Alderman Reilly Opposes $830 Million

Bond Deal

Next week at City Council, Alderman Reilly will be voting “no” on the Mayor’s $830 million bond deal. Under the plan, Chicago would borrow the money but make zero payments until 2027, followed by interest-only payments lasting through 2045. By the time the city begins paying off the actual debt, taxpayers will owe much more than they borrowed. This deal comes after two major credit agencies downgraded Chicago’s credit rating to just above junk status. Click here to read S&P Global Ratings’ report. 

Similar to Mayor Johnson’s 2025 Budget, which Alderman Reilly also strongly opposed, this poorly structured “deal” relies on temporary fixes without considering the long term impact on taxpayers. Due to the interest-only repayment structure, this will ultimately cost taxpayers over $2 billion. 

The bond deal is fiscally irresponsible, especially after the city’s credit downgrade and with the mayor’s 2025 budget increasing taxes and fees on working families.

Safety Alert for Pet Owners in River North

As reported by CBS and CWB, a recent incident in River North has brought attention to the risks of stray voltage for pets. Over the weekend, a wire was pinched on North Dearborn Street, causing a manhole cover and light pole to become electrically live. Two dogs walking in the area were shocked, and sadly, one of them lost its life.

Stray voltage can occur when exposed wires come into contact with moisture, creating a hidden electrical hazard. While such incidents are rare, factors like rain and salt can increase the risk. As a dog owner, Alderman Reilly expressed concern over the incident and quickly contacted the Department of Transportation (CDOT) to ensure the voltage was repaired. CDOT responded swiftly, repaired the issue within an hour, and confirmed that the area is currently safe.

Click here for CDOT’s official statement.

Although stray voltage is difficult to detect, CDOT recommends that pet owners take extra precautions. These include using shoes or booties for dogs, avoiding allowing them to urinate on light poles and being cautious around manholes. By following these tips, pet owners can help ensure the safety of their animals and the community.

Tax Free Prep Assistance

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) is excited to announce the return of the Tax Prep program, offering free income tax preparation and assistance for households earning up to $67,000 or individuals earning up to $35,000 annually. Services will be available at various Chicago and suburban locations from January 25 to April 15, 2025. No appointment is needed - but it is recommended that neighbors arrive early, as sites close when they reach capacity.

For further information on accessing the free tax assistance program:

• Call the City’s 211 helpline
• Visit the City’s tax assistance website
• Contact (312) 588-6900 for inquiries
• Visit the IRS website and search for “free tax help” or call (800) 829-1040

You Are Invited to Join Alderman Reilly to March in the St. Patrick's Day Parade

The annual downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held on Saturday, March 15 at 12:15pm. You are invited to join Alderman Reilly to march in the parade. Our float will be in Slot #42, which will be on East Balbo, west of North Columbus.

Due to street closures for the parade, we encourage you to arrive at Slot #42 at 11:15am to ensure access. Please click here to RSVP to march in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade with Alderman Reilly and his team.

We hope to see you at the parade!

Polar Plunge Sunday, March 2 at North Avenue Beach

Make a splash and make a difference on Sunday, March 2 at North Avenue Beach!  Join in the fun at Polar Plunge® Chicago benefiting Special Olympics Illinois presented by Special Children's Charities! Don't miss this incredible winter event that supports a great cause! Celebrate the event's 25th Anniversary with thousands of fellow warm-hearted people. Help make a lasting difference for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Reserve your spot at the beach and register today at specialchildrenscharities.org. 

Check out the fun you'll have here!

Register for the 18th District Senior Citizen Law Enforcement Academy

The 18th District is accepting applications for the Senior Citizen Law Enforcement Academy, starting March 5, 2025. If you are interested in applying, please call 708-865-7341 (Sheriff's Office), or contact the CAPS office at 312-742-5778, and ask for Officer Nomellini. 

CAPS Meetings

18th District: (312-742-5778 / CAPS018District@chicagopolice.org)

• There are no CAPS meetings scheduled in this district for the month of February.

1st District: (312-745-4381 / CAPS001District@chicagopolice.org)

• There are no CAPS meetings scheduled in this district for the remainder of February.