Ian Holzhauer: 2025 candidate for Naperville city council

Bio

Office Sought: Naperville city council

City: Naperville

Age: 42

Occupation: Attorney

Previous offices held: Naperville city council since 2021

What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the city council respond to it?

Naperville's rapid growth over the last 60 years has led to aging infrastructure. On council, we've worked hard to soften the financial blow of infrastructure upgrades. For example, we mitigated the impact of the $180 million upgrades to our wastewater treatment facility, by years of building reserves, phased rate increases, and some bonding.

We’ve debated spending $125 million to bury electric wires in older neighborhoods for increased reliability (though I am concerned about costs). We've tackled road safety issues like those at the “T intersection” Washington and Naper.

Addressing these concerns requires a balanced approach focused on financial sustainability and community impact. We prioritize urgent projects through cost-benefit analyses, plan financially to prevent surprises, and explore diverse funding options, including phased implementation. Engaging the community for input and transparency about the impacts of these projects is essential.

How would you describe the state of your community's finances? What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years? Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed?

Naperville’s financial position is stronger than most peer communities, and we must leverage that strength wisely. Our priority should be investing in our community’s quality of life — from mental health resources and public safety to environmental sustainability. To achieve this, we must budget responsibly by maintaining funding for our pension obligations and curbing unnecessary tax and fee increases that burden residents.

I am firmly opposed to the growing trend of governments subsidizing private companies at the expense of taxpayers. When Naperville was floated as a potential site for a Chicago Bears stadium, I vocally opposed the idea — highlighting the heavy tax subsidies NFL teams demand. Likewise, I have been a skeptic of sales tax incentives that benefit highly profitable out-of-town companies rather than vital public services like police and fire protection. I will continue fighting for a financial strategy that keeps Naperville thriving without burdening taxpayers unfairly.

What do you see as the most important infrastructure project the community must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?

The most important infrastructure investment we can make is expanding walking trails, bike paths, and traffic-calming. Across the country, pedestrian and cyclist injuries and deaths are rising at an alarming rate (2022 saw the highest U.S. pedestrian fatalities in 40 years). Sadly, Naperville has not been immune.

Fortunately, safety improvements come at a fraction of the cost of major roadway construction — or can often be included at little additional expense when roads are upgraded. The return on investment is clear: safer routes for our children, seniors, and all residents to move around our community without fear of danger on our streets.

While I strongly support public infrastructure that benefits everyone’s safety, I am concerned about using taxpayer dollars for private development projects that primarily serve specific corporations and would put those on the “back burner,” so to speak. Our focus should be on building a safer, healthier, and more connected Naperville for all.

Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach an agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your city council.

During my time on the council, I have always believed in the power of respectful dialogue and collaboration. While consensus is ideal, we can disagree with civility and respect. Ultimately, we share a commitment to Naperville’s success. I strive to be a voice for residents who don’t have a seat at the table or who might otherwise go unheard — those who can’t afford to make campaign donations, who lack political connections — but whose perspectives and needs are just as important.

That means reaching out to fellow council members to encourage fresh perspectives. Sometimes it means working with residents directly to suggest ways they can most effectively advocate to the council at large.

Other times, it means stating a respectfully dissenting opinion or voting with the minority on an ordinance. At the end of the day, Naperville is strongest when every voice matters and when our council remains focused on the work that truly serves our community.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

Ultimately, voters will decide who is the best candidate for this role. What I can promise is a tireless commitment to doing the work — studying every issue before meetings, asking tough questions, and standing up for those who might not otherwise have a voice.

Over the past four years, I’m especially proud to have advocated for housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, pushed for the upcoming expansion of the Naperville Riverwalk, and worked to move Naperville away from coal power toward a more sustainable future.

Naperville didn’t become the best community in America by accident, and we can’t afford to take that status for granted. It takes constant effort, thoughtful leadership, and a commitment to progress — and I’m ready to keep doing that work.

What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?

Naperville’s Riverwalk is already a cherished space for relaxation and community gatherings, and I believe we can thoughtfully enhance its offerings while preserving its peaceful atmosphere.

Other communities have found creative ways to celebrate their public trails, such as occasional live music events or artistic performances that complement the natural beauty of their spaces.

With the Riverwalk Amphitheater and other scenic areas, we have opportunities to introduce family-friendly programming that enriches the experience for visitors while respecting the Riverwalk’s character.

Any additions would be mindfully planned to maintain a balance between lively entertainment and passive use, ensuring the Riverwalk remains a place everyone can enjoy in their own way.