| 33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - AUGUST 14, 2026 |
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| Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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| Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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| This has been a busy week in the 33rd ward! We opened with a magnificent display of Ecuadorian pride as the Ecuadorian Festival at Horner Park, and the parade on Sunday, filled the streets with the yellow, red, and blue Ecuadorian flag.
On Monday, I was proud to join my colleagues at a press conference as several brave Chicagoan’s spoke about the reports they are filing against ICE agents. This is part of an important effort that has been led by Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vásquez as she works with the Kulis & Associates to provide people with free legal evaluations to determine if they should file a report. These reports are essential in order to make sure the Cook County State’s Attorney has the evidence they need to prosecute ICE agents for the terror they unleashed in Chicago during Operation Midway Blitz. We are encouraging people to reach out to Kulis & Associates for a free evaluation by calling them at (312) 580-1830. I am so grateful for Commissioner Jessica Vásquez’s leadership and for spearheading this work to get accountability from ICE.
Sadly, the ICE presence in Chicago is not over. With that in mind, local rapid response organizers have begun experimenting with new strategies for neighbors to keep each other safe. Our rapid responders have become experts at quickly alerting community members, but there is still often a lag between when the responders report ICE presence and how soon we are able to send the alert over social media. To try and narrow this gap, the rapid responders have kicked off the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN). This is intended to be a low-barrier way to stay informed about ICE’s presence. In order to participate, all you have to do is download the Telegram app and join the WARN channel. Both of which you can do by clicking the link here. This is a one-way alert system to let you know if ICE is in the area and we encourage everyone to join. The more people who are in the channel, the better, so help spread the word with your neighbors.
On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining the Mayor and our colleagues at Northerly Island for a signing of an executive order regarding data centers. The executive order establishes an enhanced regulatory review process, improving existing standards that were established prior to the recent investments in data centers. The order also establishes a temporary moratorium on data centers, while the city develops a long-term regulatory framework focused on environmental safeguards, transparency, and accountability. This executive order comes in response to an extensive working group process. This is an important step toward protecting communities and advancing a more sustainable and equitable future for all Chicagoans.
As data center development continues to grow, protecting public health, natural resources, and quality of life, especially in communities already experiencing higher energy and environmental burdens, must remain at the forefront. |
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| | On a separate note, we are thrilled to partner with the Mijente Support Committee as they launch Pop Optics, a new pilot program inspired by Chile’s municipal model for expanding access to essential goods. Through Pop Optics, people in Chicago will be able to order quality, low-cost prescription glasses and pick them up at participating local government offices in their neighborhoods. The idea is simple: when the market makes basic necessities too expensive, communities and local governments can work together to make them more accessible.
Our office will have some sample glasses from Pop Optics next week. We will make an announcement on social media once they arrive, but we anticipate having them by Tuesday. At that point, you can stop by our office to try on some frames before ordering online!
Finally, this weekend marks the 9th annual Back to School Giveaway from Israel’s Gift of Hope (IGOH), the local non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families who have experienced gun violence. IGOH has been an inspirational leader and they will be providing backpacks full of school supplies tomorrow, Saturday, at 12pm outside of Christ Lutheran Church at 3253 W Wilson Ave. In addition to school supplies, there will be a bouncy house, arts and crafts, and free food provided by local restaurant, Bellona’s Pizza!
If you would like to contribute toward the supply drive, it is not too late to donate. You can find ways to support IGOH through their Linktree, here. |
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| | Thank you for doing this work with me. Please take a moment this week to help out a neighbor in need. You can always contact my office if you have any questions. We are here to help.
In solidarity, Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez 33rd Ward Alderperson |
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| Ongoing Donation Collection for Unhoused Neighbors During these hot summer days, our unhoused neighbors are in extreme need of a few essential items. We are currently accepting donations of any non-perishable food items, including bottled water, hand fans (battery powered), and bus cards.
