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48th WARD NEWS: FEBRUARY 5, 2026
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FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH
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Chicago history is Black history. This month, join Chicago's public departments, cultural institutions, black-owned businesses, and our 48th ward community in celebration and education.
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48th Ward Black-Owned Business Guide
From restaurants like Tesfa and Teranga, to retail favorites like DMApothecary and African Safari Imports, to cafes like Sip & Savor and Mella Cafe, the 48th Ward is full of incredible Black-owned businesses. In celebration of Black History Month, we're compiling a list for our blog, and we need your help! Fill out this form to tell us about your favorite local Black-owned businesses and help them get featured on our site! Shout out to business owner Serge, who's pictured above with Leni in his new flower shop Flowerchild at 1479 W Balmoral.
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Celebrate with the Chicago Public Library
This February, the African American Heritage Committee of the Chicago Public Library invites you to celebrate Black History Month in a monumental way! Their 2026 theme is "From Archives to Innovation: The Power of Black Librarianship" which highlights the social, critical, and cultural impact of Black librarians. See the CPL site for events, reading lists, and more!
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Celebrate with the Chicago Park District
To celebrate Black History Month, the Chicago Park District has compiled a webpage with educational materials, historic leader spotlights, and events happening across the city's parks this month. Learn more here.
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Choose Chicago: Ways to Celebrate Black History Month
Choose Chicago has compiled a list of ways to celebrate Black History Month in the city form art exhibits, to black owned businesses, to historic landmarks, and much more! The significance of Black history in Chicago has helped shape the city into a cultural and economic powerhouse. And there’s no better time to discover the fascinating details of this legacy than during the Black History Month celebration throughout the city. Learn more here.
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Voting is OPEN for Participatory Budgeting 2026
Help us spend up to $1 million in public infrastructure funds! Over the past few months, neighbors have shared project ideas online and at community meetings and now, it's time to vote! Voting is open online and in person through Sunday, March 1.
- View project descriptions
- Vote online
- Vote in-person:
- 48th Ward Office (1129 W Bryn Mawr)
- Bezazian Library (1226 W Ainslie)
- Edgewater Library (6000 N Broadway)
- HAIBAYÔ Cafe (1132 W W Argyle)
Save the date for our upcoming PB info session! We'll be hosting a virtual presentation on Wednesday, February 18 to talk through the Participatory Budgeting process, go over the 2026 ballot, and explain how to vote. Register online here. Questions? Reach out to [email protected].
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SAVE THE DATE: Emanuel Congregation / Fern Hill Community Meeting
- When: Thursday, February 26 at 6:30pm
- Where: Emanuel Congregation (5959 N Sheridan)
- Registration info coming soon
Join us for an in-person community meeting at Emanuel Congregation to discuss the proposed synagogue redevelopment. The meeting will include a presentation by the development team including a summary of the most recent community feedback, potential concept modifications under consideration based on feedback received at this time, and a Q&A session. Interested participants may enter from the north entry door. No parking is available on site at this time, so please plan accordingly.
The online feedback period for their zoning change request is now open and will remain open for two weeks after the community meeting. To view project details and submit feedback, click here.
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You Name a Snowplow
Voting is now open for the fourth annual 'You Name a Snowplow' Contest! Visit the Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) site to see previous winners and vote for up to six names! Voting is open through Saturday, February 14.
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Development Feedback Opportunity: 1527 W Edgewater
Feedback is open for a proposed zoning change from RS-3 to RM-4.5 at 1527 W Edgewater to build a four-unit residential building. The existing structure—a vacant, former house of worship—will be demolished. Feedback is open through February 15. Learn more on our blog.
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Chicago Park District Participatory Budgeting
The Chicago Park District is launching their own citywide PB process to deepen community engagement, increase transparency in public spending, and strengthen resident trust in park planning and resource allocation.
Residents, park users, and community stakeholders will be invited to submit specific park improvement ideas for parks across the city. As a goal of this initial pilot program, the District intends to advance approximately nine (9) proposed projects with an estimated value of roughly $50,000 each. Learn more and submit your ideas online here.
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Give Feedback on City's Five-Year Blueprint On Homelessness
On January 14, 2026, the Draft 2026–2031 Five-Year Blueprint on Homelessness was formally released with the leadership of Chief Homelessness Officer, Sendy Soto, and her team at the Mayor's Office of Homelessness (MOH). The deadline to submit public comment on the draft blueprint has been extended to Friday, February 13.
- View the draft and access the fdeedback form here.
- View the Committee on Housing & Real Estate subject matter hearing here.
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ICE Accountability - Report Misconduct to the IAC
The Illinois Accountability Commission (IAC) has launched a new submission portal for people who have witnessed or experienced potential misconduct by federal immigration agents. This portal allows individuals to submit videos or written accounts—even if they can’t attend a hearing—to help create a public record and support accountability efforts. Learn more online here.
