Dear Neighbor,

Throughout my tenure as Alderman, the Second Ward has changed dramatically.  When I was first appointed, the South Loop was a bleak, industrial corridor, and the East Garfield Park and Gap areas had many blighted, desolate neighborhoods. But over the past 14 years, we have made incredible strides throughout the entire Ward, working closely with the residents and community leaders to revitalize the area, rebuild our infrastructure, and turn the Second Ward into a thriving place to live.  

Experience is the key attribute that distinguishes me from my opponent.  It is that experience that has resulted in the many of the dramatic changes that Second Ward residents currently enjoy. 

Some of our most recent accomplishments include the opening of the New South Gate Market on Roosevelt and Canal Street, which, in combination with Target and other businesses, will increase sales in the South Loop dramatically; the relocation of the Pacific Garden Mission to a beautiful new facility on 14^th Place and Canal, which will allow the Mission to house more homeless families, and; the down zoning of two areas on the Near West Side to stop over-building, so as to guarantee that any new construction will stay consistent with the look and feel of the current community. 

Since 2000, the South Loop has also enjoyed significant new infrastructure, including a new police station, fire station, over two dozen new stop lights, two new parks and one new pedestrian underpass.   

Despite all of these accomplishments, there is still much work to be done in my next term.  We are in the process of making several improvements to make my offices more accessible and responsive to the stakeholders of the Second Ward, including increasing the number of town hall meetings, hosting weekly Ward nights in alternating parts of the Ward and revamping our website to be more interactive and user-friendly.

I will also establish five new Neighborhood Advisory Councils, comprised of all of the stakeholders in the Ward, so that all interests have a clear voice and direct input in the planning and growth of their respective areas.  Each Advisory Council will represent the various parts of the Ward, each of which has distinct issues or needs.

Finally, I pledge to work harder than ever during the next four years to improve the quality of life for every resident of the Second Ward, and continue the renaissance that has made our Ward so special. 

Remember to cast your vote for me on Tuesday, April 17.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

Madeline Haithcock

Proven Commitment, New Vision