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48th WARD NEWS: DECEMBER 18, 2025
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Dear Neighbors,
This week, some members of the City Council presented and passed an alternative 2026 Budget at the Committees on Finance and Budget. The alternative budget package raises taxes on plastic grocery bags and off-premise liquor sales, authorizes video gambling, and applies congestion fees to rideshare rides in a broader downtown area. The alternative budget relies heavily on the sale of debt to collection agencies, and does not include the Community Safety Fund (i.e. corporate head tax).Â
Yesterday, my colleagues on the Progressive Caucus and I shared our concerns about the proposal including the lack of structural revenue, and concerns regarding predatory debt collection practices. At a time of historic wealth and income inequality, we are concerned that working-class Chicagoans are already struggling to survive, and we have to do everything we can to avoid balancing the budget on the backs of those most impacted by the Trump administrationâs agenda.Â
I am dedicated to continuing to work with my colleagues so that we can agree on a budget that can avert a government shutdown and invest in the city programs and services our residents need and deserve. We are scheduled to meet on December 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, and 24, and will be adding more meetings as needed in order to pass the budget by the end of the year. Â
Hundreds of you have engaged with my team and I to share your ideas and perspective on the city budget, and Iâm grateful for your participation in this process. I continue to bring your feedback directly to City Hall and fight for a balanced budget that reflects our values, supports working families and small businesses, protects our libraries, and sets our city up for a successful 2026 and beyond.Â
Yours in Community,
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Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
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Chicago Park District Passes Blanced Budget for 2026
On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners approved a structurally balanced, responsible budget that strengthens our parks and advances the six goals of the Districtâs Strategic Plan.Â
The budget takes meaningful steps toward delivering on the priorities outlined in our Strategic Plan, including:
- Investing TIF surplus funding responsibly, including $6 million in a supplemental pension payment and $10 million towards supplemental capital investments.Â
- Expanding programming opportunities for youth and teensÂ
- Increasing park-supply budgets for the first time in years
- Expanding crisis-response capacity
View the full Park District budget presentation here. Review a summary of the 2026 budget proposal here.Â
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DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Fried Egg Cafe Coming Soon!
We are thrilled to announce that Fried Egg Cafe is expected to open for business by the end of the month! They are taking over the former Francesca's location at 1039 W Bryn Mawr. Fried Egg Cafe is a bright neighborhood spot serving classic breakfast plates, burgers and sandwiches, plus fresh coffee, lattes, and more! They plan to be open daily 7am-3pm. Please join us in welcoming owners Mike and Nick to the neighborhood! They are currently hiring for all positions. Contact them at [email protected] to apply. Filling 15 vacant storefronts in the Bryn Mawr Historic District, including this important corner, has been central to our work revitalizing this critical corridor. You can read more about this revitalization work here.
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Vote 48 in the Reader Best of Chicago 2025 Poll!
Itâs that time of year again! The Chicago Reader has launched their Best of Chicago 2025 Poll and itâs full of 48th ward businesses, organizations, and neighbors across every category, including Best Alderperson! See a list of 48th ward nominees on our blog, and vote online by December 31. As the weather warms up a little this week, stop by your favorite 48th ward stores for some holiday shopping!
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Steep Theatre Groundbreaking
Last week, Leni and Agnes attended the groundbreaking of the new $6.3 million Steep Theatre! In September, City Council approved $880,000 in community development funds towards this project. This funding was championed by Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth and brings the cityâs total support for the project to $3,868,535. The new theatre will feature a 70-seat theatre, a lobby-lounge, and support spaces for artists/staff. Weâre thrilled that Steep Theatre has found their forever home in Edgewater, and are looking forward to opening night! Read more about this project here.
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Hollywood Marketplace Approved for Liquor Sales at 5701 N Sheridan
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has approved a request to lift the package goods liquor moratorium for Hollywood Marketplace located at 5701 N Sheridan. The package goods liquor moratorium includes both sides of Sheridan from Thorndale to Hollywood. The applicant went through the 48th Ward engagement process and received overwhelming support from stakeholders including the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Sheridan Condominiums/Co-op Owners (ASCO), and the Hollywood Towers Condominium Association. The Alderwoman is committed to putting the moratorium back in place as requested by the community after a minimum of one year.
