About the Candidate
Name: Rebecca Janowitz
Date of Birth: Oct. 29, 1953
Occupation: Attorney
Political Experience: Many years of volunteer work on other people campaigns and one prior run for office.
Political Party: Democrat
Website: RebeccaJanowitz.com
Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I want to use my experience in government on behalf of my community.
What does this office do well, and what needs fixing?
The office currently keeps a focus on the community served but fails at communication and bridge building.
What is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?
Crime is the most pressing issue. I will directly address crime by working to reduce the number of criminals operating in the ward. I have written a detailed anti-crime plan.
What specific steps would you take to ensure your office is accessible and responsive to your constituents?
I will seek excellent staff and retain them. Meanwhile, I will set a good example of responsive communication for them.
Do you believe in the tradition of aldermanic prerogative, which gives each City Council member the final say on issues in their ward?
Yes, because this strengthens the voice of community residents.
Should the $1.9 billion budget for the Chicago Police Department increase, stay the same or decrease?
It should stay the same until a reduction in crime and violence permits a budget reduction.
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, affordable housing requires a real review of zoning requirements and safer public transportation.
Should the city open and operate mental health clinics to provide free care to Chicagoans?
No, this would duplicate the services provided through County Care.
How should Chicago build the 120,000 homes it needs for low- and moderate-income Chicagoans?
The bulk of these homes should be built by the private sector. Construction should be supported by the alderman’s office as I helped to do in the 4th ward, following the reduction in public housing.
What do you see as potential solutions to address the number of shootings in Chicago?
The clearance rate for shootings has to at least reach the national average. The city has to create the environment in which private sector programming can achieve its best results.
Should the city do more to encourage residents to live close to where they work and shop by building dense multi-unit apartment complexes near transportation hubs?
We should build more housing and sometimes convert unused retail space to housing. Dense housing can bring additional challenges if not balanced by other uses including open space.
Should the city prioritize the construction of bicycle lanes and encourage people to use bicycles to commute to work?
Yes. Bike riding has many benefits and we should encourage the people who choose it.
Should city employees continue to be required to live in Chicago?
Only if we provide viable housing options.
