About
About Frank J. Aguilar
Leader. Fighter. Bridge-Builder. Dedicated to Serving the 16th District.
From Cicero to Cook County
A Lifetime of Service and Advocacy
For more than four decades, Frank J. Aguilar has been a tireless advocate for others, bringing meaningful change to communities. Born in Chicago and raised in Cicero, Frank is the son of immigrants from San Luis Potosi, Mexico. His journey in public service began as a union organizer for Central States Joint Board Laborers Local Unions and as a Cicero precinct captain—a position he has held for 40 years. Frank’s deep roots in his community and unwavering commitment to public service have shaped his career and his approach to leadership.
Education and Early Political Career
Building a Foundation of Knowledge and Experience
Frank J. Aguilar’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s in Philosophy from Loyola University, a Master’s in Public Administration from Roosevelt University, and additional studies at the Art Institute of Chicago and the University of Mexico. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Leadership in Public Administration from the American College of Education. His early political involvement as an Illinois State Representative saw him championing economic development legislation, securing in-school tuition opportunities, and advancing driver's licenses for undocumented residents in Illinois.
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
Driving Progress in Cicero and Beyond
Frank spent 20 years serving his hometown of Cicero, Illinois, as the Liaison to the President and Special Projects Director. During this time, he founded the Cicero Mexican Cultural Committee and expanded educational programs at Morton College as Board Chairman. From 1995 to 2000, Frank served as the Executive Director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce, helping Latino-owned businesses thrive in Cicero and surrounding suburbs. His work has consistently focused on empowering communities and fostering economic growth.
Current Role and Vision for the Future
Leading the 16th District with Integrity
Appointed as the 16th District Cook County Commissioner in April 2020 and elected to a full term in November 2022, Frank J. Aguilar continues to champion small business development, infrastructure investment, and support for arts programs. Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Zoning & Building Committee and Finance Subcommittee on Tax Delinquency at the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Aguilar is honored to represent the 24 cities, towns, villages, and parts of Chicago, and remains committed to working with community leaders and residents to make the 16th District a place where all voices are heard and valued.
Meet the team
We believe that teamwork makes the dream work.
Michilla Blaise
Chief of Staff
William Bernstein
Deputy Chief of Staff
Cecilia Salinas
External Affairs Director
What guides us
Accountability
Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar holds himself and his team accountable to the residents of the 16th District. Transparency, integrity, and service are the cornerstones of his leadership. He believes that the trust placed in him by the community requires constant vigilance and open communication. Frank is committed to ensuring that all actions and decisions made under his leadership are in the best interests of his constituents. By fostering an environment of accountability, he aims to make the 16th District a model of responsible governance and public service.