Meet Bill Thanoukos
Most people call me Billy.
I’m a first-generation American, small business owner, and lifelong Chicagoan. I’m running for Alderman of the 1st Ward because our neighborhoods deserve leadership that understands how the city works and how to get things done.
My parents are Greek immigrants who came to this city with nothing. My dad worked as a dishwasher and cook, and my mom put herself through community college while working at a hair salon. They met in Chicago, built a life together, and eventually opened a small restaurant that became Hub’s, a place that’s been part of the North Side for over 50 years.
That’s where I learned what hard work really looks like.
After college, I came home to earn my law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and get to work in city government. I started in the Mayor’s Office under Richard M. Daley. I later served as Chief of Staff to Treasurer Stephanie D. Neely, focusing on small business support and expanding financial literacy across the city.
I went on to lead government affairs for BMO Harris Bank and was appointed to the Chicago Housing Authority Board, working on housing and community investment.
But I never left the restaurant business.
For the past 15 years, I’ve been in the trenches as a small business owner, running Greek Kitchen and helping operate my family’s restaurant. I know what it takes to meet payroll, navigate city regulations, hire locally, and build something that lasts in Chicago.
That experience matters.
I’ve also spent years supporting youth programs, sponsoring local teams, and giving back however I can. Strong neighborhoods don’t just happen. You have to invest in them and bring passion and drive every day to make sure that investment pays dividends.
My wife Maria and I are raising our two kids right here in the 1st Ward. This is home. You’ll find us at the parks, restaurants, libraries, and block parties, just like you.
I’m running because I know we can do better. Safer streets, stronger small businesses, real support for families, and leadership that shows up, listens, and delivers.
No nonsense. No empty promises. Just real work to #FixTheFirst.
