By Bob Seidenberg

Third Ward City Council member Melissa Wynne, the senior member of the council, announced in her ward newsletter a short time ago that she will not be seeking re-election next year.

Wynne, a strong voice on zoning and neighborhood protection issues, said that after 28 years “it is now time to pass the baton. My retired husband has, for years, been begging me not to run for re-election so that we can spend more time to travel together. I also strongly believe that at this point, there will be a great benefit to our ward and City Council to have fresh ideas and a younger perspective on the challenges we face going forward.”

Here is her statement:

For nearly 28 years, it’s been my great joy and honor to represent Evanston’s 3rd Ward and all of our beloved city. Working together, we’ve accomplished much over the years. Our Main Dempster Mile has flourished as a vibrant small-business district – pedestrian-friendly, teeming with extraordinary restaurant, entertainment, and retail options, it is a model for well-balanced economic development in proximity to our leafy-green residential neighborhoods. We’ve been diligent stewards of Evanston’s lakefront parks and beaches – our City’s crown jewel – protecting them as an outdoor recreation mecca, free from commercialization that would undermine the precious natural treasure that benefits us all so much. 

Throughout my time on the Council, I’ve worked tirelessly to promote civility, transparency, and common-sense. As a new alderman 28 years ago, I innovated the concept of regular Town Hall meetings (and later, monthly office hours), ideas that over time have been widely adopted by other Council members. I’ve always strived to be professional, constructive and collaborative in all my dealings with constituents, fellow Council members and the highly talented team of professionals who keep this city running. And throughout, I’ve been endlessly grateful for the thoughtful and informed input, inspiration and support that you’ve always provided.

I’ve decided, however, that it is now time to pass the baton. My retired husband has, for years, been begging me not to run for re-election so that we can spend more time traveling together. I also strongly believe that at this point, there will be great benefit to our ward and City Council to have fresh ideas and a younger perspective on the challenges we face going forward. Therefore, I’m letting all of you know that I will not be seeking re-election next year. This is not an easy decision or announcement for me to make. But I wanted to share this information now, when there is plenty of time for potential candidates to come forward.

I also want all of you to know that until the new Council is sworn in, I will continue working hard for all of you, just as I have for the past 28 years.  We have major issues coming before this Council, including this year’s budget, Envision Evanston (the re-write of our comprehensive general plan and zoning ordinance), and longer-term plans for the Civic Center.  We will continue to work on affordable housing, economic revival and our climate action plan. And, when our new 3rd Ward Council member is chosen, I will do all that is helpful to bring them up to speed and ensure that they can hit the ground running. 

With gratitude to and appreciation for all of you,

I am sincerely yours,

Melissa Wynne
Councilmember, 3rd Ward