Alderman Samantha Nugent of the 39th Ward announced that the City Council approved the 2026 Municipal Budget, which allocates new funding for public safety, infrastructure, and core services while identifying $100 million in efficiencies. She also introduced the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program, a new policy that lets property owners share the cost of sidewalk reconstruction, and highlighted ongoing efforts to connect homeless residents with housing and support services. Additional community updates include a new splash pad at Hollywood Park, holiday tree‑recycling drives, and several local events and volunteer opportunities.