39th Ward Updates

39th Ward Newsletter
August 21, 2026

Dear Neighbor,

It’s hard to believe summer is already winding down and students are heading back to the classroom! I’ve been glad to soak up the final days of summer in our community.

Last week, we hosted our 3rd Annual Back to School Summer Bash at Hollywood Park, and it was wonderful to see so many families come out. Thanks to support from DoorDash, we distributed more than 200 backpacks filled with school supplies to help students start the year ready to learn. Families also enjoyed free food, live music and activities, along with a pediatric vaccine clinic, free health physicals and resources from community organizations and City departments.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to all of the partners who helped make the evening possible. I hope all of our students, teachers and families have a great start to the school year!

I also joined state and local leaders for the signing of Senate Bill 3925, legislation that gives communities another tool to help homeowners dealing with the financial impact of flooding. The new law allows Home Equity Assurance Program governing commissions to create programs providing eligible homeowners with reimbursement for some flood-related costs.

We know how disruptive flooding can be for families and how quickly cleanup and repair costs can add up. I was glad to be there to celebrate a measure that gives communities more flexibility to support homeowners when they need it. This summer has seen its fair share of extreme weather and as we rebound from the most recent storms, the Department of Forestry continues cleanup efforts across the ward and the city as a whole.

As we head into the fall, and leaves begin to pile up, it’s also important to remember not to rake or blow leaves into the street. Leaves left in the roadway can clog storm drains, contributing to street flooding during heavy rains. Instead please bag leaves and other yard waste in designated paper yard waste bags for proper collection.

As always, my office is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can be a resource for you or your family.

Best,

Alderman Samantha Nugent

39th Ward Updates

39th Ward Back-to-School Bash

Flood Relief Rebates

I was proud to stand with Governor JB Pritzker as he signed legislation to deliver financial relief for flood damage. Residents within the Northwest Home Equity Program area can apply to be reimbursed for half of their flood remediation costs up to $1,000.

Welcome to the 39th Ward, October Cafe!

Congratulations to Audrey and Michelle of October Cafe on the grand opening of your second location at 5961 N. Elston Ave. We are so happy to have you in the 39th Ward.

Ken Fowler Street Dedication

I joined neighbors to unveil an honorary street sign naming the 5800 block of N. Kenton Ave. as "Honorary Ken Fowler Way"

Ken was a lifelong Chicagoan and lived a life dedicated to his community. He was a standout athlete, volunteered with Misericordia, and was recognized with the Chicago Park District Junior Citizens Award for his service before he followed in his father's footsteps and joined the Chicago Police Department.

He was an active member of Queen of All Saints, the Shannon Rovers, and his neighborhood.

Ken passed away at just 55 years old after a five-month battle with cancer.

Thousands of people came together to celebrate his life at his funeral and over a hundred neighbors gathered with his family last week to celebrate the street dedication.

Around the Ward

Veterans of Foreign Wars Youth Scholarships

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is offering two scholarship opportunities for students across our area. Patriot’s Pen is open to students in grades 6–8 and challenges them to submit a 300-word essay. Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9–12 and invites participants to submit a 3–5 minute audio-recorded essay.

These scholarships provide gradual awards at every selection level - from local, all the way to national. See the links below for more information or to apply.

Patriot's Pen (Grades 6-8)

Voice of Democracy (Grades 9-12)

39th Ward Community Markets

City Announcements

Public Building Commission and Chicago Department of Transportation Hiring

Schedule an Interview

General Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program!

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District Councilor Elections

Help Shape Public Safety and Policing in Your Neighborhood.

Want to make a real difference in how public safety and policing work in your community? District Councils (DCs) are locally elected, 3‑member bodies that give residents a stronger voice in shaping both neighborhood‑level and citywide decisions.

DCs partner closely with the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (Commission), which provides oversight of the Police Department, the Police Board, and the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Together, they help ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful community input.

District Councilors stay active year‑round:

Hosting monthly public meetings
Listening to neighbors and elevating community concerns
Meeting with local stakeholders and police leaders
Developing community‑centered policing initiatives
Promoting restorative justice
Collaborating with fellow Councilors
Offering recommendations to the Commission

If you’re curious about how DCs work, or you’re thinking about becoming a candidate, join an upcoming information session during lunch, in the evening or on a Saturday. You’ll learn what the role involves, how DCs strengthen local voices, and what steps to take if you’re interested in running.

Rabies Vaccine and Microchip Clinic

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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