Today Mayor Richard Daley announced after 21 years in office that he won't be running for reelection in February's citywide elections. As a 15 year resident of the City of Chicago, he's the only Mayor I've lived under, and I have to say, after contemplating his body of work, I think it deserves a thank you!.
Mayor Daley has been in office for over 20 years, and as many Chicagoans know, he has brought the city together in many ways. He has made this a more beautiful place to live, with his almost obsessive tree planting. In the time I have lived in the city, I have seen those trees grow tall, which has made this a more beautiful place to live.
He went to bat for the city whenever he could, with full force. For example, when he went for the Olympic bid, which ultimately failed, he managed to showcase the city in the eyes of the world in a positive light. It is incredible how many tourists I see and meet on an every day basis.
Perhaps most importantly, he has been visibly in the court of the city's minorities, be it Latinos, African Americans or the Gay community. He has cared about the entire city during his tenure.
Unfortunately, the parking meter sale has left a scar on his time as Mayor, as it appears that the price taken was too low, and the vetting too little. But taken on the whole, I'd say it was a successful job as Mayor for 21 years.
NOW, the big question comes......who is next....the leading contenders appear to be Rahm Emanuel, Luis Guitierrez, and a number of other less prominent figures...Personally, I'd love to see Forrest Claypool jump in, as I think he'd be a great mayor. This should be a VERY interesting next six months or so in Chicago, as we haven't had an opportunity like this in about 60 years. Also, a number of Aldermen have also announced they aren't running, which will give us the chance to really makeover how this city is run.....wish us luck!