| 33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - July 17, 2026 |
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| Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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| Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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| This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Garth Walker as the new Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). My Committee on Health and Human Relations got to hear his presentation on his career and his hopes for how to lead CDPH in these troubling times.
Dr. Walker has a long history, and equally long resume, of public service. Dr. Walker was a healthcare executive and board-certified Emergency Physician with broad experience spanning state, federal, and private sectors. He is recognized as a healthcare and public health thought leader, with insights featured by major news networks including MSNBC, the Chicago Sun-Times, and ABC.
A quick overview of his history reveals that he was the Chief Medical Officer for Rush Health, where Dr. Walker led a clinically integrated network of physicians and hospitals, committed to delivering high-quality, efficient care to over 160,000 attributed patients across the Chicagoland area. Before that, Dr. Walker served as the Deputy Director at the Illinois Department of Public Health during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this role, he advanced internal and external public health strategies to increase vaccination rates, directed vaccine operations across state departments, and improved men’s health and opioid response initiatives throughout Illinois. Later, Dr. Walker was appointed by President Biden as a White House Fellow with the Department of Health and Human Services, working under Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy.
Dr. Walker is excited to bring his years of experience and innovation to CDPH. As we continue to face cuts to federal funding by the Trump administration, paired alongside ecological and medical disasters from capitalist-driven climate change, Dr. Walker is prepared to navigate this ever changing terrain. I am excited to work with him for a better, more caring, human-centered, and evidence-based approach to public health!
Speaking of public health, our beautiful city was hit with record-breaking levels of ozone and wildfire smoke from Canada. Normally, our air quality index is somewhere between 30 - 50, indicating that we normally have “good” to “moderate” air quality. However, yesterday evening, at the height of the wildfire smoke, the air quality index had spiked to a shocking 720, or “hazardous”. Poor air quality can be hazardous to anyone and it can aggravate health problems such as asthma, heart disease, and lung diseases. Seniors, children, and those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.
The severity of the situation led Chicago Park District to close the parks and beaches, moving any outdoor activities indoors where possible. If you are able to avoid going outdoors, please remain inside. If you must venture out, we highly recommend wearing an N95 or KN95 mask to filter out as many of the particles being spread by the wildfire smoke. If you have asthma, please remember to keep your inhaler with you at all times. Please remember to follow the Chicago Office of Emergency Management & Communications to get updates as the situation unfolds. It is expected that we will be dealing with wildfire sm<3oke through Sunday.
Lastly, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has begun work on seven street renovations as of Monday, July 13. You can read a public notice issued by our office by clicking here. Construction is anticipated for a total of nine weeks. One of the renovations will be a raised intersection at Kimball and Ainslie, which will require a detour for six weeks. The raised intersection will be both a beautification update as well as a way of increasing traffic safety at the intersection. The work will also include the installation of curb extensions, detached bump-outs, and detached concrete bike lane medians, ADA ramp reconstruction, sewer work, asphalt resurfacing, signage and pavement markings.
To help you plan for this, please note that temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please leave a message for CDOT at 312-722-6590 and someone will return your call. |
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| Thank you for doing this work with me. Please take a moment this week to help out a neighbor in need. You can always contact my office if you have any questions. We are here to help.
In solidarity, Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez 33rd Ward Alderperson |
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| 33rd Ward Spring resources: Clean and Greens: Please email [email protected] to request resources to help clean up your block, like garbage bags, grippers, and gloves. Street Sweeping began April 1. You can view our interactive sweeping schedule and map by clicking here. To apply for a block party permit, please fill out this form. You can also get small whistle kits for your neighbors if you wish to include them in your block party festivities to encourage safety and support in your community during these difficult times. To apply for a yard sale, please stop by our office or fill out this form.
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| | 33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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| | | | Event details are listed in the newsletter below. August 1 — ARE YOU READY TO SHRED? We are having a shredding event and electronics recycling! Bring your documents sensitive info to have them safely disposed of. There are often lines for attendance, so bring a healthy dose of patience too! If possible, please remember that we can not shred binder clips, nor large staples. So please try to remove this ahead of time.
