Listening to Kane County: Building the Future of Public Safety Together

Every day on this campaign, I am reminded of something powerful: the future of public safety is shaped not in offices, but in conversations, with residents, families, business owners, and community leaders across Kane County.

This month has been especially meaningful. From meeting voters in Aurora and Elgin and everywhere in between to participating in candidate forums and community events. I’ve had the opportunity to listen, to hear what matters most to the people we serve. Organizations like the League of Women Voters and each township continue to play an important role in empowering residents, encouraging civic engagement, and helping voters make informed decisions about the future of our community.

These conversations are happening at an important moment. The upcoming primary election on March 17 will help determine the future leadership of Kane County and the direction of public safety in our community.  Across Kane County, volunteers and community members are actively canvassing neighborhoods and engaging voters, showing just how important local leadership is to the future of our county.

At the same time, law enforcement across Illinois is navigating major changes. The SAFE-T Act has significantly reshaped how sheriffs, courts, and correctional systems operate, affecting everything from detention decisions to daily operations.  These changes require experienced leadership, leadership that understands both the law and the real-world impact on victims, deputies, and communities.

In addition, new statewide initiatives like the Clean Slate Act reflect a growing emphasis on second chances and reducing recidivism by allowing eligible non-violent records to be sealed automatically, helping individuals rebuild their lives while maintaining public safety.  These evolving policies reinforce the importance of balanced leadership, leadership that prioritizes accountability, fairness, and community trust.

For me, this campaign is also about service. I began my career here in Kane County more than two decades ago. I have served as a Deputy, Detective, Major Crimes supervisor, teacher, mentor, Chief of Staff and Undersheriff. I have worked alongside deputies on the front lines, supported victims and families during their most difficult moments, and helped lead the Sheriff’s Office through complex operational and policy changes.

Those experiences have shaped my leadership philosophy: listen first, lead with integrity, and always put the community first.

That is why I am continuing to host town halls, meet with community organizations, and talk directly with residents. Public safety works best when leadership is visible, accessible, and accountable.

Kane County deserves leadership grounded in experience. Leadership that understands change. Leadership that builds trust.

I am proud to continue this conversation with you and I look forward to earning your trust as we move public safety forward together.

— Amy Johnson