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45th Ward News and Community Updates

Relevance: 3/10
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Summary

Alderman Jim Gardiner’s 45th Ward newsletter highlights a community meeting that gave a “warm reception” to a proposed 6-flat in Portage Park, plus links to recent coverage involving crime on the CTA Blue Line and reports of proposed local policy at the City level (e.g., a City Council committee backing a ban on sweepstakes machines). The rest of the update focuses on constituent services and resources (infrastructure help, permits, business webinars, senior/veteran support) and community reminders such as May beat meetings and upcoming events like the 5th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest on May 29.

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

Services for Officer John Bartholomew will be held on Thursday and Friday. Details available in the link provided.


CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Join the northwest side of Chicago in paying tribute to and praying for the members of the Chicago Police Department.

"They kept letting him out knowing he had a criminal history," she said. "Why did they let him free? This would have never happened. The officer’s family wouldn’t be going through this, I wouldn’t be going through this."


The suspect who is accused of murdering Officer Bartholomew and critically injuring another officer, is believed to have pistol whipped a 55 year old mother who is asking why he was free to roam the streets.

Proposed 6-flat in Portage Park gets warm reception at community meeting hosted by Ald. Gardiner


FULL STORY HERE

430 grams of suspected cocaine reportedly found in vehicle; armed robbery reported on CTA Blue Line platform


FULL STORY HERE

5th Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest starts May 29 at Six Corners on Chicago’s NW Side


FULL STORY HERE

International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW), taking place May 3rd-9th, is a global campaign focused on educating communities about the benefits of composting.

Composting is a powerful way to reduce waste, improve soil health, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.


Did you know that through the City of Chicago’s Food Scrap Drop-Off program, you can get your household food scraps composted for free? This thriving program has over 8,800 households participating and has diverted 1,554,000 pounds of food scraps from landfills to composting since its inception in 2023. Thanks to a partnership with Chicago Public Libraries, the program has recently expanded to a total of 33 drop-off locations. Learn more and sign up today!


Check out the Illinois Food Scrap & Composting Coalition’s ICAW 2026 Calendar of Events for opportunities to learn more about composting taking place in our area and across the state.

This Veteran Appreciation Month, we proudly extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms are deeply appreciated. We thank our veterans and military families for their service to our nation and for the many contributions they continue to make in our communities every day.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of mental health and the resources available to support individuals and families in our community.

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois has been serving Illinois communities since 1867, providing compassionate care and support services to people from all walks of life.

If you or someone you know could benefit from support, click below to learn more about the programs and resources available through LSSI.


LEARN MORE ABOUT LSSI SERVICES

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

For more than 20 years, A Vintage Bloom in Edgebrook has been helping neighbors celebrate life’s special moments with beautiful floral arrangements and personalized service. From intimate backyard weddings to larger community celebrations, their team works closely with customers to help bring each vision to life.


Whether your style is classic, modern, or in between, A Vintage Bloom creates thoughtful floral designs that add a special touch to every occasion.


Mother’s Day is a great reminder to shop local and support the small businesses that help make our neighborhoods special. Whether picking up flowers, gifts, or planning a celebration, local businesses like A Vintage Bloom help keep our community strong.

5418 W. Devon

(773) 763-2600

Welcome to A Vintage Bloom


Since opening, the Portage Park Breakfast Place has quickly become more than just a restaurant, it’s become a neighborhood gathering place where community comes together over great food.


Owners Areli Antunez and Alvaro Blancas have more than two decades of culinary experience and have created a warm, welcoming space that serves scratch-made breakfast favorites with flavors inspired by their Mexican heritage. From roasted pineapple French toast and chilaquiles verdes to the popular Portage Park Breakfast Sandwich, every dish is prepared with care and creativity.


With Mother’s Day this Sunday, local restaurants like Portage Park Breakfast are a great reminder to shop and dine local while supporting the small businesses that help make our neighborhoods special.


5040 W. Montrose Ave.

(331) 702-2460

Big things are cooking at Corral House…


We’re excited to announce that Corral House is evolving into Corral House + Pasta Rosa, bringing authentic upscale Italian dining into the same warm, welcoming atmosphere you already know and love.