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Community Development Grant Applications Due February 13
Community Development Grant applications are due February 13! From small grants with a cap of $250,000 to large grants in excess of $5 million, support is available for a variety of business-related investments that create and maintain jobs and quality-of-life improvements for local residents. Find the right grant for your project and learn how to apply here.
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Submit Requests and Stay Informed with 311 and ChiStreetWork
For non-emergency city service requests, file a 311 report online, through the app, or by dialing 3-1-1. You can also search for and follow along with local city projects at chistreetwork.chicago.gov.
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Catch a Ride on the CTA Holiday Fleet!
The CTA Holiday Train's 48th ward run is almost over! Catch it tonight or on Saturday, December 20 at one of our new red line stations! Learn more about the holiday fleet and how to track trains and buses here.
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2025 Year-in-Review Town Hall - Call for Presentation Venues
It's that time of year again! We're preparing our 2025 year-in-review town hall to reflect on everything we've accomplished together as a community this year. While we plan to hold this presentation virtually and record it, we also want to take it on the road! If your building or organization has a meeting space and would like us to come present in January 2026, reach out to [email protected].
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Seniors Connected Winter Brochure
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Senior Services Division provides social services and support programs to adults 60 years of age and older. They serve a diverse population of older adults including those that are vulnerable, homebound, active, and fit. See the December 2025 edition of the DFSS Chicago Seniors Connected program brochure here to learn about upcoming virtual and in-person programming.
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Free Community Breakfast
- When: Sunday, December 21 from 11am-2pm
- Where: Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar (5553 N Clark)
- No RSVP is required for this event
Uvae will be hosting a a free community breakfast open to all, with special welcome to neighbors experiencing food insecurity and housing instability. Cold-weather supplies will be distributed while supplies last.
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Karaoke, Carols, & CookiesÂ
- When: Monday, December 22 from 12:30-2:30pm
- Where: Edgewater Satellite Senior Center (5917 N Broadway)
- No RSVP is required for this event.
Join neighbors at the Edgewater Satellite Senior Center for homemade cookies, holiday music, and joyful connection.
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Save the Date: 48th Ward Night with the Loyola Ramblers
- When:Â Wednesday, January 7 at 8pm
- Where:Â Gentile Arena (6525 N Sheridan)
- Purchase tickets online (select section 109).Â
Residents of the 48th Ward are invited to Gentile Arena in Rogers Park to watch the Loyola Ramblers take on Davidson on Wednesday, January 7 at 8:00 pm! Tickets for 48th Ward residents are just $10 and located in Section 109. The game also features a â3 for $12â concessions menu.
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You Name a Snowplow 2026
It's time for Chicago's fourth annual 'You Name a Snowplow' contest! Chicago residents are once again encouraged to create innovative snowplow names and submit them on the Department of Streets and Sanitation's webpage by January 10, 2025. Voting will take place from February 1-14, 2026. At the end of the contest, DSS will pick the top six namesâone for each of the city's six snow districtsâto join the existing community-named snowplow fleet. Last year, our very own Neighborhood Services Manager, Conor Hart, was one of the winners with his submission, "Been There, Plowed That." See all previous winning names here!
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Update: Improving the Disabled Parking Permit Process
In response to resident concerns, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth voted in support of a new ordinance (O2025-0019980) to make the disabled parking application process more accessible and equitable. The ordinance passed and is effective immediately. Key reforms include:
- Expanded Eligibility: Disabled parking signs will now be allowed in all residential zoning districts (RS, RT, and RM), removing a zoning-related barrier that led to many application denials.
- Garage Access Flexibility: Applicants can now provide various forms of proofânot just notarized landlord statementsâto show their garage is inaccessible.
- Higher Parking Limits: The allowable percentage of disabled parking on a street will increase from 10% to 15%, with the potential for up to 20% at MOPDâs discretion.
- More Time to Appeal: Applicants will have 30 days (up from 10) to appeal a denied request.
- Streamlined Communications: Ward offices will now receive application updates via email, cutting down on delays and paper mail.
