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

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