Email from City of Chicago-James Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

Wishing you and your family the very best in the New Year. May God grant you peace of mind, health, and prosperity. Please celebrate responsibly.

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

What to know for 1st-ever 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest' event in Chicago

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Is the crackdown on "teen takeovers" limited to appearances by Ryan Seacrest ABC 7 Chicago, and their guests, or is it a New Year Resolution for the Chicago Mayor's Office?

FULL STORY HERE

Due to safety concerns, Alderman Jim Gardiner suggests that residents avoid using CTA public transportation after sundown until noticeable improvements are made.

Please celebrate responsibly and arrange for alternative transportation to and from festivities.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is correct to demand CTA address safety concerns or face potential funding cuts.

Make safety a priority!

FULL STORY HERE

The State/Lake Loop Elevated station will temporarily close starting Monday, January 5, 2026.

Crews will work to replace one of the oldest stations on the CTA rail system with a modern facility designed to improve safety, accessibility, and comfort for all riders.

Please use the accessible Clark/Lake or Washington/Wabash stations, located within a few blocks of the State/Lake station. To transfer between the Red Line at Lake station and the Loop ‘L’ lines, use Washington/Wabash.

Our office will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day on Thursday, January 1st.

There will be no garbage collection on Thursday, January 1. Please ensure your garbage carts are accessible throughout the week to accommodate the holiday schedule.

Earlier this week, my mom celebrated another trip around the sun.

Your 7 children, 19 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren admire you more than words can adequately express.

Longtime family-operated Paterno’s Pizza getting new owners to carry on the tradition

FULL STORY HERE

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY

Apply or Learn More About the Grant

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Looking for a great spot to celebrate New Year’s Eve? La Dolce Vita Cucina brings the flavors of Italy right to Portage Park. With a menu that blends classic Italian recipes with a modern twist, every dish is made with care using high-quality ingredients.

Rooted in Italy’s rich culinary traditions, La Dolce Vita Cucina is all about great food, welcoming hospitality, and community.

As we head into the new year, consider supporting this locally owned neighborhood restaurant while enjoying a memorable meal. Reservations are recommended, especially for New Year’s Eve.

5007 W. Irving Park

(773) 261-8284

La Dolce Vita Cucina | International Cuisine in Chicago

Bottles & Cans Edgebrook is a premier neighborhood destination specializing in a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits. With a strong commitment to community, the shop regularly hosts tasting events and offers a wine club for local enthusiasts looking to explore curated selections.

Stop in to browse, pick up something new, or stock up for your next gathering—right here in our community.

Cheers to ringing in the new year! Shop for your New Year's party and stock up on beer, wine, and spirits for every celebration.

6401 N. Central Ave.

(708) 320-2938

www.bottlesandcanschicago.com

Now is a great time to pick up new tires at RAS Tire Repair & Sales. Check out the specials Bob, Sandy and the crew currently offer.

www.tireshopchicago.com

Celebrate New Year’s 2025 at District House!

Join us for a DJ party starting at 9 PM with party favors and food. No cover charge.

📍 5722 W. Higgins Ave. | 📞 (773) 853-2359

RSVP as we capture the moment together and look ahead to a bright and prosperous 2026.

CHICAGO POLITICS

CPS Board approves property tax hike to close budget gap

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY

Expose the corruption in Illinois

Hundreds of public employees investigated by the state of Illinois improperly took millions in PPP loans

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY

Over $200,000 of taxpayer funds were used to prosecute Alderman Jim Gardiner while the City failed or refused to disclose exculpatory evidence related to the two-year investigation...

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE HEADLINES

Cook County treasurer provides $2.3B in emergency funds to local governments

FULL STORY HERE

Chicago Mayor's Office will not veto Budget

FULL STORY HERE

As Chicago Mayor's Office and his allies believe collecting unpaid debt to the city disproportionately impacts Black and Brown communities, my colleague offers his take.

"To be paid by the City, and ignoring your debts to the city is insane." Alderman Desmon Yancy

CLICK HERE TO HEAR ALDERMAN YANCY'S REMARKS AT CITY COUNCIL

"Roughly two CTA workers every week are subjected to assaults that put them in an ambulance or kill them. The Dec 15 CTA Safety Plan barely changes that status quo. That is unacceptable." Federal Transit Administration (FTA)

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is required to submit a plan to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), outlining measures to enhance public safety on public transportation.

According to FTA data, the CTA's violent crime rate is four times the national average, with four homicides occurring over the past 18 months.

Furthermore, assaults against riders on CTA property have increased by 150% over the last five years.

FULL STORY HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

Drop off your Christmas tree at Portage or Norwood Parks from Jan 3-17 to be recycled as mulch and used by residents, or local parks and schools.

DETAILS HERE

“A Bump on the Leg” is a play inspired by the life of 45th Ward resident James Mallon.

Please see the flyer for details on this special one-time performance.

Alderman Gardiner offers quick tips to help Streets & Sanitation during snow and frigid weather.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH REEL

CLICK HERE FOR WEBSITE

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.

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.

Each week, we will highlight a different service offered by the Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission.

MATURING RESIDENTS IN THE 45TH WARD

Chicago Seniors Connected

The City’s Chicago Seniors Connected program offers a wide range of virtual, telephone, and in-person activities designed to help older adults stay engaged and connected—especially during the holiday season. While this time of year can be joyful for many, it can also feel isolating for others. Chicago Seniors Connected ensures that no senior has to feel alone by providing meaningful opportunities for social connection, enrichment, and support throughout December and beyond.

DETAILS HERE

WARD 45 RESOURCES

Every high school age student in Chicago (public or private) interested in the possibility of becoming a first responder should apply for this excellent program.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION HERE

❄️ You Name a Snowplow — Chicago’s Favorite Winter Tradition Returns!

The Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) is bringing back its fourth annual “You Name a Snowplow” contest, and residents are invited to get creative once again!

Submit your best snowplow name idea at Chicagoshovels.org by January 10, 2026. After submissions close, 25 finalists will be selected, and residents will vote for their favorites in February. The top six names will be featured on snowplows—one in each of Chicago’s six snow districts.

This fun, citywide contest highlights Chicago pride while celebrating the hardworking DSS crews who keep our streets safe all winter long.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A SNOWPLOW NAME

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.