Donations can be dropped off at the 33rd Ward Office during business hours. If you would like to coordinate a special drop-off time, please reach out to 773-840-7880. We are not requesting donations outside of the above list. Donations can also be made to: Albany Park Mutual Aid | PRP Shower Connect Wish List |
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| Detour Notice The current, active detour related to the closure of Kimball Avenue at Ainslie Avenue will be modified slightly to accommodate a block party on the 4800 block of N St Louis Ave. Traffic will be diverted through the north-south alley to the east of the 4800 block of N St Louis Ave. This temporary detour will be enforced through the weekend. For more details on the full detour plan, please see below in the newsletter. |
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| | 33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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| | | | Event details are listed in the newsletter below. August 10 — Please note, the Horner Park outdoor basketball courts will be closed starting on August 10 until October 2 for renovations and replacement of the courts sponsored by the Chicago Bulls. Signage will be available on site for more information. August 11 — 17th District Council Monthly Meeting, 1pm, 3403 W Lawrence, Virtual meeting August 15 — Back 2 School giveaway with State Senator Guzman and State Rep Guzzardi from 10am to 1pm at Kelvyn Park. August 15 — Back to School Giveaway with Israel’s Gift of Hope (IGOH) from 12pm and while supplies last at Christ Lutheran Church, 3253 W Wison. August 18 — Progressive Policies for The People from 5:30-7:30pm at Northwest Center on 5233 W Diversey Ave. Hear from State Reps Lilian Jimenez and Will Guzzardi, as well as State Senator Graciela Guzman. Register August 22 — Tanggol Migrante and the Tahanan Center are co-hosting a Community Health Fair, 11am - 4pm, with blood pressure checks and assitance accessing resources like SNAP at Christ Lutheran Church, 3253 W Wison. Register August 22 — Cooking Class with Farmer Celestine at 4pm with Global Gardens at 4815 N Sacramento. Tickets August 24 — First Day of School for CPS August 24 — Utility Bill Clinic with Citizens Utility Board, 4-6pm, 33rd Ward Office, 4747 N Sawyer Ave - Register August 28 — Overdose Awareness Day Community Event from 10am - 1pm at Pulaski & Lake. Fee food, drinks, haircuts, and live DJs. The site will also have overdose prevention training and a chance to see a Healthcare Mobile Unit in person. August 30 — Summer Fundraiser with Women Unite! and Chicago United Solidarity Project (CUSP) 6pm at Global Gardens, 4815 N Sacramento. Tickets September 09 — Farm Concert with The Arab Blues from 4pm - 6:30pm. Suggested donation $20, payable at gate. BYO-chair to Global Gardens at 4815 N Sacramento! RSVP
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| | | Ronan Park UpdatesIn March, we have received many residents from the former Legion Park encampment into our ward as they wait for their assigned housing. I understand that this encampment has caused great concern for many neighbors. When this community moved into our local park, my office began working in close, daily collaboration with many local organizations, mutual aid groups, nonprofit agencies, and government partners to ensure that our neighbors most in need receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve.
For updates, please check in on our website. |
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| Immigrant Rights and Deportation Defense Resources: If you see immigration enforcement or suspect immigration enforcement, first call the Family Support Network (FSN) at 855-435-7693. We encourage you to save this number in your phone. |
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| VOLUNTEER WITH THE WARD OFFICE |
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| Volunteer with the 33rd Ward OfficeJoin us in strengthening our community! We are excited to offer a range of community engagement opportunities with our office. Whether you’re passionate about connecting neighbors or eager to make a positive impact, we’d love for you to volunteer with us. Help us build bridges and foster a stronger, more connected community. Your involvement can make a real difference.
Our office maintains several programs for neighbors to come together to care for each other and to learn about resources available to our communities. You can sign up to volunteer with our office by filling out our volunteer form by clicking here. |
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| 33rd Ward Spring and Summer resources: Clean and Greens: Please email [email protected] to request resources to help clean up your block, like garbage bags, grippers, and gloves. Street Sweeping began April 1. You can view our interactive sweeping schedule and map by clicking here. To apply for a block party permit, please fill out this form. You can also get small whistle kits for your neighbors if you wish to include them in your block party festivities to encourage safety and support in your community during these difficult times. To apply for a yard sale, please stop by our office or fill out this form.
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| | Neighbor NightNext Neighbor Night: Monday, August 24 at 4747 N Sawyer Ave Upcoming: Monday, September 14 at 4747 N Sawyer Ave
Neighbor Nights offer appointments with the Alderperson between 4:30-6:00pm by appointment only. Call or email our office for an appointment at 773-840-7880 or [email protected]. Appointments will be offered in 15 minute segments, with the final time slot at 5:45pm.
