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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for November 17, 2025
In This Edition:
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Statement Regarding the 2026 Budget
Dear Neighbors,
The Mayor’s proposed head tax was defeated at today's Committee on Finance. While I’m encouraged that we prevented a measure that would have charged businesses simply for employing people, I recognize that this discussion is far from over. Proposals like this tend to return, and it’s essential that we remain attentive to their broader impact on Chicago’s economy.
Since taking office in 2015, I have consistently opposed efforts to raise property taxes in Chicago. That position has not changed throughout my tenure. When the Mayor attempted to advance a $300 million property tax increase last year, I declined to negotiate and helped lead efforts to oppose it outright. Many residents are already managing significant financial pressures, and I believe it is important not to add further strain.
Part of the challenge we face is the city’s growing budget. The Corporate Fund has increased from approximately $3.8 billion in 2019 to roughly $5.6 billion today — close to a 40% rise. Much of that growth stemmed from temporary federal assistance under the American Rescue Plan Act after the Covid-19 pandemic, which was never intended to support ongoing, year-over-year spending. As those federal dollars phase out, the city is left with recurring costs unless they are eliminated. I believe we must make those cuts.
In addition to right-sizing spending, I continue to believe Chicago will make the most meaningful progress by expanding its tax base — encouraging responsible development, attracting employers, supporting new business formation, and aligning the size of government with pre-pandemic levels. These approaches strengthen fiscal stability without placing additional burdens on residents.
While I may disagree with certain proposals, my focus remains on promoting policies that support growth, safeguard taxpayers, and position the city for sustainable financial health. I will continue to evaluate each measure carefully and advocate for strategies that serve Chicago’s long-term interests.
Sincerely,
Brian Hopkins
Alderman, 2nd Ward
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Update on Correspondence with CDOT Commissioner Turner Regarding Bridge Closures
I recently received a response to the October 24th letter to Mayor Johnson and Chicago Department of Transportation Commissioner Craig Turner from myself and seven other local aldermen regarding the traffic congestion that has resulted from multiple bridge closures across the Near North Side. While I appreciate the efforts being made, I do not believe they are extensive enough. I would like to see more of what we suggested, such as traffic aides at the worst intersections during peak hours and stronger moratoriums on other public way construction projects, and I will continue to advocate for them.
Click here to review Commissioner Turner's response.
Click here to review our initial letter.
Additionally, I introduced a new ordinance proposal at last week’s City Council meeting that, if passed, would require City Council approval for future bridge closures.
Click here to view the ordinance.
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Legislative Updates: Ordinance Regarding External Camera Investigation Cooperation Introduced
Last Friday, I introduced an ordinance to City Council that would provide investigators with easier avenues to obtain access to footage from businesses' security cameras. As license holders in the City of Chicago, businesses should be responsible neighbors and aid investigators in combating public safety problems. This ordinance would set that standard while making the crime-solving process easier for City officials.
You may click here to read the ordinance.
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Discussing the Federal Hemp Ban with FOX 32
The federal government recently banned the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived THC products, giving businesses a one-year period to end the sale of such products. I have been an outspoken critic of the sale of these dangerous, poorly regulated products — which have been proven to pose significant safety concerns — and I am pleased to see this action taken. However, Chicago will now face new challenges as a result of this ban, which I discussed with FOX 32 last week.
You may view the segment, including my comments, by clicking here.
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Discussing President Trump Administration's Claims About Crime in Chicago with NBC
I spoke with NBC last week after Trump Administration officials appeared to take credit for falling crime numbers in Chicago, claiming that ICE operations were behind positive trends in violent crime and robberies. Those claims are factually incorrect and misconstrue the operations of the Department of Homeland Security over the last two months. In reality, ICE instilled fear throughout Chicago by executing military-esque operations on our neighbors. Crime was down in Chicago before DHS arrived, following national trends, but our current Presidential administration and Mayoral administration both prefer to take false credit for a national trend instead of prioritizing common-sense public safety policy.
You may review my comments to NBC by clicking here.