You already come for the drinks, the vibe, and the hospitality. Now you’ll have an entirely elevated dining experience to match.


Leading the transformation is Chef Juan Carlos, whose experience includes some of Chicago’s finest dining restaurants. If you’ve attended a catered event at Corral House, you’ve already had a taste of his incredible work. Now he’s taking things even further with a complete revamp of the menu designed to bring Corral House to new heights.


• Elevated Italian classics

• Fresh new flavors

• Premium dining experience without losing the neighborhood feel

• More of what you love… but better!


This is not a goodbye to Corral House. It’s an upgrade.


More details, sneak peeks, and menu announcements coming soon.

CHICAGO POLITICS

Mayor Johnson determined to block Bears' move to Arlington Heights


FULL STORY HERE

CTU threatens to sue CPS over unpaid stipends for dozens of athletic directors


FULL STORY HERE

City Council committee backs banning sweepstakes machines over Mayor Johnson's objections


FULL STORY HERE

Obama Presidential Center: Invite-only soft opening held Monday; tickets go on sale this week


FULL STORY HERE

‘Does not work': Cook County State's Attorney decries electronic monitoring system as broken


FULL STORY HERE

Venezuelan migrant charged in Loyola student's killing enters plea


CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY

THRIVING IN WARD 45

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Residents of the 45th Ward who need assistance with infrastructure-related concerns are encouraged to contact our office at (773) 853-0799 or [email protected].


Click here to see how Alderman Gardiner is addressing

infrastructure concerns in the 45th Ward.

Curious about what's happening in the community?

Check out ChiStreetWork, the City of Chicago’s interactive map portal that provides up-to-date information on infrastructure projects and permits. It compiles data from city agencies and private utilities.

Just enter an address or intersection into the search bar to see a clickable map with detailed information about active projects in that area. From sewer work to resurfacing, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s going on and when.



CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS

CONTACT INFORMATION

Visit our 45th Ward Office

5460 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630

Tel: 773-853-0799

Office Hours: Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri.-8:30-4:30PM,

Thurs. 9:30-4:30PM Email: w[email protected]

Click the link-www.aldermangardiner.com

Thank you for being part of the 45th Ward community. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and remain dedicated to providing exceptional constituent services.

Looking for a “SLOW DOWN” or “CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG” sign?

Stop by the 45th Ward Office to pick one up.

VETS IN 45

The Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission visits our office each month to assist veterans in our community. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of support or has questions, please feel free to stop in.

MATURING RESIDENTS IN THE 45TH WARD

Senior Services


The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services offers a wide range of programs and resources to support older adults across the city. Services are designed to meet the diverse needs of seniors—whether they are active and independent, living in long-term care facilities, or in need of additional assistance at home.



From wellness programs and social activities to home-delivered meals and in-home support, these services are focused on helping older adults maintain their independence, health, and quality of life.


CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

WARD 45 RESOURCES

If you experience water in your basement during storms, please file a service request with 311 Chicago.


These reports allow the Chicago Department of Water Management to inspect sewer infrastructure and help the City track flooding locations. This data is important for prioritizing improvements and may support assistance through (FEMA)

Federal Emergency Management Agency if a disaster is declared.

The Express Permit Program is a web-based interface for homeowners, businesses, and other building owners/tenants (and the contractors that work with them) to obtain building permits needed to repair or replace existing features of a building or undertake specific small improvement projects, such as adding residential solar panels. The web interface allows permit applicants to check application status, pay fees, and view inspection results online 24/7.

CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED

The Department of Family and Support Services provides programs and support to older adults aged 60 and better. DFSS offers a range of programs and services throughout the year to keep older adults healthy, active, and engaged. 

Click here for additional information 


SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offers free business education webinars every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. Topics include business licensing, operations, financial resources, marketing, and more. Programs are free and open to the public and taught by industry professionals, not-for-profit agencies, and government agencies.


CLICK HERE TO VIEW AND REGISTER FOR UPCOMING BACP WEBINARS

The City of Chicago is now accepting applications for its Community Development Grants (CDG) program, which supports local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations with funding for projects that create jobs and strengthen our neighborhoods.


Small and Medium grant applications are open now, with a deadline of August 14, while Large grants are accepted on a rolling basis. Small grants can cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, with awards up to $250,000.


Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an informational webinar or review available resources before applying.



Click here for more information and to apply.

The Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) Entrepreneur Certificate Program is a free and optional program available to attendees of the free BACP business education webinar series. The program is designed to give entrepreneurs the essential information they need to start and grow a business in Chicago. The program’s curriculum covers essentials in business planning, financing, marketing, legal topics, technology, and more. Click here for additional information

Local Chambers of Commerce



Our neighborhood Chambers of Commerce support local businesses through advocacy, networking, marketing, and community events. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to connect and get involved.

Gladstone Park Chamber Of Commerce 6150 N. Milwaukee (773) 756-6206

Click here for additional information

Edgebrook Sauganash Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 46311 (773) 545-9300

Click here for additional information

Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.5 (773) 736-6697

Click here for additional information

Polish American Chamber of Commerce 5214 W. Lawrence, Ste.1 (773) 205-1998 

Click here for additional information

Six Corners Chamber of Commerce 4054 N Milwaukee Ave (773) 685-4955 

Click here for additional information

Portage Park Chamber of Commerce 4946 W. Irving Park Rd. (773) 777-2020

Click here for additional information

WARD 45 SAFETY NEWS

Beat Meetings are a great opportunity to meet your local officers, learn about public safety in your area, and share concerns. We encourage residents to attend and stay involved.

2026 BEAT MEETING SCHEDULE

Beat 1621

Edgebrook Library

5331 W. Devon

June 3rd

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

May 13th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

May 29th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

May 12th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

May 27th

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR BEAT

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Beaubien Elementary School

5025 N. Laramie Ave., (773) 534-3500

Click here for additional information


   Edgebrook Elementary School      

6525 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773) 534-1194

Click here for additional information


Edgebrook Early Learning Branch

6407 N. Minnehaha Ave., (773) 534-0720

Click here for additional information


Farnsworth Elementary School

5414 N. Linder Ave., (773) 534-3535

Click here for additional information


Hitch Elementary School

5625 N. McVicker Ave.,  (773) 534-1189

Click here for additional information


William J. Onahan School

6634 W. Raven St., (773) 534-1180

Click here for additional information


Prussing Elementary School

4650 N. Menard Ave., (773) 534-3460

Click here for additional information


Catalpa Early Childhood Center

5252 N. Long Ave., (773) 534-8380

Click here for additional information


St. Constance School

5841 W. Strong St., (773)-283-2311  

Click here for additional information


St. Elizabeth of the Trinity School

6040 W. Ardmore Ave., (773)-763-7080

Click here for additional information


St. John's Lutheran School

4939 W. Montrose Ave., (773) 736-1196

Click here for additional information


St. Roberts Bellarmine School

6036 W. Eastwood Ave., (773) 725-5133

Click here for additional information


St. Mary of the Woods

6955 N. Hiawatha Ave., (773)-763-4968

Click here for additional information


Wildwood Elementary School

    6950 N. Hiawatha Ave. (773) 534-1188

Click here for additional information

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS

Disney II Magnet School (7th-12th)

 3900 N Lawndale Ave., (773) 534-5010

Click here for additional information




Horizon Science Academy Belmont (7th-10th)

4434 N. Laramie Ave., (708) 667-0941

Click here for more information



Vaughn Occupational High School

4355 N. Linder (773)-534-3600

Click here for additional information

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

Supporting Our Neighbors in Need

New Hope Community Food Pantry

Address: 6125 W Foster

Phone:773-775-1215

Hours:Tuesday:

9:30- 11:30 AM


Joined Hands Food Pantry / Our Lady of Victory

Address: 5212 W Agatite

Phone: (312)972-1164 

Hours: Wednesday:

5:00 - 7:00 PM

[email protected]

Harvest Christian Center Chicago Food Pantry

Address: 4020 N. Tripp Ave.

Phone:  773-685-4222

[email protected]

Hours:  Last Friday of the month:

1:30 -2:30 PM

Volunteer Opportunities

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering as a Gardiner Angel in the Ward office providing clerical assistance, research, communications assistance, etc. or would like to provide on the ground help cleaning up the ward, please reach out to us at [email protected]