33rd Ward's Weekly Newsletter
September 16th , 2016
Next TAC Meeting (9/22)
City Council Updates & More
Dear Neighbor,

In this newsletter, you'll find information about the start of the traffic diverter trial on Monday, next week's Transportation Action Committee meeting, Concordia Place's big anniversary, city council updates, a green garage sale for items for your family, and much more.

This newsletter is for you, and if there is any way we can improve it, please let us know by emailing us at ward33@cityofchicago.org.

Sincerely,
Deborah Mell
Chicago's 33rd Ward
----------Manor Greenway Project / Traffic Diverter Study Starts 9/19----------
  

Beginning Monday, September 19th, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), working in close consultation with the 33rd Ward office, our first responders, and local neighborhood groups will begin a temporary, two month traffic diverter at Manor Avenue and Wilson. It is a stand-alone traffic study that is independent of the upcoming Ravenswood Manor Greenway Project.

The goal of this temporary traffic diverter is simple: To allow traffic engineers to better understand the diverter's impact on Manor Avenue and neighboring streets. This two month trial is supported by the Ravenswood Manor Improvement Association, the Active Transportation Alliance, and the 33rd Ward Transportation Action Committee. Public feedback resulted in scaling back the length of the trial, delaying the start date to coincide with the new school year, and better monitoring of traffic conditions along our alleys.

Here is a flier with more information about the study. (PDF)

Once this study period is completed November 18th, the temporary diverter will be removed. Then, CDOT and the 33rd Ward office will convene another public meeting in order to share the results and solicit additional feedback from the community about the long-term viability of this traffic diverter at Manor and Wilson. It is worth noting that the other elements of this Greenway Project are in no way dependent on this traffic diverter. Those improvements will move forward regardless of this traffic study and are expected to begin construction in late 2017.

Thanks in advance for your continued patience and cooperation. If you are unable to attend the 9/22 TAC meeting, you are very welcome to contact our office at (773) 478-8040 or email manorgreenway@gmail.com with any questions or concerns you may have about this project.

Find more information about this project on our website. 
Transportation Action Committee Meeting, 9/22
  
Our next Transportation Action Committee (TAC) meeting will be 6:30pm on Thursday, September 22nd, at Horner Park (in the basement social hall).  The main topic of discussion will be the scheduled traffic diverter test (details below) which begins on Monday, September 19th. CDOT and the alderman will be in attendance to answer questions regarding the traffic study. 

All TAC meeting are open to the public, ward residents are welcome to join this group, which advises the alderman on ward transportation issues and assets.  
Celebrate Concordia Place's 35th Anniversary on 9/29
  
This week, Alderman Deb Mell & Alderman Ameya Pawar honored Concordia Place's 35th Anniversary with a resolution at the September 14th City Council meeting.

Buy tickets to Concordia Place's GO Gala on 9/29 here.

From Deb: City Council Update

Water-Sewer Tax

This week ,   I joined 39 of my colleagues in the Chicago City Council in voting to support a tax on  water - sewer usage that will be assessed on Chicago  b usinesses and  r esidences. This measure   aims to  stabilize  and fund the Municipal Employees'  Annuity  and Benefit Fund, over a five-year ramp to actuarial funding. 

This agreement between the administration and  union  leaders creates a  responsible funding structure from a dedicated revenue source and  will put the City's largest pension fund on a path to solvency that is constitutional. It will not solve our municipal pension crisis  entirely , but it will certainly correct decades of inaction, mismanagement, and neglect

I'm encouraged that t his agreement has also received support from  credit rating agencies like S&P and Fitch. This  will result in a  stabilization  of our credit rating, which will in turn  lower our borrowing costs. This will benefit the taxpayers of Chicago in the long term.
 
This gradual increase is part of a larger pension reform package that the City will introduce in Springfield during the fall veto session. This legislation will seek authorization for increased employer contributions for the pension fund, as well as increased contributions for new hires and a choice option for employees hired between January 1, 2011, and January 1, 2017

These  increased  contributions for new hires are projected to save the people of Chicago 2 billion dollars over the 40-year  actu arial  required contribution ( ARC).

