DeKalb Times

Joyce Stupegia has long been a public servant in DeKalb, a duty she has undertaken in different positions. 

“I chose public service many years ago because I feel that is a great way to give back to one’s community,” Stupegia told the DeKalb Times.

Joyce Stupegia | Courtesy of Joyce Stupegia

 Before becoming the 3rd Ward alderman in DeKalb, Stupegia served nearly 20 years as an elected official in Villa Park. She was on a number of state advisory boards and commissions, but says she always held a special place in her heart for local government. 

“I have long believed that municipal government is the most important level of government. It is at this level that residents are provided with police and fire services, streets are maintained and kept clean, garbage is collected and zoning regulations are enforced,” Stupegia said. “But also, residents are in close proximity to their elected officials. Accessibility and accountability are paramount in being a local elected official.”

Stupegia means business when she says that accessibility matters, which is why she includes her home and cellphone numbers, as well as her personal email address, on her business cards. 

“I want residents to call me when they have a question or concern. I want to know when a tree branch is down, when a pothole has developed, when a streetlight is out or when a property is neglected and become an eyesore. That is when a local elected official's work begins,” she said.

“I believe it is the job of municipal government to provide the best possible services to residents at the best possible value. Our roads are crumbling and money needs to be found to replace and maintain them.

“I want there to be an open dialogue with residents where elected officials seek out guidance from the residents on the myriad serious issues facing DeKalb and proceed accordingly,” Stupegia said. "This can't be done at a City Council meeting, but must be an ongoing effort to engage the citizenry in moving DeKalb forward.”