April 3rd, 2026
Dear Neighbors,
Welcome to April, 30th Ward! With it comes many exciting announcements.
April 1 marked the start of the 2026 street sweeping season. We want to remind everyone to be on the lookout for posted signage on your block and to move your vehicles so streets can be thoroughly cleaned.
Do you have overdue parking tickets? April is also the City Clerk’s Amnesty Month, giving you the opportunity to pay your outstanding balance without additional penalties. Check out the Focus on City Services section of this newsletter to learn more about street sweeping and Amnesty Month.
In other exciting news, applications to add an Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) opened this week. The first step to adding an ADU to your property is verifying that your address is eligible. Most properties in the 30th Ward qualify—see [LINK our map] for exact locations. Once you confirm eligibility, visit [WEBSITE] to begin the application process.
We are also proud to have been part of the groundbreaking for the new Onward House CARES Community Center at 2644 N. Central Ave this past week. This new space will provide free health care, adult education classes, a food pantry, and bilingual mental health services.
Finally, as we approach Easter weekend and celebrate Passover, we wish you a festive and peaceful week ahead.
Sincerely,
Ruth Cruz
Alderwoman, 30th Ward |
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To read this newsletter in your preferred Language: Follow this link, click on the newsletter you’d like to read, and select your language from the drop-down menu in the top-right corner. You’ll be redirected to a Google Translate page, where a blue drop-down menu in the top-left corner lets you choose your preferred language. |
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Onward House Groundbreaking
We attended the groundbreaking for The new home for Onward Neighborhood House at 2644 N Central Ave. This new facility will uplift our neighbors and create space for community. They hope to open their doors in Fall of 2026 and you can read more about the scope of services they will offer in this recent article from Block Club Chicago. |
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Pictures with the Easter Bunny
We hosted Pictures with The Easter Bunny at Kilbourn Park where the community came together for spring festivities. Thank you to Kilbourn Park Advisory Council , 17th district, and Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vasquez, and State Senator Graciela Guzman for being a part of it! |
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OIPA Easter Egg Hunt
We stopped by the Old Irving Park Association (OIPA) Easter Egg hunt where we joined in the festivities by bringing a prize wheel! |
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Riis Park Conjito 5k
We stopped by the Hermosa Belmont Cragin Chamber of Commerce Conejito 5k Run to cheer on runners and provide refreshments. |
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Give and Receive at Kilbourn ParkWe partnered with The Give n Receive to offer a free thrifting boutique at Kilbourn Park. If you are interested in participating by shopping or by donating, check out their website for their upcoming events. |
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Food Giveaway at Chopin ParkWe joined State Rep Will Guzzardi, State Senator Graciela Guzman, the Chopin Park Advisory Council, and the Zakat Foundation of America for a food giveaway at Chopin Park. |
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Belmont/Central Corridor Storefront Activation
We joined Northwest Center for a Belmont/Central Corridor Walk as part of the Chicago Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Neighborhood Retail Activation Program initiative. During the walk, we helped identify empty storefronts and assess available spaces along the corridor.
Now we want to hear from you! Help us imagine a new Belmont/Central corridor by sharing what businesses, shops, and services you would like to see in our community. Take our survey and be part of shaping the future of Belmont /Central. |
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Medicaid For All Press ConferenceWe gathered with advocates and alders before the City Council meeting to discuss the Medicare for All resolution, which was met with no objection. |
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Get to Know the Portage Park Chamber of Commerce
We participated in the Portage Park Chamber of Commerce meet and greet at El Capitan Snacks. The Portage Park Chamber of Commerce is now the sole service provider for SSA 6, which services the Belmont/Central corridor. |
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Community Project Funding Recipient
We are excited to announce that Marvin Camras and Commuter Rail Division of the RTA d/b/a Metra are two of fifteen FY26 Community Project Funding recipients, made possible through our intergovernmental collaboration with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez. Camras’ $250,000 investment will help support important improvements and add green spaces that benefit our community. Commuter Rail Division of the RTA d/b/a Metra $1.5 million funding would facilitate the study of infrastructure improvements along the Milwaukee District North and North Central Service Metra lines, ensuring safer and stronger communities. We are proud to have worked together to help make this funding possible. |
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Property Tax Exemption Workshop
Thank you to everyone who joined us for a successful Property Tax Saving Exemptions Workshop this past Tuesday at Chicago Academy Elementary School.
We were proud to partner with the Cook County Assessor’s Office to help residents better understand the property tax system, learn about available exemptions, and get their questions answered during our live Q&A.