In 2021, single family dwellings  can expect to pay $14 per month for water-sewer service  than they do today. Multi-family dwellings will pay $33;  commercial  properties $35. Senior citizens who qualify for  a sewer exemption will get a 50 percent discount on the tax.   
 
It is important to note that even after this phased in increase, Chicago's water rates will still be lower than other big cities like Philadelphia, Cleveland, Detroit, and Houston. It will also be substantially less than other local municipalities like Niles, Park Ridge, Harvey, Maywood, Oak Brook, and Berwyn. 

This was a very difficult vote. I recognize that this decision will ask the taxpayers of our city to pay more for a utility that has already increased in recent years  I have repeatedly urged Mayor Emanuel and his team  to join a growing block of alderman in calling for more   progressive revenue solutions, both here in Chicago and in Springfield.  That includes a progressive  state income tax, a tax on luxury goods and services, a financial  transaction  tax, and other revenue ideas that seek to shift a larger share of the burden on wealthy corporations and high- income earners.  The administration must be more aggressive in lobbying the governor's office for the resources we need and so should I.   

After many  months of discussion and debate , I am  optimistic  that we are  beginning  to see  some progress in the effort to  redirect a greater share of TIF  dollars to our public school system and I remain committed to working with my colleagues on getting these important reforms passed in the city council. 

There are some simple, but important  steps you can take to start planning for this scaled  increase  and begin saving money on your water bill.  Signing up for a water meter is absolutely critical to making sure you are only paying for the water you actually use . For more information and to sign up for a water meter, visit  https://www.metersave.org/.  

O'Hare International Airport Bond Vote

I also voted against a $3.5 billion O'Hare International Airport  bond at this week's meeting of the City Council. This bond purchase would help finance the construction of a new runway at the airfield and  overhaul the international terminal. While I recognize the need to make investments in our airports, I joined my colleagues in voicing my  disapproval  for a large-scale capital project that doesn't ensure adequately ensure the representation of women and minority owned businesses in the bidding process. 
 
Presence Health System TIF Redevelopment Proposal 

Presen ce  Health, is a nonprofit and the largest Catholic Health System in the State of Illinois. They have currently submitted a plan to the Community Development Commission (CDC)   that would  utilize  TIF dollars for the development of four new medical centers t hroughout  the  Ci ty  of Chicago. 
  
Presence Health is a reputable healthcare network that provides a wide range of medical services to residents throughout the Chicagoland area.  Unfortunately , Presence  adheres to a Religious and Ethical Directive that directs physicians to deny woman  basic  reproductive care and services like birth control. 
 
This directive restricts  a woman's ability to receive access to basic medical  care and establishes unnecessary barriers for women seek to  make decisions about   their own reproductive rights. 
 
I am  adamantly opposed to  this measure because I do not feel that taxpayer dollars should be used to subsidize a hospital system that institutes such a policy. It is my belief that hospitals should attend to the healthcare needs of every Chicagoan, regardless of their race, age, gender, and religious affiliation. 

On Tuesday, September 13 th , this item was temporarily removed from the CDC's agenda. I expect that it this  propos al  will resurface in the weeks to come  at which time I will continue to make my opposition known .  
Safety Alert: Shooting Incident, 9/9
 
On September 9th, in the late evening hours, two individuals were shot after gunfire was exchanged between two vehicles on the 3300 block of W. Addison. Two suspects are in custody, and authorities are in possession of a vehicle that is believed to have been involved. Neither victims appear to be from the area.

We extend our thanks to 14th and 17th district officers for their extraordinary efforts.
Ongoing Infrastructure Projects
Gas Project at California & Belmont  

The Peoples Gas project at California and Belmont should be finished by mid- to late-October. We're working with the company to reduce impact on the neighborhood, but please anticipate continued traffic delays and parking restrictions.  
 
Thanks for your patience as the crews work to improve service and safety in our community. 

