Third Ward Newsletter

November 2022

In this Issue


Third Ward Update


Important Announcements


November CAPS

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Dear Brian,


Along with delivering timely constituent services, passing a sensible, balanced budget that meets the needs of Chicagoans is one of the most important things I do as an Alderman. A budget isn't just taxes, it's a way to improve the city through thoughtful, targeted programming with the goal of making Chicago the best city to live, work, and raise a family.


Important initiatives like homelessness prevention, road resurfacing, lead pipe replacement, police manpower and training, mental health services, affordable housing, LED street lights, commercial development, street sweeping, arts initiatives and more are all funded through the city budget. The budget is also used to innovate, to find ways to improve Chicago for the next generation, with programs like Universal Basic Income, public safety alternate response models, purchasing a hotel to use as a City SRO, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, cured-in-place sewer lining, and Utility Billing Relief. 


Out of the many items funded in the budget I am proud of, one that is particularly close to my heart is the $3 million allocated for the "Tiny Homes" initiative. I've been an advocate for Tiny Homes for years and I'm glad it's getting funding as part of this budget. Tiny Homes can be a game changer for our city, utilizing existing city-owned vacant lots to build small, affordable homes for people looking to downsize, purchase their first home, or to alleviate homelessness. 


For the FY23 Budget, the city is doubling down on its pledge for fiscal responsibility by not only paying its pension obligations, but depositing $242 million extra this year to help the funds catch up after generations of mismanagement, and to save the Chicago taxpayers over $2 billion dollars in pension obligations long-term. 


And last, after a difficult pandemic battered our residents' finances, with my advocacy, the proposed property tax increase has been REMOVED from the budget. Quite simply, it's not the time to further burden residents and businesses with increased property tax payments. 


For more information about the city budget, including the complete budget documents, please go to www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/obm/provdrs/budget.html or visit my Committee's website at www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/committee-on-the-budget/home.html.


As always, the 3rd Ward Public Service Office staff and I are available to assist you by phone at 773-373-9273 or via email at Ward03@cityofchicago.org. Thank you for reading this newsletter. Please share it with a neighbor or friend.


Sincerely,


Pat Dowell

Alderman, 3rd Ward

Third Ward Update

New, Updated Fall 2022 COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters Are Available for 5-to-11-year-olds Following Federal Approval

Children 5 to 11 years old who have already completed a primary COVID-19 vaccine series are now eligible for the new, updated COVID-19 vaccines following approval from federal health officials, and the vaccines are in Chicago according to the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). These new bivalent boosters for younger children follow the approval of bivalent boosters for older children and adults. 


Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent boosters will be available for children ages 5 through 11 years, whereas previously they were only available for people age 12 and up. Moderna bivalent boosters will now be available for children ages 6 through 17 years, whereas previously they were only available for people age 18 and up.


Both the Pfizer and Moderna pediatric boosters use lower, “kid-size” doses than the versions available for adults and older children, which limited side effects in clinical trials.  COVID-19 vaccines have undergone and continue to undergo the most intense vaccine safety monitoring in U.S. history. Clinical research has demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of both the original COVID vaccine and the updated boosters. More than 12.7 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have now been given around the world, saving countless lives.


For those who need help finding a nearby vaccine site, Vaccines.gov is a free online service that you can use to search for nearby pharmacies and providers that offer vaccination. Residents can also call the City’s COVID-19 call center at 312-746-4835.

Armstrong Park Ribbon Cutting

Ribbon cutting complete!! Congratulations to the Armstrong Park Advisory Council (4433 S. St. Lawrence Ave.) for successfully obtaining the support of the Chicago Cubs Charities and the Chicago Park District to build two new baseball diamonds through the Cubs Charities Diamond Project. Kudos to Dakota and Shemeka Irby, the Spauldings, the Erwins, the Edwards, and all the PAC members for your commitment. Alderman Dowell is proud to represent and work with all the residents who love this park and see its value to our children.

