Tunney's In: 'I Expect to Run, and I Expect to Win'

Despite controversial negotiations with the Chicago Cubs and criticism over Lake View crime, Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) says he intends to run for alderman of the 44th Ward again in Feb. of 2015, according to Crain’s Chicago Business. 

Tunney told reporter Greg Hinz he “plans” to run again, saying “there’s nothing definite in life.”

“I expect to run, and I expect to win,” he added. “… You don’t stick around just for the easy times.”

Tunney will face off against at least one contender, Mark Thomas, who recently came forward announcing his candidacy for office. Thomas owns multiple unique businesses in Lake View, including Taboo Tabou and The Alley, among others.

Talks that Tunney may not decided to run came after he began putting numerous high-profile parcels of real estate on the market, including a portfolio of properties on the 900 block of West Belmont Avenue. He told Crain’s, however, the zoning on those lots will not change under his watch, and he sees no conflict of interest in selling. 

The move comes after Tunney sold his Ann Sather building at 5207 N. Clark St. in Andersonville to real estate investors Newcastle Limited. That restaurant will close later this year. 

Tunney took office as alderman in 2003, winning two consecutive reelections in 2007 and 2011.