This event is generously hosted by Our Lady of Mercy Parish, at their parking lot.
Saturday, August 1, 11:00am
4432 N Troy Street
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| | | Seasonal Tree Care Tips from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board Education Working Group Show Your Trees Some Love: Mulch Like a Donut, Not a Volcano
Proper mulching is one of the simplest ways to care for a tree. Follow the 3-3-3 Rule: apply mulch 3 inches deep, in a 3-foot-wide circle, while keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. This creates a donut-shaped mulch ring that helps trees thrive.
A properly mulched tree benefits from improved moisture retention, moderated soil temperatures, reduced weed competition, and protection from damage caused by lawnmowers and string trimmers.
Avoid creating "mulch volcanoes" by piling mulch against the trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, encourage decay, promote circling roots, and create conditions favorable to pests and diseases.
Spending a few minutes flattening a mulch volcano into a donut-shaped ring can help prevent common tree health issues and support long-term growth.
Watering Reminder for Newly Planted Trees
Newly planted trees need regular watering to establish strong, healthy root systems and give them the best chance of long-term survival—especially during dry periods and drought conditions.
To support healthy growth and establishment, provide 10–15 gallons of water each week at the base of the tree—about 2–3 five-gallon buckets. Water slowly and deeply so the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the developing roots rather than running off the surface. During drought periods, watering can also help established trees stay healthy.
Consistent watering during the first few years after planting is one of the most important steps you can take to help your tree thrive.
More information can be found here. |
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| Hantavirus Information For ChicagoansCDPH is monitoring the recent cruise ship outbreak of Andes strain hantavirus, along with our local and national partners. None of the passengers from the cruise ship outbreak will be returning to Illinois, and the risk to Chicagoans remains very low. The Andes strain of hantavirus is the only strain known to transmit from person-to-person, and the rodents known to carry the Andes strain do not live in the United States. The state of Illinois has reported 7 cases of hantavirus since 1993; none were the Andes strain, and none were in a Chicago resident.
In the U.S., hantavirus generally spreads from the droppings of the deer mouse. The best way to avoid hantavirus is to avoid contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, and nesting materials. If you have mice or rats in your home, clean up after them safely using gloves and disinfectant. CDPH continually monitors for 70+ different infectious diseases, including hantavirus, and coordinates with state, local, and national public health partners to prepare for emerging infectious diseases - visit the CDPH website to learn more. |
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| Ronan Park UpdatesIn March, we have received many residents from the former Legion Park encampment into our ward as they wait for their assigned housing. I understand that this encampment has caused great concern for many neighbors. When this community moved into our local park, my office began working in close, daily collaboration with many local organizations, mutual aid groups, nonprofit agencies, and government partners to ensure that our neighbors most in need receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve.
For updates, please check in on our website. |
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| Cars in AlleysWe recognize that you may sometimes need to temporarily station your vehicle in an alley to load/unload things. However, it is illegal to park a car in an alley. Please be aware of when your garbage days are so that you do not prevent the sanitation workers from picking up your garbage. We are providing a map to help find when your block has garbage pickup! |
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| Immigrant Rights and Deportation Defense Resources: If you see immigration enforcement or suspect immigration enforcement, first call the Family Support Network (FSN) at 855-435-7693. We encourage you to save this number in your phone. |
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| Foster Bus Service Extension#92 Foster: You can now travel westbound later on the weekends as service has been extended through 10:30 p.m. Eastbound weekend service has also been extended until 9:55 p.m. on Saturdays and 9:50 p.m. on Sundays/holidays.Sundays/holidays begin service at 5:00 a.m. |
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| VOLUNTEER WITH THE WARD OFFICE |
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| Volunteer with the 33rd Ward OfficeJoin us in strengthening our community! We are excited to offer a range of community engagement opportunities with our office. Whether you’re passionate about connecting neighbors or eager to make a positive impact, we’d love for you to volunteer with us. Help us build bridges and foster a stronger, more connected community. Your involvement can make a real difference.
