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Neighbors,
There is so much to celebrate and reflect on in the 26th Ward this week, from neighbors rolling up their sleeves for Earth Day to youth leading the way through biking, careers, and community care. Last Saturday's Earth Day clean-ups were a beautiful reflection of community, care, and commitment. I’ve participated in the Earth Day clean-up in Humboldt Park since I was a little girl, but this year I experienced the power of community in multiple parks.
My Chief of Staff, Juanita García, helped organize clean-ups in four parks that would have otherwise been left out of Earth Day activities. With the support of JR Roldán, Area Manager North for Parks, and park supervisors Cirilo Gonzalez, Monique Young-Johnson, and Juan Guerrero, as well as dozens of volunteers, we showed up for Simons, Beilfuss, Maple, and Hermosa Parks. There were also clean-ups at Humboldt and Mozart Parks, where hundreds of volunteers came together to clean up and spread mulch. Our parks and our communities are better because of leaders like these. |
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Just as we came together to care for our parks, we also showed up in force to shape the future of our streets. This past Wednesday, we packed the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse for a powerful and deeply engaging community meeting on traffic safety. I want to thank every neighbor who showed up. So many of you attended that we ran out of chairs! CDOT shared an informative presentation based on the data they’ve collected around safety issues on Division Street and Humboldt Drive, along with a set of proposals that include pedestrian and bike safety improvements, curb extensions, and ADA-accessible infrastructure.
As expected, the conversation was passionate and at times contentious. Some neighbors raised concerns about how these changes might affect parking and traffic congestion. Others emphasized the urgent need for safer streets, especially for those of us who walk, bike, or take the bus every day.
I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to voice their perspectives. Later this month, I’ll be meeting with CDOT to review the community feedback in detail and discuss how it will shape their next steps. I’ll continue to keep you informed as this process moves forward. |
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That same energy of movement and momentum continues this weekend as we take to the boulevards on two wheels. As a lifelong cyclist, my legislative aide Marie has been involved in organizing cycling events for decades, and we are fortunate enough to have two youth cycling programs in our Ward: Bikes N Roses at 4600 W Palmer and West Town Bikes at 2459 W Division St. Both offer front-of-house bike shop training, mechanic apprenticeships, welding, summer youth internships, and competitive cycling support for young people. This Saturday, Bikes N Roses youth are offering their weekly bike repair pop-up in the Austin neighborhood, and West Town Bikes youth will be bike marshalling our Bike the Boulevards ride. |
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The first 100 on-site registrants for Bike the Boulevards will receive a sticker designed by Connie Hernandez. There are two routes to participate in: 1) Koz Park to Humboldt Park Boathouse, and 2) Koz Park to Humboldt Park Boathouse to Garfield Park and back to Humboldt Park Boathouse. Community violence interruption programs ALSO and Breakthrough are providing hydration stations at each stop, along with food and a bouncy house at the finish. Dust off your bike and join us!
View the whole route at bit.ly/cnbikeride. |
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And while we build joy and connection through events like these, we’re also fighting for justice and restoration. We’re hosting a Know Your Rights: Criminal Records event on Wednesday, May 7 at 6:30 PM at Mozart Park in partnership with our Community Safety Committee, Cabrini Green Legal Aid, and Alderman Quezada. If you have a criminal record, we encourage you to attend and learn what records relief can do for you, what options are available, and how to start the process. |
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Whether you joined a cleanup, spoke up at a meeting, or are just looking for ways to get involved, know that this work only moves forward because of you. Thank you for being part of it.
In solidarity, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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Ward Night @ Tropical Taste 5/22 |
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| Having a criminal record shouldn’t hold you back from opportunity.
Join us on May 7 at Mozart Park Doors open at 6PM, and the program runs from 6:30 to 8PM
We have a free, informative workshop with Cabrini Green Legal Aid. We’ll break down how record relief works, what options are available, and how to begin the process.
Refreshments will be served. Let's make sure our neighbors have the tools they need to move forward with dignity and support. |
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Ward Community Meeting 5/10 |
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Spring Employment Expo Job Fair for Youth 5/15 |
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Community Safety Town Hall 5/21 |
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Walk for Peace & Cook Out 5/24 |
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| Join us on Saturday, May 24 from 1 to 5 PM at Division and California for ALSO’s 30th Annual Walk for Peace and Cookout. This is not just an event. It is a movement for safety, unity, and joy in our streets.
