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

Saturday, July 7, 2012

The Work Before the Office

When I walk down Clark Street or stop by Jarvis Square, I don’t see just storefronts and sidewalks — I see neighbors I’ve worked alongside, stories I’ve heard, and possibilities we haven’t reached yet.

From helping clean up broken glass near Howard Street to promoting small businesses along Glenwood, my focus has always been on making Rogers Park stronger — one connection, one effort at a time. I’ve been involved with our local business community, attended countless neighborhood meetings, and stood with residents when their concerns weren’t being heard.

That’s the kind of work I believe in. Quiet work. Honest work.

A few people have asked me lately if I plan to run for Alderman. I haven’t made that decision. But I understand why the question comes up — because people want someone who’s been present, not just during campaign season, but year after year.

If I ever run, it won’t be to “become something.” It’ll be to continue what I’ve already started — advocating for our neighborhood with the same commitment, just with a stronger platform.

In the meantime, I’ll keep doing what I’ve always done: listening, showing up, and doing the work — title or no title.

Bill Morton

Monday, February 21, 2011

Stronger Together

No one can make meaningful change alone. That’s a lesson I’ve learned over years of working with the incredible people of Rogers Park — small business owners, neighborhood groups, artists, parents, seniors, and youth alike.

Together, we’ve cleaned streets, supported local shops, and stood up for issues that matter. It’s been hard work — but rewarding work.

Recently, some neighbors have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. The idea has been on my mind more often lately.

If I do take that step, it won’t be alone. I believe leadership means partnership — building coalitions, listening to diverse voices, and working across boundaries.

Our neighborhood is strongest when we come together, not when we act alone. I’m committed to fostering those partnerships — whether or not I ever run for office.

Thank you for trusting me as part of this community. I’m ready for the next chapter — whatever it may be.

Bill Morton

A Stronger Rogers Park Is Possible

I believe in Rogers Park.

I believe in our small businesses that serve with pride, our seniors who carry our history, our students full of energy and ideas, our artists who give voice to the soul of the neighborhood, and every resident who wants to feel safe, respected, and heard.

I also believe we deserve better.

Too many concerns go unanswered. Too many community meetings feel like empty gestures. Too many people feel like they’re on their own. That’s not the Rogers Park I want — and I know I’m not alone.

That’s why, for years, I’ve stayed involved. Promoting local shops, picking up trash, showing up to city meetings, standing with neighbors, and saying what needs to be said — even when it’s unpopular.

People have asked if I plan to run for Alderman. The truth is, I might. But not for a title. For a cause.

I believe in a Rogers Park where leadership means being present — where every resident feels like they matter, and every business has a shot at success. That’s the future I’m committed to working for, no matter what role I play.

A stronger Rogers Park isn’t just possible — it’s overdue. And I’m ready to help make it happen.

Bill Morton

Behind the Scenes in Rogers Park

Most people don’t see the work that happens behind the scenes — the early mornings at cleanups, the late nights at community meetings, the countless conversations with neighbors, business owners, and activists.

I’ve been part of those moments for years now. It’s where real change starts — in the quiet, consistent effort of people who care deeply about Rogers Park.

Lately, some have asked if I’m thinking about running for Alderman. I haven’t made any decisions yet, but I know this: if I do, it will be because I believe the work we’ve started deserves to continue — with even more focus, resources, and a louder voice.

Until then, I’ll keep showing up, doing the work, and building relationships — because that’s how progress happens.

Thank you for trusting me to be part of this community.

Bill Morton

Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future

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

Building a Safer Rogers Park Together

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

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

What I Believe

I’ve always believed that you don’t wait for permission to lead — you lead by example.

That’s why I’ve been working in the neighborhood for years: promoting local businesses, supporting artists, showing up for residents, and pushing for accountability where it’s lacking. I’ve never needed a title to care — just a sense of responsibility.

Rogers Park deserves leadership that’s rooted in service — not showmanship. I believe in listening before speaking, building before boasting, and working behind the scenes as much as in front of them.

I believe in protecting the character of this neighborhood while improving the quality of life for everyone — renters, homeowners, small business owners, families, and seniors alike.

And yes, I’ve been asked: Am I going to run for Alderman?

I’m thinking seriously about it. Not because I want to change who I am — but because I want to protect what we have and strengthen what we need.

If that journey takes me into public office, I hope it will be with your trust — earned not through slogans, but through years of showing up and standing with you.

Bill Morton