Redefining Red Line in Washington Park

Huge thank you to the visionary Amanda Williams for her Redefining Red-lining statement in Washington Park. It was an amazing day and unique experience for Alderman Dowell and everyone involved in planting 100,000 red tulips in Washington Park at 53rd St, and Prairie Ave. The bulbs help remind residents and policymakers of the impact the racist red-lining policy continues to have on our communities. Alderman Dowell continues to fight for fair lending practices in Chicago, supporting ordinances that hold banks and lenders accountable for their lending practices and ensuring the City supports lending in traditionally underserved communities like those within the 3rd Ward. The best part of the experience is knowing that all the flowers will bloom in the Spring of 2023 - right in time for the busy spring real estate season - serving as a visual reminder of how we should be investing in our neighborhoods!

Alderman Dowell Celebrates Diwali in City Hall

On October 20th, Alderman Dowell and the American Multi Ethnic Coalition hosted their 2nd annual Diwali celebration in City Hall. According to the National Geographic Diwali is a "five-day festival of lights [bringing] prayer, feasts, fireworks and, for some, a new year. Diwali is India's most important festival of the year—a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil." Alderman Dowell was joined by many of her City Council colleagues to celebrate the holiday, enjoy some traditional Indian food, and learn more about Diwali and traditional Indian culture. 

Illinois National Guard Armory Potential Sale

The Illinois National Guard has confirmed their intention to sell the property located at 1910 S. Calumet Ave. Currently, the armory has a skeleton crew to maintain the building's the utilities and physical structure. The push to sell, however, is moving forward. The sale of this property will require a competitive bidding process and approval by both the Illinois General Assembly and the Governor. As more information about the bidding process and this potential sale becomes available, the 3rd Ward Public Service Office will alert residents immediately.

BLACKLION Moves to Motor Row

Founded 27+ years ago in Charlotte, North Carolina, BLACKLION is moving to the historic Cadillac property at 2412 S. Michigan Ave. BLACKLION will bring a new shopping experience to the Motor Row area. As neighborhood residents, BLACKLION's owners are passionate about investing in the community, and wanted to create a space where people can find inspired décor, furniture, gifts, seasonal goods and decorating ideas for every style. Check out their website at www.blacklion.com for more information about the store and a sneak-peak at their great offerings!

Bronzeville 5K Run/Walk Cruises Through the Neighborhood

Congratulations to Latrina and Valane Spaulding for another successful Bronzeville 5K Run/Walk. This family friendly community event grows bigger every year. Thank you for your commitment and kudos to the Chicago Park District’s Maceo Johnson for your support. The Bronzeville 5K starts and ends at Armstrong Park (4433 S. St. Lawrence Ave.), and runs along Cottage Grove Ave. to 35th St., then down historic King Drive., before turning back to the park on 44th St. Sam Levon won the race, completing the course in 18:13. 

Construction Activity Notice - CTA Park and Ride Lot at the Garfield Green Line Station

The CTA's Park and Ride Lot at the Garfield Green Line station is being repaved. Work is scheduled to continue on Saturday, November 12th and Sunday, November 13th from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.  


The lot will remain open during normal business hours (except during the dates and times listed). Access may be occasionally obstructed while work is in progress. The entire west parking lot will be closed Friday, November 11th at 10:00 pm to Sunday, November 13th at 6:00 pm. During this time, customers are encourage to use the spaces on the east side of the Garfield Green line station. 


Access to the Garfield Green Line station will be maintained. Construction activity will take place during daytime and nighttime hours. There will be noise while work is performed. There may be a brief wait time to allow trucks to move in and out of the work area via Prairie Ave. Questions should be directed to Hector Cirilo at 312-681-3446 or at hcirilo@transitchicago.com

3rd Ward Street Lighting Projects

The following streets in the 3rd Ward are schedule to receive new street lights! Construction will include new underground conduits, cables, new arterial light poles with piggyback lights, new controllers, and new LED Smart lighting.

 

During construction temporary “No Parking” signs will periodically be posted as required to perform the work safely. These signs will restrict parking during working hours, and residents can park normally after the hours posted and overnight.

 

The existing lights will remain working until the new system is functioning. If no lighting is observed at night at any time, please notify 311 immediately.


