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Rogers Park News (Public Group) is the largest, and official place for news and conversation about Rogers Park and the 49th Ward, and for news that affects Rogers Park and the 49th Ward.

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Showing posts with label Chicago Neighborhoods. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chicago Neighborhoods. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Thinking Out Loud

 Tonight I walked along Morse Avenue, past the storefronts I’ve helped promote, past neighbors I’ve seen at community meetings, past the same sidewalks I’ve swept during cleanups. It made me think — about where we are, and where we could be.

I never set out to get into politics. I just wanted to make a difference.

But the more I listen to people in our neighborhood — people who feel forgotten, who’ve lost faith in City Hall — the more I wonder if maybe I should take that next step.

People have asked me, “Bill, are you going to run?” And I don’t have a final answer yet. But I know this: I care deeply about Rogers Park. I care about the seniors who don’t feel safe. I care about the business owner who’s barely making rent. I care about our parks, our youth, and our future.

If I ever run for Alderman, it won’t be for attention. It’ll be because I want to bring the everyday voices of Rogers Park into every room where decisions are made.

For now, I’ll keep walking these same streets, listening, learning, and doing the work — because that’s where real change begins.

Bill Morton

To the People Who’ve Asked Me to Run

To everyone who’s pulled me aside, called, emailed, or just said it in passing: thank you.

When you say, “You should run for Alderman,” I don’t take it lightly. In fact, I think about it often.

For years now, I’ve worked hard to serve Rogers Park — not from a podium, but from the sidewalks, the shopfronts, the back rooms of neighborhood meetings. I’ve tried to be a steady voice when things got quiet and a helping hand when someone needed support.

I didn’t plan for politics. I planned to help my neighbors.

But maybe there’s a time when the work we do behind the scenes needs to move forward — where it can have more reach and more impact. If that time is coming, I want to be ready. And I want to be sure it’s for the right reasons, with the right support.

So no announcements today. Just a thank you — and a promise.

I’ll keep listening. I’ll keep working. And I’ll never forget that everything good in public service starts with community.

Bill Morton

Monday, February 21, 2011

Just Thinking Out Loud About Rogers Park

Hey everyone,

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately about where Rogers Park is headed — and what I can do to help. Over the years, I’ve shown up for our neighborhood in lots of ways: helping local businesses get noticed, cleaning up the streets, going to meetings, and listening to what people really want.

A lot of folks have been asking me if I’m going to run for Alderman. Honestly, it’s something I’ve been thinking about more and more.

It’s not about wanting a title or a spot in politics. It’s about making sure the people of Rogers Park have a voice that’s loud and clear — someone who’s already been here, working alongside you.

No decisions yet — just wanted to share what’s on my mind. I’m open to hearing from you all, so let’s keep the conversation going.

Thanks for reading, and thanks for being part of this neighborhood.

— Bill

A Message to Our Seniors

To the seniors of Rogers Park,

You have been the backbone of this community for decades. Your wisdom, your stories, and your resilience shape the neighborhood we all love.

I’ve spent time listening to many of you — hearing about your concerns: safety, affordable housing, access to services, and feeling connected in a city that sometimes moves too fast.

Some have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I want you to know that I am seriously considering how best I can serve — not just today, but for the long term.

If I take that step, it will be with a commitment to prioritize the needs of our seniors, to ensure your voices are heard loud and clear, and to fight for the programs and respect you deserve.

Thank you for your lifetime of contributions. I’m here to stand with you — now and in the future.

Bill Morton

Growing a Greener Rogers Park

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

For the Future of Rogers Park

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

Every Voice in Every Language

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

Moving Rogers Park Forward

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

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Integrity Matters: Transparency for Rogers Park

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

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

A Possibility Worth Considering

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

Monday, August 10, 2009

Fighting Vacancy and Blight

Vacant buildings and blighted properties hurt our neighborhood’s spirit and safety. I’m working with community members to push for stronger enforcement and revitalization efforts in Rogers Park.

We must protect our homes and streets.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

It’s Time to Listen

For too long, our concerns in Rogers Park have gone unheard. Real progress starts with listening—truly listening—to residents and acting on their needs. I’m committed to amplifying those voices until change happens.

We deserve leaders who hear us.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Taking Back Our Neighborhood

Rogers Park is more than just a place on the map—it’s our home. But lately, it feels like our neighborhood is slipping away. From rising crime to empty storefronts, the signs of neglect are everywhere.

We can’t wait for change to come from City Hall. It’s up to us—neighbors, business owners, community groups—to step up and take back Rogers Park.

I’m committed to working alongside you all, listening, learning, and pushing for solutions that make a real difference. It won’t be easy, but together, we can rebuild the safe, and welcoming community we all deserve.

Let’s get to work.

Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Neighborhood Safety is Non-Negotiable

Safety is the foundation of a thriving community. Yet, too many in Rogers Park feel unsafe in their own neighborhoods. We need more resources, better policing, and community programs that protect all residents.

I’m committed to pushing for real solutions that keep our streets safe for families, seniors, and kids.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

The Power of Community Voices

Our greatest strength is our voices. When neighbors come together, we can overcome neglect and push for real change. I encourage everyone in Rogers Park to speak up, get involved, and demand the leadership we deserve.

Together, our voices will shape a better future.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Investing in Our Future

Rogers Park’s future depends on us. Without investment in our schools, parks, and infrastructure, this neighborhood won’t thrive. I’m focused on pushing for community resources and opportunities that benefit everyone.

Together, we can build a stronger Rogers Park for the next generation.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Accountability Isn’t Optional

In Rogers Park, we deserve leaders who listen, respond, and act. Unfortunately, Alderman Joe Moore’s office has shown time and again that accountability is not a priority.

When calls go unanswered and issues go unresolved, it’s clear our community’s needs are not being met. But we won’t stay silent. Together, we must demand transparency and responsibility from those elected to serve us.

I’m committed to holding leadership accountable—and standing with neighbors who expect better for Rogers Park.

The time for change is now.


Bill Morton
Resident and Advocate, Rogers Park

Demand Transparency Now

Our ward deserves open and honest leadership. Without transparency, trust breaks down and problems worsen. I’m pushing for accountability and clear communication from those in office.

Rogers Park deserves nothing less.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Supporting Local, Saving Rogers Park

If we want Rogers Park to thrive, we must support the people and places that make it unique—especially our local businesses.

Every week, I speak with business owners who are hanging on by a thread. They face high rents, low foot traffic, and zero meaningful support from Alderman Joe Moore’s office. Some have given up. Others keep fighting, hoping that someone—anyone—will care enough to help.

I care.

That’s why I continue to promote our local shops, attend community meetings, and use my platforms to give them the visibility they deserve. We need to build a stronger, more self-sustaining Rogers Park from within. When we spend our dollars locally, we invest in our neighborhood's future.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about pride. It’s about taking ownership of the place we call home.

Let’s not wait for City Hall to save us. Let’s save ourselves.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Protecting Our Parks

Our parks are vital community spaces that need care and investment. I’m advocating for better maintenance, safety improvements, and programs that make Rogers Park’s parks welcoming for all.

Let’s preserve these green spaces together.

Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate