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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for March 30, 2026
In This Edition:
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2nd Ward Website
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2nd Ward Twitter
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2nd Ward YouTube
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2026 Street Sweeping Schedule Begins: Wednesday April 1
The Department of Streets and Sanitation will begin to operate on its regular street sweeping schedule beginning on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Residents can view street sweepers in real time using the Sweeper Tracker online tool - available on April 1st.
"Sweep Around Us" — a third-party email reminder service used for street sweeping alerts — has now rebranded as "We The Sweeple." They have not yet activated their site for the 2026 season, but we will include the subscription link in this newsletter when it becomes available.
Click here to find the Street Sweeping section of my website. There is an interactive map of all seven street sweeping sections included as well as the full schedule of 2026 sweeping dates. Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars of respective sweeping dates in the event that they have visitors or are out of town.
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30-year Study Shows Property Taxes Rose Double The Rate Of Inflation
A new 30-year property tax study released today, March 30, 2026, by Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas confirms what many homeowners already feel: the system is unsustainable. Her analysis found that property taxes in Cook County have increased 182% from 1995 to 2024—more than double the rate of inflation. Click here to read coverage from Fox 32 Chicago.
That is why, since taking office in 2015, I have voted NO on every proposed property tax increase. I do not believe we can keep asking homeowners to carry a heavier burden in a system that is already stretched too far.
Instead, I have focused on growing the city’s tax base through responsible development. New residential and mixed-use projects generate millions in additional property tax revenue, as well as multiple other revenue streams, while also bringing more residents into our neighborhoods to support local businesses and the economy in general.
This approach also has implications for renters. Expanding the number of housing units helps increase overall housing supply, which can contribute to stabilizing housing costs and improving availability over time.
The data Treasurer Pappas released reinforces the broader challenge: when the system relies too heavily on existing taxpayers, it creates long-term pressure. A more sustainable approach is to grow the base, strengthen neighborhoods, and reduce the need to continually raise rates. I appreciate Treasurer Pappas' work and invite residents to read the "Pappas Studies" here.
The report also rightly highlights the increase in government spending that has also outstripped inflation. Stay tuned to my newsletter to keep up to date on policies and initiatives I will be discussing to relieve resident housing costs.
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A Message From The Family Of John Steinbeck At The 100th Anniversary Of Route 66 In Chicago
Last week, I had the honor of joining my colleague Alderman Brendan Reilly, Navy Pier CEO Marilynn Gardner, Grant DePorter of Harry Caray's, and other stakeholders to mark the 100th anniversary of Route 66. I am proud that Chicago, and more specifically Navy Pier, is recognized as the starting point of the “Mother Road.”
During the ceremony marking this milestone, I had the great honor of sharing a message from John Steinbeck's family. As you may know, John Steinbeck was the first to coin the moniker "Mother Road" and "road of flight" when referring to Route 66 in his 1939 novel The Grapes of Wrath. I invite you to view my remarks at the ceremony by clicking here.
The new Route 66 marker at Navy Pier gives us a chance to celebrate that history while bringing more visitors to Chicago. It strengthens our position as a cultural destination and supports local businesses, tourism, and jobs across the city.
It is a simple addition with real impact. I am grateful to all who played a part in making the sign dedication and ceremony come to fruition.
 Photo Credit: Jeff Brown
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Lookingglass Prism Talk Show: Monday, April 13
 I am excited to share that I will be joining the Lookingglass Prism Series on Monday, April 13, at 6:30 pm. Prism is a monthly show that centers on humor, performance, and all things Chicago, and I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in its production.
Lookingglass Artistic Director Kasey Foster is hosting April's event, and I will be joined on the program by Composer Tomás Gueglio, Collaboraction CEO and "Queen of House Music" Darlene Jackson, and special performances by Dalia Chin, Constance Volk, and members of the Lookingglass Ensemble.
Click here for more information.
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Weekly Neighborhood Organization Highlight: Sheffield Neighborhood Association
 This week, I will be highlighting the Sheffield Neighborhood Association (SNA). Founded in 1959, the organization represents the area bounded by Halsted Street, the Chicago River, Fullerton Avenue, and Armitage Avenue. They are "the voice of the neighborhood," advocating on matters such as zoning, planning, safety, historic preservation, and more.
