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45th Ward News and Community Updates

Relevance: 6/10
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Summary

Alderman Jim Gardiner (45th Ward) highlights major Six Corners revitalization efforts, including a new $100 million development expected to support additional housing and commercial space (with construction on the Irving Park–Kilpatrick project expected to start in 2027). The newsletter also notes a temporary CTA southbound Pulaski bus stop relocation near Irving Park station (Sept. 21–22) and community transportation/bikeway updates such as the Portage Park Neighborhood Bikeways Network selection for construction in fall 2026. Elsewhere, Gardiner shares local announcements including fire services/condolences for Battalion Chief Sean Kevin, voter information resources, and several community events and business spotlights (plus beat meeting schedule listings for the ward).

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

The revitalization of our Six Corners community continues with another

$100 million development that will bring new housing and commercial space, providing even more opportunities for residents to shop local.


Since 2019, my office has helped usher in more than $600 million in community-based developments. With your continued partnership, we will keep building on this progress and bringing meaningful investments to our community.

Construction of Irving Park-Kilpatrick project expected to start in 2027

FULL STORY HERE

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

Services Scheduled for Battalion Chief Sean Kevin


Services have been scheduled for Chicago Fire Department Battalion Chief Sean Kevin, a dedicated 30-year veteran of the department and devoted father of three.


Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd, at Malec Funeral Home.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 24th, at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church in Park Ridge.


I extend my deepest condolences to Sean’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this difficult time. May God bless Sean and all those mourning his loss.


Click here to view Sean’s obituary and complete service information.

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.

Temporary CTA Bus Stop Relocation


On Monday, September 21st, CTA will temporarily relocate the southbound Pulaski bus stop near the Irving Park station while underground utility work is completed. Customers will be directed to the existing bus stop at the northwest corner of Pulaski and Irving Park Road. Work may continue through Tuesday, September 22nd, depending on progress. Signage will be posted to assist riders.

8-year-old boy, 2 others hospitalized after house fire in Chicago's Portage Park community

Alderman Jim Gardiner is offering free fire decals and smoke detectors at

5460 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Thank you to members of the Chicago Fire Department who honored the victims and heroes of September 11th on the 25th Year Anniversary last Friday at Navy Pier.


CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO

Alderman Gardiner joined Billy Caldwell Post 806 of The American Legion and the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce for a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Jefferson Park War Memorial. Together, the community honored the lives lost on September 11th, and recognized the bravery and sacrifice of our first responders, service members, and all those who answered the call to help.

Alderman Gardiner was proud to join Alderman Samantha Nugent and the Gladstone Park Chamber of Commerce and Neighborhood Association at Throwback Fest for its First Responder and Hero Appreciation Ceremony. It was a wonderful opportunity to honor the brave first responders and local heroes who work every day to keep our communities safe.



Thank you to everyone who attended the ceremony and came out to enjoy Throwback Fest. Your support helped make this community celebration a great success!


Congratulations to Jan Kupiec!


Congratulations to 45th Ward resident Jan Kupiec on being featured in Chicago Agent Magazine’s 2026 Who’s Who in Real Estate! Jan has 24 years of experience and is a Realtor with Baird & Warner’s Edgebrook office. As someone who both lives and works in the 45th Ward, Jan is deeply connected to the community she serves.



Jan is also a board member of the Edgebrook Community Association and a member of the Edgebrook Sauganash Chamber of Commerce and Edgebrook Woman’s Club. Congratulations, Jan, on this well-deserved recognition!

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

A Taste of the Philippines in Jefferson Park brings authentic Filipino flavors right here to our 45th Ward. Owner and Chef Kathy, who was born and raised in Manila, shares her Filipino heritage with our community through traditional dishes made with her own personal touch.

The menu features favorites such as lumpia, adobo, pancit, silog breakfasts, lechon, and ube-inspired treats. They also offer catering, special dining experiences, and cooking classes, giving our neighbors even more ways to experience Filipino food and culture.

We are proud to have businesses like A Taste of the Philippines as part of our 45th Ward community. Whether Filipino food is already a favorite or you’re looking to try something new, we encourage you to stop by, enjoy a meal, and support this wonderful local business!


5914 W. Lawrence Ave.

720-746-8880

atasteofthephilippines.com

Joseph W. Kalal DC in Edgebrook provides chiropractic care to residents in our community, with a focus on helping patients manage pain, recover from injuries, and improve their overall mobility and wellness.

Dr. Kalal and his team are dedicated to staying up to date on the latest chiropractic tools and treatments while creating a friendly and professional atmosphere for their patients. The staff takes the time to discuss treatment options, answer questions, and help patients understand what to expect throughout their care.

Whether you’re dealing with back or neck pain, headaches, sciatica, joint pain, or recovering from an injury, Joseph W. Kalal DC offers personalized chiropractic care based on each patient’s individual needs.


6448 N. Central Ave.

773-774-9200

josephwkalaldc.com

We are excited to welcome The Original Steaks and Hoagies Tavern to our Six Corners community! Located at 3930 N. Cicero Avenue, they are the newest business to call Six Corners home.



We encourage everyone to stop by, check them out, and give them a warm welcome to the neighborhood. Supporting our local businesses helps keep the 45th Ward strong and thriving!

https://sixcornerschamberofcommerce.wildapricot.org/event-6827060  

CHICAGO POLITICS

CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S REEL

Chicago City Council committee advances Mayor Brandon Johnson's renter ordinance


FULL STORY HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson announces his plans to run for reelection


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago Mayor Johnson names social media influencer as new communications director


FULL STORY HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson reveals $882 million budget gap for 2027


FULL STORY HERE

Mayor Brandon Johnson says 2026 budget gap to be closed with debt refinancing


FULL STORY HERE

Alders hammer Bally’s officials over construction delays, casino points finger at City Hall


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago City Council to consider building requirements to protect migratory birds


FULL STORY HERE

Aldermen Matt O'Shea, Michael Rodriguez not running for reelection


FULL STORY HERE

Residents, elected leaders protest proposal to move the White Sox


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago alders request hearing on promotional campaign featuring Mayor Johnson


FULL STORY HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

FOSTER AVENUE UPDATE



CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S REEL

Portage Park Neighborhood Bikeways Network update!


Four new bikeways have been selected for construction in fall 2026, for details and project updates please visit chicago.gov/portagepark.

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

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

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

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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 


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

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

October 7th

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

October 14th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

September 30th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

October 13th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

September 23rd

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

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.

Why promote jobs outside of Chicago?


Because there are young women and men hungry to become Firefighters and therefore the 45th ward promotes various options for those interested.


The Franklin Park Fire Department (Franklin Park, IL) is hiring for the position of Firefighter/Paramedic.

Salary: $78,200.95 - $119,014.78 Annually

Please submit your application materials by 09/04/2026.

Start your career in public safety today!

We're hiring! Call, email, or submit an inquiry today to learn more! https://shspt.sh/7XKJgL

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


St. Elizabeth Food Pantry

Address: 6020 W. Ardmore Ave.

 [email protected]

Hours: Tuesday:

9:00 - 10:00 AM

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]