2023 Chicago Election Voter Guide

Candidate Q&A

Why are you running?

I am running for the position of 44th Ward alderman to continue my over 15-year stewardship of the ward as chief of staff to Alderman Tom Tunney. In this capacity, I have developed unique experience establishing relationships with residents, business owners, community groups, and other stakeholders in the ward. I have heard their concerns and solved problems for our neighborhood for over a decade, and look forward to continuing this work as alderman.

What does this office do well, and what needs fixing?

I’m in a unique position having worked in the office for 15 years, so I can say I understand it well. The office is very responsive to constituent requests and proactive at identifying concerns within the community. The office has been equitable in using its menu to address repaving, lighting, and other issues reported by residents. What we need to do better is be intentional about creating community connections, particularly in this post-COVID world.

What is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?

My priorities are fostering economic growth and ensuring sustainable economic development in the 44th Ward and the broader Lakeview community. Increasing public safety and economic growth will work in tandem to help us to create a thriving community, and keep the 44th Ward a desirable place to live and do business.

I am also an enormous supporter of safe and sustainable options for all walkers, bikers, runners, and drivers alike. I am seeking to elevate the voices of the community by making the office more transparent and accessible to those in the ward. Finally, I support the development of market-rate housing, supporting our affordable housing model, and building additional transit-oriented development.

What specific steps would you take to ensure your office is accessible and responsive to your constituents?

For starters, I value community input which is why I will have a community email and phone number that ward residents can use to bring issues to my attention. We need to create and foster a transparent working relationship with all Chicagoans, and I am fully committed to doing whatever it takes to work with everyone at the table.

Do you believe in the tradition of aldermanic prerogative, which gives each City Council member the final say on issues in their ward?

I believe the local alderman remains the best steward of their community.

Should the $1.9 billion budget for the Chicago Police Department increase, stay the same or decrease?

It should stay about the same. I am committed to work to find efficiencies and opportunities that align with the city’s priorities to either decrease or increase the budget.

Should the city raise the Real Estate Transfer Tax on properties sold for more than $1 million to fund programs to help unhoused Chicagoans? 

No.

Should the city open and operate mental health clinics to provide free care to Chicagoans?

The city needs to open a comprehensive network of clinics that includes both public and private options in order to best suit Chicagoans.

How should Chicago build the 120,000 homes it needs for low- and moderate-income Chicagoans?

I believe tiny homes and the use of currently vacant lots would help us build the homes we need. We could also reinvest in our existing buildings, to expand them or make them better options for low and moderate income Chicagoans. I support an 80/20 affordable housing model, but I am always open to new ideas. What we need the most, in my opinion, is to cut the red tape in place for planning and building in order to encourage more housing.

What do you see as potential solutions to address the number of shootings in Chicago?

We need to be investing in anti-violence programs and initiatives to get weapons off the streets. I fully support the recent assault weapons ban, and would further consider support for a gun buyback plan.