The Village of Lisle and Lisle Township will hold local elections on April 1, 2025. These consolidated elections will decide the village’s mayor and trustees, township officials (Supervisor, Clerk, Assessor, Highway Commissioner, and Trustees), as well as local school board members. Below is an unbiased overview of who is running, their platforms and plans for the community, and key election dates and voting details.
Village of Lisle Mayoral Race
Candidates for Mayor: Incumbent Mayor Chris Pecak is seeking a third term and is challenged by current Trustee Mary Jo Mullen. The race is nonpartisan, but each candidate leads an informal slate:
Chris Pecak (Incumbent Mayor):
Pecak has been mayor since 2017 and touts a record of fiscal restraint and development projects. Under his leadership, Lisle froze its property tax levy (keeping it flat) and improved transparency. Pecak emphasizes the village’s “sound finances” and believes Lisle has “done a lot of good work over the last eight years” that he wants to continue. His team, sometimes dubbed “Lisle First (Prosperity for Lisle)”, highlights keeping taxes low, maintaining a high bond rating, and attracting new developments (like downtown apartments and businesses) as signs of a “great future” for Lisle. Pecak is running with at least one incumbent trustee ally (Dan Greco) on a slate focused on prosperity for Lisle.
Mary Jo Mullen (Challenger, Trustee):
Mullen is a current Village Trustee (term ending 2025) and formerly served as Lisle Township Supervisor. She argues that “Lisle really needs change” because progress on economic development has been “very, very slowly” under the current administration. Mullen leads a slate called “Lisle Forward”, promising a more proactive approach to revitalizing Lisle’s downtown and community. She wants to streamline development processes and better capitalize on opportunities to grow the tax base. Her team also emphasizes collaborative leadership and responsiveness to residents. “We’ve been making progress… very slowly,” Mullen said, indicating she’d push for faster action on development and village improvements.
Key Issues: Both candidates prioritize economic development but with different perspectives. Pecak points to stable taxes and completed projects (a new downtown apartment/retail complex, business retention like keeping a car dealership in town) as evidence his approach works. Mullen contends that Lisle has missed chances to grow and needs fresh leadership to attract businesses and revitalize the downtown more quickly. Governance style is also at issue: recently, some trustees objected to Pecak’s handling of a police chief appointment process, citing transparency concerns. This conflict underscores Mullen’s calls for inclusive decision-making, while Pecak maintains he operates within his authority. Voters will decide if Lisle stays the course with Pecak’s administration or opts for Mullen’s promised change in direction.
Village of Lisle Board of Trustees
In addition to the mayor, Lisle voters will elect three Village Trustees (at-large) to the 6-member Village Board. The trustee election is competitive, with two slates and an independent in the running:
Lisle Forward Slate (Mullen’s team): Trustee Tom Duffy (an incumbent running for re-election), Kristy Grau (currently Village Clerk, now running for trustee), and Christy McGovern (a former trustee) are running as allies of Mary Jo Mullen. They campaigned together under Lisle Forward, emphasizing community engagement and “moving the community forward” beyond politics. Their focus includes economic revitalization, smart growth, and improving village services. For example, Grau, as clerk, has experience with village operations and is likely advocating for modernized services and transparency. Duffy and McGovern bring board experience and have often sided with Mullen on development issues, favoring a faster pace for downtown improvements. The Lisle Forward slate positions itself as pragmatic and service-driven, aiming to “deliver on promises” of better governance and development results.
Incumbent/“Lisle First” Candidates: Mayor Pecak’s camp includes Dan Grecco, a sitting trustee seeking another term. Grecco has supported Pecak’s fiscal policies and stresses continuity in village projects. (Pecak’s slate name “Lisle First – Prosperity for Lisle” reflects its priority on economic growth and stability.) There may be additional candidates aligned with Pecak – for instance, a new face for Village Clerk after Grau’s departure, and possibly other trustee contenders – though Pecak’s slate was not publicly listed in full. The Lisle Township Republican Organization, which supports Pecak, advised voters to choose only candidates who “pursue practical policies that meet resident needs while recognizing economic realities.” This suggests the incumbent-aligned trustee candidates (including Grecco) are campaigning on experience, low taxes, and “common-sense” governance. They point to Lisle’s flat tax levy and strong finances as evidence that the current board’s conservative approach works.
Independent Candidate: Afaq Syed, a Lisle resident, is running independently for a trustee seat. Syed is not part of either slate and offers a fresh perspective. (His background has not been widely reported; he was noted among local Arab-American candidates.) As an independent, Syed’s platform likely centers on being a non-establishment voice for residents. Voters seeking an alternative to the two teams may consider Syed, who presumably advocates for community-first decision making without party or slate ties. (Specific policy positions from Syed are not well-publicized, given his independent run.)
