crisis response, and ensuring people get help before situations escalate. When we reduce strain on law enforcement and connect residents to the right resources, we create safer outcomes for everyone. In a close-knit county like ours, public safety isn’t just about response, it’s about prevention, partnership, and a commitment to looking out for one another.

• Job Creation: Foster job creation by supporting local businesses, attracting new industries, and offering workforce development programs that focus on skills training and career advancement.
• Affordable Housing: Expand affordable housing options through public-private partnerships, zoning reforms, and subsidies to ensure that all residents have access to safe and affordable homes.
• Small Business Support: Provide resources and support for small businesses, including grants, low-interest loans, and business development centers that offer mentorship and networking opportunities.

To promote economic growth at the county level, the following strategies should be implemented:

1. Infrastructure Investment: Prioritize upgrading and maintaining roads, bridges, and utilities to attract businesses that rely on reliable transportation and services. This includes expanding broadband access to ensure that even rural areas are connected and can participate in the digital economy.
2. Business Incentives: Develop targeted tax incentives and grants for small businesses and startups, particularly in key sectors like technology, manufacturing, and renewable energy. This could include tax abatements, low-interest loans, and reduced fees for businesses that create jobs locally.
3. Streamlining Permitting and Regulations: Simplify and expedite the permitting process for new businesses, making it easier and faster for them to set up shop. This includes reducing red tape and providing a clear, transparent process for businesses to navigate local regulations.
4. Workforce Development: Partner with local educational institutions and trade schools to offer training programs that equip residents with the skills needed for high-demand jobs. This ensures that our workforce is prepared to meet the needs of growing industries.
5. Support for Local Entrepreneurs: Establish a small business development center within the county to provide resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for local entrepreneurs. This could include workshops, business plan assistance, and access to capital.
6. Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the county government and private sector to invest in large-scale projects that drive economic growth, such as industrial parks, business incubators, or renewable energy projects.
7. Tourism and Hospitality Development: Promote the county as a destination for tourism, focusing on our unique local attractions, events, and natural beauty. Supporting the hospitality industry through marketing campaigns and infrastructure improvements can boost local spending.
8. Affordable Housing Initiatives: Encourage the development of affordable housing to attract and retain a skilled workforce. This includes working with developers to create mixed-use projects that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
9. Sustainable Practices: Promote green businesses and sustainable practices, which not only attract environmentally-conscious companies but also position the county as a leader in the growing green economy.
10. Engagement with State and Federal Programs: Actively seek out state and federal grants and programs designed to spur economic development, ensuring that our county takes full advantage of available resources.

By implementing these strategies, we can create a dynamic local economy that supports existing businesses, attracts new investment, and provides opportunities for all residents to prosper.

• Quality Public Education: Invest in public schools to ensure that they offer high-quality education, including access to advanced coursework, extracurricular activities, and special education services.
• Adult Education: Expand adult education programs, including GED preparation, vocational training, and lifelong learning opportunities, to help residents improve their skills and employment prospects.
• Early Childhood Education: Increase access to early childhood education programs, such as pre-K, to ensure that all children have a strong start.

To improve public education at the county level, we must focus on the following specific initiatives:

