Dear Neighbors,
This is a longer newsletter but includes several important updates. If you can, grab a coffee and stick with us until the end:
Chicago Board of Education: On Friday, it was announced that the entire Chicago Board of Education (BOE) is resigning. As reported by media outlets, Mayor Johnson convinced the BOE to resign after the BOE refused to fire CPS CEO Pedro Martinez or approve a short-term, high-interest payday loan to pay off a pension debt (instead of continuing the city progress toward fiscally responsible debt payoff). Further, the Mayor has announced that he will appoint a whole new BOE today. This BOE would only serve for a few months before a newly elected BOE comes into office; however, in those few months, it would be the decision-maker related to CEO Martinez’s future and the payday loan.
Because of this news, I decided to wait to send our newsletter until completing this letter signed by 41 alderpeople calling for an immediate hearing before any new appointments to the BOE are established. It is my opinion that the Mayor’s decision to replace the BOE in a matter of days is inappropriate, unethical, and the opposite of ‘progressive’ (as I view the term’s principles of transparency and accountability in government). CPS’ budget is meant to better the lives of our teachers and students; however, if our city takes the payday loan being proposed, we will set ourselves up for a failing school system in the future. I commend CEO Martinez for standing strong amidst significant pressure.
Previous to serving as an alderman, I worked in the private sector with boards of companies small and large. If a CEO, without shareholder approval, caused an overhaul of their board in order to complete a specific agenda, they would be investigated for breach of fiduciary duty. If not, it would beg the question, what was the point of the board in the first place? Any new appointee to the BOE should keep their ethical duties to our city in mind.
Development at former Affordable Portables/Dunlay’s Site: At this Tuesday’s meeting of the Committee on Zoning, the rezoning of 2600 N. Clark Street (from B1-2 to B3-5) will be considered (click here for the final project plan, referred to herein as the “Proposed Project”). Previously, this corner was home to Affordable Portables and Dunlay’s, fixtures of the Lincoln Park community. Since these businesses closed in the late 2010s, the buildings have remained largely unused. For the past 2 years, our office has worked hands-on with developers interested in this site, in order to highlight the importance of getting this central corner done with a project that will set the stage for our vision of a revitalized Clark Street.
After turning down several proposals for the site, our office received the Proposed Project to build a 7-story building with 66 residential units (most of which are high-end one-bedroom units) and 3600 square feet of ground-floor retail. The Proposed Project built-in priorities that our office has made public, such as 20% of Units being “affordable” on-site, increased setbacks for expanded pedestrian space and driver sight lines, and a reduced carbon footprint. In July, the Park West Neighborhood Association (PWNA) and our office hosted a community meeting to gather feedback from nearly 100 neighbors. The Project received a significant amount of positive and productive community feedback and was covered by local media. With the assistance of PWNA, we then crafted a binding Memorandum of Understanding (to review, click here) to memorialize developer covenants regarding parking, a more robust traffic study, garbage receptacles, and more. These covenants will assist the corner for years to come.
As a result of this community process, I am happy to announce our formal support for the Project at 2600 N. Clark at the former site of Affordable Portables & Dunlay's. Clark Street in the 43rd Ward has great bright spots. With the right kind of investment, I am confident that we can fill Clark’s current vacancies and make it one of the best commercial corridors in the City. We thank our wonderful partners at PWNA who share this vision. Together, we look forward to bringing more proposals that will strengthen Clark Street to the community this year.
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Meet & Greet with State Treasurer’s Office: Last Tuesday, our office hosted a Meet & Greet with Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerich’s office at the Chicago Public Library Lincoln Park Branch. We have a strong relationship with the Treasurer’s Office, built on a belief that they provide services important to ward residents of all ages. For example, through the Treasurer’s Office, you can set up a “529” college savings account for any child in your life with contributions being tax deductible. I have 529 accounts set up for both of my nieces and my nephew, and the current average return on investment (ROI) per account is over 10%. In addition, the State Treasurer’s Office makes it easy to save and invest for expenses related to living with a disability, and it currently holds more than $5 billion in unclaimed funds. Check here to see if Illinois is holding any of your unclaimed property. When we did a search in our office, a majority of our staff found that they were owed money, now being sent their way!