Key Issues for Trustees: Much like the mayoral race, the trustee candidates are debating how to spur economic development, fiscal policy, and transparency. The Lisle Forward team argues for reinvigorating downtown (filling vacant storefronts, encouraging new businesses) and improving village infrastructure more assertively. They also prioritize open governance – exemplified by trustees like Mullen and Duffy pushing for thorough hiring processes and public input on major decisions. The incumbents/“Lisle First” side emphasizes financial prudence – pointing to the first-ever flat property tax levy achieved under Pecak– and caution that rapid change could endanger Lisle’s stable finances. They highlight successes like holding the line on spending and maintaining services without tax increases. Thus, Lisle voters will choose up to three trustee candidates who best match their vision: accelerated growth and new voices vs. steady management and experience. (It’s worth noting that regardless of slate, those elected will work together on the next Board, so a mix of perspectives is possible.)
Lisle Township Elections (Supervisor, Board, etc.)
Lisle Township (which includes Lisle and parts of Naperville and Woodridge) is holding partisan elections for township officials. Offices on the April 2025 ballot include Township Supervisor, Clerk, Highway Commissioner, Assessor, and four Township Trustees. Here are the candidates and their plans:
Township Supervisor: The Supervisor oversees general assistance programs and township administration. Debbie Pawlowicz (Republican) is running against M. Joann Wright (Democrat) for this position. Pawlowicz is affiliated with the current township leadership (the GOP has held this office in recent years) and emphasizes fiscal responsibility and continuity in providing services. Wright, a psychologist and current school board member (Lisle Dist. 68), leads the Democratic slate – she highlights her service background and vows to strengthen the township’s social services. Wright and her running mates have pledged “NO TAX INCREASES to residents” while expanding programs for youth, seniors, and mental health. Pawlowicz similarly promises to meet resident needs “while recognizing economic realities,” according to the Lisle Township Republican Organization. Voters will choose between Pawlowicz’s experience (incumbent-oriented) and Wright’s call for enhanced community programs (with her mental health and education expertise).
Township Clerk: The Clerk handles records and meetings. Dave Carlin (R) faces Robert Sacks (D). Carlin, a former college board trustee and public official, likely stresses efficient administration and support for the Supervisor’s agenda. Sacks has a background in municipal finance and nonprofit work; he emphasizes transparency and modernizing township services. This race has received less attention, but each aligns with their slate’s philosophy (Carlin with the GOP’s practical governance stance, Sacks with the Dems’ community-focused approach).
Highway Commissioner & Assessor: These positions appear uncontested. Longtime Highway Commissioner Edward “Ed” Young (R) is running unopposed. He oversees road maintenance in unincorporated areas and has kept that department running smoothly; Young is expected to continue prioritizing safe, well-kept roads and fiscally sensible infrastructure upkeep. Similarly, Township Assessor John Trowbridge (R) is unopposed, meaning he will remain responsible for property assessments. Trowbridge, an incumbent, will likely continue ensuring fair property valuations and assisting residents with assessment issues. (No Democrats filed for Highway Comm. or Assessor.)
Township Trustees (4 seats): This is a contested race, and it even required a primary election on Feb. 25, 2025 for the Democrats. Township Trustees help oversee budgets and township services (like the food pantry and senior programs). Republicans have fielded a slate of four: Ron Amato, Nicole Di Braccio, Charley Margosian, and Dave Seastrom (all local residents active in community or township affairs; the GOP actually listed a fifth name, Dan Grecco, but only four can be elected). The Republican trustee candidates campaign on “common-sense leadership” – keeping the township’s tax levy low and ensuring services (from the food pantry to youth programs) are run efficiently. Their motto is to be practical and budget-conscious while meeting resident needs. On the Democratic side, eight candidates vied for four spots in the primary, reflecting an energized contest. One slate, calling themselves “Experienced Dems for Lisle Township”, included incumbents Jean Page and Barry Robinson, former trustee Lisa Rose, and newcomer Audrey Burris. They emphasized their experience on the board and a plan for 2025–2029 featuring no tax hikes, new youth & senior programs, expanded transportation for seniors/disabled, and bolstered food pantry resources. The other group, “Vote Lisle Twp Dems,” put forward Susan Howell, Gerry Galloway, Maryann Vazquez, and Donna Rae Prepejchal– community volunteers who campaigned on bringing new energy and advocacy to the township. Both Democratic factions shared many goals (improving social services, government transparency, and fiscal accountability), differing mainly in experience vs. new perspectives. The primary decided which four Democrats advance to April (primary results were not widely published as of this writing, but the winners will face the GOP slate). Ultimately, in April’s general election, voters will choose four trustees total. This choice will shape the township board’s balance between experienced incumbents and fresh voices. Key issues include funding of the 708 Mental Health Board (which supports local mental health programs), senior transportation services, and maintaining the township’s food pantry and general assistance – all while keeping the township share of property taxes as low as possible. Both parties’ candidates pledge to be fiscally responsible and to enhance services for vulnerable residents, but they offer different combinations of backgrounds and approaches to achieve those aims
Lisle School Board (Lisle CUSD 202)
Local school board seats are also on the ballot. In Lisle Community Unit School District 202, which serves the Village of Lisle, there are four Board of Education seats up for election – and this race is uncontested. The four candidates (equal to the number of open seats) will be Heather Novosel, Paula Di Domenico, Pam Ahlmann, and Gregory “Greg” Nagler:
Pam Ahlmann is the current Board President and a longtime member (on the board since 2004). She has guided the district through years of change (such as building a new elementary school and navigating COVID challenges). Ahlmann’s focus is on maintaining academic excellence and a balanced budget. Her institutional knowledge will provide continuity.
