Ald. Bennett Lawson, 3223 N Sheffield Avenue, Suite A, Chicago, IL (2025)

04/25/2025

Happy Friday, neighbors.

I hope you had a chance to celebrate Earth Day this week. If not, it’s not too late - there are still cleanup events happening around the city tomorrow. If you’re out volunteering, send us a photo! We may feature some of our dedicated 44th Ward neighbors in next week’s newsletter.

I had the pleasure of visiting Hawthorne Elementary this week to speak with a civics class. The students were sharp, thoughtful, and asked some tough (and impressive) questions. It’s always inspiring to see the next generation so engaged in civic life.

As many of you have heard, our senior U.S. Senator - and fellow 44th Ward resident - Dick Durbin has announced his retirement. I began my public service career as a spring intern in his office, and I’m deeply grateful for his decades of leadership. His commitment to Illinois and to the values we share will leave a lasting legacy.

We’ve seen a slight uptick in graffiti in recent weeks. If you spot any, please report it through 311 or directly to our office - photos and addresses help with quick removal. The CHI 311 app is also a great option for reporting on the go.

Our 19th District officers continue their donation drive for children's essentials, including pull-ups, wipes, and laundry detergent. If you’re able to contribute, please drop items off at the station at 850 W Addison, to the attention of the CAPS Office.

Looking ahead, our annual 44th Ward Shredding Event is coming up on Saturday, May 17, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at our office (3223 N Sheffield). Please remember to remove any metal or plastic from your documents and limit it to two boxes per household.

Finally, our hearts are with the family and colleagues of Captain David Meyer, who tragically lost his life this week responding to a garage fire. He served Chicago with honor and compassion for nearly 30 years. Donations made to the Chicago Fire Department Foundation over the next 30 days will go directly to his family.

Wishing you all a safe and restful weekend.
– Alderman Bennett Lawson

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/79f94b8ba1a8/44th-ward-newsletter-april-25-10339268

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, check out 44thward.org/news/newsletter

04/18/2025

Wishing a joyful and restful Easter and Passover to all who celebrate. As we look ahead to Earth Day, we’re spotlighting Chicago Environmentalists, a local nonprofit with great sustainability resources. We’re also excited to offer up to 60 free backyard compost bins for eligible 44th Ward residents. If you live in a single-family home or a building with four or fewer units, you can request one to be delivered to your door—reach out to our office to sign up.

We’re thrilled to welcome Rendang Republic, Chicago’s first Indonesian restaurant, now officially open at 3355 N Clark. Please stop by and support this fantastic new addition to our neighborhood.

In public safety news, we are closely coordinating with CPD following several robberies in Wrigleyville late at night last weekend. While overall robberies are down citywide and in our district, these incidents are serious. We are working to bring in additional resources, and we encourage everyone to stay alert and wait for rideshares inside businesses whenever possible.

Throughout April, CPD’s 19th District is collecting donations of essentials for young children and looking for volunteer Beat Facilitators to help strengthen ties between neighbors and police. You can drop off supplies or learn more at the station at 850 W Addison.

At City Council this week, I voted against an ordinance that would have made it harder to open personal services businesses like barbershops, nail salons, and beauty supply stores. We should be doing everything we can to fill vacant storefronts—not adding red tape. I also co-sponsored a resolution urging immediate state action to prevent a transit fiscal cliff, and introduced a resolution honoring Stan Hollenbeck, a lifelong 44th Ward resident and longtime force behind the scenes at City Hall.

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the Lakeview Earth Day Celebration! Bring your old electronics to Blaine Elementary’s parking lot on Sunday, April 27 from 10am–2pm for free recycling. Also, the City is seeking public input on its draft Electric Vehicle and Mobility Infrastructure Framework—please take a look and share your feedback.

Finally, a big shoutout to the 3000 block of Kenmore for moving every single car for street cleaning! This kind of community effort keeps our neighborhood looking its best.

Our office will close at 2:00pm today in observance of Good Friday. Have a safe and happy Easter weekend!

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/2a1fadedac26/44th-ward-newsletter-april-18-10338999

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, check out 44thward.org/news/newsletter

04/16/2025

Reminder that on Friday, April 18th, the 44th Ward office will be closing early at 2pm for observance of Good Friday. We will reopen at 9am on Monday, April 21st.

04/14/2025

Please join the East Lake View Neighbors tomorrow, April 15th, for a forum featuring newly appointed Chicago Board of Education representative, Karen Zaccor. For more information on the event, please refer to the below flyer!