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Remembering the devastation of October 7th: To all of our friends and neighbors who recently celebrated “Rosh Hashanah” (the Jewish New Year), we say “Shanah Tova!” from the 43rd Ward Office. As the Jewish High Holidays are observed, today also marks one year since the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. One year after the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust, we remember the innocent lives lost and pray for a return of all remaining hostages and an end to this devastating conflict. This week I spoke with the Chicago Sun-Times on our recent legislative measures to reduce hate speech, which has added to the mental toll this past year has taken on many in the 43rd Ward. Rosh Hashanah teaches us that every day is an opportunity for renewal, and I hope this Fall we all get increased time with loved ones, new healthy habits, or time in meditation.
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P.S. on Recent Mailers Sent in the 43rd Ward: Several neighbors reported to our office that they are receiving mailers noting that “Alderman Knudsen Put Special Interests Before Our Community.” These mailers were sent by an unidentified sender in several wards where Alderpeople had voiced support for the Clean and Affordable Buildings Ordinance (CABO). CABO was introduced last year with the goal of eliminating harmful emissions from gas in new construction buildings, while not requiring anything of existing homes or buildings. As reported, the mailers are a part of the gas lobby’s fight against decarbonization measures to reduce climate change. Conveniently, the mailers did not reference the Illinois Commerce Commission’s recent decision to deny Peoples Gas’ proposed historic rate hike.
In a previous newsletter, I wrote about my support for CABO as a step toward the Chicago Climate Action Plan’s goal to reduce carbon emissions by 62% by 2040. Policies included in CABO would assist Chicago in becoming the future climate migration hub that our geography allows. Due to high-quality development in the 43rd Ward, most new developments in the 43rd Ward already meet CABO standards. After CABO’s introduction, the City Council hosted an open hearing, and I began individual meetings with stakeholders who had concerns. In doing so, I publicly noted that I would work to negotiate CABO’s language to ensure it preserves good-paying, union jobs as we shift to a clean energy economy. Overall, I agree with the core belief of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal that boosting green infrastructure will have the impact of creating more good-paying union jobs for generations to come.
CABO was tabled before meaningful negotiations began, and these mailers appear to serve as a warning to Alderpeople to not introduce similar measures fighting back against climate change. The money spent on these mailers is an example of how difficult it is to pass pro-environmental legislation at the local level. However, we need to continue to push to reduce Chicago’s carbon footprint. If we don’t, stating our “2040 Climate Goals” is merely a vanity project. No matter the mailers, I am hopeful that stakeholders opposed to the initial CABO draft also want Chicago to reach its climate goals. Therefore, I am ready to work together to draft policies that support this safer green future.
We believe that four mailers will be sent to ward residents (at an expense of nearly $100,000); therefore, we ask that you help us inform your neighbors. We would love your feedback on Chicago’s environmental initiatives and ideas for future legislation. Please click here to submit.
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The 43rd Ward Office will be closed Monday October 14th in observance of Indigenous Peoples Day/Columbus Day. Our Saturday Office Hours will also be closed on October 12th. The office will reopen on Tuesday October 15th at 9am.
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Shred Event on October 20th
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As our city government and safety leadership transition into the next Administration, crime, and safety remain top of mind for our community. Each week, the 18th and 19th District post Compstat numbers that reflect changes in indexes for key crimes. In an effort to keep residents informed on these trends, we will publish those weekly updates in the newsletter’s public safety section. As a reminder, these statistics represent 100% of the 18th and 19th Police Districts; accordingly, they represent an area much larger than our ward.
For 18th District (south of Fullerton) Compstat,
For 19th District (north of Fullerton) Compstat,
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We work closely with the 43rd Ward’s local CAPS districts, which include the 18th (Near North) and 19th (Town Hall) Police Districts.
Our office is in frequent contact with officers from both of these districts and their local CAPS officers, who host a variety of community forums and events including beat meetings, informational settings, and expert panel discussions, as well as sending out community alerts when a pattern of crime is detected.
