Teresa Erb is running for the Johnson County Commission District 4 seat in the Nov. 3 general election. Erb said in our candidate questionnaire that she is running unopposed in the nonpartisan race.

Asked why she is seeking office, Erb said: "Johnson County has been my home for 30 years, and I want to give back to the community that has given so much to my family and me … I'm ready to put that experience to work ensuring county government is responsive to residents, responsible with taxpayer dollars, and focused on the needs of our community."

Candidate information

Party affiliation: "Democrat," Erb said in our questionnaire.

Education: "I graduated valedictorian from Bazine High School in Bazine, Kansas, as part of a small graduating class. I went on to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Management," Erb said.

Family: "I have been married to my husband, Craig Adcock, since 1994. I am very close with my mother, Jude, and my Aunt Merc who both live in Overland Park, my brother, Tony, who lives in Denver, and our goddaughter, Grace, who lives in KCMO," Erb said.

Experience and public service

Erb said in our questionnaire: "I began my career after graduating from West Point, serving eight years as an officer in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve. I then built a career in business, with more than 30 years of experience leading teams and managing operations and large-scale projects."

She added: "I held a variety of leadership positions at Sprint and later worked at Google Fiber, helping manage the construction of its fiber network. I currently work at Conexon, where I lead teams responsible for the design and construction of broadband networks in rural communities."

On her small business, Erb said: "For the past 18 years, we have owned and operated Jude's Rum Cake and Table Ocho in Lenexa."

She has not held elected office. Erb said: "I served for approximately 10 years as an appointed member of the Overland Park Environmental Advisory Council, including serving as vice-chair."

Asked what accomplishments prepare her, Erb said: "As a West Point graduate and Army officer, I learned early the importance of service, discipline, and leadership … As a small-business owner, I understand firsthand the challenges local businesses face and the importance of making sound financial decisions."

On the issues

Affordability and property taxes: Asked about her top priority, Erb said: "My own top priority would be affordability. Johnson County is a great place to live, but rising housing costs, property taxes, and the cost of everyday necessities are making it harder for some people to remain here."

On the mill levy, Erb said: "When property values increase significantly, the Commission should consider whether a reduction in the mill levy is appropriate, while balancing that against the cost of providing essential services and the county's long-term obligations. I would not commit to keeping tax bills flat every year without considering those factors."

On county reserves, Erb said: "Based on the information available to me, the county's current reserve level appears reasonable. According to the county's Budget Guide, the roughly $500 million in reserves is spread across many funds for particular purposes. Once I take office, I will examine those reserve funds as part of the budget process to make sure they remain appropriate for the county's needs."

Predecessor's priorities: Asked about continuing the work of her predecessor on mental health services, affordable housing and a property tax rebate for low-income homeowners, Erb said: "I would like to continue the progress the county has made in all three areas … I will evaluate these programs as a commissioner and build on what is working."

Data centers: Erb said she is "not convinced that a blanket pause on data center projects is necessary." She added: "I would pay particular attention to a proposed data center's use of water and energy and its broader environmental impact, and its effect on infrastructure, neighboring properties, and the surrounding community."

The general election is the next opportunity for District 4 voters to weigh in on this race.