Hello neighbors,
On Tuesday, the Public Safety Committee on which I serve met to discuss (but not vote on) two issues on which the city's Inspector General has issued critical reports: (1) potential changes to how our city's Police Department executes residential search warrants, in response to the wrong raid on the home of Anjanette Young; and (2) potential changes to how the Department maintains its so-called "gang database," which the Inspector General has observed is riddled with systemic errors. Adequately addressing both issues will help improve the relationship between CPD and many of the communities it serves, which in turn can help improve Chicago's low homicide and gun-violence clearance rates. I'll continue to keep you updated about these and other critical reform efforts.
On Wednesday, I hosted a virtual public safety town hall regarding the state of gender-based violence in Chicago. Four representatives from Chicago-based domestic violence organizations joined me to discuss how CPD investigates alleged sex crimes, the increase in domestic-violence-related complaints during the ongoing pandemic, and steps the city should consider taking in response to these problems. Solutions ranged from a dedicated sex crimes unit in CPD and improved training for officers to increased funds to support housing, mental health, and legal services for survivors of gender-based violence. You can watch a recording of the event here.
Yesterday, alongside 40th Ward Ald. Andre Vasquez, I attended the annual State of Lincoln Square meeting hosted by the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. Topics ranged from the recently passed Chi Biz Strong ordinance and the Western Ave. corridor study that the city's Department of Planning & Development (DPD) is leading, to potential improvements to the Western Ave Brown Line Plaza and the ongoing Peoples Gas modernization project. Separately, I participated in my monthly briefing with regional planners from DPD to discuss the Western corridor study, ongoing development interest along Irving Park Rd. between Damen and Western, and the planned corridor study for Clark St. north of Montrose.
Earlier this week, I met with several of my colleagues and senior officials from City Hall to discuss an ordinance I recently introduced that proposes to make walk-up windows easier for certain food establishments to utilize. I also visited the new protected bike lane on Campbell south of Roscoe (near Lane Tech and DePaul College Prep high schools), which reflects CDOT's recently released strategic plan calling for more such lanes. In addition, my office attended a meeting of the Waters Elementary local school council, which is beginning its search for a new principal.
Finally, I'd like to take a moment to wish a fond farewell to Dillon Goodson, the outgoing executive director of the Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce. He has played an instrumental role in shepherding the Low Line project to completion, as well as counseling numerous local businesses as they weathered the worst of the pandemic. It's been a true privilege working with him over the past two years.
I hope you all have a restful and enjoyable weekend!
Yours in service,
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The federal government allocated $2 billion dollars in American Rescue Plan Act funds to Chicago. These funds are one-time in use and must be spent over the next three years. Before the 2022 budget season begins, we want to hear from you. Let us know how these funds can best help our communities recover from the pandemic in our 2022 budget survey: |
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47th Ward Budget Town Halls
An Overview of American Rescue Funds
Join Ald. Martin for a conversation about Chicago's 2022 budget, and learn more about how we can put American Rescue Funds to use to help our communities recover from the pandemic. This event is at 6:30 p.m. August 10 on Zoom. RSVP at bit.ly/arpachi.
Child Care Budget Town Hall
In early 2021, women's participation in the workforce hit a 33-year low, and we're still far away from recovering. Experts have attributed this decline, at least in part, to a child care crisis. Chicago received $2B in federal American Rescue Funds. Join Alderman Martin and a panel of experts to discuss how we can put these funds to use to address the growing child care crisis. This event is at 6:30 p.m. August 24. Register at bit.ly/childcare47.
Gender-Based Violence Budget Town Hall
Earlier this week, Ald. Martin hosted a conversation about Chicago's response to domestic violence and sex crimes and how we can better prioritize services for survivors through the city budget. Watch a recording here.
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2022 Budget Engagement Forms
The city is hosting 2022 Budget Engagement Forums to update the public on key initiatives and receive feedback and suggestions from residents on the City's budget recommendations.
The meetings will begin with presentations from budget director Susie Park and other city leaders, provide an opportunity for residents to work in small group sessions, and end with time for public comment. Learn more and register here. The forums will also be live-streamed on the City of Chicago’s social media channels.
