TRIBUTE TO THE LATE ALDERMAN JOANN THOMPSON
WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom and judgment has called our most beloved colleague and friend Alderman JoAnn Thompson, a homegrown Chicago Englewood citizen and neighbor, affectionately called "Alderman JoAnn", to her everlasting reward, Tuesday, February 9, 2015; and
WHEREAS, This august body was informed of Alderman JoAnn's transition by the Honorable Carrie M. Austin, Alderman of the 34th Ward and Chairman of the Committee on Budget and Government Operations; and
WHEREAS, Alderman JoAnn graced this life on September in Chicago, Illinois; and
WHEREAS, On April 17, 2007, she was elected to the Chicago City Council as the 54th Alderman of the 16th Ward. During her first term she brought sustainable economics to the ward such as; securing funding for enhancements/renovations to several Elementary Schools as well as appropriating $5.28 million for infrastructure repairs. In addition, co-sponsored a $1.5million TIF/NIF program that awarded 68 residents with grants for much needed home repairs, as well as a host of other initiatives for the betterment of her community; and
WHEREAS, As a result of Alderman JoAnn's hard work, dedication and love and for the residents of the 16th Ward, she was elected to a second term on April 5, 2011. She continued to hold to the principal that "the prosperity of a community is expressed by the advancement of [all] of its people; and
WHEREAS, the Honorable Alderman of the 16th Ward enjoyed community festivals, shooting the breeze and catching up with colleagues and residents alike, had a flare for promoting a fun environment, traveling and the arts; and
WHEREAS, Alderman JoAnn was a two term City Council Member, active Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus Member, astute politician with a knack for achieving substantial resources, fiery, stern, candid, voicestrous and passionate servant of the people of her community; and
WHEREAS, JoAnn leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate h...
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