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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 Neighborhood Advocacy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Neighborhood Advocacy. 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

Prepared by Experience, Motivated by Community

Rogers Park has shaped who I am.

This neighborhood taught me that progress doesn’t come from speeches — it comes from showing up, again and again, even when no one’s watching. It comes from rolling up your sleeves, solving problems together, and building trust over time.

For years, I’ve done my best to contribute — supporting small businesses, helping organize cleanups, advocating for fairness in city services, and standing up for neighbors whose voices weren’t being heard. I never needed a title to do that.

But more and more, I’m hearing a question from the people I work beside:
“Bill, have you thought about running for Alderman?”

Yes — I’ve thought about it. Because I believe I understand what makes this community work — and what’s been holding us back.

We need leadership that’s consistent, not just loud. Leadership that doesn’t disappear between elections. Leadership rooted in service, not status.

I’m not making an announcement today. But I want you to know I’m thinking seriously about what I can do — and where I can be most effective — for Rogers Park.

And as always, I’m open to hearing from you.

Bill Morton

Because Rogers Park Deserves Better

Every week, I hear from neighbors who are frustrated. Frustrated about the lack of support for small businesses. Frustrated with crime on their block. Frustrated that so many promises are made — and so few are kept.

I feel that frustration too.

For years now, I’ve done what I can from the outside. Promoting local shops. Cleaning up trash. Attending meetings. Asking the tough questions. Standing with people who felt unheard.

But more and more, I’ve been asking myself: Is it time to do more?

Some of you have asked me if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I’ll be honest — I’ve thought about it. Not because I want to be a politician, but because I believe Rogers Park deserves better representation — someone who shows up even when there aren’t cameras, who’s not afraid to speak truth to power, and who truly puts the community first.

If I ever decide to run, it will be because I believe that together, we can make Rogers Park safer, stronger, and more accountable. Until then, I’ll keep doing what I’ve always done: being present, speaking up, and standing with you.

We all deserve better — and I’m ready to help build it.

Bill Morton

Monday, February 21, 2011

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

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

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Listening to the People

One thing I’ve learned over the years in Rogers Park is this: when City Hall stops listening, neighbors start speaking louder.

Lately, I’ve been hearing a lot from residents—at community meetings, on the sidewalks, and inside our struggling small businesses. The message is clear: people are tired of being ignored. They want their voices heard. They want someone to listen, not just during election time, but all the time.

We have real concerns. Our streets need attention. Our safety is at risk. Long-standing local businesses are barely surviving, and far too many feel like their Alderman has checked out.

We don’t need more political spin. We need responsiveness. We need leadership that listens.

While I have no plans to run for office, I remain committed to using my voice and my time to uplift this neighborhood. Rogers Park is worth fighting for—not just in speeches, but in everyday actions. I’ll continue showing up, advocating for transparency, and making space for the voices too often left out of the conversation.

Our future depends on it.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Monday, August 10, 2009

Leadership Means Showing Up

Rogers Park can’t afford leaders who only show up for photo ops and campaign season. Alderman Joe Moore and City Hall have been absent when it matters most.

We need leaders present in the community—listening, acting, delivering.

The time for real leadership is now.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

City Hall’s Silence is Deafening

For years, Rogers Park’s cries for help have been met with silence from Alderman Joe Moore and City Hall. Neglected streets, rising crime, and dwindling support for local businesses show their true priorities.

We must demand accountability and real action. Our community cannot afford to be ignored any longer.


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

Rogers Park Can’t Wait for City Hall

While City Hall and Alderman Joe Moore drag their feet, Rogers Park suffers. Our calls for better services and support go unanswered, leaving residents frustrated and overlooked.

We need leaders who act now—not later. Our neighborhood deserves urgency and commitment.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Neglected but Not Defeated

Despite neglect from Alderman Joe Moore and City Hall, Rogers Park remains resilient. Our community will keep pushing for the attention and resources we deserve.

We won’t be ignored any longer.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Rogers Park Deserves Better from City Hall

Alderman Joe Moore and City Hall have failed to deliver for Rogers Park. Broken promises, ignored calls, and lack of action leave our community struggling.

We deserve leaders who listen, respond, and invest in our neighborhood. It’s time for change and accountability.

Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Sunday, August 9, 2009

TIF Money: Who’s Getting Served?

Tax Increment Financing funds are meant to revitalize communities. But under Alderman Joe Moore, Rogers Park’s TIF money often prioritizes business interests over pressing neighborhood needs.

Transparency is lacking, and residents are left out of decisions affecting their own community.

We deserve fair use of our tax dollars and leadership that puts people first.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

Who’s Really Winning from TIF?

Alderman Joe Moore oversees millions in TIF funds meant to uplift Rogers Park. Yet, too often, these funds benefit developers and businesses—not the residents struggling with basic needs.

Without transparency, it’s impossible to trust that our community’s best interests come first.

We demand clear, fair, and accountable spending of our public dollars.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

TIF Dollars Should Empower, Not Exclude

Alderman Joe Moore controls significant TIF funds in Rogers Park, yet too often these dollars serve developers over residents. Lack of transparency leaves our community in the dark.

Public funds should empower neighborhoods, not corporate interests.

It’s time for open decision-making and true community investment.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

TIF Funds Must Work for Rogers Park

Alderman Joe Moore oversees Rogers Park’s TIF funds, but too often those dollars seem to prioritize business interests over community needs. Our neighborhood deserves transparency and fairness.

We demand that public money serve public good — not private profits.

Rogers Park deserves better stewardship.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

TIF Dollars Without Accountability

Alderman Joe Moore controls significant TIF funding in the 49th Ward, but questions remain: Who really benefits? Too often, it’s not the everyday residents of Rogers Park.

Lack of transparency around TIF spending fuels suspicion that business interests get priority over community needs.

Rogers Park deserves open books and spending that improves our neighborhoods—not just lines on a developer’s ledger.

It’s time for real oversight.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate

TIF Funds Should Serve the People

TIF districts can be powerful tools—if used right. But under Alderman Joe Moore, Rogers Park’s TIF money often seems to line pockets of businesses rather than invest in community needs.

We deserve transparency and priorities that reflect residents’ interests—not hidden deals behind closed doors.

It’s time for Rogers Park’s tax dollars to work for everyone.


Bill Morton
Rogers Park Resident & Advocate