2011 Election Issues: John D. Daniel Jr., Seventh Ward Alderman Candidate

What would you consider the biggest issue facing the future seventh ward? How would you handle that issue if elected?

As with most communities where unemployment is high, the school drop-out rate is high, and organized activities for our young children is almost non-existent.

Crime is what I see as the biggest issue facing the 7th Ward.  When I say crime, I include gang activity  and drugs as well. The violent crimes, gang activity and drugs are like festering sores feeding off the bacteria of high unemployment, etc. It's like a superbug, so there is no quick fix -- no one antidote that will cure the sickness. 

However, I believe that a collaborative effort between the police, city officials, and the school boards is key. We can begin by using all available resources to bring jobs and after school activities so that our young people will have something to focus on other than standing on street corners which is probably the breeding ground for much of the negative activity that goes on in the neighborhood.

If elected, I will do my absolute best to bring the appropriate groups to the table to brainstorm how we can step up efforts to curtail crime in our neighborhoods.

The second most important issue is the number of abandoned/vacant houses and apartment buildings -- some of these are eyesores and as a result put our neighborhoods in a negative light -- we have to clean up these areas if we are ever going to attract new and "desired" residents. 

My first priority on this issue would be to locate the owners of these properties and hold them accountable for the appearance.  I also think it is a good idea to bring back the neighborhood block clubs.   

If you are an election candidate, and would like to have your position on the issues presented on Chicago Heights Patch, send an email to christopher.paicely@patch.com.