September 22, 2023
www.ssmma.org
Don't Forget to Register for the South Suburban Airport Luncheon!
There are still seats available! Please join SSMMA, the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce, Chicago Southland Economic Development Corporation, Ida’s Legacy, and other stakeholders for a lunch event on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, from noon - 2 p.m., at the Vernard Alsberry Municipal Center, 3601 W. 183rd Street, Hazel Crest, where we’ll hear from renowned airport expert Angela Gittens who will discuss the "South Suburban Airport's Promise."

As an aviation expert and former CEO of both Atlanta Hartsfield International and Miami International Airports, Ms. Gittens will share her vast knowledge and discuss how the South Suburban Airport's strategic location and the evolving renewable technology puts it in a unique position to be a model for Illinois and the rest of the nation.

Join us for a delicious lunch catered by Scrementi’s and hear from an expert on how we as a region and state have an unprecedented opportunity before us. RSVP here for the luncheon meeting.
SSMMA Hiring for an Environmental Justice Policy and Government Affairs Specialist
The South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association is looking for an Environmental Justice Policy and Government Affairs Specialist to join our team to support our work advancing inclusive and transformative environmental and economic policies that benefit Chicago’s South Suburbs. Interested applicants can find additional details here.

Contact Sarah Kobetis for more information.
Upcoming Meetings and Events

Visit our website for SSMMA's meeting schedule, Zoom log-in information, and meeting materials.

SSMMA Business Meeting -September 28 at 5:00pm via Zoom (note time change)

September 21-23.
SAVE THE DATE!
December 7 at Dream Palace, hosted by Mayor Jada D. Curry & the Village of Lynwood.
Grant Opportunities and Resources
• The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) announced the availability of $4 million in funding for the Small Equipment Grant Program. The program provides grants of up to $26,000 to eligible departments to purchase small tools and equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE). Learn more.

• The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has released the Fiscal Year 2023 Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) Program, with up to $3.16 billion available for planning and construction projects.

• Interested in learning about a grant life cycle or details of grants? The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity offers live upcoming live trainings.

• Find a list of 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
FEMA Disaster Recovery Offers Resources for South Suburban Residents
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is offering resources for residents impacted by the recent flooding. To apply for direct assistance visit here. Find additional resources at the links below.
Little Calumet River Underground Railroad Project to Host Informational Meeting for Chicago to Detroit Freedom Trail
• The Chicago to Detroit Freedom Trail follows the route of Freedom Seekers who traveled through our region seeking their freedom in Canada during the days prior to the Civil War.

• Please join us on Thursday, September 28 from 4:00-6:00pm at South Suburban College to discuss the fascinating stories of the Underground Railroad history in our backyards and to make plans for routing a Chicago to Detroit Freedom Trail across the region. Attendees are invited to bring their own information brochures; a table will be available.

• For more information contact Tom Shepard at 773-370-3355.
Safe Routes Partnership Accepting Applications for Free Technical Assistance Program
• Safe Routes Partnership is seeking applications for a free technical assistance award program to create safe, convenient, and equitable access to parks and open spaces.

• Applications and a letter of interest are due by October 9, 2023. Learn more.
• The Illinois Office of the Comptroller invites you to an informational
event for minority elected officials, mayors and managers.

• Save the date for October 19 from 9:00am until 4:00pm at DePaul University. To register, email Julie Ayres.
• The Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau will hold its annual meeting & and awards luncheon on October 4th at 11:30am. This year's event will be held at the Doubletree Hotel in Alsip, IL.

• Register here! For more information call (708) 895-8200.
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.

SPC News
Reminder: SPC Extends Ford Escape Contract – Order Today!

• The Suburban Purchasing Cooperative (SPC) Governing Board has approved the first of three possible, one-year contract extensions on the 2024 Ford Escape AWD Active (SE Trim) (Contract #206) with Currie Motors of Frankfort. There is a $2,980.00 increase over the 2022 model, but with a $1,100.00 government incentive, pricing is reduced to $29,028.00. The SPC reserves the right to extend this contract for up to two (2) additional, one-year terms upon mutual agreement of both the vendor and the SPC on a negotiated basis. This is the only Escape model offered for 2024 and there will be a limited window of production beginning this November. For questions or additional information, please contact staff or Tom Sullivan, at tsullivan@curriemotors.com or 815-464-9200, ext. 201.
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