Western Avenue Construction

South of the Western Ave Chicago River Bridge:

The contractor is completing improvements on the eastside of Western Avenue. Starting the week of September 12th, they began advanced work on the westside of Western Avenue with existing lighting removals and curb line drainage. Once this work is complete, they will continue with curb and sidewalk improvements.     
An informational flyer was distributed to the homeowners and business owners along Western Avenue who will be directly impacted by this stage of work.  The flyer included contact information so the property owners can contact me or the Contractor at any time if they have any questions.  Coordination will take place with all property owners to maintain access to their properties at all times.  This work is anticipated to last through to November.


Public Meeting: Albany Park Storm Water Diverter, 10/4

All are invited to a public meeting concerning the Albany Park Storm Water Diverter on October 4th. This meeting will be held at 7:00pm in the Covenant Hospital Auditorium at 2751 W Winona St.

At this meeting, engineers will provide information about the upcoming blasting work at the outlet tunnel of the Storm Water Diverter. They'll also be available to answer your questions.

 

Stay up-to-date about new infrastructure projects by following us on Facebook and Twitter
COMING UP
Baby & Kids Green Garage Sale, 9/17

Independence Park Beer Fest, 9/17

At Independence Park Beer Fest, enjoy over 15 local craft beers, unique food trucks, and support your local park!

WHEN: Saturday, September 17, 4 to 8pm
WHERE: Independence Park (3945 N. Springfield)

Information and tickets here.
Special Olympics' Midway Fly Away 5k, 9/18

Learn more and register for the event at sochicago.org.

Free Business Banking Workshop, 9/20

Byline Bank is sponsoring a free workshop on September 20th for business owners who want to make sure they're getting the most out of their banking practices. Hosted by North Branch Works.

What: Free Business Banking Workshop
When: September
Where: Green Exchange (2545 W. Diversey)

Learn more and register here.
1st Annual Rescue & Adoptions On the Boulevard, 9/21 
Affordable Housing Workshop, 9/27

Buen Hogar is hosting a free affordable housing workshop on Tuesday, September 27th, from 3:30 - 5pm, at 3401 W. Foster.

On-site housing assistance will be provided. If you would like to take advantage of this service, please bring:
  • Identification card
  • Proof of citizenship or residency
  • Proof of monthly income
  • Emergency contact information
RSVP: Call 312-666-3430 x2129 to register or with questions.

Snacks will be provided; those in attendance will be invited to take part in a free raffle. Hosted by Erie Community House and the Chicago Housing Authority's Community Alliance.

More information:
Classes for 1st Time Home Buyers in September & October
Stay Informed
Fall After School Matters Program for Teens

 
 
DOG NUISANCE SIGNS 

This is just a friendly reminder to all of the pet owners in our community to pick up after your dogs when you take them out for a walk.

To help your neighbors remember to clean up, we have signs like the one here in English and Spanish that you can pick up and them post on your block. Our office is located at 3001 W. Irving Park.

You will also find a PDF of the sign to print out at home on our website.


Thanks in advance for keeping our sidewalks and greenways clean.  
Fall Dance Classes at Dovetail Studio
 
Whether you are 2 or 52, there is a dance class for you at Dovetail Studios, including classes in ballet, hip hop, tap, and Jazz. 

Dance not your style? Don't worry: Dovetail is also a fitness studio with a variety of classes to challenge you.

Learn more here.

Order Your Free Rain Barrel by 12/31

The free rain barrel program is ending at the end of this year.

Learn how to order yours on our website.

Have Your Say: Community Plan 

The North River Commission (NRC) is partnering with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to develop a community plan for Chicago's North River neighborhoods of Albany Park, North Park, Mayfair, North Mayfair, and Ravenswood Manor. This is your opportunity to weigh in on the future of your community to ensure a high quality of life for the next generation.

Take this survey online.

 
Forward Chicago
 
Forward Chicago is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization that connects neighbors, local businesses and organizations to build a stronger community. Learn about their events by getting on their email newsletter list.