1. Increasing Funding for Schools: Advocate for increased funding to ensure that schools have the resources they need. This includes lobbying for a fair distribution of state and federal funds, as well as exploring local funding options like bonds or levies to support school improvements and programs.
2. Attracting and Retaining Quality Teachers: Implement competitive salary and benefits packages to attract and retain high-quality teachers. Additionally, provide ongoing professional development opportunities, mentoring programs for new teachers, and incentives for teachers who work in high-need schools or subjects.
3. Reducing Class Sizes: Work to reduce class sizes, particularly in early grades, to ensure that students receive more individualized attention. This can be achieved by hiring more teachers, utilizing additional classroom spaces, and optimizing school scheduling.
4. Expanding Early Childhood Education: Invest in early childhood education programs, such as universal pre-K, to ensure that all children enter school ready to learn. Early intervention and support can significantly impact long-term academic success.
5. Enhancing Curriculum and Instruction: Support the development of a diverse, inclusive, and rigorous curriculum that meets the needs of all students. This includes integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, arts, and career and technical education (CTE) programs into the curriculum to prepare students for future careers.
6. Investing in Technology: Ensure that all students have access to up-to-date technology, including computers, tablets, and high-speed internet. This involves not only providing the necessary hardware but also training teachers and students to effectively use technology as a learning tool.
7. Supporting Special Education: Increase funding and resources for special education programs to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support and services they need. This includes hiring more special education teachers, providing assistive technology, and offering specialized training for all educators.
8. Improving School Facilities: Invest in upgrading and maintaining school facilities to create safe, healthy, and conducive learning environments. This includes modernizing classrooms, improving HVAC systems, ensuring ADA compliance, and creating flexible spaces for collaborative learning.
9. Enhancing Mental Health Support: Expand mental health services in schools by hiring more counselors, social workers, and psychologists. Implement programs that promote mental health awareness and provide students with the tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges.
10. Community and Parental Engagement: Foster stronger relationships between schools and the community by encouraging parental involvement and creating partnerships with local businesses, non-profits, and higher education institutions. This can include volunteer programs, internships, and community service projects.
11. Addressing Equity and Inclusion: Work to close achievement gaps by implementing targeted support for underserved students, including students from low-income families, English language learners, and minority students. This might involve after-school tutoring, mentoring programs, and access to advanced coursework.
12. Expanding Extracurricular Activities: Ensure that students have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs. These activities play a crucial role in student development, providing opportunities for leadership, teamwork, and personal growth.
13. Nutrition and Health Programs: Strengthen school nutrition programs to ensure that all students have access to healthy meals. Expand physical education and health programs to promote overall well-being and teach students lifelong healthy habits.
14. School Safety Initiatives: Enhance school safety by investing in security infrastructure, implementing anti-bullying programs, and fostering a positive school climate. This includes ensuring that schools have clear emergency plans and that staff are trained in crisis management.
15. Data-Driven Decision Making: Use data to inform decisions about curriculum, instruction, and resource allocation. Regularly assess student performance and needs to adjust programs and strategies accordingly.
16. Supporting College and Career Readiness: Expand programs that prepare students for life after high school, including college prep courses, career counseling, apprenticeships, and partnerships with local businesses and colleges. This ensures that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for their future careers or further education.

By implementing these initiatives, we can create a more equitable, effective, and enriching public education system that prepares all students for success in school and beyond.

• Green Spaces: Increase the number and quality of parks, nature reserves, and green spaces. Promote community gardening, tree planting, and conservation efforts to enhance the natural environment.
• Renewable Energy: Support the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, by providing incentives for businesses and homeowners, and investing in green infrastructure.
• Waste Management and Recycling: Improve waste management and recycling programs, including public education on recycling, expanding composting programs, and reducing landfill use.

Strong communities don’t happen by accident, they are built through engagement, connection, and a shared commitment to looking out for one another. In Jo Daviess County, we are fortunate to have people who care deeply about where they live, from volunteers and nonprofits to schools, faith groups, and local businesses. Community engagement means creating more opportunities for residents to be heard, involved, and connected, whether through public forums, service organizations, or simply
showing up for neighbors in times of need. When people feel connected, they are more likely to participate, support local initiatives, and help shape the future of our county.

At the same time, strong engagement must be paired with strong social services. Access to housing, mental health care, food security, transportation, and support for seniors and families are not just services, they are the foundation of a healthy community. In a rural county, these needs can be harder to meet, which is why collaboration is essential. By working together across sectors, government, nonprofits, healthcare providers, and community groups, we can deliver services more effectively and ensure no one falls through the cracks. Investing in social services is not just compassionate, it is practical, helping stabilize families, strengthen the workforce, and improve quality of life for everyone in Jo Daviess County.

Housing is the foundation of stability for individuals, families, and our broader community. In Jo Daviess County, we take pride in being a place where people look out for one another, but we are not immune to the pressures affecting housing across rural America. Rising costs, limited inventory, and an aging housing stock are making it harder for young families, workers, and seniors to find safe, affordable places to live. When housing becomes unstable, it impacts everything else, employment, education, health, and overall well-being. Addressing housing challenges is not just about development; it’s about preserving the strength and continuity of our communities.

Homelessness in a rural county often looks different than in larger cities, it can be hidden, temporary, or spread across couch-surfing, overcrowded housing, or unsafe living conditions. That makes it easier to overlook, but no less urgent. The solution requires a practical, locally driven approach: expanding affordable housing options, supporting responsible development, and strengthening partnerships with nonprofits and service providers who help residents stay housed or regain stability. By focusing on prevention, early intervention, and collaboration, we can ensure that everyone in Jo Daviess County has access to safe, stable housing, and that our community remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive.

• Inclusive Policies: Develop and implement policies that promote equity and inclusion, ensuring that all residents, regardless of race, gender, disability, or socioeconomic status, have equal access to opportunities and services.
• Community Outreach: Conduct outreach to underserved communities to ensure they are aware of and can access county services, programs, and opportunities.

• Citizen Feedback Mechanisms: Create platforms for citizens to provide feedback on county initiatives, report issues, and suggest improvements. This could include public forums, online surveys, and community advisory boards.
• Transparent Governance: Ensure that county operations are transparent by making information on budgets, projects, and decision-making processes readily available to the public.

