LAKEVIEW — Councilman-elect Bennett Lawson wants to know what’s important to Lakeview neighbors before his term begins in May.
Lawson, who ran unopposed to succeed Ald. Tom Tunney as 44th Ward Mayor has launched a survey for neighbors to share their concerns, favorite things and priorities for Lakeview.
Anyone who lives, works or owns a business in the neighborhood can respond to the online survey, which ends when Lawson’s term begins on May 15.
“As part of the transition, it is important to me that I understand what is most important to the people of the 44th Ward,” Lawson said in a message shared through Tunney’s weekly newsletter. “I want to know what you care about most, what you like about Lakeview and what you think we can do better.”
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Lawson has served as Tunney’s chief of staff since 2007. Prior to that, he served as the congregation’s director of community outreach.
Lawson worked as Sen. Carol Ronen’s district director before joining Tunney’s office, according to his campaign website.
Lawson has helped with developments such as Lakeview Whole Foods and Mariano’s stores, according to his campaign website. He also works closely with the police district on crime prevention strategies.
The Lawsons used their role to support Chicago’s LGBTQ community, helping with projects such as the Center on Halsted’s construction, the conversion of the old Town Hall Police Station into an LGBTQ senior residence, and the construction of Howard Brown Health’s health clinic in the nearby 46th Ward.
“As a career public servant, I bring experience, knowledge and relationships that will allow me to get things done here in Lakeview,” Lawson said. “I am dedicated to promoting security, balanced development, high-quality public education, and inclusiveness and transparency in government.”
Credit: made sure ofAs mayor, public safety will be among Lawson’s top concerns, he told the Block Club the morning after he was elected.
Lawson also plans to establish several committees in the department, including a Safe Streets Council that will recommend pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements, a Neighborhood Development Council and an Arts, Parks and Greens Council, he said.
“I look forward to serving as your alderman, and I hope that together we can continue our efforts to make Lakeview a better place for all members of our community,” Lawson said.
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