Activist announces bid for Rockford City Council

Billing himself as the area's first Gen Z precinct committeeman, Rockford community activist Tamir Bell has announced plans to run for alderman of the 13th Ward.

In an email to the Rockford Register Star Monday, Bell, 21, said he is a community advocate who works as political director for state Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford. Bell said he is running for alderman in April 2025 to improve opportunities on Rockford's west side and to build stronger neighborhoods.

"The 13th Ward needs a leader with vision, passion and the ability to connect and deliver results," Bell said in a news release. "As a resident and community advocate, I understand the challenges we face. My goal is to ensure that the 13th Ward capitalizes on the awesome opportunities to truly reach our potential by revitalizing our neighborhoods so that the quality of life for our residents is improved."

Longtime Alderwoman Linda McNeely , D-13, died in April 2023, creating a vacancy on the City Council.

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara appointed Jeff Bailey, co-founder of Energy for All, where he provides marketing, consultant and business development services for green solution, to serve the remainder of McNeely's term.

Jeff Kolkey writes about government, economic development and other issues for the Rockford Register Star. He can be reached at  (815) 987-1374, via email at jkolkey@rrstar.com and on X @jeffkolkey .

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Activist announces bid for Rockford City Council