39th Ward Updates

39th Ward Newsletter
May 22, 2026

Dear Neighbor,

This week, we honored the life of Firefighter Steven Decker. Firefighter Decker dedicated more than three decades of service to our city, and his loss is felt deeply across our city and especially within the firefighting community. We continue to keep his family, friends, loved ones, and the entire Chicago Fire Department in our thoughts during this difficult time. We are incredibly grateful for the commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who put themselves on the line to protect others every day.

As our city reflects on this loss, this time of year brings opportunities to recognize the people and moments that strengthen our communities and connect our neighborhoods.

May is also a season of celebration as students across the 39th Ward graduate from elementary school, high school, college, and other programs. Graduation season is an exciting milestone not only for students, but for the parents, teachers, family members, and mentors who support them along the way. Congratulations to all of this year’s graduates as you take your next steps! We are proud of you, and we look forward to seeing all that you accomplish.

At City Hall, City Council remains focused on several key policy discussions that will shape Chicago’s future. This week, the Council voted to delay the scheduled phaseout of the tipped minimum wage, an effort I supported to provide additional time for restaurants and hospitality workers navigating ongoing economic uncertainty and rising operating costs. The Council also advanced measures focused on strengthening voter protections and improving election safeguards, continuing broader discussions about transparency, public trust, and accountability in city government.

I have continued working alongside a growing coalition of aldermen pushing for practical and responsible solutions that prioritize public safety, economic stability, and transparency for taxpayers. As budget conversations continue in the months ahead, I remain committed to advocating for policies that protect core city services while ensuring residents are seeing accountability and results from our government.

We are located at 4200 W. Lawrence Ave. and are open Mondays from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Fridays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Please contact us at 773.736.5594 or [email protected] if you need any city services or have any questions.

Sincerely,

Alderman Samantha Nugent

39th Ward Updates

Officer Bartholomew Funeral Procession

Thank you to everyone who came out to line the funeral procession route for Officer John Bartholomew. This was a powerful display of support for an officer who served in our neighborhood.

Solomon Elementary School - Walk, Jog, Roll-a-thon

Congratulations to Principal Gamble, Ms. Luciano, and the students at Solomon Elementary School for completing this year's Walk, Jog, Roll-a-Thon, a fundraiser for community building events and the art program in the school.

Cop on a Rooftop

Thank you to everyone who supported the Special Olympics with our local Police Districts during their Cop on a Rooftop fundraiser.

Northtown Spring Arts Showcase

Every May, CICS Northtown Academy celebrates the arts with its annual Spring Arts Showcase, featuring artwork created by students led by Fine Arts teacher Ms. Thompson. I enjoyed running into constituents Don and Max Morton and seeing the beautiful work Max created this year.

Palmer Elementary Career Day

It was a pleasure joining the Palmer Elementary School Career Fair with Ms. Fisher's and Ms. Payne's 5th grade classes to talk about public service, local government, and the importance of community involvement. Students asked thoughtful questions and shared their ideas about how they can make a positive impact in their neighborhoods. Thank you to the Palmer School community for the warm welcome and for helping inspire the next generation of civic leaders.

Sauganash Elementary Musical

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Sauganash Elementary School's production of Mary Poppins was wonderful. The incredible talent, hard work, and creativity of the students, teachers, and staff brought the performance to life. Bravo!

Around the Ward

Irving Park Community Food Pantry

Bohemian National Cemetery Memorial Day Service

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Bohemian National Cemetery Memorial Day Service

City Announcements

17th District Community Alert

Know Your Rights

Everyone in Chicago—regardless of immigration status—is protected by rights under city, county, state, and federal law. This guide is designed to help you understand those rights. For immediate assistance or more information, please call the ICIRR Family Support Network Hotline at 855-435-7693 or visit the link below.

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