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45th Ward News and Community Updates

Relevance: 5/10
transit_funding

Summary

On March 12, Alderman Jim Gardiner of the 45th Ward highlighted the CTA’s new safety plan, which increases police patrols and adds AI gun‑detection technology, and urged residents to review the agency’s upcoming adjustments to rider safety and federal funding deadlines. He also reminded constituents that early voting began March 2 and that Election Day will be held on March 17 amid expected cold weather. Additional updates included the 45th Ward’s support for the Northwest Side Irish Parade, recognition of resident Mick O'Rourke as Grand Marshal, and community resources such as the Express Permit Program and local business networking events.

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

Please consider Early Voting as opposed to waiting for Election Day which is Tuesday, March 17th.


Chicago is expecting bitter cold temperatures on Election Day.

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

Early voting began on Monday, March 2nd. You may vote at any Early Voting location citywide. If you prefer to vote closer, please consider the following sites:


  1. Kolping Society, 5826 N. Elston Ave.
  2. Roden Library, 6083 N. Northwest Hwy.
  3. Kilbourn Park, 3501 N. Kilbourn Ave.
  4. Hiawatha Park, 8029 W. Forest Preserve Dr.
  5. North Park Village, 5801 N. Pulaski


Election Day is Tuesday, March 17th. On Election Day, voters may vote at any Early Voting location. If you prefer to vote at your assigned neighborhood polling place, click here to find your polling place.

CTA's new safety plan boosts police patrols, adds AI gun detection


FULL STORY HERE

All are welcome to attend the Northwest Side Irish Parade that kicks off at 12pm this Sunday.

If interested in marching with the 45th Ward, contact our office at (773)853-0799 or [email protected].

Congratulations to 45th Ward resident Mick O'Rourke on being named the

Grand Marshal of the 2026 Northwest Side St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

Chicago ranked least trusted city for mechanics worldwide, study finds


DETAILS HERE

A simple way residents can help prevent street flooding is by clearing leaves and debris near curbs and sewer inlets before heavy rain.


Alderman Gardiner recently shared a quick reminder about

the importance of keeping these drains clear.

Residents of the 45th Ward who need assistance with infrastructure-related concerns are encouraged to contact our office at (773) 853-0799 or [email protected].


Click here to see how Alderman Gardiner is addressing

infrastructure concerns in the 45th Ward.

The 45th Ward sends our sincere condolences to the Jackson family and grateful for the tireless work of Reverend Jesse Jackson.


CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S MESSAGE

HONORING REV. JESSE JACKSON

The 45th Ward recognizes Dolores Schoewe in honor of International Women’s Day and remains deeply grateful for her invaluable contributions to our community.


Mrs. Schoewe is the proud mother of 11 children, 26 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. By God’s grace, she will celebrate her 100th birthday this November.



Please keep Mrs. Schoewe in your prayers as she continues to spread joy and positivity to her family and our entire community.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Located in the heart of our Gladstone Park community, Vaughan’s Pub & Grill is a welcoming neighborhood gathering spot known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Irish charm. Vaughan’s proudly serves traditional Irish favorites such as fish and chips, burgers, and curry fries, along with a full bar featuring Guinness and a variety of beer selections. Vaughan's also offers a private party room that can accommodate 25–80 guests, making it a great place for community gatherings, celebrations, and special events.


Celebrate St. Patrick’s Weekend at Vaughan’s Pub!

Live Irish Music & Bagpipers – March 14.

Open Early: March 15–17


Enjoy live Irish music, dancers, bagpipers, and classic Irish drinks.


Stop by and celebrate with friends and neighbors while supporting a great local business in our Gladstone Park community.


5485 N. Northwest Hwy.

(773) 631-9206

vaughnspubchicago.com

Mayo Imports (formerly Donegal Imports) is a cherished part of the Edgebrook community, bringing a touch of Ireland right to our neighborhood. Owned by Irish American Micéal Hughes, the shop offers a variety of authentic Irish goods—from grocery items like meats, Winston sausage, dairy products, snacks, tea, and coffee, to Irish chocolates, Inis fragrances and lotions, handmade sweaters, and traditional caps.


We encourage neighbors and residents to stop by Mayo Imports, support a local small business, and discover something special for everyone. It’s a place where community and culture come together!


5358 W. Devon Ave.

(773) 792-2377

Vaughn's Pub

5485 N. Northwest Hwy.

6448 N. Milwaukee Ave.

4914 N. Milwaukee Ave.

CHICAGO POLITICS

Another downtown Chicago 'puncher' faces hate crime, battery charges after women attacked


FULL STORY HERE

Ald. Brendan Reilly aims to oust Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle


CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY

The CTA has until March 19th to make necessary adjustments to ensure rider safety and essential federal funding.


CLICK HERE FOR ALDERMAN GARDINER INTERVIEW

FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

Local business owners are invited to join Alderman Gardiner and our local Chambers of Commerce for a 45th Ward Business Networking and Information Session with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. Space is limited—please register to attend.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

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

The City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Seniors Division (DFSS Senior Services) —which serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Chicago— is asking seniors (60 years of age or better) and their caregivers to identify programs and areas of need in preparation for the FY2027 Area Plan on Aging.


Please fill out the following online survey on or before 2/20/26: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NTMR63W.


The City of Chicago and its over 550,000 seniors thank you for your service!

Chicago Seniors Connected


The City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Senior Services Division offers a wide range of programs and supports for residents age 60 and better, helping older adults stay healthy, active, and engaged.


The newest edition of the Chicago Seniors Connected program brochure is now available and includes virtual and in-person activities, as well as upcoming special events and meal opportunities taking place across the city.


👉 View the Chicago Seniors Connected program brochure

WARD 45 RESOURCES

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

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

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 


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 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 6348 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

April 1st

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

April 8th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

March 31st

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

April 2nd

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

March 25th

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

Police Officer - Lateral Transfer Sworn Police Officers Only - University Police


CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

APPLY HERE

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


Joined Hands Food Pantry / Our Lady of Victory

Address: 5212 W Agatite

Phone: (312)972-1164 

Hours: Wednesday:

5:00 - 7:00 PM

[email protected]

Harvest Christian Center Chicago Food Pantry

Address: 4020 N. Tripp Ave.

Phone:  773-685-4222

[email protected]

Hours:  Last Friday of the month:

1:30 -2:30 PM

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]


If you would like a "SLOW DOWN" or "CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG" sign, please come in our office at 5460 N. Milwaukee.