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Join Us for Ward Night
- When: Tuesday, February 17 from 6:30 - 7:30pm
- Where: HYBRID - 1129 W Bryn Mawr & Zoom
- Register online.
Ward Night is an opportunity for neighbors to come together to ask questions and share concerns with the alderwoman. Join us in person or virtually any time during the hour. We aim to host these meetings on the first and third Tuesday of every month. See the calendar on our website for future Ward Night Dates.
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Submit Requests and Stay Informed with 311 and ChiStreetWork
For non-emergency city service requests, file a 311 report online, through the app, or by dialing 3-1-1. You can also search for and follow along with local city projects at chistreetwork.chicago.gov.
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2025 Year-in-Review Town Hall - Recording
Thanks to everyone who joined us for our 2025 year-in-review town hall last week! Couldn't be there? No problem! Visit our blog to access the meeting slides and a recording of the presentation.
We're taking this town hall on the road! Reach out to [email protected] to invite us to present at your building or organization's next meeting.
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Let's Go Fika!
Fika Fest returns this year on February 7 and 8. Although Fika translates directly to "a coffee and cake break," it is about so much more. Fika is a moment, a state of mind, an action. (Let's go Fika!) Many Swedish folks consider it an essential part of the day. Set aside some time for friends to share in conversation, connection, and of course, coffee (or tea if coffee makes you jittery)! Learn more online here.
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High School Election Judge Application Deadline Extended
Primary elections are right around the corner! The board of elections is looking for judges to manage the precinct polling place and assist voters for $170 - $230. The new deadline to apply to serve as an election judge is Tuesday, February 10. High school students are required to submit written parental approval. Learn more here. For more information about registering, voting, or working in the upcoming primary election, visit our blog.
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Senior Real Estate Tax Deferral Program
The Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral Program allows eligible seniors to postpone paying up ot $7500 in property taxes each year on their primary residence. This tax relief works like a loan from the State of Illinois and is repaid when the home is sold or after the death of the participant. The application deadline is March 1. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply here.
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Register as an Earh Day Site Captain
The 41st annual citywide Earth Day park cleanups are set for Saturday, April 18, and YOU can register to become a Site Captain at your local park! Site Captains are responsible for galvanizing volunteers, connecting with the park supervisors, and helping clean and green beloved public spaces. Register by March 1. Learn more here.
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48th Ward Office Closed Feburary 12 and 16.
The 48th ward office will be closed on Thursday, February 12 and Monday, February 16 for Lincoln's and Washington's birthdays respectively. While we are away, please contact 311 for non-emergency requests. In the case of an emergency, contact 911. See the full list of City of Chicago holidays here. We also include these closures on our community calendar.
Garbage Collection Schedule
During the holidays, garbage collection schedules may shift by 24-48 hours. During weeks with city holidays, put your bins out 24 hours ahead of your scheduled pick up day to avoid delays.
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DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Complete Streets Hearing
- When: Monday, February 9 at 1pm
- Where: City Hall (121 N LaSalle) Room 201A
- No registration is required for this meeting
Complete Streets is an approach to designing and building our streets that considers everyone who uses them, regardless of age or ability. Join us to hear from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) on how Complete Streets elements are being used to make Chicago a safer city.
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ARO units available for rent at The Mabel
Three affordable units (two 1-bedroom apartments and one 2-bedroom apartment) are now available for rent at The Mabel Exchange (5920 N Ridge)! These units are accessible and are restricted to be affordable to 60% Area Median Income (AMI). More information can be found here.
The Alderwoman approved a zoning change in 2024 to allow the conversion of long-vacant, ground-floor commercial spaces into 17 brand-new, accessible apartment units, including 3 affordable units. We are excited to see these units come online soon! Click here for a map of all of the ARO units in the city.
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Lawrence Hall construction beginning this month at 6344 N Lakewood
Construction is expected to begin mid-February on Lawrence Hall’s new Lakewood Community Home for LGBTQIA+ youth in care ages 14-17. They expect to be under construction for an estimated four months, aiming to minimize disruption and keep neighbors informed while work is being done. They are working with Reed Construction on this project.
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Community Development Grant Applications Closing Soon
Small and Medium Community Development Grant (CDG) applications are due by February 13. Funded by the Economic Development Bond, this reimbursement grant can be used for up to $5 million in construction or renovation costs for your business. Large CDG applications for over $5 million in reimbursed grants are also available and are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more online here. Community Development Grants support small businesses, nonprofits, and property owners for local commercial, mixed-use, and light manufacturing projects.
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20th District Council February Meeting
- When: Monday, February 9 from 6-7:30pm
- Where: Senn High School (5900 N Glenwood)
- No registration is required for this event.
Are you interested in public safety? Looking for a way to get involved in community safety initiatives? Attend the upcoming 20th District Council meeting and join the conversation!