  • Wabash Ave. from 51st St. to 53rd St. - Project Complete
  • Calumet Ave. from Pershing Rd. to 41st St. - Project Complete
  • Federal St. from Roosevelt Rd. to 14th St. - In Design
  • Plymouth Ct. from Roosevelt Rd. to 14th St. - In Design
  • Prairie Ave. from 45th St. to 47th St. - Scheduled to begin early November 2022
  • Indiana Ave. from 43rd St. to 45th St. - Active Construction
  • Indiana Ave. from 51st St. to 55th St. - Active Construction


These improvements are funded through a variety of investments supported by Alderman Dowell, including: local TIF dollars, the 2021 and 2022 Capital Programs, and Aldermanic Menu funds. If you have questions or would like updates on these projects, please call the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

3324-34 S. Prairie Ave Wins Historic Preservation Award

TRB Properties' development at 3324-34 S. Prairie Ave, in the Calumet-Giles-Prairie District in the 3rd Ward, has received a 2022 “Chicago Landmark Award for Preservation Excellence." Since 1999, the awards are presented annually to individuals, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and public agencies that have worked to preserve Chicago's architectural and cultural heritage. The winners were chosen from dozens of projects reviewed by the Landmarks Commission’s Permit Review Committee over the last year.

47th St. and Indiana Ave. - ComEd Conduit Installation

Commonwealth Edison has requested the installation of 193 feet of conduit on 47th St. going east starting at Indiana Ave. The purpose of this infrastructure work is to increase ComEd service in the area. Construction is planned to begin in Q4 2022. When a schedule for the work is established, it will be posted publicly by ComEd and sent out by the 3rd Ward Public Service Office.

St. Lawrence Ave. from 46th St. to 47th St. - Sewer Lining Project

The Department of Water Management’s private contractor is scheduled to start work on a Sewer Lining Project with an anticipated start date of Friday, November 4, 2022 (Weather Permitting). This project will rehabilitate the existing sewer in your area without the conventional digging method. This sewer rehabilitation will minimize, if not eliminate, street cave-ins due to failure in old sewers. In addition, it will bring better drainage to your area and may help alleviate flooding during heavy rain. This project is expected to be completed approximately by End of December 2022.


Work Includes the following:

  • Cleaning and televising of the Main Sewer
  • Catch Basin, manholes structures and the main sewer will be lined, and the reinstatement of house drain services will proceed and must be completed to relieve the drains
  • The lined sewer will be televised to ensure that the work was done properly


What to expect:

During workdays, mobilization will start at 6:00 am. Actual work will begin at 7:00 am. Work is expected to be completed by 7 p.m. No Parking signs will be posted in the immediate area of work a day before any

scheduled work. Residents are urged to move their vehicles away from the worksite to avoid being towed.

It will be necessary to close lanes of these streets to ensure public safety during work hours. Equipment and materials will be on the street during the work. If necessary, detours and alternative bus stops will be posted. During the main sewer lining work, to prevent odors in your home, please pour two to three cups of water into each basement floor drain. Please restrict your water usage as much as possible.


Any damages in the area as a result of the sewer lining work will be restored to its pre-lining state. However, the Department of Water Management does not assume responsibility for damage to privately installed parkway improvements, including sprinkling systems, fences, flower beds and shrubbery.


Should you have any questions of concerns, you can either ask the construction foreman during the project, the engineer on site or call 311 anytime.

Problem Business - G13 CHI

On October 21, 2022, an inspection of G13 CHI (1454 S. Michigan Ave) was conducted by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. The investigation found the business to be conducting business without the required Public Place of Amusement License, and operating without the required Retail Food Establishment license, Tavern license, Club license, and Incidental Activity liquor license. A Cease and Desist order for all violations was issued, effective October 21, 2022. The business is scheduled in court on these violations on December 23, 2022 at 1:00 pm. Questions regarding this case can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373- 9273.

Important Announcements

South Loop Event Parking Restrictions

Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop from Roosevelt Road to Cermak Rd. from Lake Shore Drive to Clark St. during all Chicago Bears football games and many other Soldier Field events. Wintrust Arena events have been removed from the parking restrictions. Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid South Loop Event Parking Pass, South Loop Event Guest Pass or Residential Permit Parking pass (for Residential Permit Parking Streets ONLY) are subject to ticketing or towing.


