John Arena

John Arena was sworn in as Alderman of the 45th Ward on May16, 2011. John Arena has been an active participant in the life of the Portage Park neighborhood for more than 15 years. Having served twice as Vice President of the Portage Park Neighborhood Association, he has been a voice for rational, community-based policy and will continue those efforts as Alderman. John has always fought to maintain the character, safety and opportunity that the dedicated residents of the 45th Ward hold dear. John has lived, worked and raised a family on Chicago’s north and northwest sides for most of his adult life. John and his wife of 19 years, Jill, are raising two children, Joe, 14 and Jennifer, 10. John holds a bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University.