Come through for the music, the art, the food, the free t shirts, but most of all, come for each other. |
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Housing Preservation Ordinance Webinar 5/28 |
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⛔️ Hermosa Park located at 2240 N Kilbourn is under construction and CLOSED to the public. All programming has been moved to Blackhawk Park, including day camps. For more information, call 312-746-5014. |
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| Construction season has begun! Don't forget to check out ChiStreetWork for updates on upcoming work in your neighborhood. |
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Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
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Street Sweeping takes place between April and November. |
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Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project |
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The “Logan Square Boulevards District” is a significant part of our community's history and character. An extension of this Landmark District is currently being considered. This process typically takes 6 to 9 months and includes communication and notices throughout the process. This project builds on decades of historic preservation work and reflects the ongoing commitment of the 26th Ward to encouraging sustainable development and maintaining the unique identity of our neighborhoods. You can learn more about the project, review FAQs, and submit your thoughts at the26thward.org/boulevard-landmarking. |
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The 26th Ward's zoning process requires anyone requesting a zoning change to first complete a zoning intake form. After review, they present their request to the Zoning Advisory Committee and answer questions. In some cases, they may also present at a community input meeting. |
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We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. |
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1739 N Drake Ave 3208-3214 W Armitage Ave 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave
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| 3300 W. Pierce Ave 1631 N. Spaulding Ave
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| 🚨 Interested in a career in public safety? The Chicago Police and Firefighter Training Academy (CPFTA) offers high school sophomores hands-on experience in police, fire, and EMT careers — plus leadership training, internships, and college credit!
📝 Apply January through May 1
📚 Must be a CPS sophomore with 90%+ attendance
🔗 Learn more at cps.edu/cpfta
📞 Questions? Call 773-553-2486 or email CPFTA@cps.edu
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Humboldt Park Patriots Camp |
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| 🏈 The Humboldt Park Patriots are back with 2025 Skill Camps for young athletes ages 7 to 13!
📍1301 N Humboldt Dr, Chicago
📅 Saturdays in May | 10 AM to 12 PM
May 3 – Offensive Skills
May 10 – Defensive Skills
May 17 – QB & WR Skills
💻 Register now at www.humboldtparkpatriots.com
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Provident Scholarship Fund 5/18 |
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| 📣 The Provident Scholarship Fund 2025 is now open! Medical and allied health students can apply for scholarships of $10,000 to $20,000 to support their education and careers in healthcare.
🗓️ Apply by May 18 at cookcountyhealth.org/providentscholarship
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| This event is for high school students, recent grads, young adults starting college, and anyone figuring out what comes next.
Businesses looking to hire will be in attendance, volunteer and leadership opportunities, and free headshots
Register early to get your free headshot. |
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Art Exhibit: Osamenta 5/2 TONIGHT! |
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Oliva Gallery is honored to present Osamenta, a powerful photographic exhibition by Herminio Rodríguez that explores the landscapes of decay and resilience across Puerto Rico. Rodríguez’s work captures a profound narrative of socioeconomic hardship, offering audiences a deep look into the often-overlooked aftermath of economic recession, governmental debt, and natural disasters on the island.
Opening Reception: May 2, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Exhibition Dates: May 2, 2025 – June 1, 2025 Oliva Gallery: 3816 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 |
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Hermosa Park Community Cleanups |
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| 🌿 Let’s keep Hermosa beautiful! Join the Hermosa Park & Community Cleanups happening on select Saturdays from 9–11AM.
MAY 3RD EVENT CANCELLED
🗓️ Next up: June 7th – Playground Fiber at Hermosa Park!
📍 Full schedule & locations: OurHermosa.org
🧤 All are welcome — community power starts with clean streets! |
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Human Resources Business Workshops 5/8 |
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| Looking for a fresh start?
ALSO is offering gang tattoo removal sessions for just $20 on May 10 and May 24 at 3154 W. Chicago Ave from 3 PM to 5 PM.
First come, first served |
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Spring Makers Market 5/10 |
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| The Humboldt Park Advisory Council is hosting a Spring Market in an effort to raise funds for the council. If you are interested in vending, volunteering or facilitating a workshop, click on the link below that applies.