For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit www.soldierfield.com/events/all. The 3rd Ward is providing the list below as a courtesy to residents and visitors and does not assume liability for the accuracy of the monthly list of South Loop events. All Soldier Field events are subject to change, including cancellation or the scheduling of additional events. It is your responsibility to adhere to the parking restrictions in place. 


Chicago Bears vs. Miami Dolphins

Sunday, November 6th at noon


Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions

Sunday, November 13th at noon


Mortgage Relief Program

Behind on housing costs due to COVID-19? Apply for up to $30,000 in emergency mortgage assistance paid directly to your mortgage servicer. Eligible homeowners must have experienced a COVID-19 related hardship after January 21, 2022, be delinquent on mortgage/property taxes/association fees, and must currently own and occupy the home. Additional rules and restrictions may apply. Apply at illinoishousinghelp.org


Join the Chicago Police Department

The Chicago Police Department (CPD) has expanded the  criteria to become a Chicago Police Officer. The 60 semester hour college or university education requirement will be waived for candidates with the following experience: 2 years as an active duty member of the armed forces or peace officer; or 3 years as a correctional officer, detention officer, licensed professional security or private security contractor, professional in a trade industry, or a social service, health care, or education professional. 


Starting salary for a new CPD officer is $82,458 and includes excellent benefits such as a pension plan, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays/sick days/vacation, health care and much more. In-person testing at all City Colleges of Chicago is December 1-3, 2022. Apply now at chicagopolice.org


Stormwater Management Tips for Fall  

With fall and winter approaching, Chicago can still see weather conditions that can lead to flooding. No longer just a problem in spring, the Department of Water Management (DWM) encourages residents to assist in reducing excess water from reaching the sewer system. 


Community-wide efforts can greatly decrease the impact of neighborhood flooding and the extent of basement backups by taking the following steps:


  • Sweep up leaves from driveways, sidewalks, and streets.
  • Clean roof gutters and drains of leaves.
  • Keep nearby catch basin grates clear of yard waste and trash.
  • Don’t litter or dump anything in storm drains. Storm drains are for rain only.
  • Avoid running a dishwasher or washing machine during storms.
  • Use a commercial car wash or wash your car over grass or gravel instead of on a driveway or in the street.
  • Do not dump fats/oils/greases down the drain or down catch basins in the street.
  • Disconnect your downspout from the sewer system. Make sure to direct flow to areas with permeable surfaces that can properly absorb the stormwater or use rain barrels to collect the rain directly from the downspouts. See DWM’s website for a guide on downspout disconnection.
  • Before winter, empty your rain barrel and store in a garage or shed. 


Additional information can be found here - www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/water/supp_info/conservation.html  


Post Office Warns Not to Use Blue Mail Collection Boxes

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is warning residents to avoid using the blue collection boxes, as they have become targets for criminals trying to steal checks or valuable personal information. This is especially true when dropping off mail after the last collection of the day or during Sundays and holidays. Instead, please use one of USPS many retail locations or inside wall drop slots to send mail.


If you see someone inside a blue collection bin that does not look like a USPS employee, call the police or the postal inspection service at 877-876-2455. USPS is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for individuals whose tips lead to an arrest.


LIHEAP Applications are Open

Apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which can provide residents with heat and electricity assistance. Funding is available between September 1, 2022 and May 31, 2022 or until funds are exhausted. For more information go to helpillinoisfamilies.com or call 1-833-711-0374.


CPS Free COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

CPS hosts free vaccination clinics across the City to provide COVID-19 and flu shots to children. COVID-19 vaccinations are safe, free and the most effective way to prevent serious illness for those aged 5+. Cooler weather means more time indoors, increasing risk factors. Sign up at bit.ly/3kNvxoU.


