Election 2015: 45th Ward alderman candidates discuss the issues

Does Ald. John Arena’s “adversarial” relationship with Mayor Rahm Emanuel keep the 45th Ward from getting needed services?

Do 45th Ward residents really want a “yes” man as alderman?

RELATED: Election 2015: Your guide to Chicago mayor, alderman candidates

Those were some of the questions discussed when candidates for 45th Ward alderman met with the Chicago Sun-Times editorial board at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, ahead of the Chicago municipal election on Feb. 24. They also discussed airport noise, as well as their plans for economic development and to solve the city’s pension crisis.

The 45th Ward includes Edgebrook, Forest Glen, Gladstone Park, Jefferson Park, Mayfair and Portage Park.

You can hear from the candidates in their own words and read highlights from the discussion, below.

CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRES

VIDEO:

PHOTOS:

<small><strong>John Arena is an aldermanic candidate for the 45th Ward in the City of Chicago. | Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times</strong></small>

John Arena is an aldermanic candidate for the 45th Ward in the City of Chicago. | Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times

<small><strong>Michelle Baert is an aldermanic candidate for the 45th Ward in the City of Chicago. | Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times</strong></small>

Michelle Baert is an aldermanic candidate for the 45th Ward in the City of Chicago. | Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times

<small><strong>Michael Diaz is an aldermanic candidate for the 45th Ward in the City of Chicago. | Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times</strong></small>

Michael Diaz is an aldermanic candidate for the 45th Ward in the City of Chicago. | Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times

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