The Sheffield Garden Walk, taking place in the summer since 1969, is always a spectacle. The event highlights incredible landscaping and gardening, showing off the beauty and character of Lincoln Park. My staff and I always enjoy attending this event, and I hope to be back this summer.
If you live within SNA's boundaries, I recommend checking them out and getting involved. I am grateful for their partnership.
Click here to learn more.
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18th District Older Adult Resource Fair: Tuesday, April 28
 Join the 18th District CAPS team for an Older Adult Resource Fair on Tuesday, April 28, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Near North Library, located at 310 W Division St.
My office will have a table there, so please stop by and say hello.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District at 312-742-5778.
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Updated 2026 Chicago Police CAPS Meeting Schedule
The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) Beat community meetings are a key part of the Chicago Police Department's strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in person, with the option to participate remotely, and are an excellent way to communicate with the officers who patrol your beat and to engage with and meet your neighbors.
The entirety of the 2nd Ward falls inside the 18th District. Click here to find which beat you reside in. You may also call 312-742-5778 or email [email protected] for more information about the 18th District CAPS office.
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18th District CompStat Report
Computer Statistics report (CompStat) is a weekly report of incidents that have occurred in the respective police district. Each district compiles a statistical summary of the week's crime complaints, arrests, and data analysis. Click here to learn more about CompStat.
Please see the 18th District CompStat report below:
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
- 27 March 26 - Juvenile Offenders Charged with Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking of 52-Year-Old Male
Community Alerts:
- 17 March 26 - 18th District - Armed Robbery
- 22 March 26 - 19th District - Attempt Kidnapping
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
- 20 March 26 - Juvenile Offenders Charged with Multiple Felonies
- 20 March 26 - Offender Charged with Murder of Chicago Fire Department Member
- 22 March 26 - Offender Charged with Murder of 18-Year-Old Female
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Amnesty Month at the Office of the City Clerk: Ends April 30
 The Office of the City Clerk is bringing back Amnesty Month during the month of April. City Sticker late fees and back charges to drivers will be waived from Wednesday, April 1, to Thursday, April 30, 2026. This year, access is being expanded, with amnesty being offered at three Saturday Mobile City Hall events and on the City Clerk’s 24/7 online store.
Click here for more information about Amnesty Month.
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"Don't Click, It's A Trick:" Secretary of State Warns Against DMV Text Scams
 The Illinois Secretary of State is warning against text scams claiming to be from his office, or "the DMV." These official‑looking texts are designed to frighten you into giving up your personal and financial information by threatening license suspension, registration holds, fines, and even legal action.
If you receive a message like this, it’s a scam. The Secretary of State is urging recipients not to click any of the links, reply, or provide personal or financial information. Recipients should delete the text and report the scam to [email protected].
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Annual Citywide Clean and Green: Saturday, April 18
 The city's annual Clean & Green Day of Service will take place on Saturday, April 18. On this day, residents, school groups, and community organizations throughout the city team up to clean and beautify areas in their neighborhoods. All volunteer groups, large and small, are welcome to participate. They can call 311 to register their groups, and the Department of Streets and Sanitation will lend the brooms, rakes, shovels, and bags for the clean-up projects. Registration is open until Monday, April 13.
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Statewide E-Bike Safety Initiative
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced a comprehensive, statewide initiative to protect pedestrians, riders, and drivers by addressing the dangerous rise of high-speed e-bikes and other powerful electric transportation devices on Illinois streets and sidewalks.
The multi-pronged campaign – “Ride Safe, Ride Smart, Ride Ready” – combines public education, updated driver training, and a push for modernized safety laws to keep pace with the fast-evolving micromobility industry. As e-bikes and similar devices become faster, heavier, and more powerful, Illinois law has not kept up – putting lives at risk.
This initiative will raise awareness of current rules governing e-bikes, scooters, skateboards, and unicycles while laying the groundwork for updated regulations to be introduced this legislative session in Springfield. Key components include a new public education website, expanded driver education curriculum, and collaboration with lawmakers, local officials, medical experts, law enforcement, and cycling and safety advocates statewide.
A new public education website – www.ilsos.gov/oneroad – will serve as a central hub for micromobility safety, rules, and policy updates. The site explains what micromobility is, identifies common devices, and outlines how they are currently regulated. A dedicated “Know the Rules” section translates existing law into straightforward guidance for riders, parents, drivers, educators, and local officials.