The Neighbor Nights are an effort by the 33rd Ward Office to create opportunities for organizations in our ward to teach neighbors about their work and help people get involved. If you would like to coordinate an event related to your organizing work with an upcoming Neighbor Night, please reach out to our office. |
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| Sage BrigadeThe Sage Brigade needs volunteers to help pack groceries for seniors. This is a commitment of 2 hours a month, once a month, in person, at the Irving Park Food Pantry. If you are interested in volunteering, please email [email protected] with the subject line: SAGE BRIGADE VOLUNTEER FOR FOOD PANTRY. Someone from our office will follow up with you! |
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Join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN)Looking for a lower-risk way to help protect your neighbors from ICE? The Northwest Side Rapid Response Network is launching a new neighborhood-based, people powered alert system. To join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN), download the Telegram app on your phone. Then, join the channel using this link. WARN is open to everyone, so please don't hesitate to share. |
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| | | Belmont Blue Line Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) Survey Have thoughts on potential transit-oriented improvements near Belmont and Kimball in Avondale? Help shape the Belmont Blue Line ETOD Plan by taking a community survey through August 31 and adding ideas to the interactive map. Complete the survey at bit.ly/BelmontSurvey and learn more at Chicago.gov/BelmontETOD. |
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| | INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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| 2026 Street SweepingStreet Sweeping season will officially begin on April 1st. Here is the interactive map our Ward Superintendent made to keep track of scheduled street sweepings! |
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| ChiStreetWorksWondering what construction is taking place near you? Try the ChiStreetWork tool which allows you to view all the construction work happening anywhere in Chicago. The ChiStreetWork tool allows you to view all the active and permitted construction work taking place near you. You are also able to opt into updates to receive real-time notifications related to construction work. |
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| Street Resurfacing Project Anticipated Start Date: August 6 (grinding) Anticipated Completion Date: August 18 (paving) Location: N Whipple St. from N Elston Ave to W. Cornelia Avenue.
The work will include milling and paving the existing asphalt pavement and striping. During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. Dates of work subject to change according to weather, material, and crew availability. |
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Street Resurfacing Project with Pedestrian Improvements Anticipated Start Date: August 10, 2026 Anticipated Completion Date: September 30, 2026 Location: North California Ave. from W. Byron St. to W. Montrose Avenue.
The work will include ADA sidewalk improvements, curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed for ADA and drainage compliance, pavement patching, milling and paving the existing asphalt pavement, and striping. During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work.
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Street Closure Notice - Kimball and WavelandAnticipated Start Date: August 10, 2026 Anticipated Completion Date: August 17, 2026
As the Chicago Department of Water Management continues to coordinate the installation of a new sewer main, this closure is necessary to ensure the safety of the workers and drivers, as they will be excavating to gain access under the street. This closure will be in effect, per the contractors, from the 10th to the 17th of August. Below, please see the map regarding the bus detour that the CTA busses will be rerouted to. Signage should also be installed soon to indicate this detour for other drivers.
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| Street Closure Notice - Kimball and AinslieDuration of the project - 6 weeks Closure July 13 - August 24 (start of school)
(CDOT) is expected to begin work on seven street renovations on Monday, July 13. One of the renovations will be a raised intersection at Kimball and Ainslie, which will require a detour for six weeks. The raised intersection will be both a beautification update as well as a way of increasing traffic safety at the intersection. The work will also include the installation of curb extensions, detached bump-outs, and detached concrete bike lane medians, ADA ramp reconstruction, sewer work, asphalt resurfacing, signage and pavement markings.
To help you plan for this, please note that temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please leave a message for CDOT at 312-722-6590 and someone will return your call.
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| Alley ReconstructionThe Mayor’s Office, Alderperson Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, and the Chicago Department of Transportation are pleased to announce the reconstruction of an alley in the 33rd ward. Please know that alley construction is scheduled to begin July 29, 2026. No alley access will be granted after July 29, 2026, please make accommodations to relocate your cars out of the garages. There will be saw cutting and minor asphalt demolition taking place July 27 & 28, 2026 but garage access is still permitted and allowed during those 2 days.
The alley is bounded by Wilson Ave and Montrose Ave, and by Sacramento Ave and Richmond St. Once started, construction is expected to take approximately six (6) weeks, weather permitting.
Due to construction, the following changes will occur: During construction, residential garbage will be curbside and we ask that the homeowner relocate cans to the front of the property. There will be no access to the alley for approximately six (6) weeks depending on the weather conditions. Barricades will block all entrance to the alley. Homeowners are advised to seek alternative parking.
This project will be managed by the Public Building Commission of Chicago. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please contact Capitol Cement Company, Inc. at 773-478-2200.
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| Grid-Based Tree TrimmingCurrent Grid Area: N044, W032
4400-4700 N St Louis (Block)
4400 N Bernard (Block)
4500 N Drake (Block)
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
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| | ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES |
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| Proactive Rental Inspection — Community MeetingsThere will be three community meetings held across the city in the hopes of both educating the public about proactive rental inspections, as well as gathering community feedback. We hope you’ll consider joining one of the events listed below: Tuesday, 08/25, 6-8pm
Malcolm X College
Thursday, 08/27, 6-8pm
Kennedy-King College
Saturday, 08/29, 10am-12pm
Harry Truman College
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| | Chicago Front Yard Survey
Research is being done by a University of Oxford DPhil (PhD) student from Chicago. They are exploring how residential green space can reduce local flood risk, and how we can encourage the adoption of better practices. This survey is aimed at households within the city of Chicago who have a front yard. Complete the survey for a chance to win a $100 gift card!