04/11/2025

Baseball season is back in Lakeview, and I’m glad to share that both Cubs home games this week went smoothly - and ended in wins. Thank you to CPD, OEMC, City workers, neighbors, and local businesses for helping things run so well.

Street sweeping season is also underway, and I appreciate everyone who has been moving their cars and helping keep our streets clean. A special shoutout to Chet on Aldine and Alex on George for going the extra mile and lending a hand during our early morning shifts.

In public safety news, a man has been charged in connection with a series of sexual assaults across the city, including one that occurred in Lakeview in 2022. I’m grateful to CPD and the State’s Attorney’s Office for their work on this case, and I hope this brings a sense of justice to survivors.

We have two great community events coming up next week: our Property Tax Exemption Workshop on April 15 and a multi-ward Community Blood Donor Day on April 16. Both are wonderful opportunities to get support and give back.

East Lake View Neighbors will also be hosting a discussion with Karen Zaccor, Lakeview’s newly appointed representative to the Chicago Board of Education, on April 15 at Greeley School. I encourage you to attend and bring any questions you have about CPS.

This week, the Chicago Police Department released a new 3-year strategic plan and is accepting public comments through May 7. In encouraging news, robberies, burglaries, and vehicle thefts in the 19th District are all down significantly year to date.

Wishing everyone a safe and restful weekend - and a meaningful Passover to all who celebrate.

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/a477bed470a8/44th-ward-newsletter-april-11-10338897

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, check out 44thward.org/news/newsletter

04/04/2025

Opening Day at Wrigley Field is here! After 186 days, baseball is back in the heart of our neighborhood as the Cubs take on the Padres this afternoon at 1:20pm. Whether you're heading to the game or just enjoying the excitement around the ballpark, be sure to check out our Wrigley Field Neighborhood Info Page for important details on street closures, parking restrictions, public transit, and safety information. We also encourage everyone to support our incredible local businesses - many are offering specials and events today. You can find a full list from the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce on our website. Go Cubs Go!

Street sweeping season has officially begun, and my team and I are out daily helping clear debris, leaves, and dirt from curbs and storm drains. If you see us, feel free to say hi! Don’t forget to move your car on scheduled sweep days to avoid tickets. You can check when your block is scheduled and sign up for reminders on our Street Sweeping page.

We’re excited to welcome two new businesses to the 44th Ward. Hotel Chocolat, a UK-based chocolatier, has opened its first-ever U.S. location at 3334 N Southport, offering rich chocolate drinks, pastries, and treats. In Wrigleyville, Stolen Saddle has opened at 3505 N Clark as a three-story country bar and restaurant featuring Tex-Mex food, smash burgers, live music, and line dancing lessons. We encourage you to stop by and check them out!

In public safety news, CPD is hosting car seat safety events at the 19th District station, with certified technicians available to ensure proper installation. CPD has also launched Community Training Observation Days, allowing residents to observe police training on topics like de-escalation and mental health response. This initiative aims to build transparency and strengthen community relationships. Learn more on our website.

Lake View High School is celebrating its 150th anniversary with the return of its Alumni Spaghetti Dinner and is seeking sponsors for its commemorative program book. Additionally, LVHS is the only CPS school with two teachers among the 30 statewide finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Award - Dr. Vyjayanti Joshi and Ms. Katie Mahoney. We are incredibly proud of their dedication to education!

Property tax exemption applications for the 2024 tax year are now open, with a deadline of Monday, April 21st. The Homeowner Exemption saves residents an average of $950 per year, and applications can be submitted online. First-time applicants and those needing to reapply for other exemptions should do so as soon as possible. Our website has details on virtual and in-person workshops to assist with applications.

Visit our website for more neighborhood updates, upcoming events, and public safety information. As always, feel free to reach out to my office with any questions. Have a great weekend, and enjoy the start of another exciting Cubs season!

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, check out https://mailchi.mp/a180341edc93/44th-ward-newsletter-april-4-10338682

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward newsletter, head to 44thward.org/news/newsletter

04/03/2025

Baseball is back at Wrigley! Tomorrow, April 4, the Cubs open their 2025 season against the Padres at 1:20pm. Expect increased activity in the neighborhood - whether you're heading to the game or navigating the area, here’s what you need to know:

Parking restrictions begin at 10am, with towing enforced. Some streets will close to vehicles before & after the game. Rideshare, bike valet & public transit options are available. Full details on traffic, safety & game day logistics can be found here: https://www.44thward.org/resources/wrigley-field-neighborhood-information/

03/28/2025

Spring is here, and there’s plenty happening in the 44th Ward. Here are some key updates for the week.