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Goose Island Founder John Hall Honored with Resolution
In October, I was pleased to honor John Hall with a resolution in City Council commemorating his work as the founder of Goose Island Beer Company on the occasion of its 30th Anniversary. I am happy to report that John was presented with the resolution by his son, Greg, in a ceremony last Saturday. John's work at Goose Island helped put Chicago on the map as a destination in the craft brewing industry, and I am proud to have helped honor his storied career.
Click here to read the resolution honoring John Hall.
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Care Package Drive for CPD Heroes Currently Deployed
We are accepting donations for the 6th Annual CPD Heroes Care Package Drive at the Old Town Merchants and Residents Association (OTMRA) tree lighting ceremony on Tuesday, November 18, at 5:30 at Burton Place Plaza.
This drive is collecting items for Chicago Police Officers who serve in the armed forces and are currently deployed. Please scan the QR code in the flyer below for items needed.
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
Community Alerts:
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
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18th District CompStat Report
Computer Statistics report (CompStat) is a weekly report of incidents that have occurred in the respective police district. Each district compiles a statistical summary of the week's crime complaints, arrests, and data analysis. to learn more about CompStat.
Please see the 18th District CompStat report below:
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Coffee with the 18th District Commander: Thursday, November 20
 Join the 18th District commander and the CAPS team for an informal gathering to discuss public safety in the neighborhood on Thursday, November 20, at 10:00 am at the Merchandise Mart (Marshall's Landing), located at 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza.
Meet the officers who patrol your beat and speak with Commander Bielfeldt about any concerns or questions you have. If you have any questions, contact the 18th District CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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18th Police District Council Meeting: Monday, November 25
Join the 18th Police District Council for their monthly meeting on Monday, November 25, at 12:15 pm at the Near North Library, located at 310 W Division St. Commander Christopher Beilfeldt will be this month's featured speaker.
Please note: Limited parking is available in the adjacent lot. If you wish to participate in this meeting virtually via Zoom, please register here or click here to RSVP to attend in person.
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2025 Chicago Police CAPS Meetings Schedule
The Chicago Police Department's Beat community meetings are a key part of the CAPS strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in-person and are an excellent way to communicate with the officers who patrol your beat and to engage with and meet your neighbors.
The entirety of the 2nd Ward falls inside the 18th District. Click here to find which beat you reside in.
18th District: East of the Chicago River and south of Fullerton Avenue.
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Cook County Property Tax Bills 2nd Installment
 With the release of the 2024 second installment tax bills from the Cook County Treasurer’s Office, homeowners should check to make sure they are not missing property tax-saving exemptions.
Homeowners are encouraged to review the bottom left corner of the tax bill to confirm their exemption deductions. Most homeowners are eligible for the Homeowner Exemption, which saves approximately $950 dollars. Senior homeowners over 65 are likely eligible for additional property tax savings with the Senior Exemption.
Seniors and Veterans may also be eligible for further exemptions, such as the “Senior Freeze” and Veterans with Disabilities exemptions.
If a homeowner believes they are eligible for an exemption, they can apply for their missing property tax savings by completing a Certificate of Error application. The Certificate of Error process provides homeowners with an opportunity to redeem missing exemptions for the 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021 tax years.
Homeowners are encouraged to immediately submit an online application or make an appointment to apply for missing exemptions. Accepted photo IDs and documents required to apply are listed on the Assessor’s website.
To learn more about missing exemptions, join a virtual workshop on Facebook or YouTube on the following dates: Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
To see a full list of available exemptions, visit www.cookcountyassessoril.gov/exemptions.
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18th District Holiday Toy Drive: Through December 10
 The 18th District is seeking donations for its holiday toy drive now through December 10. All donations can be dropped off at the 18th District lobby, located at 1160 N Larrabee Ave.
They are collecting new toys, new coats, hats, scarves, and school supplies for youth aged 5-17. For more information, call the 18th District CAPS team at 312-742-5778.
