Joanne Johnson: 2025 Candidate For Buffalo Grove Trustee

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Ahead of the April 1 consolidated municipal elections, Buffalo Grove Patch provided questionnaires to all candidates on the ballot.

Three four-year trustee seats and one two-year trustee seat on the Buffalo Grove Village Board will be up for election in April, according to the Village. The 2025 Consolidated Election will take place on Tuesday, April 1.

RELATED: Buffalo Grove Candidates File For 2025 Consolidated Election

Current trustees Joanne Johnson, Lester Ottenheimer and Denice Bocek are all running for reelection, while challenger Paulette Greenberg will also be on the ballot to gain a seat. The term is four years.

Buffalo Grove is publishing all responses submitted by candidates verbatim.

Joanne R. Johnson

Town/City of Residence: Buffalo Grove

Office Sought: Village Board

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/jj4vb...

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race): This is a non-partisan race.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for.

My daughter-in-law is an engineer for the City of Elmhurst.

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Marketing communications for nonprofits - in various capacities for 42 years.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Buffalo Grove Village Trustee; Buffalo Grove Planning and Zoning Commission; Vice President and Treasurer of the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board; Buffalo Grove Days Committee; Buffalo Grove 50th Anniversary Committee; Board President for Buffalo Grove-based nonprofit GiveNKind; Chair for the Hope Outreach Program Endowment Fund.

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

One of the most pressing issues facing our village is the financial strain caused by unfunded state mandates. Over the years, our share of state income tax has been reduced, while new legislative requirements continue to put pressure on our local budget. A major concern is the pension crisis—specifically, potential changes to Tier 2 pensions for police and fire personnel, which could have serious financial consequences for Buffalo Grove and municipalities across Illinois.

As a candidate, I am committed to advocating for our community. Through my work with the Northwest Suburban Municipal Conference and direct engagement with state lawmakers, I fight for policies that protect Buffalo Grove’s financial future. Additionally, I support responsible fiscal planning to ensure we continue delivering high-quality services to residents. By staying proactive and working together, we can navigate these challenges and secure a strong future for our village.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

What sets me apart as a candidate is my lifelong dedication to public service and my deep-rooted commitment to Buffalo Grove. I have had the honor of serving as a Village Trustee for nearly 10 years and have volunteered with the Village for decades, always striving to make our community stronger and more connected.

Most recently, I led the successful referendum to create the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board—the first in Lake County—and collaborated with the Wheeling Township referendum committee to advocate for essential services.

Beyond policy efforts, I am deeply involved in nonprofit work. As Board President of GiveNKind, a Buffalo Grove-based organization, I help connect essential new products with nonprofits across Chicagoland. Last year alone, thanks to the generosity of businesses and volunteers, we distributed over $17 million in goods to organizations supporting those in need.

Whether it’s been volunteering as a room mom to serving as an elected Trustee, I’ve always stepped up to lead, serve, and strengthen our community. In every organization I served, I was chosen for a leadership position. With decades of experience in leadership and service, I remain committed to working for our village’s future, bringing people together, and ensuring Buffalo Grove continues to thrive.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

I'm an incumbent.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

Since joining the Village Board in 2015, I have been re-elected two previous times, focusing on economic development, fiscal responsibility, and transparency. Through strategic planning and partnerships, Buffalo Grove is thriving, and I am committed to continuing this progress.

As a candidate, my platform is built on responsible growth, financial stability, and community engagement. Economic development has been a cornerstone of my work. We’ve successfully brought major investments to Buffalo Grove, including Woodman’s and the Shops of Buffalo Grove, boosting tax revenue without increasing the burden on residents. Strategic agreements with industrial businesses have encouraged relocations to BG and expansions of existing businesses, strengthening our commercial tax base and taking pressure off of our residents. The complete redevelopment of Town Center into The Clove has energized that entire area with a soon-to-open Lazy Dog and Wild Fork. With the redevelopment of Bison Crossing, the Dundee Corridor is energized with new properties replacing ones that had been vacant for a decade. These are prime examples of smart, sustainable growth.

Financial responsibility remains a top priority. Under my leadership, the Village has maintained an AAA bond rating, earned awards for fiscal management, and held the property tax levy flat for six years while continuing to deliver high-quality services. The opening of our new Public Works facility and the rebuild of Fire Station 25 demonstrate how sound planning ensures essential services remain strong.

