About the Candidate
Name: Pat Dowell
DOB: May 13, 1957
Family: Justin Cerasoli, Son
Occupation: Alderman/Committeeman, 3rd Ward
Political Experience: Elected Alderman in 2007
Website: citizensforpatdowell.com
Candidate Statement
Hi my name is Pat Dowell. I ran for Alderman of the Third Ward on a promise of real change and real results. I’m happy to say that I’ve been doing the hard work to deliver on that promise every day.
I am proud of the work that we have done to make the 3rd Ward one of the most livable wards in the city. New CPS facilities like Bronzeville Classical and the South Loop Elementary schools, coupled with investments in every neighborhood school demonstrates my efforts to provide quality educational options. The addition of three anchor grocery stores like the recently announced Pete’s Fresh Market on Pershing and State, the Mariano’s on 16th and Clark and on 39th and King Drive are examples of my ability to attract major retailers to the Ward. And, we have created jobs by opening dozens of new small businesses and restaurants across the ward.
The improvement of public transportation options with the opening of the Green Line Station on Cermak, the just completed restoration of the Garfield Green Line Station and the reinstatement of the 39th Street bus demonstrates the commitment from my office to public transportation access.
Residents can count on me to provide quality housing options for all income levels throughout the ward. I will always mandate that community development have community partners and community hires.
I expect and promote equitable community policing and will always push and challenge to achieve the highest level of safety possible. We will continue to work with blockclubs, condo associations, businesses, organizations and the police to improve community safety.
We have work to do. Change doesn’t just happen -- it takes thoughtful hard work, commitment and dedication. I am asking for your support and vote on February, 26th. Thank you.
Candidate Q&A
What is your vision for this office?
The vision for this office is to continue to efficiently provide access to City Services so that my constituents can live and thrive with their families and neighbors in our many diverse communities. The development of diverse housing options from affordable to market rate, the implementation of strategies to reduce and eliminate crime, and strengthening our efforts to promote small business development and job creation are all part of the vision to help this Ward prosper and grow.
What is the most pressing issue facing constituents, and how can you help address it?
The most pressing issue facing 3rd Ward constituents is improved public safety. I have helped address this issue by working closely and meeting consistently with the four Police District Commanders that make up my Ward to discuss policing strategies and areas of concern. My office has advocated and received increased police personnel in multiple districts throughout the Ward, regularly host Town hall public safety meetings and attend all CAPS meeting. I co-founded and helped fund the Safe Summer initiative, which expanded the Chicago Public School Safe Passage program into the summer break. Additionally, I co-sponsored legislation in City council to make it easier for the Police to close problem businesses, hosted positive loitering and prayer around the school’s events, and worked to get Shotspotter installed to help reduce gun violence.
