In this newsletter
26th Ward Office Updates • Community Events • Public Notices • Ways to get Involved • Job Opportunities • Resources.
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Dear Neighbors,
It's been an eventful week in our community, and I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights and important developments that have taken place. First and foremost, I'm thrilled to share that the One Fair Wage initiative is making significant progress. The Council has approved its journey to the Committee on Workforce Development. And more importantly we have reached a deal with the Illinois Restaurant Association for a five year scale up to eliminate the sub-minimum wage. This is a significant step towards ensuring fair wages for all tipped workers in our city. It reflects our commitment to economic justice and the well-being of our fellow Chicagoans.
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Last week, I had the honor of attending the Great Cities Institute Conference. During my panel, I emphasized the importance of researchers collaborating closely with our community when conducting research in our neighborhoods. It's crucial that the voices of our residents are heard and considered in all research efforts, and I will continue to advocate for this collaborative approach.
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Another important milestone we achieved was the facilitation of our first public feedback session on lifting the liquor moratorium for a business on Armitage and Karlov. I'm pleased to report that the community overwhelmingly supported lifting the liquor moratorium. This decision reflects the significance of public opinion in shaping our policies, and I will continue to prioritize your voices in the decisions we make. It must be community residents that determine the future of our neighborhoods.
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I've also been actively engaged in ensuring the safety and well-being of our neighborhood. I recently surveyed the area with our interim Ward Superintendent to ensure that all our neighbors have safe streets, well-maintained sidewalks, and access to basic city services. Your safety and comfort are paramount, and I will continue working tirelessly to address these concerns.
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One of the highlights of the week was the inaugural meeting of our Youth Council. Our young leaders will play a crucial role in shaping our community's future, as they will be responsible for allocating a portion of our 1.5 million aldermanic menu money. I am excited to see the positive impact they will have on our neighborhood.
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I had the opportunity to meet with the CEO of the Chicago Park District Rosa Escareño to address pressing issues at our local parks, which have been raised by constituents in our ward. I'm committed to ensuring that our parks are safe and accessible spaces for everyone to enjoy.
As summer winds down, I had the pleasure of celebrating the final days of the season with residents at block parties throughout the ward. These events remind us of the strong sense of community that binds us together. Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement in our community. Your input and involvement are invaluable, and I look forward to continuing to work together to make the 26th Ward an even better place to live, work, and thrive.
In partnership,
Your 26th Ward Alderperson, Jessie Fuentes
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Save the date for our first Senior Wellness Fair on Friday, October 13th from 10am to 1pm.
Hosted by 26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes, State Representative Lilian Jiménez, State Senator Omar Aquino, and Commissioner Quezada.
Questions? Contact us at info@the26thward.org or (773)-395-0143.
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Northwest Side Public Safety Town Hall
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Community members are invited to attend a Northwest Side Public Safety Town hall on Monday, September 25th, 5:30pm at New Life Community Church (1651 N Kedzie Ave). At this meeting, constituents are invited to engage with elected officials, local police leaders, and violence prevention organizations based on the Northwest Side. Click here to register.
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The 26th Ward is partnering up with the USDA for our first ever fishing derby coming up at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie on Saturday, October 14. We will partner with Micah and Bus for Outdoor Access and Teaching (BOAT) to provide transportation to and from Midewin from Humboldt Park.
- Prizes will be handed out to the biggest and smallest fish in age groups for each wave,
- Hotdogs (and veggie dogs), chips, and water will be provided for those fishing, their families, and those working the event.
- We will have interpretive tables from many of our partners involved, as well as some local first responders.
- We will debut our new Smokey Bounce House!
The plan is to have the bus leave Humboldt Park at 9:00am with arrival at Midewin at approximately 10:30am. We would have the BOAT group in the second wave of fishing from 11:00am-1:00pm. Then give them time to eat and enjoy the interpretive areas with plans to depart Midewin at 2:30pm. Click here to register.
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Connect with the 26th Ward Office
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The 26th ward office is currently located at 2511 W Division St. The office's regular hours of operation are as follows:
- Monday 1 pm - 7 pm*
- Tuesday 10 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm - 5 pm
- Thursday 10 am - 5 pm
- Friday 9 am - 3 pm.
*Ward Night: Monday's 5 pm - 7 pm
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Ward nights are an opportunity to meet with Alderperson Fuentes to talk to her about any local or city issues. Ward nights will take place every Monday from 5pm - 7pm. Ward night meetings will be by appointment only and on a first come, first served basis.
If you’d like to meet with Alderperson Fuentes during ward night, please call or email the ward office at 773-395-0143 or info@the26thward.org.
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We are hosting our next Youth Council Meeting at our Ward office (2511 W Division) on September 25th from 4:30pm - 6pm. Register at bit.ly/youth26.
We are excited to inspire our young people to get involved in government and organize in the community. If you are a youth (12-24 years old) that resides in the 26th Ward and wants to have a say in how we spend infrastructure money and what type of policies I champion, please sign up for our youth council by applying at bit.ly/youth26.
