"I want to congratulate Will Burns on this new chapter in his life, but we will certainly miss him as a City Council member. He has spent the last five years advocating for better public schools, attracting new business and improving economy in the Fourth Ward. He has also helped to increase transparency, efficiency, and accountability in city government. He can leave City Hall knowing he has helped to improve his community, and that he had a part in working to right Chicago's finances. I thank him for his time and commitment to public service, and wish him the best of luck."

"I am committed to using the same open and transparent process we have used in the past to select a replacement for open aldermanic seats. Any resident of the ward will be able to apply, and a commission of local leaders will help determine the finalists."

BACKGROUND:

• Mayor Emanuel has 60 days from the date of the vacancy to appoint a replacement.

• Applicants will be able to apply for the seat by submitting the required information via the City's website. That information and link will be announced in the coming days.

• Mayor Emanuel will appoint a commission of ward community members to screen and review the applicants. A commission of 4th ward community members led by the Chairman of the Committee on Rules, Committees and Ethics, Michelle Harris will review the applications and submit the finalists to Mayor Emanuel.

• The mayor will review and interview the finalists and make his selection

###