On Wednesday, Chicago’s longest-tenured Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. left his final city council meeting after 2 hours of emotional tributes and a standing ovation. The 61-year-old is one of the city’s most influential legislators on the City Council for 30 years, and serving as vice mayor and chairman of the powerful Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards.
He started his journey in public service in 1995 and became well known for his dedication to community development, affordable housing, and economic revitalization.
Former Alderman Burnett is now one of three finalists to be the next CEO of the Chicago Housing Authority, a job that’s filled through nomination by the mayor. Burnett has described the position as a dream for someone who grew up in the Cabrini-Green public housing development.
During his farewell speech Wednesday, Burnett spoke on the importance of love, humility and service and thanked God, his family, mentors, colleagues and staff for their support, saying, “I hope I made you proud.”
& Remember to always celebrate your magic, too! xo