Greg Nagler is an incumbent board member (elected in 2021) who has been active in school parent organizations and is a U.S. Army veteran. He advocates for strong school-community partnerships and has emphasized support for student activities (like music and scouting programs). Nagler will likely continue prioritizing student engagement and fiscal responsibility in the district.
Paula Di Domenico joined the board in 2024 by appointment. She is an educator by profession (a department chair and reading specialist) with a doctoral degree in education. Di Domenico brings an educator’s perspective to the board, with interest in curriculum, literacy, and data-driven improvements. She will focus on enhancing academic programs and addressing learning recovery post-pandemic.
Heather Novosel would be a new member on the board. (While little is published about Novosel’s background, it’s common for school board candidates in Lisle to be involved parents or community members. As a newcomer, she likely aims to represent parents’ voices and contribute to strategic planning for the district’s future.)
Key Issues for District 202: Although the school board contest is uncontested, these members will shape important decisions. Ongoing issues include maintaining high academic standards in a small district, managing the district’s finances amid enrollment fluctuations, and supporting student well-being. Lisle 202 recently realigned its schools (building a new elementary campus and consolidating facilities), so the board will oversee the outcomes of those changes. Additionally, like many districts, Lisle is focused on student achievement, updating curriculum, and attracting/retaining quality teachers. Voters won’t be choosing among competing candidates, but the unopposed board members have all indicated a commitment to stable leadership and continuity in the district’s positive direction. For example, Ahlmann and Nagler have stressed fiscal stability (Lisle 202 has a strong financial position), and Di Domenico will bring insights to boost literacy and academic growth. With no opposition on the ballot, these four will join the board to continue initiatives already underway and address any new challenges collaboratively. (Lisle 202’s board members generally work without partisan labels, focusing on student-centric policies.)
Election Dates, Voting Options, and Polling Locations
Mark your calendar: the Consolidated Election is Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Here are the crucial details for Lisle voters regarding when and how to vote:
Election Day (April 1): Polls will be open 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM for all precincts. On Election Day, Lisle residents should go to their assigned local polling place (often a nearby school, church, or public building – for example, Lisle Village Hall at 925 Burlington Ave is a polling site for some precincts, as is the Lisle Police Department). You can find your specific polling location by checking your voter registration card or using the DuPage County Clerk’s website. Registered voters must vote at their designated polling station on Election Day (unless they vote early or by mail). Illinois allows same-day registration at the polls as well – if you need to register or update your address on April 1, bring two forms of ID (one with your current address).
Early Voting: For convenience, early in-person voting will be available from March 17 through March 31, 2025 at multiple locations in DuPage County. Starting March 17, any DuPage voter can vote early at any county early voting site (you are not restricted to your town). There will be 25 early voting sites countywide with extended hours. One convenient location for Lisle residents is the Lisle Police Department (5040 Lincoln Ave), which will serve as an early voting site. It is open March 17–31 on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. (Early voting sites are closed on Sundays in DuPage.) Nearby early voting locations include the DuPage County Fairgrounds (in Wheaton) and the Naperville Municipal Center, among others. Early voting is a great option if you want to avoid lines or will be busy on Election Day – you can simply show up with a photo ID and cast your ballot early. Remember that the last day of early voting is March 31; after that, you must vote April 1.