Our office maintains several programs for neighbors to come together to care for each other and to learn about resources available to our communities. You can sign up to volunteer with our office by filling out our volunteer form by clicking here. |
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| | SAGE BRIGADE
The Sage Brigade needs volunteers to help pack groceries for seniors. This is a commitment of 2 hours a month, once a month, in person, at the Irving Park Food Pantry. If you are interested in volunteering, please email [email protected] with the subject line: SAGE BRIGADE VOLUNTEER FOR FOOD PANTRY. Someone from our office will follow up with you! |
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Join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN)Looking for a lower-risk way to help protect your neighbors from ICE?
The Northwest Side Rapid Response Network is launching a new neighborhood-based, people powered alert system. To join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN), download the Telegram app on your phone. Then, join the channel using this link.
How does WARN work? We are increasingly seeing ICE agents staking out our communities before they begin detaining people. As soon as our teams confirm the presence of agents/ vehicles, we’ll send notice to the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN) on Telegram.
When you get a WARN alert in your immediate area, go outside and walk around your block, blowing a whistle. This will warn at-risk neighbors that ICE is nearby.
Once you’ve warned your neighbors, get inside to safety BEFORE ICE activity begins. WARN is not rapid response; it complements the work that trained rapid responders are already doing by creating a lower-risk way for anyone in our community to proactively warn neighbors that immigration agents are in the area.
Only administrators can send messages to the WARN channel; administrators are all vetted and trained leads within Northwest Side Rapid Response Network.
Join WARN today to help keep our neighbors safe, here.
WARN is open to everyone, so please don't hesitate to share. 
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| | | Community Driven Zoning and Development
Please follow our Facebook and other social media accounts for the most up to date notices on public meetings and input surveys regarding zoning changes in the ward. You can also regularly check our Zoning page on our website by clicking here. |
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| Current Proposals in Review
3007-11 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
3446 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
4634-36 N Avers Ave– Project Website Status: Feedback is in Review Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: RS-3 to RT-4 |
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| Irving Park Road Study Surveys - Community and Business The Department of Planning and Development has launched two surveys for the Irving Park Road Study as a follow-up to last month's open house.
The community survey, which is open to anyone who resides, works, studies, or travels along Irving Park Road, shares key findings from the first phase of the study and asks for input on priorities moving forward. The business survey, which is open to business owners who are currently operating or interested in operating on Irving Park Road, invites participants to share more about their experience along the corridor.
Both surveys are available on the Irving Park Road Study website (Chicago.gov/IrvingPark) and will be open through Wednesday, June 24. |
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| | INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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You can report any major debris or trash collection issues to 3-1-1 or give our ward office a call for assistance.
We also appreciate all of the outreach we are receiving about neighbors wanting supplies to start helping to clean up. If you are in need of large trash bags or trash grabbers, please reach out.
Street Sweeping season will officially begin on April 1st. Here is the interactive map our Ward Superintendent made to keep track of scheduled street sweepings! |
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| Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT)
(CDOT) is expected to begin work on seven street renovations on Monday, July 13. One of the renovations will be a raised intersection at Kimball and Ainslie, which will require a detour for six weeks. The raised intersection will be both a beautification update as well as a way of increasing traffic safety at the intersection. The work will also include the installation of curb extensions, detached bump-outs, and detached concrete bike lane medians, ADA ramp reconstruction, sewer work, asphalt resurfacing, signage and pavement markings.
To help you plan for this, please note that temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please leave a message for CDOT at 312-722-6590 and someone will return your call.
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| ChiStreetWorksWondering what construction is taking place near you? Try the ChiStreetWork tool which allows you to view all the construction work happening anywhere in Chicago. The ChiStreetWork tool allows you to view all the active and permitted construction work taking place near you. You are also able to opt into updates to receive real-time notifications related to construction work. |
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| Grid-Based Tree TrimmingCurrent Grid Area: N044, W032
4400-4700 N St Louis (Block)
4400 N Bernard (Block)
4500 N Drake (Block)
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
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| | ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES |
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| Neighbors in NeedWe are currently accepting donations of any non-perishable food items, including bottled water, hand fans (battery powered), and bus cards. As the summer heat sets in, we anticipate more of our neighbors visiting our office for relief from the heat. Many of whom may be unhoused neighbors also in need of a meal. As always, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and solidarity.