Events like this ensure our community has the tools and information needed to save money and stay informed. |
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The 30th Ward is proud to be partnering on the following events:Chopin Park Easter Egg Hunt: Saturday April 4th, 3420 N Long, 10am-12pm.St. Pats B-Ball 3 on 3 Tourney: Join us at St. Pat’s on Saturday April 18th from Noon-2pm to cheer on the St. Pat’s Shamrocks and the Chicago Police Department as they face off in a 3 on 3 tournament. The St. Pats Players will be raising money for the Police Memorial Foundation and the 30th Ward is asking attendees to bring one canned, non perishable item to help stock our Community Food Pantry.Northwest Side Job Fair: Join elected officials and the IL Dept. of Employment Security for a job fair on Friday, April 24, from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, at Kilbourn Park, 3501 N Kilbourn Ave, Chicago, IL. Shred-a-Thon and Electronics Recycling: Join us at St. Viator’s for our annual shred-a-thon on April 25th.
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Small Business Improvement Fund - Belmont/Central
The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) opens for applications in April in the Belmont/Central TIF district. Apply at chicago.gov/sbif by April 30, and register for an informational webinar at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1 bit.ly/apr26sbif. |
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Belmont/Central Corridor Activation Program
The Belmont/Central Corridor has been selected for the Neighborhood Retail Activation Program through the Mayor’s Office, BACP, and our office.
This initiative will help revitalize our commercial corridor and support 2023 and 2024 storm-impacted areas in Austin, Belmont Cragin, and West Garfield Park.
For more information, visit: Chicago.gov/BACPRetail |
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Portage Park Chamber
The Portage Park Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free networking event for local professionals on Tuesday, April 7th at Plot Twist Used Books at 5938 W Lawrence from 4-6pm. |
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Immigration & Know Your Rights |
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Our office will continue to share reliable updates and connect residents with Know Your Rights resources. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know needs support. |
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Ricon Family Services has several upcoming opportunities for people who would like help preparing to become a US Citizen. For more information or to reserve your spot, give them a call at 312-973-0695. |
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Join us and the Department of Planning and Development for the next virtual public meeting for the Cicero Avenue Land Use Study on Wednesday, April 29th via Zoom at 6:30pm!
The project team will be sharing the draft goals, strategies, and other key elements of the Study, and they need your input. Registration is required, so be sure to sign up at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jLtbGCwbQaiUIX0lcoHeRQ
We hope you can join us and share your insights about the future of Cicero Avenue in Belmont Cragin and Portage Park! |
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¡Acompáñenos con el Departamento de Planificación y Desarrollo, en la próxima reunión pública virtual sobre el Estudio de Uso del Suelo de de la Avenida Cicero, el miércoles 29 de abril a las 6:30 p.m. por Zoom!
El equipo del proyecto compartirá los objetivos preliminares, estrategias y otros elementos clave del Estudio, y necesitan tu opinión.
Es necesario registrarse, así que asegúrate de inscribirte en el siguiente enlace: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jLtbGCwbQaiUIX0lcoHeRQ ¡Esperamos que puedas acompañarnos y compartir tus ideas sobre el futuro de la Avenida Cicero en Belmont Cragin y Portage Park! |
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Street sweeping in Chicago started April 1st. Here are some important reminders to keep in mind for street sweeping season in Chicago:
Know your schedule
Street sweeping runs on a set schedule from April through mid-November. Check your streets schedule online (or check out the schedule and map below) and mark your calendar so you don’t miss your street’s assigned dates.
Watch for posted signs
Temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted at least 24 hours in advance. These signs include the date and time when parking is restricted for sweeping. The street sweeper is only required to hang two signs per block, but our office works hard to make sure there is additional signage. If you have issues with signage on your block please give our office a call.
Move your car on time
Vehicles must be moved before the posted time to avoid tickets and possible towing. Even if the sweeper has already passed, you can still be ticketed if your car is parked during restricted hours.
Use alerts and tools
Residents can sign up for email alerts via We the Sweeple and use the City’s street sweeping map or real time tracker to stay updated on when sweepers are in your area. We The Sweeple runs on city data and will be live as soon as the data is available.
Help keep streets clean
Street sweeping removes debris, reduces flooding by clearing drains, and helps keep our neighborhoods cleaner and safer. Avoid pushing leaves or trash into the street - it is against city ordinance and can result in a fine. Sweeping additional leaves or trash into the street also damages our street sweepers.
Staying informed and planning ahead can help you avoid fines while supporting cleaner, healthier streets for everyone. |
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April is also The City Clerk’s Office Amnesty Month. Every April the City Clerk’s Office offers an Amnesty Program to help residents take care of outstanding City Sticker tickets without additional penalties. During Amnesty Month, eligible Chicago City Sticker violations can be resolved with waived late fees, making it easier and more affordable to come into compliance.
If you’ve been putting off paying a ticket, now is a great time to take advantage of this opportunity. Addressing these violations helps you avoid further fines and ensures your vehicle is properly registered with the City. Visit the City Clerk’s Office website or a local location to learn more about eligibility and how to participate. |
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And while the 30th Ward believes we should live every month like it’s Earth Month, here are several Earth Month opportunities and reminders: |
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If you are interested in organizing an Earth Day clean-up in your neighborhood, please reach out to the 30th Ward Office - we can provide supplies like garbage bags, rakes, and shovels, and help coordinate garbage pick up after your cleanup day.
