Rey Colon

A lifelong 35th Ward resident, Alderman Rey Colón is dedicated to serving the Avondale, Humboldt Park, Irving Park, and Logan Square communities. He attended Darwin Elementary School and Schurz High School. He studied at Columbia College and completed the Community Management Program in the Office of Public Administration at Roosevelt University. Alderman Rey Colón has devoted his career to creating opportunities for residents in the 35th Ward. Since the 1979 murder of his brother in a drive-by gang shooting, Alderman Colón has dedicated himself to giving children and families alternatives for improving their lives. He has served the 35th Ward as: Executive Director, Logan Square Boys and Girls Club, where he launched a volunteer program to provide mentors for inner-city youth and received the National Honor Award for Program Excellence two years in a row for community outreach and a satellite high school with a 90% graduation rate. Area Manager of the Chicago Park District, where he directed the operations of 45 city parks and play-lots, beautified public green space, and piloted innovative programs throughout the Humboldt Park/West Town communities, which are now implemented city-wide. Executive Director, McCormick Tribune YMCA, where he facilitated a $7.5 million fundraising effort and directed construction of the YMCA in Logan Square; As Alderman since May 1, 2003, he continues to serve his neighbors by improving the quality of life in the 35th Ward. Alderman Colón serves on nine Council Committees: Rules and Ethics; Economic, Capital, and Technology Development; Educational and Child Development; Finance; Health and Environmental Protection; Human Relations; Pedestrian and Traffic Safety; Workforce Development; Zoning Landmark and Building Standards. Organizes public meetings on zoning changes; allowing affected residents to evaluate proposals and provide input. Colón helped to secure Preliminary Landmark Designation for Logan, Kedzie, and Humboldt Boulevards. 125 new businesses throughout the 35th Ward, creating over 700 new jobs. Secured over $65 million in capital improvement projects throughout the ward. Increased Block Clubs by 54%. In partnership with Chicago Police Department getting results in our community by identifying areas needing police attention. Invested over $4.5 million in school improvements. Received Legislative Award by Friends of the Parks for his commitment to park development, public involvement, new green plazas and the Logan Boulevard Skate Park. Honored with a Preservation Excellence Award by the Chicago Landmark Commission for Palmer Square improvements. Rey voted NO on the privatization of the Chicago parking meter deal. Rey has been a leading advocate for working families on the Chicago City Council. Rey voted against Property Tax Increases & the Real Estate Transfer Tax.