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Government Services and Information |
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Protected Bike Lane on Roscoe/Campbell
Ald. Martin was thrilled to try out the 47th Ward’s first protected bike lane on Thursday! Our office pushed for these concrete curbs on Roscoe west of Western and Campbell north of Belmont to safely connect Roscoe Village to Clark Park and the Riverview bridge, two nearby high schools and athletic fields, and the bridge over the river. With CDOT working on plans to resurface Belmont in the coming years, this is a first step toward a safer way for hundreds of cyclists to cross the river.
New Parking Meters Installed
LAZ Parking recently installed parking meters on Irving Park Red and Lincoln Ave. in the ward. This was a result of the 2020 Budget deal, which Ald. Martin was one of 11 aldermen to vote against. The city's goal, in adding dozens of meters to each ward, is related to the parking meter privatization deal.
Since the city sold its meters in 2009, we have had to compensate the buyer for every meter missing compared to that date. By adding dozens of meters in different wards, the city is reaching the minimum number of meters required by the deal for the first time in over a decade, meaning it no longer has to compensate the private company. The Department of Finance designated the locations for meter installation in the 47th Ward, including on some of the only arterial streets that didn't already have them, like portions of Lincoln Ave. in Northcenter.
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Property Tax Updates
Typically, the second installment property tax bills are due August 1. Due to the pandemic and delays in calculating tax bills, the second installment bills are delayed. According to the Cook County Treasurer, second installment property tax bills are anticipated to be sent in late August with a due date of October 1. Follow the County Treasurer website for updates.
Eviction Moratorium and Renter Rights
Starting July 31, the State of Illinois will start a step-down in protections for renters ahead of the end of the moratorium on evictions related to COVID-19 shutdowns which end on August 30. Under the step-down plan, landlords will be able to file eviction proceedings starting July 31 on renters covered under the moratorium. Enforcement of the filing will not begin until the moratorium ends on August 30. As these changes begin, the City of Chicago is reminding renters there are resources available to help them avoid housing instability stemming from shutdowns established to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
Under the COVID-19 Evictions Protection Ordinance, landlords filing evictions due to nonpayment of rent against tenants who have coronavirus-related financial hardships, to wait for a seven-day “cooling-off” period in addition to the regular five-day notice period. After the “cooling-off” period, landlords must show the court that they have engaged in good faith efforts to reach a reasonable alternative to eviction, including mediation, payment plans or other options before an eviction can proceed.
Through a partnership with the Lawyers’ Committee for Better Housing, renters can receive free legal and mitigation assistance to prevent being evicted. The hotline, Rentervention, is free and confidential, and tenants can call 312-347-7600, visit rentervention.com or text “hi” to 866-7RENTER (866-773-6837) to start a conversation with Renny, Rentervention’s bot. For more information about resources for renters facing possible eviction, visit chicago.gov/eviction.
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COVID-19 Updates
The data doesn't lie: You are much less like to go to the hospital or die because of COVID-19 if you are fully vaccinated, especially as the more contagious Delta variant gains steam. If you are unvaccinated, learn how to get one at chicago.gov/covidvax to help fight the spread of COVID in Chicago and prevent the return of certain restrictions.
Expanded In-Home Vaccination Program
CDPH has expanded capacity of Protect Chicago At Home and extending operating hours until 6:30 p.m. every weekday. Currently, every Chicago household that chooses in-home vaccination also receives a $50 gift card from Grubhub while supplies last. The gift cards are usable immediately at any restaurant available through the Grubhub app. Effective August 2, anyone vaccinated at home can receive either a $50 Grubhub gift card or a $25 Visa gift card. Everyone 12 and up is eligible to receive a vaccine. Learn more here.
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Hire Chicago Initiative
World Business Chicago and The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership are joining the City of Chicago to present Hire Chicago, a one-of-a-kind five-week hybrid hiring event!
Throughout August, Hire Chicago will provide real opportunities for Chicagoans to pursue their passions through free virtual career exploration, learning, and hiring events in addition to in person support if needed and provide employers the opportunity to find the diverse talent pipeline they need to remain competitive.
Each week, beginning Monday, August 2 through Monday, August 30, will focus on one of Chicago’s five high-demand, high-growth industries.
