Kane County Board District 3 Candidates Discuss Key Issues

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The upcoming Nov. 3 election for the Kane County Board District 3 seat features a race between incumbent Democrat Anita Lewis and her challenger, independent candidate Guy Bodie. Notably, there is no Republican contender in this race.

Anita Lewis: Addressing Inflation and Housing Challenges

Anita Lewis, aged 68 and hailing from Aurora, is vying for her third term on the board. She emphasizes that voters are significantly concerned about inflation, affordable housing, and immigration enforcement by ICE. According to Lewis, the rising cost of gasoline has made budgeting difficult for many, leading some to rely on food pantries.

Housing affordability is another pressing issue. “In many families, both partners work, yet they struggle to afford an apartment, let alone a house,” Lewis stated. She highlights the difficulty residents face in finding suitable homes.

Lewis also noted concerns about immigration enforcement by ICE. As a resident of Aurora, she mentions worries about undocumented neighbors being apprehended, leaving families, particularly children, vulnerable.

Lewis’s plan, if reelected, includes focusing on economic development, tackling ICE-related issues, and enhancing communication with her constituents. As a member of the economic development group, she aims to support job growth and business retention, working closely with community colleges.

Guy Bodie: Advocating for Transparency and Sustainable Development

Guy Bodie, 59, is making his first bid for the county board. He contends that District 3 residents are wary of rising taxes and the proliferation of data centers. Bodie emphasizes the need for tax audits on commercial properties to ensure they are not undervalued. He also highlights a public desire for transparency and information around data centers, advocating for a moratorium until these demands are met.

If elected, Bodie plans to prioritize affordable, energy-efficient housing and sustainable development. He suggests employing a full-time grant writer for the Kane County Health Department and verifying the value of commercial properties through audits.

Bodie stresses the need to be environmentally conscious in development. “We should preserve our farmland for future generations,” he remarked, citing Habitat for Humanity’s energy-efficient homes in Aurora as a model.