Vote by Mail (Absentee): All registered voters in DuPage County are eligible to vote by mail if they prefer. Mail-in ballot requests must be received by March 27, 2025. You can request a vote-by-mail ballot through the DuPage County Clerk’s office (online or by paper application). Once you receive your ballot, fill it out at home and return it either by mail or by dropping it off. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by April 1 and received within 14 days after the election to count. Secure Drop Boxes: DuPage County provides drop boxes at early voting sites for vote-by-mail ballots. For example, the Lisle Police Department early voting site will have a secure drop box where you can deposit your completed mail ballot during early voting hours or on Election Day. This saves postage and ensures your ballot goes directly to the election authorities. Tip: If you use a drop box on Election Day (April 1), do so before 7:00 PM. Ballots must be in the clerk’s possession by the time polls close to be counted. Track your mail ballot status on the DuPage election website to confirm it was received and counted.
Grace Period Registration/Voting: If you missed the voter registration deadline (which was in early March), you can still register during the “grace period” at the DuPage County Clerk’s office or any early voting site through March 31. You’ll need to vote at the same time you register during grace period. Illinois also allows election-day registration at your polling place on April 1 as mentioned, so even unregistered voters can participate – don’t sit out the election! Bring proper ID and proof of address if you need to register.
Polling Place Locations in Lisle: On Election Day, common voting sites in Lisle include Lisle Village Hall (925 Burlington Ave), Lisle High School, Lisle Library District, Trinity Lutheran Church, Lisle Police Department (5040 Lincoln Ave), and others. The DuPage County Clerk typically sends a sample ballot and polling place notice by mail to voters. You can also look up your polling site on the DuPage County elections website by entering your address. All polling places are open 6am–7pm and are ADA-accessible. If you require assistance (for example, if you have a disability), election judges at the site can help, or you may bring a friend/relative to assist you with voting.
Important Dates Summary:
Feb 25, 2025: Primary Election (Democratic primary for Lisle Township offices – now concluded).
March 17, 2025: Early Voting begins across DuPage County.
March 27, 2025: Deadline to request a Vote-by-Mail ballot.
March 31, 2025: Final day of Early Voting (also the last day the Clerk will mail out ballots).
April 1, 2025: Election Day – polls open 6:00am to 7:00pm; mailed ballots must be postmarked by this date.
Make sure you bring an ID (especially if you’re a first-time voter or need to register). However, if you are already registered, you do not need ID to vote in Illinois in most cases – just stating your name and address to the judge is sufficient, and signing the application. Still, having a driver’s license or state ID on hand is helpful for verification or if any issue arises.
In Summary:
Lisle’s 2025 election will decide leadership that impacts your daily life – from village development and policing policies, to township services like senior transportation and food pantry programs, to the direction of local schools. The mayoral and trustee races give voters a choice between maintaining the current trajectory or opting for new leadership and ideas. The township races pit experienced incumbents against newcomers eager to expand services (within tight budgets). And the school board will see a blend of veteran and new members working to keep schools excellent.
As a voter, it’s wise to review each candidate’s background and promises. Attend any candidate forums or read their statements (some have websites or social media pages with detailed platforms). All the information above is drawn from factual sources such as local news reports and official candidate filings – so you can trust that these are the real stances and credentials of the people seeking your vote.
Most importantly, make a plan to vote – whether early, by mail, or on Election Day. Local elections often have low turnout, so your vote carries a lot of weight in determining Lisle’s future. Every position, from Mayor to School Board, can significantly affect our community’s quality of life. By voting, you ensure your voice is heard in choosing the direction for Lisle’s development, services, and schools in the coming years. Early voting starts March 17 and runs through the end of March, and Election Day is April 1 – don’t miss this opportunity to shape our local government! Remember: if you have any questions about voting, you can contact the DuPage County Clerk’s Election Division at 630-407-5600 or visit their website. They provide sample ballots, polling site finders, and answers to frequently asked questions. Happy voting, Lisle!
Sources:
Daily Herald – “Voters in Glen Ellyn, Warrenville will pick new leaders in 2025…” (Nov. 19, 2024)The Free Library (Includes Lisle candidate filings and quotes)
Daily Herald – “Mayoral races heating up in Lisle…” (Nov. 2024)The Free Library (Candidate slate details and quotes from Mullen and Pecak)
Lisle Forward campaign site – LisleForward.com (About the Lisle Forward slate mission)
Lisle Township Republican Org., Candidate Recommendations 2025 – LisleGOP.org (GOP-endorsed candidates and principles)
Vote Lisle Twp Dems website – VoteLisleTwpDems.us
Experienced Dems for Lisle Township website – ExperiencedDems4LisleTownship.org (Township Democratic candidates and platform points)
DuPage County Clerk – Election Division notices – CMS5.Revize.com
Daily Herald – Voting deadlines and early voting info – DailyHerald.com
DuPage County Early Voting schedule – CMS5.Revize.com (Lisle Police Dept early voting hours)
Lisle CUSD 202 Board candidate listing – CMS5.Revize.com (School board candidates)
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