Beat Meetings are part of the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy and an excellent way to hear directly from CPD about your neighborhood. Meetings are held in the evenings every two months. Click here and find out your Police District and Beat number.
2024 43rd Ward CAPS Meetings
Beat 1811 (5 PM) & 1813 (6 PM): November 5.
Beats 1811 and 1813 meet at St. James Lutheran Church located at 2050 N Fremont St. They are in the basement of the Church and you should enter through the northernmost door on Fremont St. There is residential parking on the street with applicable zone parking restrictions.
Beat 1812 (5 PM) & 1814 (6 PM): November 7.
Beat 1812 and 1814 are hosted at Wintrust Bank located at 100 W. North Ave. There is very little parking on site but it is near the North and Clybourn Red Line stop and the Sedgwick Brown Line. It is also en route to the Clark St Bus. The meetings are hosted on the 2nd Floor of the bank. Elevators are on site.
Beat 1824 (6 PM): November 14.
Beat 1824 meets at 1201 N Clark St in the Clark St Apartments. It is very close to the Clark and Division Red Line Stop.
Beat 1932 (6:30 PM): December 3.
Beat 1932 is hosted in the sanctuary at New Life Church located at 1110 W Lill Ave. There is street parking with applicable zone parking restrictions. New Life Church is within walking distance of the Fullerton Red and Brown Line and the Diversey Brown Line.
Beat 1935 (6:30 PM): October 16, December 18.
Beat 1935 is hosted at Chabad East Lakeview located at 615 W Wellington Ave.
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19th District Community Conversations
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Looking to register to vote? Did you recently move or change your name and need to update your registration? Check out one of the options below!
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Early Voting in Chicago will start on Thursday, October 3 at 9:00am at the Voting Supersite (191 N. Clark) and Board Offices (69 W. Washington St. - 6th Floor).
Early Voting in all 50 Wards of Chicago begins Monday, October 21 at 9:00am.
Ward 43: Lincoln Park Library located at 1150 W. Fullerton Ave.
Any voter in Chicago can vote at any Early Voting site, no matter where they live in the city, & voters can choose whatever voting site is most convenient for them, including on Election Day. All Early Voting locations are ADA-compliant and fully accessible to voters with disabilities.
Chicago 50 Ward Early Voting Times:
Weekdays: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Voting on Election Day (NOV. 5th) - Locate your precinct polling place or closest vote center.
Election Day (Nov. 5): 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
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Below is a list of Mental Health resources that are available locally here in the City of Chicago.
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45th Annual Bank of America Chicago Marathon
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The 45th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is on Sunday, October 8, 2023. We’re thrilled that more than 47,000 participants from all 50 Wards and around the world will be able to experience the diversity and beauty of our city.
Towing and Street Closures:
Please see below for Street Closure start time and anticipated opening time. More information here.
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Order Your 4 Free At-home COVID-19 Tests
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As of late September 2024, residential households in the U.S. are eligible for another order of #4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here's what you need to know about your order:
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The Chicago Department of Transportation has released pamphlets featuring a comprehensive map of bike infrastructure throughout the city, detailing locations of protected bike lanes, neighborhood greenways, off-street trails, bike shops, Divvy stations, and more. You can pick up a pamphlet from our office or view the full digital map here.
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Bring a canned good for the Nourishing Hope Food Pantry and get a free pumpkin from State Representative Margaret Croke! You can bring your canned good to Howler at Bauler on Oct. 26th from 3-5pm at Bauler Park!
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Fall Programs at Park West Co-op
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Check out the great activities for your toddler / preschooler at Park West Co-op this fall. Classes include a Saturday Tots class, kids fitness classes, music and drama classes and a new Little Book Club offering, all in the Lincoln Park neighborhood!
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Pumpkin Carving at Carnival Grocery
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Family friendly pumpkin carving at Carnival Grocery on October 26th from 11am-2pm.
