About Omari Bektemba

Omari Bektemba is an educator, urban planner, and affordable-housing professional running for alderperson of Chicago’s 35th Ward.

After moving to Logan Square in 2017, Omari managed programs at Prussing and Goethe elementary schools and later taught in Chicago Public Schools. Working with students, parents, teachers, and school staff gave him a close view of how decisions made at City Hall affect families and neighborhoods.

Omari earned a master’s degree in Urban Planning and Public Policy from the University of Illinois Chicago. He went on to help develop municipal plans and zoning codes for more than 31 communities across 13 states, specializing in housing, local economies, and demographic change.

Today, Omari is a Senior Project Manager at Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation. He works with public agencies, lenders, contractors, ward offices, and community partners to create and preserve affordable housing. Projects he has helped guide represent more than $452 million in investment and more than 766 affordable apartments.

Omari is running to bring that practical experience to City Council and to give the 35th Ward thoughtful, responsive leadership that can move good ideas from conversation to completion.