Ward 49 of the City of Chicago includes most of Rogers Park and parts of West Ridge.
Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward
How many times do we have to ask for the basics?
Clean streets. Safe parks. Honest answers. A voice at City Hall that actually listens.
I’ve talked with neighbors who are tired — tired of being ignored, tired of empty promises, tired of watching our community get pushed aside while others get priority.
They’re right to be angry. I’m angry too.
For years, I’ve done what I could — organizing, advocating, showing up, even when it was inconvenient. Not because it was easy. Because it was necessary.
And now? People are asking if I’ll take the next step. If I’ll run for Alderman. If I’ll be the one to stop just talking and start leading.
I’m thinking about it. Seriously. Because this isn’t about titles. It’s about action. And I’m tired of watching Rogers Park get less than it deserves.
We deserve leadership that works for us. That fights for us. That shows up — especially when it’s uncomfortable.
Enough is enough. If you feel it too, let’s talk.
— Bill Morton
For years, I’ve been honored to serve Rogers Park in many ways — supporting local businesses, organizing cleanups, advocating for community needs, and standing with neighbors at city meetings.
Lately, I’ve been asked more and more if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. The question is serious — and it’s one I’ve been giving a lot of thought.
I believe our neighborhood deserves leadership that’s consistent, honest, and deeply connected to the people it serves. I believe that leadership starts long before campaign signs go up — it starts with real work, real relationships, and real commitment.
While I’m not announcing a campaign today, I want to say that I’m open to what the future holds. I’m ready to listen, to learn, and to continue standing with Rogers Park in whatever way I can make the biggest difference.
If the time comes to seek public office, I’ll do it with the same values I’ve always held — transparency, accountability, and a true dedication to this community.
Thank you for your trust and for being part of this journey.
— Bill Morton
Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward
Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward
Over the years, we’ve seen promises made during election season — and too often, forgotten soon after.
We’ve seen policies pushed through without true community input. Developments that didn’t reflect our values. Meetings that felt more like formalities than dialogue.
But we’ve also seen something else: neighbors who care deeply, speak out, organize, and stay involved — even when it’s frustrating.
I’ve stood with you through those moments, not as an elected official, but as someone who believes Rogers Park deserves better.
So when people ask me if I’m thinking about running for Alderman, my answer is: yes, I’m thinking about it. Because I believe we’ve learned from what hasn’t worked — and we’re ready for something that will.
If I run, it will be to lead with transparency, listen when others wouldn’t, and build on the values this neighborhood already holds: fairness, accountability, and real inclusion.
We can’t change the past. But we can shape what comes next — together.
— Bill Morton
Our neighborhood’s beauty is more than its buildings and streets — it’s in our parks, gardens, and tree-lined blocks.
I’ve spent time working with neighbors to clean up parks, plant trees, and promote sustainable practices that keep Rogers Park healthy for future generations.
Environmental issues aren’t just about nature — they’re about the quality of life we all share.
Recently, people have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I’ve considered it because I want to bring a stronger voice for sustainability and green initiatives to City Hall.
If I run, I’ll focus on expanding green spaces, improving waste management, and supporting programs that reduce pollution and promote clean energy.
A greener Rogers Park is a healthier Rogers Park — and I’m ready to help us grow in that direction.
— Bill Morton
Education is the foundation of a strong community.
In Rogers Park, I’ve met many parents, teachers, and students who are passionate about learning — but also concerned about resources, safety, and opportunities.
For years, I’ve supported local schools through volunteering, advocacy, and community programs, because every child deserves the chance to succeed.
I’ve been asked if I’m considering running for Alderman. I am thinking about it, because I believe we need leadership that prioritizes education and invests in the future of our children.
If I run, I want to work closely with schools, community organizations, and families to create opportunities — from after-school programs to job training and mentorship.
Our children deserve a community that supports their dreams. I’m ready to help build that.
— Bill Morton
Safety is something every neighbor in Rogers Park deserves — walking down the street, sending our kids to school, and living without fear.
I’ve heard the concerns — from parents worried about their children, seniors feeling unsafe in their own homes, and business owners hoping for a secure environment to thrive.
For years, I’ve worked alongside community groups, local police, and residents to find real solutions — neighborhood watches, youth programs, and improved communication.
Some have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I am considering it, because I believe leadership means taking on tough issues like public safety head-on, with honesty and accountability.
If I run, I want to build stronger partnerships between residents and law enforcement, invest in prevention programs, and make sure every voice is heard.