Where: Air Force HS (3630 S. Wells St.), McClellan ES (3527 S. Wallace)

When: Tuesday, November 1st from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (Air Force); Friday, November 4th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (McClellan)


Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE)

Is access to financial capital important for your business? The Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE) Business Development managers Invite you to an online conversation that's open to all racial/ethnic minorities, women, persons with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA+ owned businesses and all other marginalized groups. Team OMEE will provide you with the latest updates on financial resources, federal and state programs, share information about other opportunities, and answer any questions you may have about your business.


Where: Register Here

When: Wednesday, November 2nd from 10:00 am to 11:00 am


NHS Home Buyer Education Webinar

Learn about the home buying process such as the basics of budgeting, improving credit, understanding the closing process and down payment assistance programs. This is an eight-hour course delivered in two 4-hour sessions.


When: Saturday, November 5th at 9:00 am (link to register) and Saturday, November 19th at 9:00 am (link to register)


NHS Financial Fresh Start Webinar

Whether you are planning to purchase a home or simply need to improve your finances, this webinar will

prepare you for financial security. Learn How To: develop a spending plan, reduce your debt, and increase your credit score.


When: Tuesday, November 8th at 6:00 pm (link to register), and Tuesday, November 22nd at 6:00 pm (link to register)


Master Dog Trainer Toriano Sanzone - Wolfkeeper University

Please join world-renowned Master Dog Trainer Toriano Sanzone for Wolfkeeper University. This Veterans Day he will discuss how dogs are used to assist veterans during and after enlistment. Dogs are active in the military patrol/search, rescue and tracking, and after service, assist and enhance independence, emotional wellness, healing and other therapeutic access. Ask your librarian or visit chipublib.org for more information.


Where: Harold Washington Library, Lower Level (400 S. State St.)

When: Friday, November 11th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm


Free Mental Health First Aid Training

Sometimes, first aid is not a bandage, CPR, or 911. Sometimes, first aid is you! Learn how to efficiently take a 5-step action plan to help others during a mental health crisis. Registration is limited to 25 people. You must register for both dates to complete the 8-hour training to earn a 3 year Mental Health First Aid Training Certificate. Lunch will be provided during each session. Register at MHFABronzeville.eventbrite.com


Where: The Bronzeville Incubator (5055 S. Prairie Ave.)

When: Sunday, November 13th and Sunday, November 20th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm


Illinois Women in Cannabis: Jobs and Careers in the Industry

Please join Illinois Women in Cannabis (IWC) for an enthusiastic discussion on Careers & Jobs in the Cannabis industry. Amor Montes de Oca will lead a panel with expertise in the area, and examine the opportunities that exist in this burgeoning young field. All opinions and questions are welcomed. Whether you call it pot; weed; grass; marijuana; or just cannabis … please come out and join us. Ask your librarian or visit chipublib.org for more information.


Where: Harold Washington Library, Lower Level (400 S. State St.)

When: Tuesday, November 15th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm


CPS Job Fair

Chicago Public Schools Talent Office is hosting a CPS Job Fair in the community for positions with CPS. Positions include teacher assistant, special education classroom assistant, nurse, security officer, cook, porter, crossing guard, tutor, bus aide, substitute teacher and many more. To register for the event, please visit bit.ly/CPSJobFair111622.


Where: Apostolic Church of God - Gymnasium (6320 S. Dorchester Ave.)

When: Wednesday, November 16th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

November CAPS Meetings

Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to address crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important information with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable information about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit www.chicagopolice.org to find out what district you live in and click on each district title to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.


1st District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 131

Date: November 21st at 3:00 pm

Location: For Zoom registration information, please email Caps.001District@chicagopolice.org or call

312-745-4381


2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: November 22nd at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom Meeting ID: 841 2964 4400 Passcode: 5101


Beat: 221/223

Date: November 15th at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom Meeting ID: 840 8967 0980 Passcode: 5101


Beat: 224

Date: November 29th at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom Meeting ID: 857 0051 2046 Passcode: 5101


Beat: 225

Date: November 3rd  at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom Meeting ID: 874 2087 2524 Passcode: 5101


Beat: 231

Date: November 17th at 6:00 pm

Location: Zoom Meeting ID: 892 9848 9556 Passcode: 5101

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