← Back to newsletters

Reminder: 45th Ward News and Community Updates

Relevance: 2/10
transit_funding city_budget

Summary

In this newsletter, Alderman Jim Gardiner highlights public safety concerns on the CTA (including an incident at the Irving Park Blue Line) and notes CTA-related city policy coverage, alongside announcements such as a free women’s self-defense class on October 6 and the upcoming Sprouts Farmers Market opening on W. Higgins in Jefferson Park. Other major updates focus on local community news and public safety/crime reports, plus ward services and events like upcoming beat meetings (starting in October) and ward resource information.

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

My office is proud to partner with Sensei Weiss at Gen-Ki Karate to offer a free women’s self-defense class on Tuesday, October 6th. This class is a great opportunity to learn practical self-defense skills and build confidence.


Please see the flyer below for details, and remember to RSVP to reserve your spot!

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

Female passengers on CTA should be alerted to individuals who pose a safety threat. This incident occurred at Irving Park Blue Line Train.


FULL STORY HERE

Alderman Jim Gardiner addresses public safety concerns on the CTA.

Alderman Jim Gardiner and Chicago City Council honor the life and legacy of Chicago Fire Dept. Battalion Chief Sean Kevin.

I am pleased to share some exciting news about the future Sprouts Farmers Market at 6200 W. Higgins Avenue. In the coming weeks, neighbors will begin to see work underway at the site.


We are proud that the first Sprouts Farmers Market in Illinois will open right here in the heart of our Jefferson Park community.



Bringing new businesses to the 45th Ward remains one of my priorities, and I am excited to see this project move forward. I look forward to welcoming Sprouts to our community and will continue to keep you updated on its progress.

Doris Whitesell, a Portage Park resident, has recently made her final transition after an impressive 103 years well lived and loved.


A life-long Chicagoan who adored her five children, two grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and her husband for over 50 years will surely be missed by family, friends and neighbors within the 45th ward.


Doris was a proud graduate of Von Steuben High School who later attended business school in college which was rare for a woman

during the 1940s.


Her parents taught her the importance of hard work and discipline which were principles that reaped rewards during the Great Depression.


Doris loved her community and being involved in activities that help us prosper. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother who was adored by her neighbors and our office.


May God bless Doris and the entire Whitesell family who were instrumental in helping their mother become a proud centurion.

It’s official—the best deli in Illinois is right in our backyard! Congratulations to Tony’s Italian Deli & Subs, located at 6708 N. Northwest Highway, on winning the WGN Radio 2026 Deli Contest.



We are proud to celebrate the entire Tony’s team on this well-deserved recognition. Stop by and join me in congratulating them!

Suspect charged with robbery of Jefferson Park business; he reportedly had been arrested a day earlier for an incident elsewhere


FULL STORY HERE

In Gladstone Park: attempted carjacking reported on Milwaukee Ave., store reportedly sells cannabis to undercover officers


FULL STORY HERE


Attendance rate at pre-pandemic levels at Taft HS, up about 10 percentage points from last year


FULL STORY HERE

Man charged with trying to kidnap girl at NW Side bus stop, sparking CPD issued community alert


FULL STORY HERE

CLICK HERE THE WARNING SIGNS OF BREAST CANCER

CLICK HERE FOR THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE

CLICK HERE TO LEARN ABOUT DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH

AND WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

CLICK HERE FOR FIRE PREVENTION TIPS

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

The Place for Children with Autism – Jefferson Park provides individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism in a supportive, preschool-like environment.


The center features seven classrooms, a sensory gym, and an all-seasons play area, providing space for both one-on-one therapy and group activities. Programs focus on helping children develop important skills in areas such as communication, social interaction, independent living, behavior, safety, and school readiness.


Each child receives an individualized therapy plan designed around their unique needs. The center also offers speech therapy services and resources to help families navigate insurance, Medicaid, and the enrollment process.


