Ald. Sandi Jackson's resignation from the Chicago City Council may be effective Tuesday, but constituents will still be able to get services from the ward office through the transition to a new alderman, staffers said.
"The office will remain open, and we'll be here to address all constituents' concerns. In addition to 311, we know constituents’ many times contact our office directly and we want them to continue to do so," said Chief of Staff Kienna Barret.
On the eve of her resignation, Jackson was a no-show at committee hearings Monday at City Hall. Mayor Rahm Emanuel has 60 days to appoint a replacement but is expected to move quickly.
One of those interested in receiving Emanuel’s appointment is Carlos Maxwell. Maxwell is a Project Manager for the South Shore Exchange.
Whomever replaces Jackson, 34th Ward Alderman Carrie Austin warns: it's a big job.
"You have to be absolutely committed, you have to be committed to the public that you’re serving," she said.
Ald. Bob Fioretti (2nd) said he'd like to see a more transparent process and recommended public involvement.
"I think it ought to be an open interview process; maybe a panel set up, let the panel make decisions, submit two or three names to the mayor," he said.
Jackson announced her resignation last Friday in a formal letter to the mayor.
