Marina Dimitrijevic’s energy matches the neighborhoods she represents—Bay View and the near South Side—and so do the causes close to her heart: the environment, social justice, the elderly, LGBT residents and immigrants. She’s helped the county to “go green” in a serious way to benefit the environment and government’s bottom line. She’s currently helping to lead a coalition to save the Hoan Bridge, the South Shore’s lifeline to Downtown. Not yet 30, Dimitrijevic already is a seasoned pol and has a bright future ahead of her.

Runners-up:Christopher Larson, Joe Rice