Vendor Application Volunteer Form |
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Free Self Defense Workshop 5/10 |
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| Looking to build confidence and learn real-life skills to protect yourself and your loved ones?
Join the 14th District Council and Thousand Waves for a free self defense workshop on Saturday, May 10 from 1 to 4 PM at Pulaski Park Fieldhouse. Open to adults and teens 12 and up.
Sign up for the workshop
Let’s keep each other safe by staying ready and informed. |
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Race Your Heart for the Arts 5/17 |
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| ChiArts first ever 5K on May 17 in Humboldt Park, Race Your Hearts for the Arts!
The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) was founded on the belief that arts education and the transformative power of the arts should be accessible to all youth in Chicago. As the city’s first public arts high school, ChiArts nurtures young talent, diversifies the city’s cultural landscape, and prepares scholar-artists to lead with creativity and purpose. We’re thrilled to announce that this year, we’re “Racing Our Hearts for the Arts” with our very first 5K Run/Walk in Humboldt Park on May 17, 2025 at 8am! |
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Wellness Walks starting 5/21 |
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|  PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL!
 Parade Day On La Division St.
Stay Tuned! Updates Everyday!
 JUNE THURSDAY 12th COMMUNITY DAY!
 JUNE FRIDAY THE 13th!! GET READY!
 JUNE SATURDAY 14th PARADE DAY!
 JUNE SUNDAY 15th PAPA DE LA SALSA! PICNIC
 Tickets On Sale NOW!!!! 
http://freestylefriday2025.eventbrite.com
You Don’t Want To Miss All The New Attractions!!! Live Music Concerts, Talent Shows, Pop Ups!!
 PuertoRicanFest.com
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| 🚨New Pantry Alert! 🚨
The Food pantry at Le Moyne Church of God, 3301 W Le Moyne is now open.
Thursdays: 3pm to 6pm Saturdays: 1pm to 4pm
Participants must live in one of the following zip codes: 60651, 60639, and 60647 |
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| Bounce house available for residential block parties within Chicago city limits from May 24 – August 31.
✅ Block parties only
✅ Applicants must live on the block
✅ One request per block, per season (Saturdays & Sundays only).
✅ First-come, first-served! 📥 How to Apply:
➡️ Use Google Chrome to complete the application.
➡️ Manually enter all info (avoid autofill errors).
➡️ Click "SUBMIT" to receive an auto-confirmation.
➡️ Get permit from Aldermanic office 💡 Need to correct your date? Email JumpingJack@cityofchicago.org—last-minute changes not honored. 🔗 Apply For Jumping Jack |
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Cannabis Expungement Project |
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| New Leaf Cannabis Expungement Project is a network of 17 nonprofits that helps anyone ever charged with a cannabis offense anywhere in Illinois clear eligible cannabis and non-cannabis cases from their record.
Our services are free.
New Leaf is state-funded and was formed after the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act was passed in 2019. |
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Avoid Bird Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets |
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| 🐦 H5N1 Bird Flu: What You Need to Know 🦠 Protect yourself and your pets from H5N1 bird flu by avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and their droppings. If handling is necessary, wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask. 🐾 Keep pets safe! Don’t let dogs or cats interact with wild birds or contaminated areas. If they come into contact, wash them immediately and monitor for symptoms. 🍗 Always cook poultry and eggs thoroughly to kill any potential virus. For more info, visit: Chicago Department of Public Health |
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What Nonprofits Should Know - KYR |
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| Watch the What Nonprofit Workers Need to Know webinar on immigration, civil rights, and mental health. discussion and access key resources by watching the recording here
✅ Immigration policies & legal rights
✅ Civil rights protections
✅ Mental health support for immigrant communitiesincluding details on the DHS settlement for unlawful ICE stops & arrests: More Info |
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City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
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OCAD - Raid Immigration Resources |
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The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) provides this Rights Card to protect you during interactions with law enforcement or immigration officials. 📞 Family Support Hotline:
Call 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693) for assistance in English, Spanish, Korean, or Polish. ✅The right to remain silent. ✅The right to refuse answering questions without legal representation. ✅The right to contact an attorney or organization for help. Print and carry this card to assert your rights and ensure your safety in uncertain situations. For more information, visit www.icirr.org/family-support |
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Administrative ICE Warrant VS. Judicial Warrant |
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🔹 Administrative ICE Warrant (First Image - SAMPLE) Issued by: DHS, not a court. Purpose: Allows ICE to arrest for immigration violations. Limitations: Does not allow entry into your home without consent. Key Detail: Signed by an immigration officer, not a judge.