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Crane Lift at 840 N Michigan: Saturday, April 4
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has issued a permit in the 42nd Ward to Stevenson Crane Service, INC for crane lift operations at 840 N Michigan Ave this Saturday, April 4, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Please be advised that Pearson Street will be fully closed between Tower and Rush during that time.
2nd Ward residents in the area should make plans around these traffic closures.
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Indoor SOAR Farmers Market
Don't forget to visit the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) farmers market every Thursday from 7:00 am - 1:30 pm at 680 N Lake Shore Drive now through April 30.
Enjoy local and small businesses offering baked goods, fresh flowers, grilled cheese, tea, kombucha, and more.
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Building Insurance Costs Meeting with GCNA: Thursday, April 16
 The Gold Coast Neighbors Association (GCNA) is hosting a meeting for Building Managers and Board Members in the Gold Coast neighborhood on Thursday, April 16, at 4:45 pm. The meeting will take place at Shenannigans (16 W Division St), and cover several topics pertaining to insurance costs. Community Insurance and Risk Management Specialist Cindy Fitts will speak on a number of relevant topics.
Click here for more information.
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Jumping Jack Program Opens: Wednesday, April 15
 The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has announced the Jumping Jack Portal will open on Wednesday, April 15, at 9:00 am.
The Jumping Jack (inflatable bounce house) is available, free of charge, to Residential Block Parties within the city limits from Saturday, May 23, through Sunday, September 6.
Click here to learn more.
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Volunteer with the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County
 The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) helps Veterans find support right in their own communities, and is looking for volunteers to help grow their impact in Cook County.
Volunteers will assist our office at outreach events, community initiatives, and other Veteran-focused activities. Participants will complete a brief training covering VACCC services, programs, and how to assist Veterans at events. Once trained, volunteers may be contacted periodically to help support outreach efforts.
Individuals interested in participating must register, sign a release form, and consent to a brief background check.
Click here to register.
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Write a Letter to America with the Chicago Public Library: Ends August 31
 Chicago Public Library invites residents to write personal letters to America - sharing reflections, critiques, hopes, and stories rooted in Chicago experiences. This citywide initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States and creates space for civic reflection and storytelling.
Letters to America is a citywide letter-writing project to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. Chicagoans are invited to reflect on their lives, communities, experiences in Chicago, and how those stories connect to a broader American story. These letters will become part of a permanent archival collection at the Chicago Public Library, preserving contemporary voices for future generations.
After August 31, all letters will be transferred to the Northside Neighborhood History Collection at Sulzer Regional Library to become part of the Letters to America Collection. Participants must be 18 years or older. All submissions require a signed Deed of Gift form.
Click here for more information.
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The Art of Paper Magic at Near North Library: Saturday, April 4
The Near North Library, located at 310 W Division St, is hosting an origami event on Saturday, April 4, at 10:00 am. Stop by to learn, practice, or show off your origami skills. All ages are welcome, though children must be accompanied by adults.
Click here for more information. Registration is requested.
March is a busy month at Near North. Click here to view their full calendar of events.
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EXPO Chicago Contemporary Art Fair: April 9-12
EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair showcases leading contemporary and modern art galleries each April at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, alongside a diverse and inventive program of talks, on-site installations, and public art initiatives.
The 13th edition of EXPO CHICAGO takes place on April 9–12, 2026, at Navy Pier's Festival Hall. Click here for more details.
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Free and Independent: The Declaration of Independence and the Words That Made the United States: Opens Thursday, April 9
 Visit the Newberry Library's latest exhibition, anchored by a rare early copy of the Declaration of Independence. This exhibition invites visitors to survey the words of the founding document of the United States, to consider some of the surprising ideas behind those words, and to trace their circulation and impact in the age of the American Revolution.
Click here for more details.
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Lake Shore and Seneca Park Earth Day Cleanup: Saturday, April 18
I am proud to share that I will once again be sponsoring the annual Earth Day event at Lake Shore and Seneca Parks, beginning at 9:00 am at the Engine 98 Firehouse (202 E Chicago Ave) and ending at 11:30 with a pizza lunch. Gloves, brooms, rakes, shovels, and bags will be provided. All ages are welcome. I hope to see you there.
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