Commissioners commend departing colleague Anthony Quezada as he prepares to become alderman

Commissioners and staff on the Cook County Board of Commissioners used a block of the meeting to honor Commissioner Anthony Quezada ahead of his transition to the Chicago City Council as alderman of the 30 Fifth Ward.

Commissioner Anthony Quezada delivered remarks thanking colleagues and staff. “Serving as the commissioner of the Eighth District has been one of the greatest honors in my life,” he said, reflecting on accomplishments he cited including expansion of health care access, criminal justice reforms and work on affordable housing.

Several colleagues offered tributes. Commissioner Daley said he had been impressed by Quezada’s vision and called him “the future,” while Commissioner Stamps said she would “miss you terribly” and praised Quezada’s leadership, describing him as “fearless” and “someone who leads with love.” Commissioner Britton joked about ideological differences but said Quezada made him “a better commissioner” and praised his compassion and advocacy.

Commissioner Sean Morrison described bipartisan working relationships with Quezada and said, “You’re young, you’re vibrant, and you’re going to bring an enthusiasm to the job.” Commissioner McCaskill thanked Quezada for creating “a safe space” that helped newer commissioners do their work.

President Preckwinkle and other commissioners applauded Quezada’s service; the board presented a resolution recognizing his work and the room gathered for photographs.

The remarks combined personal recollections and an outline of policy priorities Quezada said he would continue to pursue in his new role, including protecting public health systems, juvenile justice transformation, affordable housing and property tax reform.