We are proud to have The Place for Children with Autism here in the 45th Ward, providing valuable services, resources, and support to children and families in our community.



5960 N. Milwaukee Avenue

(224) 436-0788

The Place for Children with Autism - In-Clinic ABA Therapy

A longtime destination for Polish favorites, Andy’s Deli & Mikolajczyk Sausage Shop offers a wide variety of traditional foods and specialty grocery items right here in our community.


This family-owned business is known for its extensive selection of Polish sausages, smoked meats, hams, deli meats, cheeses, pierogi, breads, bakery items, and other traditional favorites. Andy’s also offers a variety of prepared foods and ready-to-eat meals, making it easy to stop in and pick up something for lunch or dinner. Whether you are grabbing a freshly prepared meal, picking up kielbasa for dinner, or stocking up on Polish groceries, Andy’s Deli has plenty to choose from.


Andy’s takes pride in quality, freshness, variety, and carrying on old-time traditions for its customers. We are proud to have Andy’s Deli serving residents and continuing its longstanding traditions right here in the 45th Ward.



5442 N. Milwaukee Avenue

(773) 631-7304

Andy's Deli Online – Delikatesy

CHICAGO POLITICS

Chicago aldermen require bigger majority for city-issued debt in blow to mayoral power


FULL STORY HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson should join with aldermen in their insistence on fiscal restraint


FULL STORY HERE

Three remaining candidates for Chicago school board president discuss views on school closings, other issues during NW Side forum


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago early voting begins for 2026 general election


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago has a new parking meter deal. What happens next?


FULL STORY HERE

Proposed $75M CTA safety plan would add up to 180 Chicago police officers per day


FULL STORY HERE

CPS Enrollment Drops by 11K Students Amid Questions Over Possible Future School Closure


FULL STORY HERE

Dueling tenants’ rights proposals stall as City Hall heads toward negotiations


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago mayoral hopeful Bill Quinlan files suit against rivals over dual candidacy


FULL STORY HERE


THRIVING IN WARD 45

FOSTER AVENUE UPDATE



CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S REEL

Need service hours? Alderman Jim Gardiner is here to make that happen while allowing you to help neighbors.Contact us today 773 853-0799 or [email protected]

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

Connect With Your Community


Neighborhood Associations in the 45th Ward


Our neighborhood associations help keep residents connected through community events, local updates, neighborhood initiatives, and opportunities to get involved. Residents are encouraged to connect with their local association and become involved in their community.


Gladstone Park Neighborhood Association

Click here for additional information


Edgebrook Community Association

Click here for additional information


Jefferson Park Neighborhood Association

Click here for additional information



North Edgebrook Civic Association

Click here for additional information

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 Cook County Board of Review is now accepting pre-filed property tax appeals for the 2026 tax year. Property owners can pre-file an appeal now or wait until their township’s 30-day appeal period opens.


You do not need to find or submit comparable properties with your appeal. The Board of Review will use the most current property information when reviewing your appeal.


Please click the link below for additional information or to pre-file an appeal.


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Chicago Voter Information


The Chicago Board of Elections makes it easy to:


  • Register to vote or update your name or address
  • Verify your voter registration
  • Find your Election Day polling place
  • View your sample ballot
  • Apply to Vote By Mail for the next election
  • Join or update your information on the Permanent Vote By Mail Roster


Click here to access voter information and services through the Chicago Board of Elections.

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 


Recycling Program Update


Residents are advised that all off-site recycling centers are currently on hold as the City transitions the recycling program.


At this time, the only recycling center that remains open is located at

1150 N. Branch Street.


We will continue to share updates as additional information becomes available regarding the future of the program and the status of other recycling locations.

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

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

October 7th

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

October 14th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

October 29th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

October 13th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

October 28th

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR BEAT

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

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


St. Elizabeth Food Pantry

Address: 6020 W. Ardmore Ave.

 [email protected]

Hours: Tuesday:

9:00 - 10:00 AM

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]