Colón's campaign was organized at the grassroots level against the incumbent candidate who had the support of powerful Chicago aldermen, the mayor, and the governor.

Colón helped to secure Preliminary Landmark Designation for Logan, Kedzie, and Humboldt Boulevards.

Soon after he was first elected in 2003, Colón attracted controversy for allegedly using his zoning power as alderman to profit financially.

[2] Shortly after winning re-election in 2011, Colón abruptly announced a hearing to oppose waiving a permit fee for the Logan Square's Farmer's Market, which would have closed the weekly summerlong event.

"[5] In June 2011, Colón and the city council passed a measure to establish free parking along parts of Logan, Kedzie and Humboldt Boulevards.

In 2011, EZPAWN, a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: EZPW) and the largest pawn-shop operator in the world by market capitalization, proposed a new store at 3711 West Fullerton.

Colón said, "this national business will not have a negative impact and will provide an added benefit despite the outdated perceptions.