Yet Another Alderman Calls It Quits

By Kevin Robinson in News on Jan 18, 2011 2:00PM

47th Ward Alderman Gene Schulter announced Monday that he would not be seeking re-election in his ward this year, after holding the seat for nearly 40 years. Rumors have swirled that Schulter was angling to replace Joe Berrios on the Cook County Board of Review, "a cause that will allow me the opportunity to continue to advocate on behalf of community residents" Schulter said in a statement.

Ultimately Circuit Court Chief Judge Tim Evans will make the decision on who to appoint to the post. Berrios, however, is also the Cook County Democratic Chairman, will likely have a say in the decision. Schulter's support for former County Commissioner Forrest Claypool in his race against Berrios for the seat of County Tax Assessor could factor into who Berrios decides to support.

Schulter's right-hand man, Tom O’Donnell, a former president of the 47th Ward Democratic Party, will appear on the ballot, having circulated petitions. O'Donnell will face challengers Ameya Pawar and Matt Reichel in the Feb. 22 municipal election.