"I'm Don Nowotny, and I'm here tonight to announce my candidacy for alderman of the 46th Ward." With those words, Nowotny officially kicked off his campaign May 4 at the European and US Auto Service, 4080 N. Broadway.
Nowotny, a landscape architect who is also the superintendent of the ward's streets and sanitation department, is one of at least three openly gay individuals running for the position. "I know this ward from every corner to every corner. I've gotten to know many people; we're a very diverse mixed crowd, and I love it," he said to approximately 100 supporters.
"I know this ward from the alleys to the streets to the walkways. I can honestly say that I know every crook and cranny in this ward," he joked. On a more serious note, he said, "Year after year, I've seen and heard the same comments and concerns about our community. It's clear that all the residents want a cleaner, safer and better environment to which to live, work and play."
Nowotny outlined a platform that focused on three points: safety ( "Nothing is more important than the safety of the residents of the 46th Ward." ) , economic development and low-income housing ( "I fully understand the moral obligation to build decent low-income housing, but what I'm suggesting tonight is that the 46th Ward has met, if not exceeded, in this regard. It's time for other Chicago wards to step up to the plate and share responsibility." ) .
He added that "this is a campaign of first namesand with a name like Nowotny, it has to be. So let's continue calling me Don even after you elect me as alderman."
The elections for Chicago's mayor, clerk, treasurer and aldermen will take place Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011.