Opening Day at Wrigley Field is Friday, April 4, at 1:20pm as the Cubs take on the San Diego Padres. Expect street closures, parking restrictions, and increased traffic in the area. If you’re attending the game or traveling through the neighborhood, visit our website for important information on parking, rideshare zones, and safety measures.

We’re excited to welcome a new business to the ward. Rendang Republic, Chicago’s only Indonesian restaurant, is opening at 3355 N Clark on April 5. Led by Chef John Avila, the restaurant will serve authentic rendang, fried chicken, and more. With a vibrant, art-filled space, this will be a great addition to the neighborhood.

In public safety news, Willie Wright has pled guilty to aggravated battery of a police officer and two misdemeanor assaults. He was sentenced to three years in prison but will serve 180 days with credit for time served. Our office has worked closely with victims and the State’s Attorney’s office throughout this case. While no sentence can undo the harm caused, we remain committed to ensuring those who violate community safety are held accountable.

The 19th District police have launched two new initiatives. Officers are encouraging residents and businesses to register their security cameras with CPD to help with investigations. This does not give CPD access to footage but helps them quickly identify where cameras are located. The 19th District is also collecting used cell phones to donate to seniors and survivors of domestic violence who need a way to call 911. Phones can be dropped off at the 19th District station at 850 W Addison.

Nettelhorst School is hosting a fundraiser at Shake Shack in Wrigleyville on Monday, March 31. Stop by 3519 N Clark and mention “Donation Day” or “Nettelhorst” at the register, or use promo code DONATE when ordering online. Twenty-five percent of your purchase will go toward supporting the school.

The City Clerk’s Office is offering City Sticker Amnesty Month throughout April. Late fees and back charges will be waived for residents who need to get up to date. Visit their website for details on eligible locations and how to take advantage of this opportunity.

Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, reach out to our office if you have any questions or concerns. Have a great weekend.

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/d544d15f829a/44th-ward-newsletter-march-28-10338388

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, check out 44thward.org/news/newsletter

03/21/2025

Dear Neighbors,

I hope everyone had a fantastic St. Patrick’s Day, whether you made it downtown to watch the river turn green or stayed local to celebrate at one of our great Lakeview spots. And as March Madness heats up, I hope you're enjoying the tournament—if your bracket is still perfect, you're one of the lucky few!

This week, I joined nearly a hundred business owners and several of my aldermanic colleagues at the North Side Small Business Forum. We discussed ways the City can cut red tape in permitting and licensing, strengthen public safety for businesses, and provide better support for entrepreneurs. Events like these are key to hearing directly from business owners about what’s working, what’s not, and how we can improve.

I also had the opportunity to tour Lakeview Landing, a new nonprofit-operated affordable housing development at 835 W Addison. This project is designed specifically for the disability community, with features like roll-in showers, pull-under sinks, and lower cabinets and appliances to improve accessibility. I’m proud to have this development in our ward, setting a high standard for truly inclusive housing.

In legislative news, I led a letter with 27 of my City Council colleagues urging state legislators to regulate intoxicating h**p products like Delta-8. Right now, these products—often containing unregulated levels of THC—are being sold without testing, labeling, or age restrictions, making them easily accessible to young people and posing serious health risks. Nearly 20 other states have already taken action, and Illinois must do the same.

Earlier this week, I met with Interim CTA President Nora Leerhsen to discuss improving public transit. She has a clear focus on enhancing the rider experience and isn’t afraid to recognize what needs work. We discussed issues like smoking on trains and expanding shelter access for unhoused individuals. I look forward to working with her to strengthen our city’s transit system.

Looking ahead, a few important updates: Street sweeping season begins on April 1st, so be sure to check the schedule to avoid tickets and help keep our streets clean. As the weather warms, pothole season is also here—if you spot any on your block, please report them to our office so we can help get them addressed quickly.

The City of Chicago is hosting its next Remote Small Business Expo on March 27th from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to access free resources, learn from expert-led panels, and navigate government support programs. If you're a small business owner or thinking about starting a business, I encourage you to check it out.

As always, my office is here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. Have a great weekend!

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/a8fda3fa9cf6/44th-ward-newsletter-march-21-10338254

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, check out 44thward.org/news/newsletter

03/17/2025

Attention neighbors! School St. between Sheffield Ave. and Wilton Ave. will be closed this Thursday, March 20th and Friday, March 21st from 9am-4pm. Please plan accordingly!

03/14/2025

Dear Neighbors,

St. Patrick’s Day is Monday, and celebrations are happening all weekend throughout Lakeview. Many local businesses are offering special deals, pop-ups, and Irish-themed menus—check out the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce’s guide for details. If you're looking for a great corned beef sandwich, the Chicago Tribune recommends Steingold’s, The Chicago Diner, and The Bagel.

