Ericka Polanco Webb, a Burr Ridge Democrat, is running for DuPage County Board District 3 in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. She faces Republican incumbent Brian J. Krajewski for the two-year term after winning the March 17, 2026, Democratic primary uncontested, according to Shaw Local.

Asked why she is seeking office, Polanco Webb said in our questionnaire: "I believe the government should be accessible, responsive, and connected to the people it serves. For years, I've worked alongside families, seniors, schools, and community organizations, witnessing firsthand the challenges residents face, including affordability, public safety, mental health access, and essential services."

She added: "My goal is to bring county government resources closer to those who need them most while protecting taxpayer dollars."

Candidate information

Party: Democratic

Municipality: Burr Ridge

Education: Polanco Webb said she holds "a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Communication Studies From Elmhurst University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Marketing and Strategy."

Family: "I've been married for 12 years, and together we have six children: five daughters here on this side of Heaven and our only son, who passed away three years ago. He was born with cerebral palsy and other complex medical conditions that left him unable to walk or talk."

Community involvement: Charter member of the National Council of Negro Women – West Suburban Chicago Section, according to her campaign Facebook page. She also serves as a volunteer on the Village of Burr Ridge Economic Development Committee, according to the same page.

Experience and public service

Elected office: Gower School District 62 Board of Education, serving since 2023, according to BallotReady.

Current employment: Polanco Webb described her role in our questionnaire: "I currently am the Director of Business Operations & AI Strategy for an Executive Coaching Firm, where I oversee operational infrastructure, strategic planning, organizational efficiency, and responsible AI implementation."

Professional background: "My professional background spans communications, public relations, marketing, business operations, and executive leadership. I began my career as an Advertising Analyst and moved on to Public Relations and professional writer, contributing to publications including Chicago Parent Magazine, before transitioning into business management and organizational strategy."

On the issues

What distinguishes her from other candidates: "As a current school board member, I bring experience in policymaking, budgeting, fiscal oversight, and accountability. Professionally, I have a background in strategic planning, business operations, and organizational leadership."

She continued: "My community involvement extends beyond attending meetings. I've worked directly with families, seniors, schools, and community organizations to build partnerships, expand access to essential resources, and address challenges in underserved communities."

Accomplishments: "As Chair of the Downers Grove Township Youth Services Advisory Committee, I've helped strengthen community partnerships and expand access to resources for families and youth."

Polanco Webb said she is "particularly proud" of her work in unincorporated Willowbrook: "I've connected organizations & resources to underserved residents, recently bringing six additional community partners into our network."

Best advice received: "Rest is sacred and essential, remember you can't pour from an empty glass, So take care of yourself so you can continue to help others."