Who is Julie?

Julie is your neighbor.

Julie is an active member of your community.

Julie wants to represent your needs as a member of the Kane County Board.

View the video to hear from Julie in her own words, then read more below about her background, motivations, and plans to serve you.

A Midwestern Upbringing Rooted in Hard Work

Julie Forbes grew up in rural Iowa with strong farming values and a deep respect for the land. Her dad worked at the University of Iowa for 40 years, and her mom was a proud union member at Northwestern Bell for three decades. With four younger brothers, Julie learned responsibility early — helping raise her siblings while her parents worked multiple jobs to keep food on the table.

A Lifelong Commitment to Conservation

Julie’s love for environmental stewardship began in childhood. She spent countless hours learning from her father and volunteering through local chapters of the Iowa Wildlife Federation, Whitetails Unlimited, and the Izaak Walton League of America. The farm-to-table lifestyle wasn’t a trend; it was their way of life — and it shaped her deep belief in protecting our natural resources.

Corporate Leadership & Fiscal Experience

Julie brings more than two decades of corporate leadership experience, where she managed multi-million-dollar budgets – often larger than Kane County’s – and led complex, cross-functional projects that required strategic planning, accountability, and fiscal discipline. Her background in corporate budget management gives her a deep understanding of how to allocate resources responsibly, evaluate long-term financial impacts, and deliver results without wasting taxpayer dollars.

Building a Life in Geneva

Julie and her wife, Denise, moved to Geneva five years ago and immediately fell in love with the community, the Fox River, and the historic charm of the area. Whether strolling downtown, volunteering, or attending local events, they felt an immediate connection to the people who make District 11 special.

Why She’s Running

Julie believes county government works best when it stays close to the people it serves. She’s running to bring:

Steady leadership with experience in strategic planning & budget oversight
Community-focused problem solving
Driven by integrity, collaboration, and innovative approaches to revenue generation
Transparency and accessibility

A Voice for All

Julie believes every person in Kane County deserves dignity, respect, and the freedom to live safely as themselves. She will be an unapologetic voice for human rights – standing up for immigrants, LGBTQ+ residents, or anyone who feels unheard or overlooked. Julie knows that strong communities are built when everyone feels valued and protected. On the County Board, she will fight for policies that expand opportunity, protect civil rights, and ensure all residents can live without fear.

Accountable

Julie knows that good government starts with showing up — and she’s ready to work side-by-side with neighbors, precinct leaders, local organizations, and county partners to move Kane County forward.