Meet the Democratic candidates who will be on the ballot in Will County this year. General Election: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Denise Winfrey is currently a Will County Board Member for District 6, and a commissioner of the Forest Preserve of Will County. Having served on the County Board since 2009,Denise’s career has included a number of ‘firsts’.
She is the first woman and person of color to serve as Speaker of the Will County Board and Will County Executive. During her tenure on the board, Winfrey has been a steadfast advocate for voting rights, economic development in disadvantaged neighborhoodsand promoting diversity and in clusion in th workplace. She has successfully spearheaded initiatives that have strengthened the county’s infrastructure, improved public services, and fostered sustainable growth. Denise believes strongly in being an active member of the community. She serves on the City Center Partnership, the Board of Directors for the Will Grundy Medical Clinic; the Silver Cross Hospital Board of Directors and is the Legislative Chair of the National Hook-Up of Black Women, Inc. (NHBW), Joliet Chapter. Most recently, Winfrey was accorded an honorary street designation, Denise Winfrey Way, on the corner where she lives.
Pastor Herb Brooks, Jr. is running again to serve the residents of District 6 after taking a brief hiatus from serving on the Will County Board. A trusted leader on the County Board who rose to the position of speaker, Brooks has dedicated over 33 years to serving the Joliet community with integrity and compassion.
He has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at improving the county’s infrastructure, such as the new county courthouse and public safety complex and expanding access to the county’s social service providers in underserved communities. Herb is dedicated to ensuring that all voices in the community are heard and represented, and plans to build on his successful track record by implementing innovative solutions to the county’s most pressing challenges. Herb plays a vital role in his community, serving on numerous social service boards, including Stepping Stones, Senior Services, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Silver Cross Hospital.
Running to serve the residents of District 7 on the County Board, David Lozano represents a new wave of leadership in Will County. A public servant through and through, Lozano was raised in a union household to parents who stressed the importance of fair wages for an honest day’s work.
Supporting working families serves as the backbone for David’s commitment to addressing local issues. As member of the County Board, Lozano will advocate for policies that help families thrive and grow: A strong workforce, growing economy, rising wages, and vibrant communities that people want to raise a family in. David is committed to policies to increase access to affordable housing and improving our roads and bridges, making them safer for drivers and pedestrians while reducing congestion in heavy traffic areas.
A former teacher and education advocate, Dawn Bullock is running to represent District 7 on the Will County Board. With a strong background in public service and community engagement, Bullock has spent over 15 years working to improve the lives of her fellow residents.
She holds a degree in public administration and has been actively involved in various local initiatives, including neighborhood revitalization projects, youth programs, and social services. Bullock’s hands on approach and commitment to addressing the needs of her community have earned her a reputation as a passionate and effective advocate. As a member of the County Board, Dawn will advocate for initiatives to make housing attainable for residents of Will County, reroute truck traffic out of residential neighborhoods, revitalize our downtown Joliet area and ensure mental health resources are available for any Will County resident in need. She is committed to promoting policies that support economic growth while preserving the county’s natural resources. Bullock aims to work collaboratively with local stakeholders to create comprehensive solutions that benefit all residents.
Meta Mueller is a dedicated public servant currently seeking re-election to the Will County Board District 10. A resident of Aurora, Meta represents the Aurora and Naperville areas within Will County. Her impressive track record includes serving as the Vice President of the Forest Preserve District of Will County, Chair of the Capital Improvements Committee, and Vice Chair of the Legislative Committee. Additionally, Meta plays a vital role on Will County’s 911 Board.
Meta has previously held the position of President of the Forest Preserve District of Will County and served as Majority Whip, Majority Leader, and Executive Committee Vice Chair. Her extensive experience in property management, construction management, office administration, and community organization underscore her commitment to shaping the betterment of the county. Meta’s vision for Will County is one of inclusivity and equality, recognizing the evolving diversity within the region. Her focus is on making decisions that will have a positive and lasting impact on the residents and taxpayers for years to come, fostering an environment where all individuals can thrive and feel secure.
Kelly Hickey is running to represent the residents of District 10 on the Will County Board. Kelly currently serves as a Trustee on the Wheatland Township Board where she chairs the Senior Committee. Hickey is a long-time advocate for people with developmental disabilities, serving as a public champion by sharing her experience as the parent of a child with Autism.
Kelly recently founded a nonprofit agency that focuses on securing employment for people with developmental disabilities. Helping our most vulnerable is an integral role of County Government. As a member of the Will County Board, Kelly will support policies that help those most in need, including veterans, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Kelly also supports efforts to expand access to public transportation. Improving connections between Will County communities would allow for greater access to our diverse businesses, fueling a healthy economy. Kelly and her husband have lived in Will County for over twenty years, where they’ve raised two sons.