Buen Hogar at Erie House 

Erie Neighborhood House's newest program, Buen Hogar, is an Outreach initiative of the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) with primary goal of providing education, assistance, and outreach in various diverse community areas to raise
awareness on CHA's services and programs, and to promote diversity participation via a targeted marketing and communication strategy.
 
North River Commission Education Survey Needs Your Input

NRC wants to understand specific issues that your neighborhood school is confronting. Share your ideas on how to improve local schools. Your voice will contribute to a comprehensive plan for northwest side communities.

Online Community Survey: What is Important to You?

North River Commission has partnered with Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to engage our communities in creating a comprehensive plan for the future. A critical part of the process is to hear from you through the online survey. Your responses will set the stage for community visioning sessions this fall.

Working with our area's community organizations, residents, and public agencies, CMAP and NRC will create a plan that draws on the area's transportation assets, engaged community, existing commercial corridors, and public open space to help guide and strengthen the North River communities in the decades ahead.

Links to the CMAP/NRC Community Survey:
Get Involved: Overflow Action Days

Thanks to all who spread the word about this weekend's River Alert following several days of rain. We're very happy that the river is going back down, but it's essential that we work together to keep our neighborhoods safe.

Friends of the Chicago River's Overflow Action Days Initiative encourages everyone to do their part to keep the Chicago River clean. During rain events, storm water and water from homes and businesses can overwhelm the wastewater treatment system, causing untreated sewage to be flushed into the river.

There are simple actions YOU can take at home that will make a huge difference. Learn more about Overflow Action Days here, and sign up for alerts.

Take the pledge to conserve water at home, and protect the Chicago river for the people, plants, and animals that depend on it!

Healthy Food Resources for Those in Need 

No Chicagoan should ever go hungry. The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) is partnering with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to offer healthy food to those in need. To find a location near you, use this online tool.

For resources about senior services, food boxes, food pantries, and more, click here.
Problem Buildings
In an ongoing effort to keep our neighborhoods safe, we are dedicated to addressing vacant and otherwise problem buildings. Below is a partial list of properties that are currently in court. If you see issues with a vacant (or other otherwise problematic) building on your block, send the specific address and your concerns to ward33@cityofchicago.org.  
 
2951-53 N. George, TBD *
  • The owner appeared in court.
  • There was an inspection on 8/24/16.
  • Buildings Dept. authorized the occupancy of 2953; home will be owner-occupied.
  • The work on 2951 is about 60 days from completion.
2915 N. Rockwell, 9/1*
  • Owner ordered to clear yard of weeds and debris, keep secure.
  • Case continued to 9/1 for new owner to appear.
2949-55 W. Montrose, 9/15*
  • Defendant not in court; building not close to being finished.
  • Per request by Alderman, case will go to trial Sept 15.
4047 N Albany, 9/20
  • New owner appeared in court on 7/12.
  • Plan is to demo house and build new single family home.
  • Next court date is Sept 20th to confirm deed and permits.
  • New owner is allowed to begin demo/new foundation work once permit is issued.
4425 N. Sawyer, 10/4
  • Owner appeared in court.
  • A rehab permit application had been submitted but is still under review; thus, no work in progress yet. 
  • Next court date: 10/4
3311 W. Montrose, 10/25
  • Attorney in court for owner.
  • Buildings and Fire inspected again. Some progress made clearing out the building noted, but new violations were found, City will be amending its complaint to add new violations. Another inspection was ordered.
  • The next court date is 10/25.
2833 W. Mozart, 10/25  
  • Owner showed up to court
  • Case continued for progress update on 10/25/16
3305 W. Belle Plaine, 1/30/17
  • New owners received permit for interior rehab to reconvert to a single family residence with front porch and rear deck; work has already begun.
  • Next hearing is 1/30/17.
* Updates on these parcels are forthcoming. 

If you would like more information about these properties or would like to attend hearing for these properties, contact our office: 773 / 478 - 8040
 
Thank you to everyone who reports vacant and problem buildings.
You are helping us make the 33rd ward more safe. 
Have an event or resources you'd like to share in our newsletter?
Contact us at Ward33@cityofchicago.org.
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