Since Alderman Will Burn’s announcement of his resignation earlier this year, the application process for the position was open to the public. Now, a new alderman has been selected and the second female 4th Ward Alderman since Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
“For almost 30 years, Sophia King has not just lived in the 4th Ward, she has worked to improve the quality of life for everyone who lives there,” Mayor Emanuel said. “She has led initiatives to increase education, recreation, employment and safety, as well as quality affordable housing. She will be a tireless advocate for her constituents as she serves on City Council.”
The selection of King came after a thorough process in which 18 candidates were reviewed by a five-member selection committee. Three finalists met with the Mayor last week and he made his final decision over the weekend.
“I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I believe the only solutions we are missing are the ones we won’t work on together,” King said. “I look forward to collaborating with all people who want to make a positive difference in the city that I love, and to continue to position the 4th Ward as an example of transparent, innovative and community focused work that lifts all residents. I appreciate the confidence of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his willingness to engage a new voice.
Also on Monday, Mayor Emanuel named three aldermen to committee chairmanships. Ald. Howard Brookins will become Education chairman, while Ald. Joe Moreno will take over as Economic and Technology chairman. Finally, Ald. Pat Dowell will chair the Human Relations committee.
Ms. King will appear in front of the City Council’s Rules Committee prior to a confirmation vote by the City Council on Wednesday, and then, once approved, will be sworn in as part of the full meeting of the Council.
King is the founder and president of Harriet’s Daughters, a non-profit group of professional women that works collectively with peer organizations to advocate for, create and support policies and processes that secure employment and wealth creation opportunities for African-American communities.
She is also a longtime community advocate and volunteer, having served as president of the Kenwood Park Advisory Council from 2008 to 2015. King received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Illinois, and a master’s in education and social policy from Northwestern University.
The 4th Ward includes a diverse community of long-time residents that includes parts of the Bronzeville, Hyde Park, Kenwood and Oakwood community. With King’s extensive background in comMayor Emanuel Appoints Sophie King 4th Ward Alderman community service and her familiarity to the needs of residents–it will help fill the seat that has been vacant since March 1.
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