DUE TO THE AIR QUALITY ALERT, we are also requesting N95 or KN95.
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| | If you would like to contribute critical resources to support the health, safety, and dignity of our unhoused community, including our neighbors at Ronan Park, you can donate to Albany Park Mutual Aid.
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Disaster Loan Outreach The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will establish Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) for residents and businesses impacted by the severe storm that occurred on June 10, June 11, and June 17, 2026, to apply for low-interest loans. There will be two locations in the City of Chicago and two located in suburban Cook County municipalities – Alsip and Blue Island. In Chicago, centers will be established at two Chicago Public Library locations, the Pullman Branch at 11001 S. Indiana and the Thurgood Marshall Branch, 7506 S. Racine Ave.
All centers will open on Wednesday, July 15, operating daily (Mon-Sat) through Thursday, July 30.
SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in the primary county of Cook to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process, and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.
Online Applications To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is September 8, 2026. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 12, 2027.
Note: All impacted residents, regardless of where they live can go to any Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) site, even if it is not their Ward, county or municipality. Each location will have a Spanish translator available. |
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Veteran Resource Fair Date: July 18, 2026
Location: Portage Park Senior Center (4001 N Long Ave, Chicago, IL 60641)
Time: 9:00 AM CT - 12:00 PM CT RSVP HERE! |
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Concordia Place Teen Leadership Programs
Concordia Place Teen Leadership programs is excited to offer our summer program for teens 13-17 years old - Emerging Leaders! The Emerging Leaders program is FREE for teens!
The Emerging Leaders program takes place from June 15 - August 6 — that's 8 weeks of programming! We will meet Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10:00am-3:00pm.
Register here. |
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| | 17th District Council Monthly MeetingFeaturing Guest Speaker: Tobara Richardson, Deputy Inspector General
Tuesday, August 11 at 1pm North River Commission 3403 W Lawrence Ave
Virtual meeting here. |
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| | Chicago Mayor’s Youth SummitDo you know any young people with big ideas and a passion for making a difference? We are excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Youth Voice, Real Change Summit, hosted by the Mayor's Youth Commission!
This dynamic event invites young Chicagoans ages 14-19 to come together for an inspiring afternoon of youth-led discussion, networking and opportunities to make their voices heard.
Event Details
Event Schedule 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Lunch + Networking Hour 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Youth Voice, Real Change Summit 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Resource Fair
Lunch, snacks and drinks will be provided. Bonus: Youth attendees will have a chance to win 4-day general admission Lollapalooza wristbands!
Any interested youth must register by July 17. Space is limited. |
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| | | Horner Park Brew FestFor local craft beer lovers, the wait is almost over. Tickets are now on sale for the summer's big event: the 8th Annual Craft Brew Festival in Horner Park on Friday evening, July 17th. Sponsored by the Horner Park Advisory Council, The Horner Brew Fest is the largest of its kind on the northwest side of Chicago – this year featuring 40 local craft brewers, live music and an array of food trucks.
Save the Date: Friday, July 17, 2026; 6-10 PM. For more information, visit the Horner BrewFest website.
The last four festivals have sold out so don't wait too long to secure your admission. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. |
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| | Whipple-PaloozaConcordia Place invites you to its annual Whipple Palooza on July 28 from 3:00–7:00 p.m.
This community celebration highlights the incredible talents and achievements of our young people. Our Teen Leaders will showcase their entrepreneur-created products, culinary creations, artwork, and projects from our Crafts and Culture Program, along with other activities that reflect their creativity, leadership, and hard work throughout the summer.