If you're interested in partnering with the Chopin Park Advisory Council (CPAC) or the Kilbourn Park Advisory Council (KPAC) for a park clea- up at your local park, don’t hesitate to reach out to them directly:
CPAC Contact: [email protected] KPAC Contact: [email protected]
Finally, if you are interested in partnering with Greater Independence Park Neighborhood Association for their annual Spring Alley Cleanup on Saturday, April 18th from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm, feel free to meet at the corner of Lawndale and Byron where brooms, shovels, and garbage bags will be provided. |
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Chicago Green Initiatives |
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Accessory Dwelling Unit Program Expanded as of April 1! The City began accepting application for City’s expanded Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) program this week, offering property owners a new opportunity to create more flexible and affordable housing right in their neighborhoods. ADUs are secondary housing units located on the same property as a primary structure, such as basement apartments, coach houses, or converted garages. Homeowners in most of the 30th Ward are eligible to apply for an ADU; check the ADU page on our website for a map of eligible versus ineligible areas. In addition, properties must be owner-occupied to apply, and only a certain number of applications will be accepted per block per year (equal to the number part of the zoning classification for single-family RS- districts, e.g., RS-1 would allow one application per year, RS-2 two, RS-3 three). In addition, properties in higher-density RT and RM residential zoning districts, as well as B and C zoning districts, are also eligible for ADUs. If you’ve been considering adding an ADU to your property, now is the time to explore your options and apply. Be sure to review eligibility requirements and application details to see if this program is the right fit for you. The first stage of the application process is a pre-certification phase, in which the Department of Housing verifies eligibility, so you can find out quickly if you qualify. Honorary Street Designations Each year, I am allowed to propose four honorary street designations in the 30th Ward to recognize historical figures or community leaders. Proposed honorees must be deceased and must have made a significant contribution to the community—anything from service to their local block club all the way up to national affairs. Their endeavors can be related to education, business, the arts, nonprofit organizations, science, athletics, or simply being an outstanding neighbor. For more information and to propose a person for this honor, please visit my website.
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Artists and Vendors Wanted |
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Food Resources The Greater Chicago Food Depository has an interactive map of locations where you can find food assistance: |
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The 30th Ward office has a supply of pantry essentials. If you or someone you know is in need we can provide a bag of groceries, no questions asked. Stop by our office anytime during regular business hours. |
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The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County will be at the 30th Ward office the third Thursday of each month. The VACCC is a county-based veterans service organization that assists honorably discharged veterans and their dependents who live in Cook County, Illinois. It focuses on both immediate emergency support and benefit navigation to help veterans access the resources they’ve earned. If you or someone you know needs help in the meantime, you can reach out to the VACCC directly at 312-433-6010. |
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Resources For Students and Their Families |
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Friends of the Forest Preserves
Friends of the Forest Preserves are currently hiring for seasonal roles! Great for recent graduates: https://fotfp.org/about/open-positions/ |
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Chicago Youth Works
Chicago Youth Works has announced their summer employment program, formally known as One Summer Chicago! This program connects youth ages 14-24 to summer employment opportunities across Chicago. Applications are due by May 29th. |
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Junior Bike Ambassador Program
Pedal with purpose this summer. Get paid, build skills, and help your community as a Junior Bike Ambassador. Ride, educate, and grow! Apply here: https://bit.ly/4snsh4K |
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Secretary of State Summer Jobs
The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is accepting applications for its 2026 summer youth employment program, offering 25 paid positions for high school, college, and trade school students across Illinois. |
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CLFC Scholarships
Every student deserves a chance! The Chicago City Council Latino Caucus Foundation (CLCF) is providing $5,000 scholarships to students from across Chicago. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 10th, 2026 at 11:59pm. Apply today at https://www.ccclatinocaucus.org/about-scholarships |
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Engaging with the Chicago Police Department
There are a variety of ways to engage with the Chicago Police Department. Here are upcoming opportunities - including CAPS meetings, Conversations with a Commander, and District Council meetings. If you are unsure of the police district or beat that you live in you can look up that information here. |
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Have you visited us at 5418-A W. Belmont Ave? Stop by and say hi! Here are our hours: Monday: 9am-7pm Tuesday: 9am-5pm Wednesday: 9am-4pm Thursday: 9am-5pm Friday: 9am-3pm Second Saturday each month: 9am-1pm |
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Meet Alderwoman CruzJoin us Monday night from 5-7pm to meet Alderwoman Cruz. Share ideas, concerns, or feedback directly with the Alderwoman - no appointment needed! |
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Connect with your Northwest Side Elected Officials Need help finding out who your state elected officials are? You can look up that information here. |
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