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Neighbor Nights event at The Theatre School
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Welcome to Neighbor Nights-Play at DePaul's Theater School! Join us at The Theatre School at DePaul University on November 7th for an evening of entertainment and fun. Get ready to experience the magic of live theater right in your neighborhood. We will have a wine and cheese reception from 6pm-7pm, then watch DePaul's students perform Shakespeare's All's Well that Ends Well for free. This is an opportunity to mingle with other neighbors and get to know folks at DePaul.
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St. James Lutheran School Virtual Admissions
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Considering starting your child in school or looking for a new option? Enrollment for the 2025/26 school year is open!
Join us for our Virtual Admissions on October 17th to learn more about what St. James has to offer. If you prefer an in-person experience, visit us at our Open House on November 16th from 10 AM to 12 PM.
To reserve your spot for the Virtual Admissions Coffee, please contact ccook@stjames-lutheran.org.
For more details, visit their website here.
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See Something Say Something Public Safety Campaign
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If You See Something, Say Something is a national anti-terrorism public awareness campaign that emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement. We want to remind everyone to be aware of their surroundings in large gatherings, at work, schools, places of worship, critical facilities and online, and to report suspicious activity. If you notice something suspicious, please call 9-1-1.
Employees should report anything suspicious through their chain of command and call 9-1-1 for any immediate, obvious threat.
The OEMC has put together the following social media toolkit that you can use to create your own posts.
DHS has also developed training videos and suspicious activity indicators to assist with recognizing the kinds of suspicious behaviors that may be related to terrorism activities; understanding how and where to report this information; and protecting privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties when reporting information.
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Neighborhood Business Development Center (NBDC) Introduction
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Come out to provide feedback on a new and patented and trademarked product created by a local entrepreneur centered around sustainability and creating local job opportunities within the Humboldt Park community. Participants will be asked to complete a survey upon reviewing the product.
EVENT DATE:
EVENT TIME:
EVENT LOCATION
Chicago Public Library - Lincoln Park Branch: 1150 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL 60614
EVENT INCENTIVES:
(1) $50 Visa gift card raffle
Slice of pizza for each participant
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October 26th at 7pm: Zamzama Safi - Never Give Up: How I Fought the Taliban and Won
Join us on October 26th at St. James for an inspiring talk by Zamzama Safi, a powerful advocate for women's rights and education. Her remarkable journey from Afghanistan to the U.S. is filled with courage and resilience. Having faced unimaginable challenges, including her abduction by the Taliban at 15, Zamzama has dedicated her life to advocating for those in need. Now a motivational speaker, she shares her experiences and encourages others to confront adversity with strength and hope. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear her compelling story and be inspired. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Parking Enforcement via 311
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The Department of Finance (DOF) announced that City residents now have the option of reporting the following parking enforcement violations on the 311 app or online:
- Bus Lane Parking
- Commercial Loading Zone
- Commercial Vehicle Parked on a Residential Street
- Disabled Parking
- Fire Hydrant Parking
- Residential Parking
- Rush Hour Zones
- School Safety Zones
- Vehicle Parked in Bike Lane
- Other (Semi-trucks parked on streets, etc.)
Where previously only bike lane violations could be reported on 311, the DOF has now expanded the ability to report parking violations, to drive more community-based enforcement.
Neighbors can report parking violations by calling 311, using the CHI311 app, or through the 311 website. The request type is “Finance Parking Code Enforcement Review.”
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Have questions about street work happening in your area? The Department of Transportation has a wonderful tool to look up street work in your area called the Chi Street Work Portal. Here you can input an address and see all surrounding permits for projects on that street.
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I want to keep spreading the good word of how powerful a tool CHI 311 is to address non-emergency services in our Ward. Via the CHI 311 website and mobile app, you can:
- Create new service requests and check the status of existing requests (such as on timing and completion).
- Snap a photo of an issue to submit it with a request to improve location accuracy.
- Get local and relevant information/tips regarding the 43rd Ward including visibility into what other requests are being made in your neighborhood. The free CHI 311 mobile app is available for both iOS and Android devices and may be downloaded in the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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