2023 Chicago Election Voter Guide

Candidate Q&A

Why are you running?

I plan to bring community involvement and responsiveness back to the 6th ward. This has been lacking during the term of the last alderman. In addition, collaboration with other elected officials on solving issues that touch areas that we share should be foremost in comprehensive planning for resolutions. The 6th ward has needs that have to be addressed in our education system, the supervised recreation of our youth and economic opportunities for our adults. From transportation to developing businesses within the ward, that is my only commitment to seeking the position of alderwoman.

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

I have to admit that my perception of this office comes from the constituents who have reached out to Senator Sims' office for assistance. My geographic area has just been redistricted from the 9th ward to the 6th ward. However, the 6th ward is in dire need of a comprehensive approach to deterring crime. The aldermanic office needs to be responsive to its' constituents and provide more opportunities to residents i.e. educational options for our youth, employment, leisure time activities, business development, walkability throughout our business sections, housing rehabilitation and utilization; daily goods and service delivery.

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

Crime is the most pressing issue that constituents talk about and see on television on a consistent basis. There are a number of components that need to come together to counteract this nemesis to our neighborhoods. (Note: These ideas have to be implemented in a concurrent manner) Redeployment of police personnel to high crime areas, not as window dressing; utilize already existing curriculums in the high school and community college level to allow students in law enforcement to pursue this course in EVERY school. Emphasis training and experience in technology approaches to crime fighting such as robotics, drones and cybersecurity. These programs should also be emphasized in our high schools and community colleges.

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

My office will have a human answering component after regular business and weekends. As a candidate, my personal number has been on all of my campaign info. Accessibility to problems is very important to me. For the less immediate issues, I plan to have regular ward meetings and attend community meeting quarterly (on a minimum; more often if needed); My office will also place suggestion boxes throughout the ward and collect responses once per week.

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

Yes, not to be misused for power, but in order to get things done. Since this has been removed, alderpersons have used it as a scapegoat for things not getting done in the ward. There needs to be strict rules and enforceable guidelines.

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

Should remain the same with some revision in response priorities.

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

Yes.

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

ABSOLUTELY. In addition to health clinics, there should be a robust mobile crisis response system and outreach life coaching to assist individuals in day to day maintenance.

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

First we need to look at the already existing housing stock that is dilapidated & abandoned. No need to reinvent the wheel. These properties can serve as another training opportunity for our youth, in the trades. Through classroom, along with AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT with the assistance of journeymen, students can learn as they earn.... a skill that will allow them to be self sufficient and productive for the rest of their lives.

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

Guns related offenses should be treated with the highest level of response, incarceration and real rehabilitation. Assault weapons should be banned.

Should the CTA reopen the Green Line train station at Racine?

Yes.

What should replace the shuttered Whole Foods grocery store?

Another healthy food option entity. FYI, there needs to be a commitment from whoever occupies this space to work hand in hand with the community to search for viable solutions before running away from an area.