Transparency and community involvement are central to effective governance. Buffalo Grove operates with an open-door policy, ensuring residents are informed and engaged in decision-making. I have always believed that government works best when it listens to and involves its community. For example, we have included residents in the strategic planning process in the development of the Lake-Cook Corridor and Prairie View Station area plans, as well as the creation of a new brand for the Village.

I am running for re-election to finish what I started. My experience, leadership, and deep understanding of Buffalo Grove’s needs allow me to continue driving responsible growth, protecting our financial health, and ensuring a vibrant community to call home, grow your career, and thrive in business. I am ready to build on our success and keep Buffalo Grove moving forward.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have been serving as a Buffalo Grove Village Trustee for nearly 10 years, and the results speak for themselves. During my tenure, the Village has seen tremendous economic growth, financial stability, and strategic redevelopment—all while maintaining high-quality services for residents.

One of my biggest accomplishments has been driving responsible economic development. During my last term, we have enjoyed over $500,000,000 in private investment in the Village— greatly expanding our tax base without increasing the financial burden on residents. These efforts have strengthened Buffalo Grove’s economy and positioned us for long-term success.

Fiscal responsibility has been another key focus. Under my leadership, Buffalo Grove has maintained an AAA bond rating, won multiple financial management awards, and held the property tax levy flat for six years. Smart financial planning has allowed us to invest in critical infrastructure, including the new Public Works facility and the rebuild of Fire Station 25, without additional taxpayer strain.

Beyond my role as Trustee, I have worked to enhance community well-being. I spearheaded the referendum to establish the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board—the first of its kind in Lake County—ensuring that critical mental health resources are available to those in need. Additionally, as President of GiveNKind, a Buffalo Grove-based nonprofit, I help connect essential new products with local charities. Last year alone, we distributed over $17 million in goods to nonprofits across Chicagoland, supporting individuals and families in need.

I have always championed transparency and community engagement. The Village has strengthened its commitment to open government, keeping residents informed and involved in key decisions.

Buffalo Grove’s success over the past decade is a testament to strong leadership and strategic planning. I have been doing this job effectively, and I am ready to continue delivering results that keep our village moving forward

Why should voters trust you?

Voters should trust me because I have a proven track record of leadership, dedication, and results. For nearly 10 years as a Village Trustee, I have worked tirelessly to make Buffalo Grove stronger, more financially secure, and a dynamic community where you can live, work, and succeed in business.

As a Village Trustee, I work best in a collaborative environment. My experience serving on several boards has taught me that open communication, active listening, and a results-driven approach are key to effective governance. My goal is to prioritize common ground among board members through respectful dialogue. I have learned that research-based decisions are a best practice. This proved extremely successful in developing BG’s new brand, as well as development policies such as the Lake Cook Corridor Plan. With input from relevant groups, and by focusing on solutions rather than obstacles, I find myself engaging in productive discussions that result in forward-thinking decisions. Lastly, I believe an elected official must be transparent and engaged with the community. Our Community Champions program is a great example of healthy, open communication with our residents and businesses.

I believe in honesty, accountability, and putting residents first. I listen, I take action, and I get results. When voting on a significant issue, I always explain my position. I want the residents to fully understand my stance. Buffalo Grove’s success over the past decade is no coincidence—it’s the result of strong, thoughtful leadership. Voters can trust that I will continue working hard, making smart decisions, and always prioritizing what’s best for our community

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

If I win re-election, success will mean continuing the progress Buffalo Grove has made in economic development, fiscal responsibility, and community well-being. I want to build on the strong foundation we’ve created and ensure that our village remains financially stable, well-served, and forward-thinking.

A key measure of success will be the continued redevelopment of our commercial corridors. Expanding our revitalization efforts will strengthen our tax base, attract new businesses, and enhance our local economy—all while keeping property taxes low for residents.

Another priority is maintaining Buffalo Grove’s commitment to top-tier municipal facilities and services. The completion of the new Public Works facility and the upcoming Fire Station 25 rebuild represent critical investments in public safety and infrastructure. I want to ensure these projects are fully optimized, serving our residents efficiently while maintaining our village’s high standard of operations.

Additionally, success means sustaining Buffalo Grove’s AAA bond rating and financial stability, allowing us to invest in the future without burdening taxpayers. Smart fiscal planning has kept our tax levy flat for six years, and I will continue to advocate for responsible budgeting that prioritizes essential services while avoiding unnecessary financial strain on residents.

I also want to expand community engagement and ensure that transparency remains a pillar of local government. Residents should always feel informed and have opportunities to be involved in decisions that shape our village.

