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45th Ward News and Community Updates

Relevance: 2/10

Summary

Alderman Jim Gardiner highlighted City Council passage of legislation increasing oversight and scrutiny of Chicago Police Department members after a weekend vehicle struck officers while responding to a teen takeover, and he attended the honorary street renaming for Officer Enrique Martinez at 64th & Komensky in the West Lawn community. Other major items included news about delays to the Foster Avenue Bridge project and a CTA effort to pay artists up to $50,000 to transform Chicago train stations. The newsletter also shared community updates such as beat meeting dates across Ward 45, ongoing neighborhood safety events, and assistance resources (including applying for Community Development Grants, with deadlines noted).

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

Join Alderman Sposato, Alderman Napolitano, and me tonight for our annual Support the Police Rally.



This family-friendly event is open to everyone and is a great opportunity to come together as a community to show our appreciation for the men and women who serve and protect our neighborhoods every day.

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

I was honored to stand alongside the family of Officer Enrique Martinez at the unveiling of the Honorary Street renaming at 64th & Komensky in the West Lawn community on the south side of Chicago.


The event paid tribute to Officer Martinez and his legacy of service, courage, and love for his community and the City of Chicago.


Officer Martinez was 26 years old when he made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.


This week marked his 28th birthday.


May God bless his soul and look over those who continue to serve and protect our city.

A vehicle struck and injured at least five Chicago Police Officers who were attempting to address a teen takeover on the near west side this past weekend.


The driver and passenger of the vehicle involved in the incident were immediately taken into custody.


As Chicago witnesses yet another targeted attack toward Police Officers, the City Council recently passed legislation that allows for increased oversight and scrutiny of members of the Chicago Police Department.

FULL STORY HERE

Businesses frustrated as Foster Avenue Bridge project faces more delays


FULL STORY HERE

CTA to pay artists up to $50K to transform Chicago train stations


FULL STORY HERE

Police release sketch of sexual assault suspect at Chicago's LaBagh Woods


FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Bernie Ijimakin, co-owner of Kisbi Coffee, brings more than just great coffee to the community — he brings people together. Inspired by a love for Costa Rican coffee, Kisbi proudly offers seven varieties of premium Costa Rican arabica coffee, hand-picked by local growers, along with specialty coffees from Kenya, Ethiopia, and a decaffeinated Brazilian-Colombian blend.


Committed to making a positive impact both locally and globally, Kisbi Coffee donates a portion of its profits to organizations dedicated to helping underserved communities around the world.


Conveniently located near the turnstiles at the Jefferson Park Transit Center, Kisbi Coffee has become a welcoming stop for commuters, neighbors, and families alike. In addition to fresh drip coffee and espresso drinks, visitors can enjoy lattes, teas, hot chocolate, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries in a warm and community-focused atmosphere.


Jefferson Park CTA Terminal

4917 N. Milwaukee Ave.

773-234-3488

Kisbi Coffee – Purveyors of fine, distinctive coffees

For nearly 50 years, Jeff’s Red Hots has been a true neighborhood gathering spot in the Portage Park community where generations of families have come together over great food and friendly service. Family-owned since 1977, Jeff’s is known for treating every customer like family and appreciating the loyal support of neighbors throughout the years. From their classic Chicago-style Vienna Beef hot dogs with the signature “snap” to burgers, Italian beefs, and gyros, Jeff’s continues to keep the tradition of the classic neighborhood hot dog stand alive. Their dedication to quality, community, and hometown hospitality has made Jeff’s Red Hots a longtime Portage Park favorite and a proud part of the neighborhood. Beyond the food, Jeff’s Red Hots has become a true community staple, earning recognition including “Top Hot Dog in Chicago,” a feature on Chicago’s Best, and induction into the Vienna Beef Hall of Fame for its strong community involvement.


Jeff's Red Hots

3901 N. Cicero Ave.

773-777-1513

Jeff's Red Hots

Congratulations to Angelo at Yellow Rose Cafe who embodies exceptional hospitality and a good nature.

