Three Republicans Vie for Two Will County Board Seats

Incumbents and challengers face off in GOP primary for District 4 race.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Three Republican candidates are competing for two open seats on the Will County Board in District 4, which covers parts of Mokena and Homer Glen. Incumbent board members Steve Balich and Jim Richmond are facing off against challenger Mike Lepore, a Homer Glen trustee, and Pawel, a local businessman.

Why it matters

The race for the Will County Board District 4 seats is seen as an important local election, with property taxes and solar energy development emerging as key issues for voters in the Republican primary.

The details

Balich and Richmond, the two incumbent board members, are touting their experience and track records, while Lepore and Pawel are positioning themselves as fresh faces who can bring new ideas to the board. All four candidates have been campaigning actively in the district, meeting with voters and highlighting their policy platforms.

  • The Republican primary election for the Will County Board District 4 seats will be held on March 17, 2026.

The players

Steve Balich

Incumbent Will County Board member representing District 4, which covers parts of Mokena and Homer Glen.

Jim Richmond

Incumbent Will County Board member representing District 4, which covers parts of Mokena and Homer Glen.

Mike Lepore

Homer Glen trustee and challenger for the Will County Board District 4 seat.

Pawel

Local businessman and challenger for the Will County Board District 4 seat.

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What they’re saying

“I actually like being on the County Board, and I actually enjoy the arguments, and I don't give up,”

— Steve Balich, Incumbent Will County Board member (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Republican primary election for the Will County Board District 4 seats will be held on March 17, 2026. The two winners of the primary will advance to the general election in November 2026.

The takeaway

The race for the Will County Board District 4 seats is shaping up to be a competitive Republican primary, with the incumbent board members facing challenges from newcomers who are looking to bring fresh perspectives to the local government.