Agenda:
- Share your ideas and concerns regarding public safety and policing in the 20th District.
- Hear an update on the new City of Chicago Executive Order re: CPD interactions with ICE.
- Prepare with neighbors for potential increased ICE operations in Chicago in March.
Each district council is made up of three people elected by their community to build stronger relationships with police. The more people who participate in this vital community policing process, the more effective it can be. Thank you for working with us to build a safe and healthy neighborhood where we can all thrive.
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ICE on Notice Executive Order
On January 31, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth stood with her colleagues community advocates at City Hall for the signing of the ICE On Notice Executive Order (EO 2026-1). The order directs the Chicago Police Department (CPD) to investigate and document alleged illegal activity by federal immigration agents, making Chicago the first city to create infrastructure for referring federal agents for criminal prosecution. Other key features of the executive order include:
- condemns violent and lethal federal immigration enforcement tactics
- defines CPD's role during federal immigration enforcement
- requires medical care, documentation, and accountability when harm or suspected unlafwul conduct occurs
Learn more about Executive Order 2026-1 on our blog.
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Apply to Serve on the CCPSA - Last Chance!
Applications are now open for three upcoming vacancies on the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA). Commissioners serving on the CCPSA are nominated through the District Council’s Nominating Committee and appointed by the Mayor. Applications will close on Friday, February 6, 2026.
While any proven leader can apply and be selected, this year's process provides a unique opportunity for young people given that two of three vacancies must be filled by youth ages 18 to 24. Access the application and all relevant materials online here. Any inquiries or comments can be directed to [email protected].
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CCPSA Nominates LaKenya White for COPA Chief Administrator
On January 29, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) announced the nomination of LaKenya White to serve as the next Chief Administrator of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), following a nationwide, community-informed search process launched in February 2025. White, a Chicago native, brings nearly 25 years of experience in civilian police oversight and has worked at every level of the city’s accountability system. View the CCPSA press release here.
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North Area Community Service Center February Programs
The North Area Community Service Center at 845 W Wilson has a variety of upcoming workshops and opportunities. These FREE programs are also listed on our community calendar.
- Nutrition Assistance: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 8am-4pm | Tuesday & Thursday from 9am-5pm
- Public Benefits Support: Tuesday & Thursday from 9am-5pm
- Mental Health Services: Wednesday, February 18 from 11am-12pm
- And much more: Call 312-744-2580 for more information about emergency rental assistance, domestic violence advocacy, and other programs
See the above schedule in PDF form here.
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Gun Locks Available at the 48th Ward Office
Our office has received a supply of gun locks from the Illinois Department of Public Health. Gun locks are a critical tool in promoting safe firearm storage and preventing accidental injuries, particularly among children and vulnerable residents. Having them available in our office underscores our commitment to community safety and harm reduction. Neighbors can stop by during office hours to pick one up at no cost while supplies last. Limit is three per household.
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CLICK HERE to opt in to receive occasional crime alerts from our office. If you're having trouble with this link, you can also opt in by re-subscribing HERE and checking the box at the bottom of the form. Doing so will not alter or double your existing newsletter subscription.
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CHECK OUT THE 48th WARD CALENDAR
Never miss an event! See the calendar on our website for more exciting things happening in the ward. Fill out this form to have your own event listed.
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WHERE IN THE WARD IS LENI?
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Leni dropped by the second Edgewater Indoor Market of the 2026 season where local vendors were selling treats and trinkets. On select Saturdays this winter, you can shop over 70 local businesses at the Broadway Armory. Remaining dates include February 14, February 28, and March 14. Learn more here.
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On Saturday, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth surprised Gary Kruse on his last day at the CTA. Gary has served the people of Chicago as an employee of the CTA for 37 years, starting in November 1988. Gary has been a beloved fixture of the Uptown community, most recently working as a Customer Service Representative at the Argyle Red Line Station. Gary also worked as a CTA conductor, motor person, switch person, flag person, and ticket agent. He was a frequent participant and CTA Roadeo winner, a competition that highlights the skills of CTA employees, from bus driving to mechanical skills. Gary met his wife at the Argyle Red Line Station when he held the train door for her as she was running late to work.
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Congratulations to Friends of Peirce on one of their biggest fundraisers of the year! Some of the 48th ward team came out to support and bid on the great auction items. Hopleaf generously donated 100% of the proceeds from the day to the school to fund arts programming, cultural engagement, and more! Photo includes Michael Roper (Hopleaf owner and 48th ward neighbor); Principal Luis Avila; and Friends of Peirce Board Members, Erin Metroff, Kate Lorenz, and Lisa Salvatore. To donate go to www.friendsofpeirce.org.
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Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth was invited to speak with students at the University of Chicago about equitable zoning reform. Thank you to the professors and students for the great questions and conversation!
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