Will County Election: Clerk, Superintendent, and Treasurer Positions Contested
The upcoming general election in Will County features incumbents seeking re-election for the roles of clerk, regional superintendent of schools, and treasurer, each facing a challenger.
County Clerk Race
Current County Clerk Annette Parker, a Republican from Crest Hill, faces off against Democratic opponent Michelle Stiff. Parker began her term after winning a special election in 2024 with 50.2% of the vote. Her experience includes ten years on the Will County Board and serving as president of the Forest Preserve District of Will County board.
The County Clerk manages elections, vital records, and collaborates on property tax levies. Parker emphasizes her extensive knowledge of county government.
Parker stated, “Being county clerk is not about politics, it’s about doing the job right.”
Michelle Stiff, from Joliet, supervises a $7 million budget as the director of the Workforce Services Division. Her previous role as president of the Joliet Township High School District 204 board informs her approach. She advocates for government transparency and accountability.
Stiff expressed, “Government should be accessible, transparent, accountable, and consistent when serving people.”
Parker has modernized the clerk’s office, introducing electronic payments and online services, and securing $108,000 in grants for election enhancements. The clerk’s office engaged residents through community events and developed a student ambassador program for election judges.
Stiff identifies obstacles residents face in accessing vital records, suggesting strategies from her current role may be effective in voter registration. She intends to enhance civic participation and intends to establish an advisory group to address barriers like language and disability.
Parker works closely with state election boards to monitor legal updates and has bolstered election security measures, including installing security cameras and updating procedures. She also proposes expanding vote centers.
Stiff argues for simpler processes for obtaining ballots and proposes improving early voting accessibility across Will County.
Regional Superintendent of Schools Race
The Regional Office of Education, which handles criminal checks and licenses for educational staff, sees incumbent Elizabeth Caparelli-Ruff facing Theresa Rouse.
Caparelli-Ruff has implemented initiatives to support school security and improve facilities, such as at Lincoln School. She highlights the importance of not treating students as potential criminals.
Rouse, superintendent of Joliet Public School District 86, aims to offer more support to superintendents and expand alternative education. She stresses the need for resources to be equitable across all districts and advocates for education at higher government levels.
Treasurer Race
Democratic Treasurer Tim Brophy is running for his third term, facing Republican Carmen Maurella III.
Brophy has made administrative efficiencies by utilizing digital payment systems and maximizing the investment of funds, yielding significant interest earnings.
Maurella, the current Homer Township assessor, emphasizes resident engagement and office modernization. He aims to enhance customer service and ensure equitable practices in taxing and property management.