Several years ago, Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley recognized the need for a new spirit of cooperation between the Chicago area’s municipalities.
His vision was to unite Mayors from the six-county region in a common cause — to push beyond the boundaries of local interests in order to serve the greater interests of us all.
In 1997, Mayor Daley invited Mayors from nine suburban municipal associations to talk about this vision. The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus was formed out of that discussion.
Today, it is an active collaboration between Chicago and the suburban associations. It is a forum for independent thinking and discussion regarding important public policy issues. And, when there is consensus, it is also a powerful voice and force for change, creating programs and supporting legislation that improves our well-being and overall quality of life.
Much has been accomplished to date. More will be done tomorrow, not just for a few, but for the 8 million people in 273 municipalities that the Caucus proudly serves.