Ultimately, success means that Buffalo Grove continues to thrive—economically, financially, and as a welcoming, well-managed community. I am committed to leading with experience, accountability, and a clear vision for our future.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

Fiscal responsibility is a top priority, and I am committed to ensuring that Buffalo Grove continues its strong financial management while delivering high-quality services to residents.

Our village has maintained a solid financial position by managing debt responsibly and making strategic pension contributions. We fully fund our pension obligations, ensuring long-term stability without increasing the property tax levy for six consecutive years. This demonstrates our ability to plan for the future without placing an additional burden on taxpayers.

With an unassigned fund balance exceeding our 35% reserve goal, we have built financial resilience that allows us to invest in key areas like infrastructure, public safety, and economic development while remaining fiscally sound.

Efficiency is key to our success. Buffalo Grove operates with the lowest staffing levels among comparable communities, ensuring that we are maximizing taxpayer dollars without compromising essential services. We continuously evaluate expenditures, streamline operations, and eliminate inefficiencies to maintain a balanced budget.

My approach to fiscal policy is simple: responsible budgeting, strategic investment, and transparency. By maintaining these principles, we will continue to provide top-notch services, foster economic growth, and keep Buffalo Grove financially strong for years to come.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

Buffalo Grove is proud to be one of the safest communities in the region, with a consistently low crime rate. This is a direct result of our highly trained and professional police department, which remains committed to proactive policing, community engagement, and crime prevention.
Our Village’s Community Relations Unit plays a key role in fostering strong relationships between law enforcement and residents. Through outreach programs, education, and collaboration with local organizations, we work to build trust, improve communication, and address concerns before they escalate into larger issues.

To continue keeping our crime rate low, we must support and invest in our police force, ensuring they have the resources, training, and technology needed to respond effectively. Additionally, strengthening community partnerships and encouraging residents to remain engaged through neighborhood watch programs and reporting suspicious activity will further enhance public safety.

While violent crime remains rare in Buffalo Grove, we must stay vigilant. By prioritizing community policing, data-driven crime prevention strategies, and fostering strong relationships between law enforcement and residents, we can continue ensuring Buffalo Grove remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

Our current economic development strategies have proven to be extremely successful, as evidenced by the impressive progress we’ve made in areas like the Lake-Cook Road corridor, Dundee Road, and more. These strategies have helped attract high-quality businesses, revitalize key properties, and maintain a flat tax levy for six consecutive years. However, I’m always open to considering new approaches if there’s an opportunity that benefits Buffalo Grove and its residents. If a new type of incentive or approach can aid a particular business and further our community’s growth, we should absolutely explore it. That said, I firmly believe in the principle that “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.” Our current strategies are working, and I see no reason to depart from an approach that’s already yielding outstanding results. By staying flexible and receptive to innovative ideas while continuing to build on what has been successful, we can keep Buffalo Grove moving forward optimally, ensuring long-term prosperity for generations to come.

In essence, we will continue doing what works while staying receptive to fresh, effective ideas. After all, when we build on a proven formula and remain agile enough to consider alternatives, we pave the way for an even brighter future for Buffalo Grove.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

Buffalo Grove has made tremendous strides in economic development, but there are still key areas for improvement that residents want to see revitalized. Two prime locations that present great opportunities for redevelopment are Chase Plaza and Cambridge Commons. These sites have the potential to bring much-needed retail, dining, and entertainment options that enhance our community and support local businesses.

To make these improvements a reality, the Village must continue fostering strong relationships with developers and property owners while ensuring that projects align with resident needs and long-term planning goals. This means offering strategic incentives when appropriate, and streamlining approval processes to encourage investment in these areas.

Additionally, smart redevelopment requires a balance of economic viability and community input. Engaging residents in planning discussions will help ensure that any new development complements Buffalo Grove’s character and meets the desires of our community.

With the success of projects like The Clove, Bison Crossing, and the redevelopment of the Dundee Corridor, we have a proven track record of attracting high-quality investments. By applying the same strategic, resident-focused approach, we can transform Chase Plaza, Cambridge Commons, and other underutilized sites into thriving destinations that benefit the entire village

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

If you want to keep Buffalo Grove moving forward, I ask for your vote. I have a proven track record of fiscal responsibility, strategic economic development, and strong community leadership.

If you believe in responsible financial management that keeps taxes low while investing in essential services—vote for me.

If you support smart, pro-business development that strengthens our local economy and enhances our community—vote for me.

If you want a leader who makes principled, transparent decisions in the best interest of all residents—vote for me.