- Week of August 2nd: Manufacturing
- Week of August 9th: Food Service/Hospitality and Tourism
- Week of August 16th: Transportation, Distribution and Logistics
- Week of August 23rd: Healthcare
- Week of August 30th: Technology
There is no charge to participate and job seekers can explore as many industry sectors, and interview with as many employers, as they desire. Both employers and job seekers can go to HireChicago2021.org to register for the event.
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Construction Updates
To receive updates on construction projects in the ward or to share questions and concerns, please email [email protected].
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Ashland/Sunnyside Traffic Survey
Our office is conducting a survey regarding traffic safety in the intersection of Sunnyside and Ashland. Ald. Martin wants to hear from nearby residents as we explore solutions to reduce the number of crashes at this intersection. The survey is open until Friday, August 6. Take the survey here.
Clark St. Arterial Resurfacing
The resurfacing project on Clark Street is moving forward well. Crews expect to be done with the first phase of the work, the replacement of concrete curbs and ADA ramps at corners, by the end of this week. The next phase will include the removal and replacement of the asphalt.
Weather permitting, crews expect to grind (remove) the asphalt in the second half of next week. They expect No Parking signs to be posted on the entire stretch to be resurfaced (Lawrence-Foster and Bryn Mawr-Ashland) for Wednesday 8/4. Parking will be restricted workdays only while work is ongoing. The contractor is coordinating with the Chamber of Commerce to free up parking south of Foster on Friday if possible. Parking restrictions will continue the following week with the first layer of asphalt being put down.
Peoples Gas in Lincoln Square
Over the next week, Peoples Gas will focus most of its efforts around the intersection of Lincoln and Wilson. This will impact parking in the area and traffic flow will be altered and managed by Peoples Gas.
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Residential Street Resurfacing
Street resurfacing work has been mostly completed for our first batch of streets. The few streets that still need new asphalt will be paved shortly. The first batch of streets included, 4600 N Hamilton, 2100 W Cullom, 2400 W Pensacola, 4000 N Campbell and 2400 W Waveland.
The second batch of streets to be resurfaced includes: Paulina between Berteau and Cullom, the cul-de-sac of Virginia south of Wilson, the cul-de-sac of Winchester north of Leland and Ainslie between Claremont and Oakley.
Byron/Janssen Water Main Replacement
Crews are now installing the new water main on the east side of the 3800 and 3900 blocks of Janssen, which they hope to complete early next week. That work will be followed by tests of the new main before crews can begin transferring water services (no earlier than the week of 8/9). Concrete restoration on Byron is ongoing and may take another week or two.
Carmen & Winona Sewer Replacement
After several weeks of work, the contractor has definitively determined that the crews will not need to close Glenwood to traffic based on the location of utilities. Moving forward, the work will continue to only impact the east leg of the intersection of Glenwood and Winona. The work is moving forward well and crews expect to start moving east along that block of Winona within 1-2 weeks. Overall, they believe they are about 1-1.5 months away from final completion of the project, including concrete and asphalt restoration.
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Save the Monarch Butterfly!
Milkweed Monitoring Workshop
The 47th Ward Green Council is partnering with the Field Museum and the Welles Park Advisory Council for a Milkweed Monitoring Workshop! We'll meet up near the Welles Park Nature Play area (southwest corner of the park) at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 1. Register here.
The hour-long session will provide information on the Field Museum's monarch monitoring program and details on how to join the effort, a demonstration and hands-on opportunity to try monitoring yourself, and plant giveaways including two types of milkweed.
Monarchs are charismatic insects and the state insect of Illinois. Monarchs are also in danger. Learn how you can contribute to the effort to save the monarch butterfly by planting beautiful flowers in your yard. Cities like Chicago have a big role to play in helping monarchs bounce back from shrinking numbers. In addition, by monitoring milkweed, scientists can find out how well monarch caterpillars survive in urban spaces. The Monarch Science project asks residents across the Chicago area to record information about milkweed plants in their yards and communities. Whether you have a one plant or a yard full of milkweed, the information you gather will help future monarch butterflies survive.
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August Meeting: Taking Action on the City's Waste Strategy
Join the 47th Ward Green Council for our August general meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 5 on Zoom.
We'll be joined by the Delta Institute and local advocates to dive into the city's recently released Waste Strategy report, and we'll discuss ways we can act on the recommendations locally and citywide. Read the report here. More than 63 resulting recommendations to address waste management were identified and 12 have been prioritized by the City to be addressed in 2021 and 2022.
