Paul Arena & Family

Paul Arena — Winnebago County Board

Paul Arena was first elected to the Winnebago County Board in 2018 and now serves as the Majority Leader of the Republican caucus. He has been a resident of Winnebago County for 36 years. Paul has been married to Georgine for 34 years, and together they have two children, Erica and Jon. After earning a degree in Manufacturing Technology from Northern Illinois University, Paul moved to the Rockford area and began working in the local manufacturing industry. He understands the critical role manufacturing jobs play in the local economy and values efforts to bring more of these jobs to the area.

In 1992, Paul founded Arena Construction, a business focused on property development, management, and residential and light commercial renovation. His experience as a housing provider has given him valuable insight into how essential safe, stable neighborhoods are to a strong community. His business achievements include:

  • Operating multifamily and single-family properties that provide quality, affordable housing

  • Serving as a contractor for the City of Rockford Community Development Department to remodel homes for residents in renovation assistance programs

  • Gaining experience with commercial contracting and working with labor unions

  • Successfully utilizing City of Rockford redevelopment programs to restore seven dilapidated and vacant properties

In 1994, Paul joined the Rockford Apartment Association (RAA), a local nonprofit group that educates and advocates for those involved in providing residential rental housing. Shortly after joining, he began serving as a volunteer on the Board of Directors. During his time with RAA, Paul has:

  • Served as treasurer, secretary, program director, and president (for 10 years)

  • Served on the City of Rockford Fair Housing Board from May 2000 to April 2005

  • Had extensive interaction with the local government on housing-related issues

  • Implemented public relations strategies to improve the image of rental housing providers in the community

In January 2007, Paul was selected to represent local housing providers in the Illinois Rental Property Owners Association (IRPOA), a statewide coalition of rental property associations in 15 Illinois cities. He currently volunteers as Northwest Vice President and Director of Legislative Affairs for IRPOA. His duties include:

  • Managing membership in the northwest region of Illinois

  • Leading the organization’s political activities on a statewide level

  • Proposing, drafting, and obtaining sponsorship for legislation

  • Reviewing pending legislation and establishing IRPOA’s position

  • Lobbying for or against legislation of concern to IRPOA, including drafting position papers, engaging legislators, and testifying in committee

Paul’s professional experience providing families with housing, fostering local jobs, and working with government at both the state and local levels makes him a strong and effective advocate for the citizens of Winnebago County.