Together, we can make Rogers Park not only vibrant but safe for everyone.
— Bill Morton
When I think about the future of Rogers Park, I think about the next generation — the kids walking to school, the students working late shifts while studying, the young families planting roots here for the first time.
They deserve a neighborhood where opportunity is real, safety is guaranteed, and leadership reflects their hopes — not just history.
I’ve spent years working to strengthen our community from the ground up. Supporting small businesses. Advocating for fairness. Showing up. Listening.
Now I’m thinking seriously about how I can do more — and what it would mean to serve as your Alderman.
This neighborhood is already rich with talent, diversity, and resilience. What we need now is leadership that brings those strengths together, and builds a Rogers Park that works for everyone — not just today, but for decades to come.
That’s the future I want to help shape. And I hope you’ll shape it with me.
— Bill Morton
Lately, I’ve been having a lot of conversations — at coffee shops, on the sidewalks, at community meetings — and one thing keeps coming up: people want change.
Better services. Safer streets. More support for small businesses. Real representation.
Some neighbors have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. The answer is: I’m listening. I care deeply about this neighborhood and I’m seriously considering how I can serve in a bigger way.
But before anything else, I want to hear from you.
What’s working? What’s not? What do you want for the future of Rogers Park?
Leave a comment. Send a message. Let’s talk. Because if I step forward, I want it to be with you — and for you.
— Bill Morton
Government should never feel like a closed door.
But too often, that’s exactly how it feels — confusing meetings, unanswered emails, important decisions made with little notice or input.
In Rogers Park, I’ve worked to break down those barriers: sharing information, attending meetings most people never hear about, and making space for honest conversation.
People have asked me if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I am — because I believe we need leadership that puts transparency and participation first.
If I run, it will be with a commitment to open books, open doors, and open dialogue. Regular community updates. Easy access to information. Real opportunities for feedback before decisions are made.
And most importantly, I’ll work to ensure that every resident — no matter your background, income, or voting history — feels welcome in the civic life of our neighborhood.
This is your government. Let’s make it work like it.
— Bill Morton
Rogers Park speaks many languages — and that’s one of our greatest strengths.
From Spanish to Urdu, Swahili to Tagalog, our neighborhood is home to immigrant families and individuals from around the world, all contributing to the life and culture of our community.
But too often, I’ve seen language become a barrier — to city services, public meetings, emergency information, and civic participation.
I’ve always believed that true representation means making sure everyone can understand, contribute, and be heard — in the language they feel most comfortable using.
That’s why I’ve worked to build relationships across cultures and advocate for greater access and outreach.
If I decide to run for Alderman, it will be with a promise to push for multilingual communication in every city agency, school, and service — and to ensure that immigrants and refugees are not just included, but empowered.
Rogers Park is one of the most diverse communities in the city. It’s time our systems reflected that reality — fully and proudly.
— Bill Morton
Getting around Rogers Park should be safe, reliable, and accessible — whether you’re on the train, riding a bike, taking the bus, or walking to the corner store.
I’ve spoken with many neighbors who are frustrated with aging infrastructure, unreliable transit service, and sidewalks or stations that don’t work for seniors or people with disabilities.
For years, I’ve advocated for improved transit access and smarter infrastructure investments in our community. I believe Rogers Park deserves better — not later, but now.
Lately, I’ve been asked whether I’m considering a run for Alderman. I’m thinking about it, because I want to bring these everyday issues — the ones that affect how we live, move, and work — to the center of the conversation.
If I run, it will be with a commitment to making our streets safer, our public transit more reliable, and our infrastructure more equitable for everyone.
This is about moving Rogers Park forward — together.
— Bill Morton
You open early. You stay late. You pour your time, your money, and your heart into serving this neighborhood — and I see you.
I’ve watched small business owners in Rogers Park fight to survive in a system that doesn’t always listen, one that too often favors the big and well-connected. You deserve better.
Over the years, I’ve tried to do my part — promoting local shops, organizing events, and connecting neighbors to the businesses that make our community unique. I’ve sat across from many of you, listening to your stories and frustrations.
That’s why, when people ask me if I’m thinking about running for Alderman, I don’t dismiss it. I think about you.
I think about how much more we could do with real support from City Hall. With someone who’s already here, who already knows your names — and who’s already stood with you when times were tough.
If I ever take that step, it won’t be to become someone new. It’ll be to better serve the people I’ve already been standing beside — the ones building something real, one customer at a time.
Thank you for everything you do for Rogers Park. I’m here for you — now, and always.
