In the contest for Chicago’s next city treasurer, what is typically a quiet race has become a contested one. There was a three-way battle to replace outgoing Treasurer Kurt Summers in the Feb. 26 election. On April 2, voters will have to choose between two candidates.

The office city treasurer oversees and manages all money and investments for the city of Chicago, its four employee pension funds and the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund. Learn more about this office.

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The candidates, in ballot order:

Melissa Conyears-Ervin is a state representative whose 10th District covers parts of Garfield Park and the Near West Side. In her candidate statement for the WTTW’s Voters’ Guide, she says: “Chicago’s billions of dollars of municipal deposits should be leveraged to help Chicago’s communities grow at the same rate, regardless of their zip code. I also plan to use the office to help more families become financially educated. Most importantly I’m running to protect the city of Chicago’s investments and to ensure that the money Chicago invests goes to benefit all of us.”

Ameya Pawar is alderman of Chicago’s 47th Ward on the North Side. He is not running for re-election to the City Council due to a self-imposed two-term limit. In his candidate statement for the WTTW’s Voters’ Guide, Pawar says: “The biggest issue I see playing out in communities across Chicago is fighting for equity in a 21st century economy. Fundamental changes in our economy are forcing us to address inequality of income and opportunity. Chicago needs a City Treasurer with the skills and experience to serve not only as the City’s financial watchdog, but also as the chief investment officer.”

Related stories:

Candidates for City Treasurer Play Nice With Just 2 Weeks Until Runoff

Chicago Voters’ Guide: City Treasurer Candidates

Candidate Forum: Chicago City Treasurer Hopefuls Face Off

Chicago Voters’ Guide: April 2 Runoff Election

Chicago’s Runoff Election: Early Voting Locations, Dates

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