Ward 2

     Councilman Wilkes was raised in Chicago, Illinois where he attended Columbia College of Chicago and received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism.  He worked as a staff reporter in Chicago, Pittsburg and Cleveland before becoming the Public Relations Coordinator of the Ministerial Day Care for the Head Start Association.   While working in Cleveland, Councilman Wilkes served on the board of the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center from 1993 to 1994.  He continued gaining extensive experience in the public relations field and began the Wilkes Media Group in 2001.  Councilman Wilkes continued to nurture his strong background in public relations and service as the National Deputy Press Secretary for the Kucinich for President 2004 campaign, and then as a Senior Media Consultant for Nate Wilkes Media.  In addition to his work as a political consultant, Councilman Wilkes began his service to Ward 2 as the Executive Assistant to former Councilman Robert White.   

     Since joining Cleveland City Council, Councilman Wilkes has focused all of his efforts on stimulating the Ward 2 economy and community.  Throughout his tenure, he will be concentrating on the revitalization of business districts and recreational areas within Ward 2, including transforming Jack Rabbit Hill to Jack Rabbit Park.  Councilman Wilkes is committed to ensuring the forward progression of numerous development projects throughout the community and protecting the best interests of residents within the Ward.  

     Councilman Wilkes, who has lived intermittently in Cleveland since 1992, is pleased to have the privilege and opportunity to serve as Councilman and will work with the Ward 2 community to the best of his ability by continuing to provide security and comfort to the area.