Complete the survey here |
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| CEDA Connect Utility Bill AssistanceIf you or someone you know needs help paying utility bills, now is the time to apply. Applications are open now through August 15, 2026, or until funds are exhausted. Apply as soon as possible while funding remains available. CEDA Energy Services may be able to assist income-eligible households in Cook County. |
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| My CHI. My Future: Get Into Summer 2026On behalf of the Mayor's Office Education and Youth Services team, check out the Get Into Summer 2026 flyer which highlights multiple helpful youth resources and opportunities lasting throughout the summer, and we hope it can be a helpful tool as you communicate with community and residents about what is available for youth this summer.
In collaboration with the Mayor's Office of Community Safety team, the Mayor's Office is consistently updating the My CHI. My Future website and mobile app with community safe space events, open safe spaces for youth, summer opportunities, jobs, and resources on a daily basis. As it stands, the My CHI. My Future. Digital resources currently have over 8,000 youth opportunities available.
You can easily see safe spaces supported by MOCS, EDYS and others here as well as overall summer events here. The My CHI. My Future. mobile app includes interactive maps to view these opportunities as well. |
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| | Albany Park Flooding Community MeetingHow can we better prepare Albany Park for urban flooding? Join North River Commission and Center for Neighborhood Technology for a community meeting focused on learning about local initiatives, sharing your input, and exploring pathways toward long-term solutions.
Wednesday, September 2 6pm-8pm Movement on Montrose, 2951 W. Montrose Ave. |
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Disaster Loan Outreach The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will establish Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) for residents and businesses impacted by the severe storm that occurred on June 10, June 11, and June 17, 2026, to apply for low-interest loans.
Online Applications To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is September 8, 2026. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 12, 2027.
Note: All impacted residents, regardless of where they live can go to any Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) site, even if it is not their Ward, county or municipality. Each location will have a Spanish translator available. |
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| Impact for Equity — Property Tax AppealsThe property tax appeal system in Cook County is complex and difficult to navigate, so few homeowners appeal and even fewer succeed. Impact for Equity has developed a set of checklists and resources to simplify the process and empower homeowners to challenge inequitable property tax practices. (Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog at this website.) |
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| Get Medicaid FactsThe Cook County Medicaid Impact Workgroup, a coalition convened by Cook County Health, has launched “Get Medicaid Facts," a new website and communications toolkit designed to help people understand upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility and what steps they can take now to keep their coverage. These resources come at a critical time. Federal policy changes are expected to significantly impact Medicaid, and an estimated 400,000 Illinois residents could lose coverage in the coming years if they are not prepared or informed.
https://getmedicaidfacts.com/ |
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| | | Our 33rd Ward Office maintains resources pages on our website as a helpful starting point for anyone that needs support. We are also available by phone call or email to help you explore any options that work best for you.
If for any reason our office is unavailable, please call 2-1-1 or visit www.211metrochicago.org. 2-1-1 is a hotline that is staffed 24/7 by trained resources navigators to help you find information and programs related to a wide variety of needs including utility billing relief and housing assistance. |
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| Albany Park Mutual Aid - Free StoreLocated at 3000 W. Lawrence
Hours: Mondays 5-9pm, Wednesdays 5-9pm, Saturdays 12-4pm
You can learn more about Albany Park Mutual Aid, support their work, or find help at www.albanyparkmutualaid.com. |
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| The 33rd Ward Office Has a Notary on Staff
If you are in need of notary services, our team is happy to help. Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 773-840-7880 to set up an appointment. |
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| Free Narcan and Drug Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
They are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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| Free Gun Safety Locks Available at Our Ward OfficeLocks are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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| Connect with our local Chamber of CommerceSign up for the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce newsletter by clicking here. |
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| | Monthly Newsletter for “Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Supporters”We are happy to feature the following community-managed resources guides for service members, veterans, their families, and supporters including events and services for veterans in Chicago and surrounding municipalities. Please email: [email protected] to be added to their monthly emails. You can view this month’s updates, a calendar, and fliers by clicking here. |
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| | | Meet our 33rd Ward Office Staff Jonathan Nagy, Chief of Staff Rebecca Rios, Deputy Chief of Staff, Director of Zoning and Housing Kenneth Barrios, Director of Policy and Communications Abraham Espino, Director of Business Services Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
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