Candidates gearing up for May runoffs

2 county races in the spotlight

The polls are closed in the wake of the March 3 party primaries, but now the stage is set for May 26 runoff elections in two Kendall County Commissioners Court races.

Four candidates are back on the campaign trail to decide placement on the Nov. 3 midterm ballot in the general election.

All are Republicans, so the winners in the May runoff will run unopposed next fall.

County Judge Shane Stolarczyk and challenger Ricky Gleason and Precinct 2 incumbent Commissioner Andra Wisian and challenger J.C. Taylor are among the top vote-getters in their respective races.

None were able to pull the 50%plus votes needed to capture the nomination for the November race.

Each is going back to the electorate, hoping their message continues to resonate with voters. In this edition, the Star features post-primary statements solicited from the candidates in the run-up to the May 26 contests.

COUNTY JUDGE Shane Stolarczyk — incumbent

“Election Day was encouraging, and I’m grateful for the strong support from Kendall County voters. While we didn’t reach the final threshold and will move to a runoff, it shows that many residents share my vision for protecting our quality of life, managing growth responsibly and safeguarding our natural resources.

“Heading into the runoff, I plan to spend even more time connecting directly with voters across the county, listening to their concerns, and sharing my record of proven leadership and fiscal responsibility.

“I’ll continue focusing on the issues that matter most — protecting our water resources, enforcing responsible development and planning for the infrastructure our growing county needs.

“As a veteran, I am committed to building a strong foundation that protects our community for generations to come.”

Ricky Gleason

“Election Day went well. We have some good momentum ... and we know where we need to be.

“We are big believers that you don’t run against people who are doing a good job. And it’s not going how we know it should be going. This is the place to serve people and be the voice of the county that communicates to its people the wishes and wills of the people of their home. “We have amazing people, amazing resources. We should have the gold standard of county governments, just because of the people who want to be involved. That’s really been the coolest part of this whole thing.

“For May 26, we’ll continue to meet with people, take some calls, knock on more doors, and send out information.”

PRECINCT 2 Andra Wisian — incumbent “ March 3 was the culmination of a strong campaign, and I’m very grateful for the support across Precinct 2. We came very close to winning outright, which tells me voters appreciate the work I’ve been doing — lowering the tax rate, protecting water resources, supporting public safety, and planning practical mobility solutions.

“Approaching the May 26 runoff, my message doesn’t change. I will continue to champion taxpayer- first budgeting over tax-and-spend planning. I will keep advancing mobility improvements without greenfield roads, supporting the Sheriff ’s Office, our volunteer fire departments and EMS, and focusing on water conservation and aquifer protection.

“These are projects already underway, not ideas on paper. My focus remains stewardship of what makes Kendall County special.”

J.C. Taylor

“ I am grateful for the strong support I received from voters in Precinct 2. The number of votes cast in my favor shows that many residents believe it is time for a change in leadership and a renewed focus on the future of our country.

“I am proud of the trust placed in me and thankful for every vote.

In the coming weeks, I look forward to meeting even more constituents across Precinct 2 and sharing my vision for long-term planning for roads, water and infrastructure.

“I will also continue promoting a sustainable plan for fire and EMS protection while working collaboratively with city leaders and fellow commissioners.

“I believe that sharing my experience and ideas with more voters will lead to a successful outcome on May 26.”

Early voting is May 18 to May 22.