Candidates lining up for Des Plaines clerk race

The 2025 municipal elections aren’t for months, but two candidates already have thrown their hats into the ring for the Des Plaines city clerk position.

Fifth Ward Alderman Carla Brookman says she wants the job, as does planning and zoning board member Dominik Bronakowski.

Current Clerk Jessica Mastalski, who was elected in 2021, hasn’t announced if she’ll seek a second term. She couldn’t be reached Monday.

Brookman has served on the city council since 2017 and was reelected in 2021. She must give up the post because of term limits.

Brookman also served on the council from 1997 to 2009. Her husband, Jim, is a former council member who represented the 5th Ward between his wife’s terms.

In a campaign announcement sent via email, Brookman touted the political experience she’s gained over the decades. She said she’s been a “strong advocate of open and transparent government” and would bring organizational skills and a professional approach to the job.

“I’m well prepared to take on the role of City Clerk and continue contributing to the Des Plaines community,” Brookman said.

Bronakowski said he’s running for a 4-year term as clerk because it’s time for change in Des Plaines.

“Historically, Des Plaines has elected politicians who have held positions of power who actively block progress, and I believe we deserve better,” he said in his announcement.

Bronakowski pledged to reform the clerk’s office by eliminating red tape, improving transparency, expanding accessibility and modernizing record-keeping.

“Our community deserves a candidate who will look out for our neighbors and drive progress in the Clerk's office,” he said.

Bronakowski works as an outreach director for Democratic state Rep. Bob Morgan of Deerfield.

The city clerk position is one of six offices up for election in April in Des Plaines. The mayor’s post will be on the ballot, as will the city council seats for the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th Wards.

Mayor Andrew Goczkowski is eligible to run for a second term and has said he’ll run again. First Ward Alderman Mark Lysakowski is in his second term and can’t run again.

Council members Sean Oskerka in the 3rd Ward and Patsy Smith of the 7th Ward both are eligible to run for second terms. Both on Monday said they intend to seek reelection.