— Bill Morton
Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward
Bill Morton, registered voter in the 49th Ward
Trust is the foundation of effective leadership — and too often, that trust has been broken in city government.
I’ve seen decisions made behind closed doors, conflicts of interest ignored, and communities left out of conversations that shape their future.
Rogers Park deserves better. We deserve leaders who are honest, accountable, and transparent every step of the way.
I’ve spent years advocating for openness — attending meetings, sharing information, and demanding answers.
Recently, neighbors have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I am seriously considering it, because I want to bring integrity back to City Hall.
If I run, I’ll fight for clear communication, strict ethical standards, and a government that works for you — not special interests.
Together, we can rebuild trust and create a neighborhood where transparency isn’t an exception, but the rule.
— Bill Morton
Over the past few years, I’ve done my best to be a positive presence here in Rogers Park — not because I was asked to, but because I love this community and believe it deserves better.
I’ve worked to support local businesses, bring people together, and call attention to the issues that matter most to our neighbors. I’ve spent more time at community meetings than I can count, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
Lately, some people have asked me if I’d ever consider running for Alderman. That’s a big question.
I think real leadership starts before the campaign signs go up. It starts with showing up when nobody’s watching. It’s in doing the unglamorous work — cleaning up a street corner, helping someone find the right resources, or sticking around when an issue gets tough.
I’m thinking seriously about how I can best serve. Whether that’s through a campaign someday or simply continuing to advocate without a title — I’m open to the possibilities. But one thing is clear: I’m here for Rogers Park. Always.
If you’ve ever felt like your voice wasn’t being heard, I hear you. And I’ll keep working to make sure others do too.
— Bill Morton
Bishop James Alan Wilkowski has contributed to our community through his work as a pastoral leader and treasurer of the Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce. - Bill Morton
I’ve been spending a lot of time lately listening — really listening — to people in our neighborhood. Small business owners trying to stay afloat. Seniors who feel forgotten. Young people looking for opportunity. Residents tired of seeing empty promises.
Rogers Park is full of potential, but we can’t keep waiting for someone else to fix things.
I’ve always believed that if something needs doing, we roll up our sleeves and do it. That’s why I’ve stayed involved — whether it’s cleaning up the streets, helping a business get noticed, showing up at community meetings, or just being a steady voice when things go quiet.
Some folks have asked me, “Why don’t you run for Alderman?”
The truth is, I’ve thought about it. Not because I want to be a politician — but because I believe leadership should come from the ground up, not the top down.
I’m not announcing anything today. But if I ever do decide to run, it won’t be about power or ego. It’ll be about bringing our community’s concerns to the front of the conversation — and never backing down from what’s right for Rogers Park.
For now, I’ll keep doing what I’ve always done: showing up, standing up, and speaking out. If you're doing the same — thank you. We need each other.
— Bill Morton
Rogers Park isn’t just where I live — it’s where I’ve grown, struggled, worked, and found purpose. It’s where I’ve met neighbors who became friends, and friends who became family.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside residents, business owners, artists, and activists — people who care deeply and fight hard for this neighborhood. I’ve done my best to contribute: supporting local shops, helping organize events, attending city meetings, and standing up for what’s right, even when it’s not easy.
Recently, some folks have asked, “Would you ever consider running for Alderman?”
The truth is — maybe. It’s something I’ve thought about. But for me, it’s not about launching a political career. It’s about staying true to the work I’ve already been doing, and asking whether I could make an even bigger difference from inside City Hall.
Whatever I decide in the future, one thing is certain: I’m not going anywhere. I’ll continue to speak up, show up, and push for the kind of change that reflects the best of who we are.
If we want better for Rogers Park, it has to start with us. And I’m ready to keep working.
— Bill Morton
I am supportive of many options to sustain affordable housing in the 49th Ward. However, absent a comprehensive study on the feasibility of the Rental Improvement Fund-TIF proposal it would not be in the best interest of our community. If elected, I would support and fund the RIF study to determine its feasibility then place such a proposal to the voters of our community as a ballot referendum. Affordable housing is critical for our community and we must get it right!!
Given the lack of leadership by the current State majority party and the incumbent Alderman, we have poisoned the environment by increased taxes. We must review the RIF and other alternatives to sustain affordable housing and not rely on one proposal.
Blane Roberts
Write-In Candiate
49th Ward
Bishop James Alan Wilkowski has contributed to our community through his work as a pastoral leader and treasurer of the Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce. - Bill Morton