Additionally, the city is collaborating with multiple departments on a new online application system designed to better meet resident and ward office needs.
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Recycle Non-Working Holiday Lights at the 48th Ward Office
Drop off your non-working holiday lights at the 48th ward office (1129 W Bryn Mawr)Â whenever we're open. Reduce Waste Chicago will recycle them safely. Be sure to separate lights from other decorations before dropping them off. The last day to drop off lights is January 31, 2026.
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The Edgewater Indoor Market Returns in 2026!
The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce is excited to bring back the Edgewater Indoor Market for a second year! The indoor market will feature 60+ food vendors, artists, and artisans selling prepared foods, baked goods, winter produce, warm drinks, local treats, art, gifts, and more!
Last year's market was a MASSIVE success and we're delighted to announce that this year's market will be expanding and moving into the 1st floor space at Broadway Armory which means more vendors, more dates, more variety, and no stairs! Learn more online.
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Driving Change: Fair Rates, Fair Roads
Has your auto insurance gone through the roof? Were you recently blindsided by a rate increase? Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has launched a statewide advocacy campaign aimed at preventing insurance companies from using socio-economic data â such as credit scores, zip codes and age â to charge Illinoisans higher auto insurance rates. Now, his office wants to hear from you. Learn more and share your story online here.Â
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48th Ward Office Closed December 22 - January 2
The 48th ward office will be closed for the holidays from Monday, December 22 to Friday, January 2. While we are away, please contact 311 for non-emergency requests. In the case of an emergency, contact 911. See the full list of City of Chicago holidays here. We also include these closures on our community calendar.
Garbage Collection Schedule
During the holidays, garbage collection schedules may shift by 24-48 hours. During weeks with city holidays, put your bins out 24 hours ahead of your scheduled pick up day to avoid delays.
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Know Your Rights - Neighbor Solidarity
This week, ICE returned to the 48th ward and many neighbors reported seeing CPD officers escorting federal agents. In accordance with the Welcoming City Ordinance, CPD has previously stated they will not support ICE directly. If you see CPD supporting federal agents, please file a complaint with the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) here.Â
Thank you to the neighbors who have been out on the streets. We have whistles, new window signs (pictured above), and other materials available for pick-up at our office (1129 W Bryn Mawr), Women & Children First (5233 N Clark), Solar Intentions (1056 W Bryn Mawr), and Uptown United (4619 N Broadway).
We also have printable materials and other crucial information available on our website. One of the number one ways we can support each other is to be educated on the constitutional rights afforded to everyone, regardless of immigration status.Â
In moments like this, fear is real, but so is our power when we act together. We keep us safe, and we are strongest when we work together to protect our most vulnerable neighbors. Please continue to share information with our office, and do not hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.Â
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4943Â N Kenmore (Northmere) SRO Update
On December 12, the Northmere SRO at 4943 N Kenmore was officially vacated following a court order due to severe building code violations that made the building uninhabitable and unsafe. This action was the result of months of advocacy, coordination, and commitment from our office, City departments and agencies, and a wide network of City and community partners including ONE Northside, Uptown Peopleâs Law Center (UPLC), and Voice of the People Chicago. Read more on our blog.Â
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Bike Lane Snow Removal
When it snows, Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) crews are deployed citywide to remove snow from protected bike lanes. These crews rotate through designated routes. However, some bike lanes may require specialized equipment or manual shoveling, leading to longer response times. Please continue to report bike lanes in need of attention to 311. Remember that shoveling snow from sidewalks into bike lanes is prohibited.
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Edgewater Mutual Aid December Food Distribution
Edgewater Mutual Aid Network's December food and supply distribution will take place on December 20 and 27 at Edgewater Presbyterian Church (1020 W Bryn Mawr). Doors open at 11:45. EMAN uses a random number system to ensure equity and reduce the need for neighbors to arrive early.
Want to get involved? EMAN accepts donations for their free store at the following times:
- Saturdays from 11am-1pm
- First and third Thursdays from 5:30-7pm
- By appointment (email [email protected])
See the full lits of accepted items, including both seasonal clothing and evergreen household needs, on EMAN's website here. Please do not donate items that are broken, dirty (including pet hair) or otherwise compromised to the point that you would not use/wear them yourself.