As we head into the holiday weekend, we want to remind residents to stay safe when leaving bars and businesses late at night. Over the past few weeks, there has been a pattern of robberies along Clark Street between 1:30-3:45am, particularly targeting individuals waiting alone for rideshares. Please wait for your pickup inside a business rather than standing alone on the street. You can review CPD’s full community alert and find additional safety tips on our website.

For those attending St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, please be aware that Clark Street will be closed from Newport to Addison from 7:00am Saturday until 3:00am Sunday. Rideshares, taxis, and charter vehicles will not be able to pick up or drop off passengers in red zones. Please plan ahead, and check our website for a map of the closures and bus reroutes.

Business owners are invited to join us for the North Side Small Business Forum on Tuesday, March 18, from 3:30-5:00pm at Old Crow Smokehouse (3506 N Clark). This is an opportunity to engage with city officials and experts on key business issues, including streamlining regulations and navigating city services. The forum will be moderated by Mark Liberson, owner of Hydrate, Elixir, and Replay, and will feature Elliot Richardson of the Small Business Advisory Council. Register now to submit questions in advance.

Earlier this week, City Council approved a hotel development at 3257 N Halsted, bringing new investment to a long-vacant site. After months of community engagement, we worked with the development team to create a Good Neighbor Agreement that reflects local priorities. This project will provide much-needed hotel accommodations while honoring the legacy of Yoshi’s Cafe. Read more about the development on our website.

In other City Council news, I voted in favor of a proposed ban on fur sales in Chicago, supporting sustainability and animal welfare. While the measure did not pass, I remain committed to advocating for ethical business practices. Additionally, the Chicago Board of Elections is seeking public input on voting in the city. Residents can complete a short survey to help improve future elections—visit our website for details.

Have a great and safe weekend!

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/0a02b7e20019/44th-ward-newsletter-march-14-10338045

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, check out 44thward.org/news/newsletter

03/12/2025

This Friday, March 14th, W. School St will be closed from N. Sheffield Ave to N. Wilton Ave due to construction. Please plan accordingly.

03/10/2025

This Sunday, March 16th, Chicago Animal Care & Control is hosting an adoption event! Fees are waived for all animals that have been at the shelter for over 30 days - for more information head to: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cacc/provdrs/care/svcs/adoption.html

03/07/2025

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate right here in Lakeview. Whether you’re looking for festive food and drink specials, lively pop-ups, or parade-day parties, the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce has put together a St. Patrick’s Day Guide to help you plan the perfect celebration.

March is also Women’s History Month, and we’re proud to recognize the many women-owned businesses that make our community special. The Chamber has created a Women-Owned Business Directory where you can learn more about these incredible businesses and the women behind them. To explore the impact of Chicago’s historic women, visit the Chicago Women’s History Center.

In public safety news, CPD has issued an alert regarding a pattern of late-night robberies in Wrigleyville, primarily occurring between 1:30-3:45am. Offenders often target individuals waiting alone for rideshare pickups. Please stay alert, keep valuables out of sight, and wait for rideshares inside businesses when possible. Businesses should also review CPD’s latest safety recommendations.

Last week in City Council, I was honored to pass a resolution recognizing the life and legacy of Todd 'Mack' MacGillivray, a beloved community member and founder of Foursided. Todd’s dedication to local artists and the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts left a lasting impact. In his memory, we encourage those able to consider donating to the Chicago Diabetes Project, a cause close to his heart.

I also want to provide an update on the proposed hotel at 3257 N Halsted. After months of community input, including a January meeting with nearly 80 neighbors, our office has worked with the development team to finalize a 'Good Neighbor Agreement' addressing key concerns. With these commitments in place, I will be supporting this project when it comes before the Zoning Committee on March 11. I believe this hotel will be an asset to the 44th Ward while honoring the legacy of Yoshi’s Cafe.

In transportation news, the CTA is launching a new 'Frequent Network' to improve service on 20 key bus routes, ensuring buses arrive every 10 minutes or sooner throughout the day. The first eight routes will see enhancements starting March 23, with additional routes—including Belmont, North, Lawrence, and Ashland—coming later this year.

Stay safe, enjoy the upcoming events, and as always, feel free to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns.

P.S. To read this week's full newsletter, head to https://mailchi.mp/773309585a4e/44th-ward-newsletter-february-28-10337861

P.P.S. To sign up for the 44th Ward weekly newsletter, go to 44thward.org/news/newsletter

Ald. Bennett Lawson

04/25/2025

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