We stand with the people of New York City and all those who were affected by that terrible day. We honor the first responders who ran toward danger and the heroes who sacrificed everything to save others.
May we never forget those we lost and those who served. May their memories forever be a blessing.
Construction Notice – Peterson Ave Bridge
The Illinois Department of Transportation is beginning repairs to the Peterson Avenue bridge crossing over the North Shore Channel, which will require lane closures.
To complete the work, Peterson Avenue will be reduced from two lanes to one in both directions between Lincoln and Jersey avenues. The public should also expect various lane shifts on both sides of Peterson Avenue approaching the bridge throughout the project, which is anticipated to be completed in December.
Expect delays during construction and make sure to allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.
Bally’s Casino Committee Hearing
This week, I presided over an eventful License committee meeting, where aldermen questioned Bally’s on the construction slowdown at the Chicago casino. Shockingly, despite the financial importance of this development to the City, the Mayor’s Office refused to participate in the public hearing. No senior administration officials were in attendance to answer questions from the Council or explain to the public the mayor’s position on a delay that puts at risk hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars in tax revenue.
The Bally’s casino project is a $1.7 billion development that the City of Chicago is counting on to provide vital revenue that will fund police and fire pensions. Bally’s, facing severe financial strain, decided to slow down construction on the project, laying off more than 130 trades workers and calling into question their ability to deliver the development they promised the city.
Chicagoans deserve transparency and accountability when it comes to a casino project that is so important to our city’s finances and future. At the hearing, Bally’s committed to better communication with the Council and the public, even absent leadership from our mayor.
You can read more about the hearing in the Chicago Tribune here
Stop Holding Up Video Gaming Terminal Licenses
I also joined with fellow elected officials and partners in the hospitality industry this week to demand Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration stop holding up video gaming terminal (VGT) licenses in the City of Chicago.
The City Council legalized video gaming as a lifeline for struggling Chicago bars and restaurants. The Illinois Gaming Board has approved multiple VGT licenses, but Mayor Johnson's business affairs department has yet to issue a single gaming license in Chicago.
Video gaming is necessary for Chicago hospitality businesses to stay competitive with suburban locations that already allow it. It will also generate vitally needed tax revenue for Chicago that will keep our city afloat.
Thank you to the many small business owners and hospitality workers who joined us to demand the City of Chicago immediately start issuing video gaming terminal licenses.
50th Ward Diaper Donation Drive
I am proudly partnering with Share Our Spare to host a diaper drive at the 50th Ward Office. The donation drive will incorporate National Diaper Need Awareness Week (September 14-20). A donation box is now available at the 50th Ward Office, 2949 W. Devon. Please help end diaper need in Chicago by donating diapers and pull-ups.
