Daley Appoints New Alderman For 26th Ward

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Jul 27, 2009 8:20PM

For a while, former 26th Ward alderman Billy Ocasio wanted Mayor Daley to appoint Rev. Wilfredo De Jesus. Then, he supported his wife for the position. Now? Mayor Daley has appointed neither and instead gone with Cook County Commissioner Roberto Maldonado. After the jump, Maldonado's acceptance speech, via press release. [Trib]

Greetings! Mr. Mayor, I want to thank you and express my deep gratitude for the appointment and opportunity to serve as Alderman of the 26th Ward.

When I first came to Chicago in April of 1978, I didn't know a word of English, I didn't know where the corner grocery store was, I didn't know where to buy a pack of cigarettes. But I knew I belonged here.

Thirty years later, I have not only acquired a "Chicago" accent, combined with my Puerto Rican accent, and have quit smoking, but I humbly and proudly stand here accepting the appointment by Mayor Daley to be the Alderman of the 26th Ward. And I know I belong here, ready to serve the people of this great city.

As a Cook County Commissioner I have fought hard to bring fairness and equality to all the people of Cook County, regardless of race, sexual orientation, immigration status, or income. I will bring that same passion and progressive thinking to my new role as Alderman.

The 26th Ward has a proud tradition of Latino representation starting with the pioneering leadership of Congressman Luis Gutierrez. Billy Ocasio's creativity and innovation brought forth major projects and institutional symbols that elevated the Puerto Rican community both culturally and economically.

The 26th Ward is rich in its diversity and is home to generations of Latino families, new immigrants, young professionals, and working class men and women. It needs a representative who takes a comprehensive approach to delivering city services and improving people's quality of life. It needs a representative who understands the hopes, aspirations, and humanity of all of its residents. It needs a representative who puts people first.

I am proud to be that representative and I look forward to bringing my knowledge of the community and experience as a legislator to work with you, Mr. Mayor, to enhance public safety and protect our communities from violence, improve the public health and environment, and create economic development initiatives in the 26th Ward.

I am excited and energized to work with the esteemed members of the Chicago City Council, and I would like to thank you once again Mr. Mayor for the confidence you have bestowed upon me. Finally, I want to extend my deep appreciation and love to my family, especially my beautiful wife Nancy, for supporting me as I take on this new political challenge.

Sincerely,
Roberto Maldonado