About the Candidates
Pictured Left to Right: JD Sylvanus, Josh Hagen and Keith Von Allmen
About Us
Josh Hagen
Josh Hagen, a lifelong resident of Johnsburg, Illinois, graduated from Johnsburg High School before studying business, marketing, and economics at Carthage College. He married his high school sweetheart, Sarah Liston, and they decided to return to their hometown to raise their family.
Family is at the heart of everything Josh does. He and Sarah are raising five children, all of whom have attended or are attending schools within Johnsburg District 12: Ben (Class of 2024), Will (Class of 2026), Sam (Class of 2029), Ellie (Class of 2030), and Anna (Class of 2031). For Josh, there's no greater joy than contributing to the community that has shaped him and watching his children grow in the same place that holds so many cherished memories.
Josh’s dedication to his hometown extends beyond his business ventures. As an active leader in the community, he plays a crucial role in shaping its future. In addition to owning and operating four successful businesses in Johnsburg, Josh serves as a Village Trustee and Chairman of the Economic Development Committee, where he helps guide the town’s growth and prosperity. His involvement as a board member and past president of the Johnsburg Area Business Association (JABA) further underscores his commitment to fostering a vibrant local economy and ensuring the long-term success of the village.
Josh’s commitment to his community shines through his many volunteer efforts. He is an active member of Joyful Harvest Church and plays a key role at the Markets of Remington Farm, the community garden and farmers market that he and his wife started, promoting sustainability and local engagement. He regularly contributes to various initiatives that support the town, and is a proud sponsor for numerous organizations – Johnsburg High School Football and Drama Club, Johnsburg PTO, Johnsburg Community Club, Village of Johnsburg events, and many more. Josh also volunteers with Safe Families for Children, offering assistance to families in crisis, and has served as a DCFS foster parent. His involvement with Pack 455 includes past service as a board member and his current role as liaison, further demonstrating his dedication to helping local youth.
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Josh’s unwavering dedication to Johnsburg is clear in every aspect of his life, making him the ideal candidate for re-election. His business ties show he is deeply invested in the town’s economic growth and prosperity. He and his wife are raising five children in the local school district, underscoring his personal commitment to the community’s future. As a Village Trustee, Josh has proven his ability to lead and make decisions that benefit Johnsburg’s residents and businesses. His deep roots, leadership, and passion for the town make him the right choice to continue guiding Johnsburg’s success. Re-elect Josh to ensure a strong future for the community he loves.
JD Sylvanus
JD Sylvanus was born and raised in Johnsburg where his journey of leadership, mentorship, and community service began. After completing his education within the Johnsburg School District, JD pursued higher education at Lakeland University in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. At Lakeland, he earned dual bachelor's degrees in Business Management and Computer Science, while making a significant impact on campus life. His leadership roles included serving as President of the Beta Sigma Omega Fraternity, President of the Inter Greek Council, Student Ambassador, and Captain of the Wrestling Team.
Upon graduating, JD returned to Johnsburg, where he embarked on a career in retail leadership. During this period, he met his wife, Beth, a dedicated full-time Registered Nurse. The couple married in 2014 and now share their lives with three children: Lyla, a vibrant 13-year-old in 8th grade; Casey, an energetic 8-year-old in 3rd grade; and Claire, a delightful 10-month-old. Both Lyla and Casey are active students in the Johnsburg School District.
In addition to his community involvement, JD works as a Financial Advisor for Northwestern Mutual. On his team, which manages over $700 million in client assets, JD plays a key role in providing financial guidance and strategies, further showcasing his commitment to supporting others in their personal and financial growth.
JD’s passion for coaching and community service is evident in his extensive involvement with local sports. He began his coaching career as the Head Coach of the Johnsburg Jr. High's Wrestling Team and has since advanced to a multitude of roles within the local sports scene. Currently, JD serves as the Head Coach of the Johnsburg High School Varsity Wrestling Team and the Head Coach of the Johnsburg High School JV Football Team. Additionally, he is the Defensive Coordinator for the JV Football Team, Head Coach of the Johnsburg Jr. Skyhawks 8th grade football team, and a coach for both Wildcat and Spartan Wrestling programs. He also contributes as an assistant coach for his son's 8U flag football team.
Beyond coaching, JD is actively involved in various leadership roles within the community. He serves as the Vice President of the Johnsburg Jr. Skyhawks and Johnsburg Area Wrestling (JAW), is a board member for the IESA Girls Wrestling, and is a League Admin for the SEYFA Football Conference. Additionally, JD is a member of the Village of Johnsburg’s finance committee, where he helps oversee the town’s financial matters.
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JD Sylvanus is dedicated to making a lasting impact on the lives of the young athletes he coaches and the families within the Johnsburg community. His commitment to service, both on and off the field and mat, reflects his deep-rooted values and his unwavering dedication to fostering growth and development within his community and beyond.
Keith Von Allmen
Keith Von Allmen is a seasoned law enforcement professional with over 30 years of dedicated service. Throughout his distinguished career, he held key positions, including serving as the Chief of Police in the Village of Johnsburg, for over 13 years. During his time as Chief, Keith applied his expertise in leadership, operational management, and procedural justice to enhance public safety and foster community trust.
Keith’s career began as a Firefighter/EMT, followed by roles as a Police and Fire Dispatcher and various positions within the Johnsburg Police Department, culminating in his tenure as Chief. His extensive experience also includes work as an investigator for the McHenry County State's Attorney's Office, where he focused on Crimes Against Children, conducting high-stakes interviews and collaborating with federal agencies.
In 2024, Keith expanded his expertise by attending a 13-week Polygraph school in Lafayette, Indiana, becoming a certified Polygraph examiner. This certification has added to his already impressive skill set, allowing him to apply advanced investigative techniques
Keith’s education in Criminal Justice from Columbia College, combined with specialized training at Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, has equipped him with advanced skills in budgeting, personnel management, and security protocols. His ability to lead, analyze critical issues, and implement effective solutions has been a hallmark of his career.
Family and community service are central to Keith’s life. He and his wife, Laura, are proud parents of a blended family that includes his 24-year-old son Logan, 18-year-old daughter Helaina, and Laura's sons Heli and Bodhi. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Keith is actively involved with St. John the Baptist Church, serving as a lector and religious education teacher. He also dedicates his time as a caregiver to his disabled father, a Vietnam veteran. In his personal time, Keith enjoys golfing, boating, and flying as a private pilot.
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Elect Keith Von Allmen to ensure our community remains a safe, prosperous, and welcoming place for all families, businesses, and residents. Keith has lived and worked in this community for nearly 30 years, and like you, he cares deeply about the future of our village. Keith is running to ensure our community remains a safe, prosperous, and welcoming place for all families, businesses, and residents.