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Reminder: 45th Ward News and Community Updates

Relevance: 3/10
zoning_or_development_meeting_or_approval city_budget

Summary

Alderman Jim Gardiner (45th Ward) highlights a community meeting tonight on a proposed Special Use Permit at 5462 N. Milwaukee Ave. for a drive-through café. The newsletter also points residents to infrastructure construction underway at the Nagle Railroad Crossing and notes general guidance/resources (including ChiStreetWork and a hotline) for zoning, permits, and infrastructure concerns in the ward. Other updates include the Cook County Board of Review opening property tax appeal pre-filing for the 2026 tax year, a women’s self-defense class, and beat meeting dates plus various local/community services and small-business resources.

Email from Alderman Jim Gardiner

MESSAGE FROM ALDERMAN JIM GARDINER

As Alderman of the 45th Ward, I remain committed to supporting our existing businesses while also attracting new businesses to our community.


Tonight’s community meeting will focus on a proposed Special Use Permit at 5462 N. Milwaukee Ave. to allow for a drive-through café.



Your participation and feedback are instrumental as we work together to build a brighter and more cohesive community.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALDERMAN GARDINER'S REEL

Proudly Serving,

Alderman Jim Gardiner

TOP STORIES

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

CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

May God bless members of the Chicago Police Department and the victims of this tragedy.


FULL STORY HERE

May God bless all United States soldiers who proudly serve our country.


FULL STORY HERE

Three men convicted in series of armed robberies including two in Gladstone Park on Chicago’s NW Side


FULL STORY HERE

After 4 Deaths At Norwood Park Metra Crossing, Safety Improvements Underway


FULL STORY HERE

FULL STORY HERE

Showtime! Blackhawks bring back franchise legend Patrick Kane on a 2-year contract


FULL STORY HERE

FRIENDLY CONFINES OF WRIGLEY FIELD


FULL STORY HERE

Tim McGarigle is the current assistant coach and all-time leader in tackles at Northwestern University.


He is a proud alum of Saint Tarcissus and Saint Patrick High School.


CLICK HERE TO WATCH REEL

Thank you to everyone who attended our Women’s Self-Defense Class at St. Robert’s this week. A special thank-you to Sensei Weiss for sharing his knowledge and valuable techniques with those who participated. It was wonderful to see so many neighbors come together to learn, build confidence, and strengthen our community.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Highway House Restaurant & Bloody Mary Bar is a neighborhood favorite where fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch cooking are at the heart of every meal. From house-cured corned beef and house-ground burgers to fresh seafood and homemade dressings, Highway House takes pride in preparing its menu with quality ingredients. Their commitment to fresh, homemade food is evident in every dish they serve.

 

Take advantage of the summer season and enjoy sunshine, fresh air, great food, and your favorite drinks on their beautiful outdoor patio. With great weather, cold drinks, and homemade favorites waiting for you, now is the perfect time to visit.

 

Remember to support local businesses like Highway House. When you shop and dine locally, you help strengthen our community and support the small businesses that make the 45th Ward such a great place to live, work, and visit.

 

5653 N. Northwest Hwy.

(773) 657-3534


Located in the heart of Portage Park, Grace Zion Tailors is proud to help neighbors look and feel their best. With more than 50 years of combined tailoring experience, their skilled team provides expert alterations for everything from everyday clothing to special occasion attire. Whether it's a business suit, dress, jacket, or favorite pair of jeans, every item is treated with exceptional care and attention to detail. More than just a tailoring shop, Grace Zion Tailors is built on a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and serving the community with kindness. 



Grace Zion Tailors is in the business of making you look good while feeling good. They are passionate about tailoring as an art form, and excited to share the passion with you.


4400 N. Milwaukee Ave.

(773) 512-8241

Grace Zion Tailors | Alteration | Wedding | Bridal | Suit | Seamstress


CHICAGO POLITICS

Mayor Brandon Johnson talks crime, taxes and reelection plans in FOX Chicago interview


FULL STORY HERE

Chicago aldermen call for U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros to resign, citing concerns over prosecutions


FULL STORY HERE

City Council joins chorus demanding Boutros' resignation as U.S. attorney



FULL STORY HERE

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALDERMAN GARDINER SPEAK AT CITY COUNCIL

FULL STORY HERE

Committee approves $424 million in tax subsidies for Chicago Fire stadium site


FULL STORY HERE

THRIVING IN WARD 45

Click here to watch Alderman Gardiner welcome

Andy's Frozen Custard to Gladstone Park

CLICK HERE TO TAKE SURVEY

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY

Construction at the Nagle Railroad Crossing began on Monday, July 6th. Watch Alderman Gardiner's video for an overview of the project, what to expect during construction, and how it may affect travel in the area.


WATCH THE PROJECT UPDATE

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.

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.

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

Summer is heating up! Stay active from the comfort of home with exercise classes on the VirtualSeniorCenter. Join Stretch and Flex with Michelle on Fridays at

8:30 am, or explore other fitness classes offered each weekday.


 Register for the full schedule: bit.ly/3aty8T5

WARD 45 RESOURCES

CLICK HERE FOR 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

September 2nd

Beat 1622

Dunham Park

4638 N. Melvina

August 12th

Beat 1623

16th District Police Station

5151 N. Milwaukee

July 29th

Beat 1731

Kilbourn Park

3501 N. Kilbourn

August 6th

Beat 1624

Portage Park

4100 N. Long

August 26th

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

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


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]