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The 26th Ward community-based zoning process requires that anyone requesting a zoning change must first complete a zoning intake form. Once their intake form has been reviewed they will be invited to present their zoning request to the 26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee and must answer additional questions posed by the committee. When applicable, the person requesting a zoning change may also be required to present their zoning request to the broader public during a community input meeting. For more information go to: the26thward.org/zoning.
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You are invited to attend a public meeting concerning a request to lift a liquor moratorium for a business located at 3545 W Armitage Ave, 60647. This meeting is an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions so that community input is centered in decision-making. RSVP at bit.ly/meet920.
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Casa Central’s annual Gala is coming up on Friday, November 3rd at the Adler Planetarium. This year's gala features a special Keynote Speaker, Dr. Bernard A. Harris, Jr., a former NASA astronaut and the first African American to walk in space! Dr. Harris will share the inspirational story of launching his career, founding a philanthropic organization, and empowering and inspiring others to reach their goals. For more information and tickets go to give.casacentral.org/outofthisworldgala.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by attending these Arte a Tu Mesa events at local restaurants every Saturday through September and October. These events will feature live music, great food, and handmade artwork. For more information contact Javier Vargas at 773-407-5441 or arteatumesa@outlook.com.
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Chicago Commons is hosting a Community Resource Fair on Friday, September 29th at 1633 N. Hamlin Ave from 3-6pm. The fair will feature a tour of the Chicago Commons’ Taylor Center for New Experiences, as well as games, snacks, art and more. Attend to enjoy the fair and get information on housing, jobs, and Chicago Commons' services including early education, family hub, and senior care.
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In honor of the United Nations' International Day of Peace, the World Music Festival Chicago is hosting the Global Peace Picnic in Humboldt Park. This event celebrates the diverse music and cultures from around the world with live performances and family-friendly activities. The City-wide festival lasts for ten days and features award-winning artists from over 20 countries and regions of the world. The "Global Peace Picnic" will occur on September 30th and will showcase international dance and music companies across two stages at the Humboldt Park Boathouse. Admission is free! For more information visit, WorldMusicFestivalChicago.org.
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Clean and Affordable Buildings Info Session
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The Clean and Affordable Buildings event is an opportunity for community members to learn more about how they can make their homes safer, healthier, and more affordable. The event will focus on how we can transition to 100% clean energy in a way that is accessible for everyone across Chicago. Join us on September 20th at 7:30pm at Logan Commons (2759 W Armitage).
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Sign Up For Street Sweeping Reminders
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You have probably noticed that the city's street sweeping schedule has changed this year. Use "wethesweeple.com" to search for your Chicago street address and find out when your street will be swept next. Then, register for email alerts or subscribe to a calendar feed so that you get a reminder when the next sweep is coming up.
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Alley Reconstruction Notice
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The reconstruction of the alley bounded by W. Cortland St. - W. Moffat St. and N. Kedzie Ave. – N. Albany Ave. began on Monday, September 18, 2023. Construction is expected to take 4 weeks, weather permitting.
Due to construction the following changes will occur:
- During construction, residential garbage pickup will be curbside and we ask that the homeowner relocate cans to the front of the property. If you have private refuse, please contact your service to make special arrangements for pickup.
- There will be no access to the alley for approximately 4 weeks depending on the weather conditions. Barricades will block all entrances to the alley.
- Access to garages from the alley will be unavailable.
- Homeowners are advised to seek alternative parking.
- Garage aprons will be replaced only as needed.
This project will be managed by the Chicago Department of Transportation. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please contact 312-722-6590.
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Cook County Assesor Appeals
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The Jefferson is now open for Cook County Assessor Appeals. The deadline is October 2nd. Parts of our ward are within the 8th District of Cook County and the Jefferson. The township map for the 8th District can be found here. You can submit your appeal online at this link. A step-by-step application video can found here.
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Cook County Board of Appeals
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The Cook County Board of Review is now open for Pre-Filing for the two County Townships that encompass the 26th Ward: West Chicago and Jefferson Townships. You can visit the Cook County Board of Review's Appeals Portal at https://appeals.cookcountyboardofreview.com to enter an appeal. The Cook County Property Tax Portal is a valuable website to check Exemption Statuses and other property information.
Pre-Filing allows a property owner who feels that their property was overassessed to enter an appeal before the Township is in an "Open" status for the particular township with the Board of Review. When you pre-file, your appeal will automatically go into review by the Board of Review when your township goes into an "Open" status. If you need assistance filing an appeal, please contact my office at (773)-395-0143.
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Small Business Improvement Fund Opening in Hermosa
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Hey Hermosa, the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) opens for applications in October in the Pulaski Corridor TIF district. The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) provides grant funding for permanent building improvements and repairs across the city.
Program participants can receive grants to cover between 30 percent and 90 percent of the cost of remodeling work, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grant, which is administered by SomerCor on the City’s behalf, does not have to be repaid.
