Chicago City Wire

Marilyn Morales has joined the race for Chicago’s 45th Ward alderman seat, currently held by John Arena who is seeking re-election.

Morales, who has lived in the Portage Park and Jefferson Park area for more than 20 years, is a liberal Democrat with a passion for public service and more than two decades of experience working in local government. She has held roles with the Chicago Park District and the University of Illinois.

Morales is running to ensure a higher level of accountability and transparency, improve education and public safety, ensure seniors and those with special needs have access to needed services, and to engage all 45th Ward neighborhoods in dialogue about development and plans in the area.

Another candidate on the ballot is Bob Bank, a moderate Democrat. He resides in Chicago’s 37th precinct and is the former president of the Jefferson Park Neighborhood Association. 

Arena has already served two terms and was recently criticized for demanding to park in a police lot before attending a Cubs-White Sox game.

Earlier this year Arena also was criticized for alleging Chicago police officers made racially charged comments online in opposition to a building project in Jefferson Park. Lawyers for the police officers said the comments weren’t racist and the officers were exercising their constitutional right of free speech. The officers said they oppose the building for reasons such as overcrowding and traffic congestion.

The 45th Ward includes Portage Park, Old Irving Park, Independence Park, Jefferson Park, Gladstone Park and Big Oaks.