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45th Ward News and Community Updates

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Summary

In Alderman Jim Gardiner’s 45th Ward newsletter, there are no specific zoning, transit, housing policy/ordinance changes, development approvals, or budget/infrastructure decisions reported. The main public-facing item is emergency-management damage survey guidance after the July 27, 2026 storms and tornadoes, plus Ward updates and services (e.g., Senior Bingo registration, veterans and senior resources, recycling program notice, and upcoming beat meeting dates). Other major announcements include additional community events/links and safety/police-related updates such as reopening of Nagle Crossing and recent arrests/alerts mentioned in the local news roundup.

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

The 45th Ward is proud of our senior community and offers many free events to show our respect and appreciation. If you are interested in attending our Senior Bingo event tomorrow, July 31st, please call (773) 853-0799 or email [email protected] to reserve your seat.

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

CLICK HERE FOR FEST PROGRAM

Election 2027 Begins: Candidates for Chicago Mayor, City Council Are Gathering Signatures Earlier Than Ever


FULL STORY HERE

CHICAGO: Cook County’s Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) and the City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) are reviewing damage from the severe thunderstorms and tornadoes that occurred July 27, 2026; and asking that residents who have been impacted by these storms submit an initial damage assessment.

Several municipalities in Cook County including the City of Chicago experienced power outages, downed power lines, tree emergencies, debris, localized roadway flooding and structural emergencies due to the storm system. Immediately after the weather events, Regional Coordinators visited impacted neighborhoods to assess damages, gather information on community needs and provide residents and businesses with recovery resources, support and information.

 

EMRS and OEMC are partnering with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency – Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) to compile additional information. This supplemental information will help determine if the County, along with partners at OEMC and IEMA-OHS can pursue any options for additional assistance for residents. The objective of this survey is to help State and local emergency management officials across Illinois identify and gain an understanding of damages that occurred during recent natural disaster activity. Reporting damages to emergency management is voluntary. It is not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance agency and does not guarantee disaster relief assistance.


To fill out a survey, please visit the Illinois Residential Self-Assessment Survey online or download the link with the QR Code below:


Funding to be allocated for turf field at Onahan School


FULL STORY HERE

Please keep the Awad family in your thoughts and prayers as they recently suffered a horrific tragedy causing the death of young girl.


FULL STORY HERE

Nagle Crossing is once again OPEN!!!

Three men convicted in series of armed robberies including two in Gladstone Park on Chicago’s NW Side


CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Two teens arrested, gun and burglary tools recovered following foot pursuit in Gladstone Park on Chicago’s NW side


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Chicago police warn of vehicle thefts at O’Hare Airport garages


FULL STORY HERE

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Owned by Virg Mazzeo and Jon Wolf, Printer's Row Brewing has quickly become more than just a neighborhood brewery—it's a true community gathering place in Jefferson Park.


The brewery has hosted block parties on Mason Avenue, weekly trivia nights, a community book club, and its popular Concerts on the Corner music series, bringing neighbors together throughout the year. 



Visitors can also enjoy the brewery's inviting outdoor beer garden and 50-seat pergola, providing the perfect setting for friends, families, and neighbors to gather.

Known for its creativity, Printer's Row Brewing has crafted more than 30 unique beers, with more planned as the brewery continues to grow. Through its dedication to community, and quality craft beer, Printer's Row Brewing has become a valued part of the neighborhood.


4801 N. Austin Ave.

(773) 657-3224

www.printersrowbrewing.com

Nestled in the heart of Gladstone Park, Mom's Old Recipe is a family-owned restaurant that brings neighbors together over authentic, home-style Mexican cuisine. Sisters Malena Basave and Ana Arriaga, originally from the small town of Tilzapotla in the Mexican state of Morelos, grew up learning treasured family recipes from their mother. Inspired by the comforting meals they shared growing up, they brought those traditions to Chicago, creating a warm and welcoming place where every guest is treated like family. From flavorful enchiladas verdes to tacos acorazados and other traditional favorites, every dish is prepared with recipes passed down through generations. Whether you're stopping in for a casual meal with friends or celebrating with family, Mom's Old Recipe offers a taste of tradition and the welcoming spirit that makes Gladstone Park such a special community.


5760 N Milwaukee Ave.

773-467-1009

Home - Mom's Old Recipe - Mexican Restaurant in Chicago, IL

Come see the new windows at City News Cafe!

CHICAGO POLITICS

Johnson says he’s in no rush to announce plans on seeking 2nd term as Chicago mayor


FULL STORY HERE

Messy power struggle engulfs CPD superintendent search as oversight commissioners split along ideological lines


FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

Key Budget Update: Proposed Furloughs Off The Table, July Budget Approval Remains Critical to Avoid Shutdown


CLICK HERE TO READ CPS LETTER

FULL STORY HERE

Gov. Pritzker signs 'bell-to-bell' school cellphone ban into law


FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson talks crime, taxes and reelection plans in FOX Chicago interview


FULL STORY HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

Click here to watch Alderman Gardiner welcome

Andy's Frozen Custard to Gladstone Park

We're committed to improving the services we offer, and the best way to do that is by hearing directly from the people we serve. So take 5 minutes and tell us about your experiences here:

 https://triwestgroup.iad1.qualtrics.com/.../SV...

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 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

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

September 2nd

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

August 12th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

August 28th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

August 6th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

August 26th

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


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]