1. Accessible Public Spaces: Ensure that all public spaces, including parks, government buildings, and transportation systems, are fully accessible. This includes installing ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and clear signage, as well as ensuring that public transportation is equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
2. Affordable and Accessible Housing: Promote the development of affordable, accessible housing options that meet the needs of disabled adults. This could involve working with developers to include accessible units in new housing projects, offering grants for home modifications, and supporting community-based living arrangements.
3. Employment Opportunities: Expand employment opportunities for disabled adults by partnering with local businesses to create inclusive workplaces. This can include offering tax incentives to employers who hire disabled workers, supporting job training and placement programs, and ensuring workplaces are accessible and accommodating.
4. Health and Wellness Programs: Improve access to health care services, including specialized care for disabled adults. Support the creation of wellness programs that focus on physical health, mental health, and social well-being, including access to physical therapy, mental health counseling, and recreational activities designed for individuals with disabilities.
5. Support Services and Resources: Increase funding and support for services that assist disabled adults in daily living, such as personal care attendants, transportation services, and assistive technology. Provide information and resources to help individuals and their families navigate available services and programs.
6. Education and Training: Offer continuing education and vocational training programs tailored to the needs of disabled adults. This includes partnerships with local educational institutions to provide accessible classes, workshops, and skill-building opportunities that enhance independence and job readiness.
7. Community Engagement and Inclusion: Promote the inclusion of disabled adults in community activities and events by ensuring accessibility and offering support where needed. Create social and recreational programs specifically designed to foster community engagement and reduce isolation among disabled adults.
8. Advocacy and Representation: Establish a county-level advisory board or task force focused on disability issues, ensuring that disabled adults have a voice in local government decisions that affect their lives. This board can provide recommendations on policies, programs, and services that improve the quality of life for disabled residents.
9. Transportation Access: Enhance transportation options for disabled adults by expanding paratransit services, subsidizing accessible ride-sharing programs, and ensuring that public transportation is fully accessible. This helps disabled individuals maintain independence and access essential services.
10. Emergency Preparedness: Develop emergency preparedness plans that specifically address the needs of disabled adults, including accessible emergency shelters, communication systems, and evacuation procedures. Ensure that emergency services are trained to assist individuals with disabilities during crises.
11. Legal and Financial Support: Provide legal assistance and financial planning resources to disabled adults and their families, helping them navigate benefits programs, disability rights, and estate planning. This could include partnerships with local legal aid organizations and financial advisors.
12. Cultural and Recreational Access: Ensure that cultural institutions, such as museums, theaters, and sports facilities, are accessible and inclusive. Offer programs and activities that cater to the interests and needs of disabled adults, including adaptive sports, art classes, and cultural events.
13. Assistive Technology Programs: Expand access to assistive technologies that enhance independence and quality of life, such as mobility devices, communication aids, and home automation systems. Provide funding or subsidies to help cover the cost of these technologies.
14. Peer Support Networks: Encourage the development of peer support groups where disabled adults can connect with others who share similar experiences. These networks can provide emotional support, share resources, and foster a sense of community.
15. Mental Health Support: Increase access to mental health services specifically tailored to disabled adults, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. This includes training mental health professionals to understand the unique challenges faced by disabled individuals.

By implementing these initiatives, we can create a more inclusive, supportive community where disabled adults have the resources, opportunities, and services they need to lead fulfilling lives.

To enact common sense gun control, focus should be directed to:

• Strengthening Background Checks: I advocate for comprehensive background checks for all gun purchases, including closing loopholes for private sales and gun shows, ensuring that those with a history of violence or mental instability cannot easily access firearms.
• Supporting Red Flag Laws: I push for the implementation or strengthening of red flag laws, allowing law enforcement and family members to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who pose a risk to themselves or others.
• Promoting Safe Storage Laws: I work to enact laws requiring safe storage of firearms, particularly in homes with children, to prevent accidental shootings and unauthorized access.
• Banning High-Capacity Magazines and Assault Weapons: I support legislation to ban the sale of high-capacity magazines and assault weapons that are designed for military use and have no place in civilian life.
• Funding Gun Violence Prevention Programs: I seek to allocate resources for community-based violence prevention programs and mental health services to address the root causes of gun violence.
• Engaging with Stakeholders: I work closely with law enforcement, mental health professionals, and responsible gun owners to ensure that any new measures are effective, enforceable, and respectful of Second Amendment rights.

Protecting our friends and neighbors, and especially our children, shouldn’t be political, it should be common sense. We can respect the rights of responsible gun owners and still take basic steps to keep children safe: secure storage, background checks, and keeping firearms out of the hands of those who pose a risk. This is about prevention, responsibility, and protecting the next generation.