Elected For The Second Time, Chandler says Hell Focus on Jobs

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by SheRico Jones

On April 5th, Michael D. Chandler was elected Alderman of the 24th ward. Chandler had previously held the position for three consecutive terms (12 years) before losing it to Sharon Denise Dixon in 2007. This years race was tight but when all votes were in, Chandler took the victory over Dixon by 1134 votes. Two areas he says hell focus on are job creation and small business development.

The unemployment rate in Illinois is at a steady decline, currently at 8.8%, according to Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Chandler feels that unemployment is one of the 24th wards biggest issues. His solution: Job creation and training.

The unemployment rate is high in the African American community, Chandler said. I would like to help develop small business ownership with T.I.F. funding.

T.I.F. (Tax increment funding) was brought about by general legislation, Chandler says. Any new tax increments within certain geographical boundaries go into a T.I.F. fund to be used for job development, job training and business development; he stated.

A Chicago native, Chandler started his political career in the early 80s as a precinct captain. He also worked for the Building Department at the City of Chicago for 13 years and spent a few years in the United States Air Force. He was first elected alderman of the 24th ward in 1995. The 24th ward includes the North Lawndale, West Garfield and South Austin neighborhoods. He officially takes office on Monday May 16th.

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