🔹 Judicial Warrant (Second Image) Issued by: A U.S. District Court. Purpose: Authorizes law enforcement to enter, search, or seize property/individuals. Authority: Signed by a judge, allows entry without consent.
⚠️ Why It Matters:
An ICE administrative warrant does not grant officers the right to enter your home—only a judicial warrant does. Always ask to see the warrant, verify details, and seek legal help if needed. For assistance, contact legal professionals or trusted community organizations. |
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5k Delinquent Tax Program |
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| 🏡 Delinquent Tax Program – Get Up to $5K in Assistance!
Struggling with property taxes? The Northwest Home Equity Assurance Program (NWHEAP) and Northwest Center are offering grants up to $5,000 to help homeowners on Chicago’s Northwest Side pay off delinquent property taxes and keep their homes.
📍 Eligibility: Must live within NWHEAP boundaries
📞 Apply today! Call 773-622-0700 or 773-283-3888 for more details. 🔗 Learn more: nwheap.com |
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City of Chicago Resources |
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Intake for People Experiencing Homelessness |
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| 🏠 24/7 Intake Location for People Experiencing Homelessness
For single adults in need of shelter, the Shelter Placement and Resource Center (SPARC) offers:
✅ Open 24/7 with a 200-person capacity
✅ Meals, showers, laundry, and shelter placement services
✅ On-site assistance and 3-1-1 shelter requests available around the clock
📍 Location: 2241 S. Halsted St. (S Halsted St. & W 23rd) |
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Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
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Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
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| The Chicago Seniors At Risk Assessment Program provides free fire/fall safety assessments for individuals ages 65 or over and those with a disability.
Chicago Fire Department members will assess the home for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as other fire and fall hazards.
Call to schedule an appointment. Phone: (312) 747-6691 |
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Chicago Rents connects landlords with tenants through various housing subsidy programs, offering guaranteed rent, vacancy filling, and personalized support. Created in response to COVID-19, it centralizes property partner relationships and helps Chicagoans in need of housing. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents. If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply. |
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12 District Police Oversight |
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The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has introduced a new and improved interactive calendar, which you can click here to access. One of the key features of this calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission for Public Safety and your Local District Councils. By simply visiting this website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings. 14th Police District Council Join elected District Councilors every first Saturday of the month at 1pm to work for better police accountability, restorative justice, and evidence based approaches to public safety. |
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| OEMC currently has four job postings on the City’s website Clinical Therapist III- open till May 5 Senior Emergency Management Coordinator - open through May 7 Police Communications Operator II (9-1-1 Dispatcher) - open through May 8 Traffic Control Aide-Hourly – applications accepted till July 31
hese positions posted at: chi.gov/oemcjobs. recruitment videos for each of our divisions: City of Chicago :: Join Our Team |
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| Ready for a new career?
GWTP has trained over 2,000 people for good jobs with real career paths. No high school diploma or GED required, and programs are free for eligible applicants.
✔️ Short-term training
✔️ Industry certifications
✔️ Job placement support
✔️ Background friendly
✔️ Transportation and other services included
📲 Call 312-563-9570 to schedule a tour or register online today!
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💼 Want to become a Medical Assistant debt free? NIMAA and Erie Health are offering hands-on training starting this fall. No fees, paid externship, and free tuition if you stay and serve!
📲 Apply now: erie.health/apply-nimaa
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| Are you a skilled and passionate healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful impact in the community? Humboldt Park Health (HPH) is seeking dedicated Physicians and Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) to join our team.
View open position HERE |
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| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
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| Shipping & Receiving Training - visit sr.gwtp.org for more info 12-week training at no cost, includes supportive services once enrolled Average $18+/hour wage upon job placement Training Includes:
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If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options. |
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| If you need assistance with a city service, let us know! You can submit your request through our website, by giving us a call, or submitting a request directly to 311.chicago.gov. Our team is here to provide the support you need and ensure our community thrives. |
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