Tracy Hernandez sworn in as West Chicago Ward 3 alderman after unanimous council vote

Tracy Hernandez was sworn in as Ward 3 alderman of the West Chicago City Council on Feb. 2 after the council voted unanimously to appoint her.

The mayor introduced Hernandez as the nominee and said the other candidate withdrew because she could not begin service until May or June. An alderman moved to vote on Hernandez’s appointment; after brief remarks of support the council approved the motion by roll call.

A council member who spoke in favor cited Hernandez’s work running after‑school programs and experience with the school district, saying, “she brings a very good creative perspective” and that Hernandez would add knowledge about schools to council discussions. The council then administered the oath of office; Hernandez repeated the pledge and signaled her readiness to serve.

The clerk’s roll call for the appointment recorded aye votes from the aldermen present; the mayor declared the appointment unanimous. The mayor said the council will talk with Hernandez about committee assignments and scheduling.

The appointment is procedural and takes effect immediately with Hernandez joining the council; the mayor noted the other candidate withdrew because of a delayed start date, which left Hernandez as the mayor’s nominee. No amendments or conditions to the appointment were recorded at the meeting.

Votes and next steps: The council’s vote to appoint Hernandez was unanimous; the council will discuss committee placement with the new alderman and a formal confirmation by recorded roll call was entered in the minutes.