Do you want to get involved with the Green Council? We have several working groups that are planning various events and initiatives; read more below. We communicate in between meetings via Google Groups that allows you to set how frequently you hear from others. If you'd like to join a working group's Google Group, email [email protected]. View the latest Green Council newsletter here for more events and information.
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Conserving 30x30 with IEC
The 47th Ward Green Council is partnering with the Edgewater Environmental Council and the Illinois Environmental for a town hall on the international 30x30 initiative, a commitment to preserve 30% of the world’s natural spaces by 2030.
This year, President Biden committed the U.S. to conserve 30% land and water by 2030. But what does this mean for Illinois, where only a dismal 4% of our natural lands are legally protected? Tune in for our listening session at 6 p.m. Thursday, August 12 to learn more about 30x30 and the opportunities it creates for Illinois’ communities, places and ecosystems. Register here.
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Recent Zoning Decision
3244 N. Lincoln Ave - Approved
Ald. Martin approved the rezoning of the property from B1-3 to B2-3 TOD to allow for a 4-story building featuring commercial space fronting Lincoln and seven rental units.
This unusual lot faces Lincoln to the east and Melrose to the south, with no alley in between. Alderman Martin refused to support a curb cut for parking access on Melrose in order to preserve pedestrian safety and comfort on this block. This transit-oriented development (TOD) will therefore require a 100% parking reduction, made possible by its close proximity to the Paulina Brown Line stop and to the Ashland bus. As per the Alderman’s established policy, residents will not have access to the permit parking on Melrose.
Alderman Martin is excited to announce that the developer has agreed to incorporate sustainability measures into the building, including a green roof and publicly accessible bike racks. The proposal has the support of the Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce.
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Know Your CAPS Beat
The 2021 CAPS beat meeting schedules for police beats in the 47th Ward are posted on our website here. The 19th District covers most of the 47th Ward (everything south of Lawrence) while the 20th District includes parts of the ward north of Lawrence. View the district webpages to see more recent crime data and communications from the local district.
All beat meetings will be held virtually until further notice. All meetings are at 6:30 p.m. Please contact the district office at 312-744-0064 or [email protected] to receive Zoom login information. The 19th District hosted meetings over the past two weeks. The next beat meetings will be in September.
All beat meetings will be held virtually until further notice. All meetings are at 7pm. Please contact the district office at 312-742-8770 or [email protected] to receive Zoom login information. Upcoming meetings include:
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August 4 - Beat 2033 (Lawrence to Foster | Clark to Winthrop)
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Chicago Family Bike Fest
Chicago Family Bike Fest is Saturday, July 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 3120 N. Greenview Ave (Parking lot between Belmont/Lincoln).
Enjoy this community event celebrating biking with a blend of education, physical activity and fun! Adults will have access to resources that help them safely bike with young independent riders or with children as cargo. Kids will enjoy engaging activities, such as riding through a bike safety course, bike camping fun, strider rental and more. Learn more here.
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Graceland West Garden Walk
Join the Graceland West Community Association for its 39th Annual Garden Walk from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 1.
Maps will be available at 1460 W Belle Plaine, at kiosks and participating gardens, and on the GWCA website, gracelandwest.org.
Exhibiting gardens will display a marker. Ask a Master Gardener and gardening literature will be available at 4334 N Greenview. This is a self-directed tour.
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Andersonville Sidewalk Sale
Participating businesses spanning from 4800 to 5900 N. Clark St. and the adjacent side streets will expand their storefronts to line the sidewalks with summer sales, bargain antiques, one-of-a-kind merchandise, fashion apparel, and local treasures.
The sidewalk sale is July 29-August 1 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (hours vary by business). View participating businesses and learn more here.
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NNA First Wednesday Food Drive
The Northcenter Neighborhood Association (NNA) continues its amazing work to support Common Pantry. They've collected thousands of pounds of food for the pantry this year, and their monthly food drive continues next Wednesday, August 4.
Drop off donations at select NNA members' front porches, and NNA will take the bulk delivery to Common Pantry. View a list of drop-off locations and most needed items on the NNA website.
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Fridays on the Green
Join the Black Ensemble Theater for Fridays on the Green, an intercultural music festival. The events are Friday nights July 30, Aug. 6, Aug. 13) from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Clark and Sunnyside.
