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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 Community Leadership. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Community Leadership. Show all posts

Monday, February 28, 2011

Not About Politics — About People

I didn’t set out to be a candidate. I set out to help my neighborhood.

Rogers Park has always had its challenges — but it’s also full of strength, resilience, and heart. Over the years, I’ve been out in the community: walking the streets, helping local businesses, attending meetings, listening to stories. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s real.

Lately, more people have asked me, “Bill, are you thinking about running for Alderman?”

To be honest, I’ve thought about it — but not in the way most people think. I’m not interested in politics for the sake of politics. I’m interested in people. I believe this community deserves leadership that’s accessible, accountable, and already doing the work long before an election.

If I ever do decide to run, it won’t be to build a name — it will be to build a stronger Rogers Park.

For now, my focus hasn’t changed. I’ll keep showing up, helping where I can, and staying connected to the people who make this neighborhood what it is. Titles come and go. Trust takes time — and I’ve committed to earning it.

Bill Morton

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

A Conversation Worth Having

One of the best things about Rogers Park is how often strangers turn into neighbors, and neighbors turn into friends. This is a place full of strong opinions, creative energy, and people who genuinely care about where we’re headed.

I’ve spent the last several years working in the background — helping promote our local businesses, attending public meetings, cleaning up our parks and streets, and speaking out on issues that affect us all. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it because I couldn’t stand on the sidelines.

Lately, I’ve been hearing a question more often:
“Bill, have you ever thought about running for Alderman?”

The truth is — yes, I’ve thought about it. Not because I’m chasing a position, but because I believe our neighborhood deserves consistent, community-driven leadership. Someone who’s already been doing the work — with or without a title.

I haven’t made any decisions yet. But I’m listening. And if the people of Rogers Park believe I could make a difference in that role, I want to have that conversation — openly and honestly.

No matter what happens next, I’ll keep working with and for this community. Because Rogers Park matters. Because you matter.

Bill Morton

Listening First, Leading Together

Over the years, I’ve learned that real leadership starts with listening.

I’ve spent countless hours meeting with neighbors, attending block club gatherings, and talking with business owners — learning what works, what doesn’t, and what people want to see change in Rogers Park.

Some have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. The answer is yes, but only if it means continuing the work of bringing our community’s voice to City Hall.

Leadership isn’t about titles or power. It’s about partnership — working alongside the people who make this neighborhood diverse and unique.

If I decide to run, it will be because I’ve listened carefully and heard the call to serve in a new way. And it will be with a commitment to lead with transparency, accountability, and respect for all voices.

For now, my focus remains the same: showing up, working hard, and keeping the conversation going.

Bill Morton

Monday, February 21, 2011

One Conversation I’ll Never Forget

A few winters ago, I helped a local shop owner shovel snow off his storefront. He was older, ran the place mostly by himself, and told me business had slowed — not because people didn’t care, but because no one in City Hall seemed to care about him.

We talked for a while. He didn’t ask for handouts. He just wanted to be seen. Heard. Respected. That conversation has stayed with me ever since.

It reminded me why I do what I do — whether it’s promoting small businesses, cleaning up neglected corners of the neighborhood, or showing up to city meetings others ignore. Because people deserve more than speeches. They deserve action.

Lately, more and more neighbors have asked if I’m going to run for Alderman. I’m thinking about it — not because I’m looking for power, but because I want to do more for people like that shop owner, and for every resident who’s ever felt forgotten.

If I step forward, it won’t be for myself. It’ll be for the people I’ve already been standing beside — people who give everything to this neighborhood and ask so little in return.

That’s the kind of Rogers Park I believe in — one where we take care of each other. And if I can do more to make that happen, I’m ready.

Bill Morton

A Vision for Rogers Park

Good evening, neighbors and friends.

I stand here not as a politician, but as someone who loves Rogers Park and believes in its potential. For years, I’ve worked alongside so many of you — supporting our local businesses, cleaning our streets, and advocating for our community’s needs.

Recently, many have asked if I’m considering running for Alderman. It’s a question I take seriously, because leadership is about responsibility — about stepping up when your community calls.

I believe in leadership that listens first and acts second. Leadership that builds bridges, not walls. Leadership that works every day — not just during election season.

If I decide to run, it will be because I want to serve with integrity, transparency, and dedication. And I will do so only if I have your trust and support.

Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Rogers Park. I’m ready to continue this journey — with you.

Thank you.

Bill Morton

Housing for Everyone in Rogers Park

One of the biggest challenges facing Rogers Park is housing — affordable, safe, and stable homes for all residents.

I’ve spoken with many neighbors who worry about rising rents, displacement, and the lack of support for seniors and families struggling to stay in the neighborhood they love.

For years, I’ve been involved in efforts to listen, advocate, and connect people with resources — but I know more needs to be done.

Some have asked if I’m considering running for Alderman. I’ve thought about it, because I believe strong leadership on housing issues is critical to preserving the diversity and character of Rogers Park.

If I step forward, I want to work toward solutions that protect renters and homeowners alike, promote affordable housing, and ensure everyone has a place to call home.

Our neighborhood’s future depends on it — and I’m ready to be part of that work.

Bill Morton

A Message to Our Youth and Families

To the young people and families of Rogers Park,

You are the future of this neighborhood — full of energy, ideas, and hope. I’ve spent time talking with many of you, hearing your dreams and your challenges.

Whether it’s better schools, safer streets, more opportunities for jobs and recreation, or just a community where everyone belongs — I want you to know that your voices matter.

I’m thinking about how I can do more to serve Rogers Park, and that includes standing up for the needs of families and young people who will carry this neighborhood forward.

If I choose to run for Alderman someday, it will be to build a Rogers Park where every child can thrive and every family feels supported.

Let’s work together to create that future.

Bill Morton

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

Celebrating the Heartbeat of Rogers Park: Arts and Culture

Rogers Park’s spirit comes alive in its art, music, and culture.

From galleries to street murals, theaters to music venues, our neighborhood is home to a vibrant creative community that brings us together and tells our stories.

I’ve been proud to support local artists and cultural events, knowing that a thriving arts scene is essential to our identity and economy.

Lately, I’ve been asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I’ve thought about it because I want to ensure that the voices of artists, performers, and cultural organizations are heard loud and clear in City Hall.

If I run, I’ll work to secure resources, protect creative spaces, and celebrate the diversity that makes Rogers Park unique.

Art is the heartbeat of our community — and I’m ready to help it beat even stronger.

Bill Morton

Thinking About What’s Next

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

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

Investing in Our Children’s Future

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

A Government That Works for You — and With You

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

To the Business Owners Who Keep Rogers Park Alive

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

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

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

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

What If I Ran?

What if someone who’s been showing up for Rogers Park every day — no spotlight, no funding, no agenda — decided to run for Alderman?

What if the campaign wasn’t built on promises, but on years of real work: helping small businesses, organizing neighborhood cleanups, advocating for seniors, attending every community meeting possible?

What if leadership came from someone who already knows the streets by name, who knows where we’ve been overlooked, and who believes we can do better — together?

I’ve been thinking about that question more and more lately.

I’ve never needed a title to get involved. And truthfully, I still don’t. But maybe it’s time we imagine what Rogers Park could look like with someone in office who already lives the job — someone who’s not learning the community, but already serving it.

If I ever take that next step, it won’t be a leap. It’ll just be the next block on a path I’ve already been walking.

Let me know what you think.

Bill Morton