Please join us to celebrate the accomplishments of the youth and families we serve. |
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| | Wright College Adult EducationSee the flyers below for more information about registration and classes based on each campus. |
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| | Get Medicaid FactsThe Cook County Medicaid Impact Workgroup, a coalition convened by Cook County Health, has launched “Get Medicaid Facts," a new website and communications toolkit designed to help people understand upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility and what steps they can take now to keep their coverage. These resources come at a critical time. Federal policy changes are expected to significantly impact Medicaid, and an estimated 400,000 Illinois residents could lose coverage in the coming years if they are not prepared or informed.
https://getmedicaidfacts.com/ |
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| CTA Blue Line Equitable Transit-Oriented Development PlanThe City of Chicago and Regional Transportation Authority are partnering with the community surrounding the CTA Blue Line station at Belmont and Kimball to create an equitable transit-oriented development (ETOD) plan. Those interested in learning more and sharing input are invited to the first open house on Wednesday, July 22 from 6-7:30 PM at NEIU El Centro, Room ELC 303, 3390 N. Avondale Ave.
GETTING THERE: NEIU El Centro is located ½ mile north of the Belmont Blue Line station (see map). It is accessible via the Kimball/Avondale stop on CTA Bus 82 (Kimball-Homan) and CTA Bus 77 (Belmont). Limited free street parking is available on Henderson Street and Avondale Avenue. On-site parking in the El Centro lot is $5 exact cash (no change available), payable at the front desk.
Head to chicago.gov/belmontetod to RSVP and learn more! |
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| My CHI. My Future: Get Into Summer 2026On behalf of the Mayor's Office Education and Youth Services team, check out the Get Into Summer 2026 flyer which highlights multiple helpful youth resources and opportunities lasting throughout the summer, and we hope it can be a helpful tool as you communicate with community and residents about what is available for youth this summer.
In collaboration with the Mayor's Office of Community Safety team, the Mayor's Office is consistently updating the My CHI. My Future website and mobile app with community safe space events, open safe spaces for youth, summer opportunities, jobs, and resources on a daily basis. As it stands, the My CHI. My Future. Digital resources currently have over 8,000 youth opportunities available.
You can easily see safe spaces supported by MOCS, EDYS and others here as well as overall summer events here. The My CHI. My Future. mobile app includes interactive maps to view these opportunities as well. |
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| Impact for Equity — Property Tax AppealsThe property tax appeal system in Cook County is complex and difficult to navigate, so few homeowners appeal and even fewer succeed. Impact for Equity has developed a set of checklists and resources to simplify the process and empower homeowners to challenge inequitable property tax practices. (Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog at this website.) |
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| | | Our 33rd Ward Office maintains resources pages on our website as a helpful starting point for anyone that needs support. We are also available by phone call or email to help you explore any options that work best for you.
If for any reason our office is unavailable, please call 2-1-1 or visit www.211metrochicago.org. 2-1-1 is a hotline that is staffed 24/7 by trained resources navigators to help you find information and programs related to a wide variety of needs including utility billing relief and housing assistance. |
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| Albany Park Mutual Aid - Free StoreLocated at 3000 W. Lawrence
Hours: Mondays 5-9pm, Wednesdays 5-9pm, Saturdays 12-4pm
You can learn more about Albany Park Mutual Aid, support their work, or find help at www.albanyparkmutualaid.com. |
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| The 33rd Ward Office Has a Notary on Staff
If you are in need of notary services, our team is happy to help. Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 773-840-7880 to set up an appointment. |
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| Free Narcan and Drug Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
They are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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| Free Gun Safety Locks Available at Our Ward OfficeLocks are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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| Connect with our local Chamber of CommerceSign up for the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce newsletter by clicking here. |
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| | Monthly Newsletter for “Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Supporters”We are happy to feature the following community-managed resources guides for service members, veterans, their families, and supporters including events and services for veterans in Chicago and surrounding municipalities. Please email: [email protected] to be added to their monthly emails. You can view this month’s updates, a calendar, and fliers by clicking here. |
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| | | Meet our 33rd Ward Office Staff Jonathan Nagy, Chief of Staff John Cruz-Barcenas, Deputy Chief of Staff Rebecca Rios, Director of Zoning Abraham Espino, Neighborhood and Business Services Coordinator Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
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