There will be live performances from Uptown musical gems, food, and tours of the theater. This event is sponsored by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
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Lincoln Square Artisan & Makers Market
Shop al fresco on select Saturdays this Summer! Stroll through a rotating crew of local artists and makers selling a variety of curated items. Beer and wine also available on-site from Bottles and Cans.
The market is held on Saturday Aug. 7 and Aug. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the new Ainslie Arts Plaza, 4844 N Lincoln.
Click here to learn more about the event and view the list of participating vendors. Continue to check back as vendors will be added.
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Uptown Art Week
Uptown Art Week Returns on August 6-15, with the Uptown Art Fair on August 8!
The 2nd Annual Uptown Art Week will feature over 150 pieces of public art, including more than 40 new works going up on walls around the neighborhood, art exhibits being hosted by local businesses, live paintings, and interactive art activities for all ages.
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Northcenter Summer Concert Series
The Northcenter Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the return of its beloved Summer Concert Series in the new Town Square! Bring a chair or blanket, gather your family & join us for complimentary live music & family fun! Upcoming dates include:
- August 11 - Ludlow
- August 28 - Black Oil Brothers
Face coverings are optional for fully vaccinated guests. Social distancing between parties is encouraged. This program is supported in part/made possible by a grant from the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events with funding from the Walder Foundation. Learn more here.
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Night Out in the Parks
The Chicago Park District released the 2021 schedule for Night Out in the Parks, which activates parks across the city with robust cultural events – bringing neighbors together to laugh, dance, sing, and engage.
Events in 47th Ward parks include:
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Wednesday Night Live
It's hump day, so why not unwind after a long day at work with a cold beverage, music, and a movie during Wednesday Night Live! Taking place in the Ainslie Arts Plaza (4844 N Lincoln Avenue) on one Wednesday in July, August, and September this summer, it's the perfect way to break up your work week to hangout with friends and family. And the best part of the event is it's absolutely FREE!
Carbon Arc / Davis Theater will be out prior to each showing, converting the plaza into our very own beer garden. Each week different beers will be available, as well as wine and other refreshments. Proceeds from concessions help to support Wednesday Night Live being free to the public.
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Andersonville Vintage Market
The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce celebrates summer with its first-ever outdoor Andersonville Vintage Market featuring antiques, home décor, jewelry, accessories, clothing, music and other bric a brac from local retailers, along with several food vendors.
Come treasure hunt for vintage finds on Sunday, August 22 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Catalpa Ave. between Clark and Ashland. Pets are welcome. Admission $5 suggested donation (accepted via Venmo @avillechamber). For additional information, go to the Andersonville Vintage Market page.
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PorchFest Roscoe Village
PorchFest Roscoe Village tickets are on-sale now! Enjoy performances by local musicians across 15 front porches throughout Roscoe Village on Sunday, August 29 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It's the perfect way to discover your new favorite local music, connect with neighbors and explore Roscoe Village! Learn more and purchase tickets here.
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Chicago Public Library Updates
Locally, Sulzer Library is having participants draw their self-portraits to display in gallery in the elementary area of the library on the attached sheet.
Community Summer Celebration at Sulzer
Wednesday, August 4, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Outside of Sulzer Library near the parking lot. Come make art with us! We ’ll have activities and giveaways for the whole family, all in the great outdoors. No registration is required, but masks are.
Chalk it Up! Outdoor Art
Join the Lincoln Belmont Library branch for a sidewalk chalk event every Thursday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. The library will provide the sidewalk chalk and you help decorate. Ages 5 and up. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Learn more here.
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Farmers Market Information
The 47th Ward has a bountiful selection of farmers markets inside and near our ward boundaries. These markets provide environmental, economic, and social benefits to the community, and it’s a great way to support local, sustainable food systems.
Nearby markets include:
- Lincoln Square Farmers Market: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays and 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Thursdays
- Andersonville Farmers Market: 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Wednesdays
- Ravenswood Farmers Market: 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Wednesdays
- Low-Line Market (Lakeview): 3:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursdays
- Northcenter Farmers Market: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays
- Roscoe Village Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays
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47th Ward Ald. Matt Martin | 773-868-4747
Office hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday
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Paid for by Friends of Matt Martin |
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