Introducing Our Town Winnetka

Ahead of the Nov. 7th Town Hall, we would like to take the time to introduce you to Our Town Winnetka.

Who We Are

We are long-time Winnetka residents and active members of leadership. We love our community, have seen our neighboring communities thrive and pass us by over the last several years, and wish for Winnetka to be the best it can be for all residents.

We have organized with a simple principle: Let's move forward, together.

Winnetka Caucus History

From its inception in 1915, the Winnetka Caucus's intention was well-defined and aspirational: to provide a process for evaluating and recommending elected official candidates. Led by a group of leaders "grieving over the nonsense of municipal elections in which, except for personalities, there were no real issues," they organized what today is the Caucus Council. For 109 consecutive years, the Caucus form of nonpartisan self-government has allowed everyone who has a vote to have a voice.

2024 Caucus Facts

• 1,623 Survey Responses
• 1,217 Comments
• Only 43 of 68 possible Caucus Council positions were filled
• Lower than usual candidates vying for all boards (with a trustee slot not being slated)

Of note, the Caucus Survey gave us interesting insights into the community and we captured a broad slice of Winnetka in the process:

• Unlike previous surveys where the majority of respondents came from older adults, the biggest number this year -- almost 50% -- came from 35-54-year-olds. This was almost equal to the 55-75+ year olds. Participation seems to be equalizing across all demographics.
• More than a third of respondents (36.9%) have lived here for 2-10 years, and we still engaged residents who have lived here for more than 30 years (24.3%).

Let's Be Honest: The Caucus Process Needs to Be Updated

With the increased access to information and the changing demographics of Winnetka's families -- the need for, and engagement in, the Winnetka Caucus has changed. Fewer citizens are choosing to get involved in the Caucus Process and more residents are interested in hearing directly from ALL candidates, not just a select few who are slated. As a result, we aren't attracting all prospective community leaders who have the opportunity to serve.

It is time that all the voices of Winnetka can speak and be heard, especially those residents who are raising children, using the park district and library, and seeking more options in the central business districts.

Join Us in Taking Immediate Action

• Attend: Town Hall, Thursday, November 7 at 6:30, Skokie School
• Sign Up: If you can't attend, you can register online. The deadline to register is midnight, November 5.
• View: Our Town Winnetka Website
• Share: This email with friends

Winnetka is a remarkable community made up of the greatest people. It is time to celebrate our past, be grateful for our present, and together, work for a bright future!