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Fourth Saturday Family Story Time at Near North Library: Saturday, November 22
This Saturday, November 22, the Near North library is hosting its "Fourth Saturday Family Story Time," an event where families participate in an interactive program featuring read-along books, songs, and movement activities. The event will take place from 10:30 am to 11:00 am.
Click here for more information. Click here to view all upcoming events at Near North (select "Near North" under Location on the left side).
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Law at the Library: Wednesday, November 19
 Law at the Library: Changes in the Tax Law: Know Before You File will take place on Wednesday, November 19.
Each Law at the Library program features a presentation by an experienced attorney, followed by a brief question-and-answer session. All events are free, open to the public, and conducted via Zoom unless otherwise noted. Registration is required.
Visit https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/v2/events or https://evanstonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/events. For a referral to a CBA lawyer, visit www.lrs.chicagobar.org.
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Clothing Drive with the Chicago Help Initiative
 The Chicago Help Initiative is accepting donations of warm clothes and outerwear to be dropped off at 721 N LaSalle Dr.
Drop-offs can be made between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, or between 8:00 am and 9:30 am on Saturdays. Alternatively, those wishing to donate can find the requested items by clicking here.
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LAZ Parking Enforcement Agents Needed: Wednesday, December 3
LAZ Parking is hosting an Open House on Wednesday, December 3, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 325 W Huron St., Suite 500.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about LAZ Parking and meet with representatives onsite.
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Chicago Fire Department Hiring Paramedics
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Old Town Tree Lighting Ceremony: Tomorrow, November 18
Join the Old Town Merchants & Residents Association as they kick off the holiday season at their annual tree lighting tomorrow, November 18, at 5:30 pm, located at 1447 N Wells. The event will feature a choir performance, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa Claus.
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112th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday, November 21
 The 112th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park will be illuminated on Friday, November 21, at 6 pm. The tree will remain illuminated through Sunday, January 11, 2026.
Guests can enjoy multiple viewing areas throughout Millennium Park, complete with giant screens, seasonal treats, and a vibrant main stage along Washington Street, right beside the Chicago Cultural Center. The celebration will reach its magical finale with the illumination of Chicago’s Christmas Tree, followed by a fireworks display.
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Christkindlmarket Opening Day: Friday, November 21
 Chicagoland’s most beloved holiday tradition will be back this winter and opens on Friday, November 21, at all three locations, including Daley Plaza (50 W Washington St). The German-style Christmas Market provides a safe outdoor experience for the whole family. All Christkindlmarkets are always free admission.
Click here for more information.
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34th Annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: Saturday, November 22
 The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® returns on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The spectacular 2025 parade down N Michigan Ave will feature Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse of Walt Disney World® Resort, fabulous floats with beloved friends from Walt Disney World® Resort, marching bands from across the country, musical celebrities, Santa Claus, The Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular, and one million lights illuminating The Magnificent Mile's 200-plus trees. Click here for more details.
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91st Annual Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade: Thursday, November 27
 The 91st Annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade takes place on Thursday, November 27, from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. The procession will travel north on a historic stretch of Chicago’s State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street.
Click here for more event details.
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Christmas Tree Lighting and Caroling at First St. Paul's Lutheran Church: Saturday, December 6
Join First St. Paul's Lutheran Church for their first annual Christmas tree lighting and caroling on Saturday, December 6, at 5:00 pm on the patio at 1301 N LaSalle Dr. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a festive evening to celebrate the holidays.
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Clark Street Cookie Crawl: Sunday, December 7
 The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Cookie Crawl on Sunday, December 7, from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, starting at 2577 N Clark St. Visit businesses along Clark Street to collect a variety of delicious holiday cookies. Enjoy surprises along the way, including carolers, hot chocolate, and the chance to snap photos with Santa.
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First St. Paul's Annual Christmas Concert: Sunday, December 14
 Join First St Paul's for a Christmas concert featuring choir, orchestra, and carols. Free parking is available at the Franklin School parking lot, located at 274 W Goethe St.
Please contact the church directly if you have any questions at 312-642-7172.
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