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Apna Ghar Seeking Donations
Help support Apna Ghar's vision of empowering survivors, engaging communities, and elevating the issue of gender violence to realize gender justice. Apna Ghar is seeking donations of the following items for women and children:Â
- Ventra Cards
- Winter gear, Bedding (Twin XL)
- Towels, Toiletries
- Pads/Tampons, Diapers
- Cleaning Supplies, Kitchen Essentials
- Non-perishable foods
- Gift Cards
Donations can be dropped at the Uptown Chamber of Commerce and Uptown United office at 4619 N Broadway on Mondays and Thursdays from 9am-5pm until December 22.
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Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth Cosponsors Speed Enforcement Revenue Ordinance
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has signed on as a cosponser to O2025-0021034. This ordinance, introduced at the November 14 City Council Meeting, clarifies in the municipal code that speed camera revenue should be maintained in its own, separate fund to support local pedestrian and transit safety initiatives. Read more on our blog.
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2026 District Council Meeting Schedules
Are you interested in public safety? Looking for a way to get involved in community safety initiatives? Each Chicago police district has a council made up of three people elected by their community to build stronger relationships with police. The more people who participate in this vital community policing process, the more effective it can be. The 20th and 24th districts both overlap with the 48th ward, and their district councils have released their meeting schedules for 2026:
Thank you for working with us to build a safe and healthy neighborhood where we can all thrive.Â
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Cold Weather Resources
With temperatures dropping, it's important to be prepared with resources for staying safe in extreme cold weather. Remember that you can always contact 311 to find warming centers, file no-heat complaints and request well-being checks for yourself or others. Visit our blog for more winter safety tips.
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 to opt in to receive occasional crime alerts from our office. If you're having trouble with this link, you can also opt in by re-subscribing HERE and checking the box at the bottom of the form. Doing so will not alter or double your existing newsletter subscription.
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CHECK OUT THE 48th WARD CALENDAR
Never miss an event! See the calendar on our website for more exciting things happening in the ward. Fill out this form to have your own event listed.
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WHERE IN THE WARD IS LENI?
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Wishing a very happy Hanukkah to the 48th ward! Leni was honored to help light one of the candles on the first night of Hanukkah at the community dinner at Emanuel Congregation. Everyone enjoyed the homemade latkes and good company! The evening included the consecration of the newest JLaB students, marking the beginning of their formal Jewish education. Congratulations to the students, and big thank you to all of the organizers!
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Leni joined neighbors at the Swedish Museum for a heartwarming evening filled with joy and tradition. The festivities kicked off with a special Hanukkah edition of Drag Queen Storytime, with the fabulous Drag Queen Bubbie, Merriam Levkowitz, followed by musical performances, and concluding with the lighting of the Menorah. A big shout out to the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce for hosting this and so many other wonderful events this holiday season!Â
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This weekend, Leni, Angel, Genesis, Lyannie, and Jack celebrated Christmas in the Wards with 48th ward families at McCormick Place. Christmas in the Wards is an annual celebration where alders, community partners, and volunteers from across the city come together to provide families with gifts and essentials. Thanks to everyone who made this yearâs event possible. See you in 2026!
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Conor joined Commissioner Cole Stallard and the Department of Streets and Sanitation senior staff for their holiday luncheon at City Hallâan opportunity to celebrate the season and thank the crews who keep Chicago clean, safe, and moving all year long.
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The 48th ward staff enjoyed a team dinner at La Mom Kitchen, one of Broadwayâs newest restaurants! Located at 5357 N Broadway, the Edgewater location is La Mom Kitchenâs second location with more coming soon. They serve authentic Chinese cuisine with high quality ingredients, and generous portions. We enjoyed the soup dumplings, the braised pork belly, and the organic cauliflower! A big thank you to the owners Jimmy and Judy for the delicious meal! Make your holiday dinner reservations at one of our fantastic 48th ward restaurants soon!Â
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Comms on Vacation
Our Communications Manager Audrey is on vacation. The next 48th Ward Newsletter will be published the week of Monday, January 5.
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