Apply at chicago.gov/sbif by Oct. 31, and register for an informational webinar at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 4 bit.ly/oct23sbif.
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Flood Assistance from FEMA
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FEMA is now accepting disaster applications to provide relief for damages caused by the severe flooding events between June 29, 2023-July 2, 2023. Check out our fact sheet here for more information on the program and how to apply.
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14th Police District Councilors - Know Your Rights
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A Know Your Rights series will be held in Humboldt Park on Saturday Sept 30th from 12-3pm, featuring Spanish presentation and question answering from Public Defender Iveliz Orellano, with English presentation by First Defense Legal Aid. There will also be free vegan and meat chili, with opportunities for groups to connect and table, and for community members to bring potluck items to share. This event is hosted in collaboration with the 14th, 12th, 25th, 11th, 10th, 15th and 17th District Councils. Questions can be sent to David.Orlikoff@cityofchicago.org.
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25th Police District Council Meeting
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The 25th Police District Council is hosting a meeting on September 21st featuring representatives from the Bring Chicago Home and Treatment Not Trauma Coalition to speak more about how these initiatives can increase public safety in our neighborhoods.
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The 12th Police District Council is hosting a meeting on September 20th at 6:30pm at Dvorak Park (1119 W Cullerton St). The agenda includes community updates, CPD updates, and a presentation from Enlace violence prevention. For questions, contact Chloe.vitale@cityofchicago.org.
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Vote on a Design for Humboldt Park Pickleball Courts
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In response to the survey results, the Chicago Park District is requesting community vote on a Design for Humboldt Park Pickleball Courts. Click here to cast your vote. The survey will close on September 20th.
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Secretary Giannoulias launched the new Skip-the-Line Program for Illinois DMVs. 44 of our busiest locations now require appointments to eliminate wait times and provide better customer service. Customers are required to make appointments for in-person visits for REAL IDs, driver’s licenses and ID card services, and in-car driving tests. All DMVs now have expanded hours on Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. 15 DMVs will also be open on Sat, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. You can make an appointment at ilsos.gov or by calling 844-817-4649.
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Donations Needed for Asylum Seekers
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Help asylum seekers at the police stations in Logan Square by donating items listed in the graphics above. Our 26th Ward office (located at 2511 W Division St) is accepting donation. Winter clothing and outerwear is especially appreciated as we prepare for the winter.
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Volunteer At Nourishing Hope
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Nourishing Hope is one of the largest, most respected and longest continually operating food pantries in Chicago. Join their passionate community of dedicated volunteers. Volunteers needed Monday through Wednesday, 9am - 4pm, to distribute groceries. Spanish speakers are incredibly helpful! Visit NourishingHopeChi.org/volunteer to register! Questions? Email lacasanorte@nourishinghopechi.org.
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After School Matters at El Schomburg
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FEMMEPreneurs in the Arts— Nourishing In partnership with Clemente Community Academy, el Schomburg Contemporary Arts Space located in the heart of Paseo Boricua in Humboldt Park, welcomes creative minded young females (14-18 years old) interested in developing essential skills and knowledge in the entrepreneurship, planning and organization of the arts and culture. This immersive program is catered for apprentices with a strong interest in the arts via: art production, curatorial practices, event planning, cultural content creation, arts appreciation and history, arts administration and business development.
From busting an art or cultural business idea, developing authentic marketing plans to event planning and design, apprentices are encouraged to collaborate, seek wisdom within their own communities, and engage in a practice of cultural literacy, wealth and advancement. Application via ASM—APPLY HERE!
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Restore the Bathroom in Humboldt Park
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CTA Second Chance Program
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Since 2011, the CTA Second Chance Program has served more than 2,000 of the City of Chicago's justice involved residents. Over 500 program participants have become permanent CTA employees. Even more have secured job at other organizations. Now, it is your turn to become a CTA Second Chance Program success story. Apply now at transitchicago.com/secondchance.
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Career Opportunities working for the City of Chicago
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New Program Connects Landlords and Vacant Apartments To Folks In Need
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Chicago Rents is a program that connects landlords to tenants through multiple housing subsidy programs, allowing property partners to receive guaranteed rent, fill vacant units, and access individualized support. Chicago Rents is a program that was created in response to COVID-19 to centralize property partner relationships across multiple housing programs. Through Chicago Rents, property partners are connected with Chicagoans in need of housing, filling unit vacancies and making a real difference in Chicago's neighborhoods. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents.
If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply.
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Abundant Life Entrepreneurs Program
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Do you want to grow your business? Do you want a network of professional mentors to guide you in your growth? Then the New Life Centers' Abundant Life Program is for you! Abundant Life provides you with the mentors, programs, tools, resources, and connections you need to be successful. They will pair you with mentors who have deep expertise and want to put it to use supporting you. Click here to apply. Email gwen@weavingimpact.org for more information.
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If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options.
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