MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER | | My office is proud to offer free events and services for our community, including this Saturday’s shredding event, property tax assistance, women’s self-defense workshops, and Movies in the Park. Please take a moment to browse the flyers in this week’s newsletter for details. I hope to see you at an upcoming event! | | |
Proudly Serving,
Alderman Jim Gardiner
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Need help with a missing property tax exemption? Book an appointment for our Property Tax Assistance event using the flyer above.
The Cook County Assessor’s Office explains below how to check your bill for missing exemptions.
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Attention Homeowners: Check Your Property Tax Bill for Missing Exemptions
Second installment property tax bills are now available and must be paid to the Cook County Treasurer’s Office by Thursday, October 1, 2026. Homeowners should check the lower-left corner of their bill to make sure all eligible exemptions are included, such as the Homeowner and Senior Exemptions. If an exemption is missing, you may apply for a Certificate of Error through the Cook County Assessor’s Office to correct the bill and receive the savings you qualify for.
View Your Property Tax Bill | Learn About Property Tax Exemptions
| | The 45th Ward extends its deepest condolences to the Kevin family and all members of the Chicago Fire Department. We stand with you during this difficult time. | | |
Funding to be allocated for turf field at Onahan School
FULL STORY HERE
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Renovation plans for Portage Theater include expanded washrooms, new bar
FULL STORY HERE
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Instead of being driven to school, more kids are taking the ‘bike bus’
FULL STORY HERE
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Tony's Italian Deli & Subs of Edison Park has made the WGN Final Four in the Best Deli Tournament! Please take a moment to VOTE for them and help them get to the Championship!
FULL STORY HERE
| It’s rivalry week! Good luck to the Notre Dame College Prep Dons and St. Patrick Shamrocks as they face off this Friday, September 25 at 7:30 p.m. at Notre Dame College Prep. Wishing all of the student-athletes a safe and exciting game! | | Chicago Cubs, White Sox both clinch Wild Card Series for MLB postseason | | Happy Birthday to James "The Mayor of Montrose" Sobun who turned 40 something last week and is the heart and soul of our staff. | | |
For over 40 years, Care-A-Lot Early Learning Center has been helping children learn, play, and grow, and we are proud to have two Care-A-Lot locations right here in the 45th Ward.
Family-owned and operated since 1986, Care-A-Lot provides a welcoming and nurturing environment focused on each child’s social, emotional, and cognitive development through hands-on learning, creative activities, and play.
Care-A-Lot offers programs for children at several stages of development, including toddlers, preschool, pre-kindergarten, before - and after-school care, and summer day camp. Their curriculum incorporates language arts, creative art, mathematics, science, music, sensory learning, and large and small motor skills.
We are grateful to have longtime neighborhood businesses like Care-A-Lot investing in our children and families and continuing to be an important part of the 45th Ward community.
5522 N. Milwaukee Ave.
6441 N. Central Ave.
773-763-0888
carealot4kids.com
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There are some exciting changes happening at Paterno's Pizza! This longtime neighborhood restaurant is now under new ownership and has received several updates to the inside, giving the space a refreshed look while maintaining the neighborhood feel residents know and love.
Paterno's has been serving the community since 1954, with a menu filled with classic Italian-American favorites. Stop in for their thin-crust pizza, pasta dinners, Italian beef and sausage, burgers, appetizers, or one of their popular “Incredibles” sandwiches, served on garlic bread with melted cheese.
Paterno's continues to be a place where neighbors can gather for a meal with family and friends. They also offer catering and accommodations for parties and special events.
If you haven't visited Paterno's recently, stop by to see the updates, enjoy a meal, and support a local 45th Ward business!
5303 N. Milwaukee Ave.
773-631-5522
paternospizza.com
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Please join me in welcoming Deluxe Global Market to the 45th Ward! Located at 5960 W. Lawrence Avenue, this Mediterranean market offers a bakery, freshly prepared meals, groceries, fresh produce, and soft-serve ice cream. Stop by and help us welcome Nassim and Kahina Taibi and Mounir Taibi to the neighborhood! | | |
Female passengers on CTA should be alerted to individuals who pose a safety threat. This incident occurred at Irving Park Blue Line Train.
FULL STORY HERE
| | Alderman Jim Gardiner addresses public safety concerns on the CTA. | |
Proposed $75M CTA safety plan would add up to 180 Chicago police officers per day
FULL STORY HERE
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CPS Enrollment Drops by 11K Students Amid Questions Over Possible Future School Closure
FULL STORY HERE
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Dueling tenants’ rights proposals stall as City Hall heads toward negotiations
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago mayoral hopeful Bill Quinlan files suit against rivals over dual candidacy
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago City Council committee advances Mayor Brandon Johnson's renter ordinance
FULL STORY HERE
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Mayor Brandon Johnson announces his plans to run for reelection
FULL STORY HERE
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Chicago Mayor Johnson names social media influencer as new communications director
FULL STORY HERE
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FOSTER AVENUE UPDATE
CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S REEL
| | Need service hours? Alderman Jim Gardiner is here to make that happen while allowing you to help neighbors.Contact us today 773 853-0799 or [email protected] | | |
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
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Connect With Your Community
Neighborhood Associations in the 45th Ward
Our neighborhood associations help keep residents connected through community events, local updates, neighborhood initiatives, and opportunities to get involved. Residents are encouraged to connect with their local association and become involved in their community.
Gladstone Park Neighborhood Association
Click here for additional information
Edgebrook Community Association
Click here for additional information
Jefferson Park Neighborhood Association
Click here for additional information
North Edgebrook Civic Association
Click here for additional information
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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.
| | 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
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The Cook County Board of Review is now accepting pre-filed property tax appeals for the 2026 tax year. Property owners can pre-file an appeal now or wait until their township’s 30-day appeal period opens.
You do not need to find or submit comparable properties with your appeal. The Board of Review will use the most current property information when reviewing your appeal.
Please click the link below for additional information or to pre-file an appeal.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
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Chicago Voter Information
The Chicago Board of Elections makes it easy to:
- Register to vote or update your name or address
- Verify your voter registration
- Find your Election Day polling place
- View your sample ballot
- Apply to Vote By Mail for the next election
- Join or update your information on the Permanent Vote By Mail Roster
Click here to access voter information and services through the Chicago Board of Elections.
| | 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
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Recycling Program Update
Residents are advised that all off-site recycling centers are currently on hold as the City transitions the recycling program.
At this time, the only recycling center that remains open is located at
1150 N. Branch Street.
We will continue to share updates as additional information becomes available regarding the future of the program and the status of other recycling locations.
| | 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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
| | 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
October 7th
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Beat 1622
Dunham Park
4638 N. Melvina
October 14th
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Beat 1623
16th District Police Station
5151 N. Milwaukee
September 30th
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Beat 1731
Kilbourn Park
3501 N. Kilbourn
October 13th
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Beat 1624
Portage Park
4100 N. Long
October 28th
| | CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR BEAT | | |
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
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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
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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
| | CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION | | |
Why do we highlight job openings for suburban Fire Departments? Because becoming a Firefighter has never been more competitive therefore applying in several municipalities is encouraged for those interested in a career.
The Skokie Fire Department is preparing for our next firefighter hiring process. If you're looking for a rewarding career serving an outstanding community, your opportunity is just around the corner.
The application process opens August 1, 2026.
| | We're hiring! Call, email, or submit an inquiry today to learn more! https://shspt.sh/7XKJgL | | 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
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St. Elizabeth Food Pantry
Address: 6020 W. Ardmore Ave.
[email protected]
Hours: Tuesday:
9:00 - 10:00 AM
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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]
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