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Assistance and Funding Available to Support
Communities with Flooding
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The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) is dedicated to supporting local governments as they work to address stormwater management and flooding challenges in their communities. Through its Stormwater Partnership Program, MWRD provides resources and technical expertise to help municipalities deliver projects that reduce flooding and improve water quality.
Communities can apply for reimbursement to offset the costs of constructing new stormwater infrastructure, including innovative green infrastructure solutions such as permeable pavement, rain gardens, or bioswales. MWRD also offers reimbursement for the purchase of flood-prone properties, helping communities reduce long-term flood risks and improve neighborhood resiliency. In addition, applicants may be selected to receive technical and design assistance, working directly with MWRD to identify solutions tailored to their community’s needs.
Once selected, applicants enter into an intergovernmental agreement with MWRD. While local governments retain responsibility for project design, construction, and long-term maintenance, MWRD provides essential financial and technical support. Partners are also required to comply with MWRD’s purchasing and labor standards, as well as meet diversity goals for project participation.
This program represents an opportunity for South Suburban municipalities to take proactive steps in addressing local flooding issues, protecting homes and businesses, and investing in infrastructure that benefits both residents and the environment.
To learn more about eligibility, program requirements, and available reference documents, visit the MWRD Stormwater Partnership Program website.
| | Additional Grant Opportunities and Resources | |
• Green Infrastructure Grant Opportunities: Notice of Funding Opportunity is NOW OPEN and accepting applications through November 5, 2025.
• The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced the FY 2027 Local Highway Safety Improvement call for projects. IDOT plans to allocate $32.75 million to local agencies to support projects that reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries, aligning with the national "moving toward zero" initiative.
• Find a list of DECO grant opportunities for the state of Illinois here.
• Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is accepting grant applications for green infrastructure projects, under the GIGO program. Learn more.
• Check out Will County's small business assistance resource page.
| | News from Community Partners | |
Apply Now: GFPI Community Fund
Applications are open through September 8 for the Metro Chicago Good Food Purchasing Initiative (GFPI) Community Fund. The fund offers flexible grants ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 to support local food businesses and organizations that advance GFPP values, sustainability, equity, fair labor, animal welfare, and nutrition while working toward selling to community meal sites and institutions across Metro Chicago.
Unlike traditional grants, no match or reimbursement is required. Funds will be disbursed at the start of the grant period (November 2025). Learn more.
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Celebrating 20 Years of Workforce Development Month
This September, the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership is celebrating 20 years of Workforce Development Month with podcasts, events, and stories highlighting the impact of workforce programs. Serving more than 10,000 people annually, The Partnership helps residents gain skills, secure jobs, and boost the regional economy, adding an estimated $167.5 million in wages last year alone. Read the full press release here.
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Cook County Launches “Get Naloxone” Campaign
Cook County officials and the Department of Public Health have launched the Get Naloxone campaign to raise awareness about naloxone, a safe, easy-to-use medication that reverses opioid overdoses.
Free naloxone is now available at more than 40 distribution sites across suburban Cook County, with campaign materials in English and Spanish. Residents are encouraged to learn the lifesaving steps: Lay, Spray, Stay. To find free naloxone and training, visit GetNaloxoneCookCounty.com.
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Become a Data Ambassador!
The Cook County Department of Public Health, in partnership with the UIC School of Public Health, invites community members, public health professionals, educators, and advocates to join the 2025 Data Ambassadors Program.
This free training series will build your skills in using public health data, navigating the Cook County Health Atlas, and interpreting data for organizational decision-making. Attend all sessions to become a certified Data Ambassador and help train others in your community! Register here.
| | Job Postings & Requests for Proposals | |
• SSMMA offers a list of local job opportunities and RFPs throughout the south suburban region directly on our website.
• Municipalities and organizations can send job openings and proposals here to be publicly posted.
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2025 Fall Auction
The fall Surplus Vehicle and Equipment Auction will be held at noon on Tuesday, October 21 at America’s Auto Auction in Crestwood. Thank you to Palatine and Tinley Park for registering for the last live auction of the year. Please note that vehicles and equipment can be listed for disposal right up to the morning of the auction day.
In addition, America’s Auto Auction hosts online sales on par with other government surplus Internet auctions. Please remember that a portion of the proceeds helps support the organization's operations. America’s AA also hosts online sales on par with other government surplus Internet auctions. For more information, please contact staff or America’s AA Sales Executive Manager Maria Cortez, 708-389-4488.
SPC Extends 2026 Ford Explorer Contract The Suburban Purchasing Cooperative (SPC)
Governing Board has approved the first of three (3) possible, one-year contract extensions on the 2026 Ford Explorer (Contract #231) with Currie Motors. The 2026 basic model is $36,595.00, up $384.00 over last year. The SPC reserves the right to extend the contract for up to two (2) additional, one-year terms upon mutual agreement on a negotiated basis. For questions or additional information, please contact staff or Commercial Accounts Manager Nic Cortellini, 815-464-9200
Check out the weekly briefing here.
| For more information visit ssmma.org/spc or contact Melissa Doud. |
Have something you'd like included in our next newsletter? Email it to news@ssmma.org.
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