December Updates and Community Resources from the 25th Ward

Dear neighbors,

As we welcome the start of December, I’m reminded of the everyday acts of care and solidarity that keep our ward strong — from neighbors helping clear snow, to volunteers supporting food distribution, to families preparing for the winter season together. This month brings many reminders of how we show up for one another, and our office remains committed to supporting you with resources, services, and community events.

As we approach the end of the year, I also want to acknowledge what is on many people’s minds: taxes, affordability, and the pressures working families continue to face. Our office remains steadfast in advocating for the working-class residents who keep this ward vibrant. We continue to fight against regressive policies — including increased property taxes, service fees, and proposals currently being discussed in City Council, such as additional garbage fees — because we believe that the burden should not fall on those already stretched thin.

Earlier this year, in May, we traveled to Springfield to advocate for a 3% millionaire surcharge — a measure that would finally require the wealthiest corporations and individuals to pay their fair share. We are pushing to place this referendum back on the ballot in March so Chicago can move toward a fairer and more equitable tax structure. While misinformation campaigns continue to target our office on social media, we will stand firm in our commitment to protect working families rather than billionaires and major corporations.

A reminder that Chicago’s winter overnight parking restrictions begin today, December 1, from 3 AM to 7 AM on designated routes. Please check posted signs to avoid tickets or towing as crews work to keep our streets safe throughout the season.

We are also excited to share that Panchito, our Ward’s Elf on the Shelf, has officially arrived! He will be making appearances across the 25th Ward over the next 25 days leading up to Christmas — keep an eye out for him as he spreads holiday cheer throughout our neighborhoods.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Islamic Relief Fund, New Vision Community Church, and Panadería Iramuco for their generosity in this past weekend’s food giveaway, and to all the Pilsen Defense and Access volunteers who assisted with snow removal for neighbors in need. If you’d like to support these efforts, please sign up using the link below to join our volunteer team.

Upcoming Events

Expungement Workshop – Sat., 12/6, 10 AM–1 PM
 25th Ward Office • 2100 W. Cermak Rd
 Please pre-register by contacting us at 773-523-4100 or [email protected].

Zoning Advisory Board (ZAB) Meeting – Sat., 12/06 at 10 AM
 Hoste • 1857 W. 16th Street

Street Vendor Workshop – Thurs., 12/4, 1 PM–3 PM
Universidad Popular • 2801 S. Hamlin
Receive free assistance to help legalize your business. Learn about regulations, processes, and prerequisites for operating a street vending business. You may join in person or online. Flyer below.
 

Constituent Services
The Cook County Assessor’s Office will be at our office (2100 W. Cermak Rd) on Friday, 12/5 and Monday, 12/8 from 10 AM–1 PM. Two representatives will be available to help answer questions about missing exemptions and assist with applications.
 

Lastly, I would like to thank all those who supported our Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway and helped make it a success!

As we close out the year, let’s continue embracing the compassion and cooperation that make our ward a place where all neighbors can thrive. Thank you for the ways you show up for each other. Our office is committed to supporting you through the winter season and ensuring every household feels seen, supported, and valued. 

In solidarity,
Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez
 

• Taller de Expurgación de Antecedentes – Sáb., 12/6, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
  Oficina del Distrito 25 • 2100 W. Cermak Rd
  Favor de pre-registrarse llamando al 773-523-4100 o escribiendo a [email protected].
• Reunión de la Junta Asesora de Zonificación (ZAB) – Sáb., 12/06 a las 10 a.m.
   Hoste • 1857 W. 16th Street
• Taller para Vendedores Ambulantes – Jue., 12/4, 1 p.m.–3 p.m.
  Universidad Popular • 2801 S. Hamlin
   Reciba asistencia gratuita para ayudar a legalizar su negocio. Aprenda sobre regulaciones, procesos y requisitos para operar como vendedor ambulante. Puede participar en persona o en línea. Flyer abajo.