WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderEnd of an Era: Long Time Alderman Steps Down

End of an Era: Long Time Alderman Steps Down

By Bob Schaper

ROCKFORD - It's the end of an era for the city's first black alderman.

Victory Bell has represented the Fifth Ward since 1971. But as 13 News was the first to report, Bell's decided he won't run for re-election this spring.

"I stand this evening to say that I will not be seeking reelection as the alderman for the Fifth Ward," Bell said at Monday's City Council meeting.

When Bell first ran for office, he was breaking the racial barrier. Now, 38 years later, just weeks after a black has been elected president, Bell says it's time for a new generation of leaders.

"I want to thank all of you," he said at the Council meeting. "I'll miss you. I'll probably come by and see you from time to time. I still have a telephone, so I'll be giving you a call. But after April of '09 I will move into the sunset. Thank you very much."

Before the meeting, Bell said the timing was right.

"After 37-and-a-half years, I do believe it's time to move on," he said. "As (President-elect Barack) Obama says, it's time for a change."

In addition to staying on as a precinct committeeman, Bell intends to continue being an advocate for senior citizens.

"It's going to be nice," he said. "There's some other things I want to do and just spend some quiet time with the family."