Angelo and the staff at Yellow Rose Cafe recently celebrated 30 years of service to our community.

Alders Nugent and Gardiner honored this momentous occasion in front of full

City Council and proudly present to Angelo and his wonderful staff at

Yellow Rose Cafe.

CHICAGO POLITICS

Who Is Flying With the Chicago Mayor’s Office?


Click the link to see the 45 guests traveling with the Chicago delegation to Rome for meetings with Pope Leo XIV.


CLICK HERE TO SEE THE 45 GUESTS

Mayor Johnson brushes off concerns on CTU dues defeat ahead of possible reelection campaign


FULL STORY HERE

Why I Voted No on the Ordinance: One Standard for All


CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S SPEECH AT CITY COUNCIL

Chicago police officer beaten, teeth knocked out in McKinley Park attack


FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

Letters: Here’s how Chicago and the CTA can attract more bus riders


FULL STORY HERE

CPD Superintendent on teen takeovers: teens, parents must be held ‘accountable’


FULL STORY HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Residents of the 45th Ward who need assistance with infrastructure-related concerns are encouraged to contact our office at (773) 853-0799 or [email protected].


Click here to see how Alderman Gardiner is addressing

infrastructure concerns in the 45th Ward.

Curious about what's happening in the community?

Check out ChiStreetWork, the City of Chicago’s interactive map portal that provides up-to-date information on infrastructure projects and permits. It compiles data from city agencies and private utilities.

Just enter an address or intersection into the search bar to see a clickable map with detailed information about active projects in that area. From sewer work to resurfacing, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s going on and when.



CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS

CONTACT INFORMATION

Visit our 45th Ward Office

5460 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630

Tel: 773-853-0799

Office Hours: Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri.-8:30-4:30PM,

Thurs. 9:30-4:30PM Email: w[email protected]

Click the link-www.aldermangardiner.com

Thank you for being part of the 45th Ward community. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and remain dedicated to providing exceptional constituent services.

Looking for a “SLOW DOWN” or “CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG” sign?

Stop by the 45th Ward Office to pick one up.

VETS IN 45

The Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission visits our office each month to assist veterans in our community. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of support or has questions, please feel free to stop in.

MATURING RESIDENTS IN THE 45TH WARD

Senior Services


The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services offers a wide range of programs and resources to support older adults across the city. Services are designed to meet the diverse needs of seniors—whether they are active and independent, living in long-term care facilities, or in need of additional assistance at home.



From wellness programs and social activities to home-delivered meals and in-home support, these services are focused on helping older adults maintain their independence, health, and quality of life.


CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

WARD 45 RESOURCES

The Express Permit Program is a web-based interface for homeowners, businesses, and other building owners/tenants (and the contractors that work with them) to obtain building permits needed to repair or replace existing features of a building or undertake specific small improvement projects, such as adding residential solar panels. The web interface allows permit applicants to check application status, pay fees, and view inspection results online 24/7.

CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED

The Department of Family and Support Services provides programs and support to older adults aged 60 and better. DFSS offers a range of programs and services throughout the year to keep older adults healthy, active, and engaged. 

Click here for additional information 


SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offers free business education webinars every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. Topics include business licensing, operations, financial resources, marketing, and more. Programs are free and open to the public and taught by industry professionals, not-for-profit agencies, and government agencies.


CLICK HERE TO VIEW AND REGISTER FOR UPCOMING BACP WEBINARS

APPLICATIONS DUE BY MAY 30TH

The City of Chicago is now accepting applications for its Community Development Grants (CDG) program, which supports local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations with funding for projects that create jobs and strengthen our neighborhoods.


Small and Medium grant applications are open now, with a deadline of August 14, while Large grants are accepted on a rolling basis. Small grants can cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, with awards up to $250,000.


Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an informational webinar or review available resources before applying.



Click here for more information and to apply.

The Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) Entrepreneur Certificate Program is a free and optional program available to attendees of the free BACP business education webinar series. The program is designed to give entrepreneurs the essential information they need to start and grow a business in Chicago. The program’s curriculum covers essentials in business planning, financing, marketing, legal topics, technology, and more. Click here for additional information

Local Chambers of Commerce



Our neighborhood Chambers of Commerce support local businesses through advocacy, networking, marketing, and community events. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to connect and get involved.

Gladstone Park Chamber Of Commerce 6150 N. Milwaukee (773) 756-6206

Click here for additional information

Edgebrook Sauganash Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 46311 (773) 545-9300

Click here for additional information

Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.5 (773) 736-6697

Click here for additional information

Polish American Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.1 (773) 205-1998 

Click here for additional information

Six Corners Chamber of Commerce 4054 N Milwaukee Ave (773) 685-4955 

Click here for additional information

Portage Park Chamber of Commerce 4946 W. Irving Park Rd. (773) 777-2020

Click here for additional information

WARD 45 SAFETY NEWS

Beat Meetings are a great opportunity to meet your local officers, learn about public safety in your area, and share concerns. We encourage residents to attend and stay involved.

2026 BEAT MEETING SCHEDULE

Beat 1621

Edgebrook Library

5331 W. Devon

June 3rd

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

June 10th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

May 29th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

June 4th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

June 24th

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR BEAT

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

The 45th Ward extends congratulations to the Taft Eagles Boys Varsity Baseball Team on their outstanding performance at Wrigley Field, where they secured bragging rights and a City Championship by defeating Whitney Young in the season finale.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Beaubien Elementary School

5025 N. Laramie Ave., (773) 534-3500

Click here for additional information


   Edgebrook Elementary School      

6525 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773) 534-1194

Click here for additional information


Edgebrook Early Learning Branch

6407 N. Minnehaha Ave., (773) 534-0720

Click here for additional information


Farnsworth Elementary School

5414 N. Linder Ave., (773) 534-3535

Click here for additional information


Hitch Elementary School

5625 N. McVicker Ave.,  (773) 534-1189

Click here for additional information


William J. Onahan School

6634 W. Raven St., (773) 534-1180

Click here for additional information


Prussing Elementary School

4650 N. Menard Ave., (773) 534-3460

Click here for additional information


Catalpa Early Childhood Center

5252 N. Long Ave., (773) 534-8380

Click here for additional information


St. Constance School

5841 W. Strong St., (773)-283-2311  

Click here for additional information


St. Elizabeth of the Trinity School

6040 W. Ardmore Ave., (773)-763-7080

Click here for additional information


St. John's Lutheran School

4939 W. Montrose Ave., (773) 736-1196

Click here for additional information


St. Roberts Bellarmine School

6036 W. Eastwood Ave., (773) 725-5133

Click here for additional information


St. Mary of the Woods

6955 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773)-763-4968

Click here for additional information


Wildwood Elementary School

    6950 N. Hiawatha Ave. (773) 534-1188

Click here for additional information

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS

Disney II Magnet School (7th-12th)

 3900 N Lawndale Ave., (773) 534-5010

Click here for additional information




Horizon Science Academy Belmont (7th-10th)

4434 N. Laramie Ave., (708) 667-0941

Click here for more information



Vaughn Occupational High School

4355 N. Linder (773)-534-3600

Click here for additional information

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

Supporting Our Neighbors in Need

New Hope Community Food Pantry

Address: 6125 W Foster

Phone:773-775-1215

Hours:Tuesday:

9:30- 11:30 AM


Joined Hands Food Pantry / Our Lady of Victory

Address: 5212 W Agatite

Phone: (312)972-1164 

Hours: Wednesday:

5:00 - 7:00 PM

[email protected]

Harvest Christian Center Chicago Food Pantry

Address: 4020 N. Tripp Ave.

Phone:  773-685-4222

[email protected]

Hours:  Last Friday of the month:

1:30 -2:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering as a Gardiner Angel in the Ward office providing clerical assistance, research, communications assistance, etc. or would like to provide on the ground help cleaning up the ward, please reach out to us at [email protected]