Incumbent Ald. Ruth Cruz, who won her seat in 2023 after Ald. Ariel Reboyras stepped aside, is preparing for a straightforward contest in Chicago’s 30th Ward. The race pits Cruz against Juritzy “Judy” Velez, a longtime resident and small‑business owner.
Candidate backgrounds
Cruz emigrated from Mexico as a child, grew up in Logan Square and Avondale, and later settled in Belmont Cragin. She holds a master’s degree in management from Robert Morris University and has experience in college admissions, serving as director of admissions at Robert Morris before its merger with Roosevelt University.
During her first term, Cruz championed pedestrian safety, securing a network of bike lanes in Portage Park, and helped obtain $13 million in state funding for a homeless shelter for older adults. She also led a City Council resolution urging Congress to pass Medicare‑for‑All legislation and launched a community zoning committee in 2024, bringing participatory budgeting to the ward in 2023.
Velez’s platform
Velez, who has spent over a decade in the hospitality sector—including as director of food and beverage for the Hotel Zachary—focuses on curbing rising property taxes, revitalizing local business corridors, and ensuring police departments have adequate staffing and resources. She also emphasizes responsive city services and has been active in her child’s local school council.
During a recent press conference, Velez criticized the Chicago Public Schools agreement that allowed principals discretion over student participation in the May 1 “no school, no work, no shopping” protest, calling the decision “wrong, irresponsible, and perhaps even illegal.”
Election details
The 30th Ward encompasses parts of Belmont Cragin, Portage Park, Dunning, Avondale and Irving Park. Voters will cast ballots on Feb. 23 in the municipal primary, determining which candidate will appear on the November general‑election ballot.
Both candidates encourage residents to get involved, underscoring the importance of local representation that reflects community values and priorities.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
