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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for June 15, 2026
In This Edition:
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2nd Ward Website
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2nd Ward Twitter
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2nd Ward YouTube
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City of Chicago Offices Closed in Observance of Juneteenth: Friday, June 19
Pursuant to the Mandatory Holiday Schedule, all City of Chicago Offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Our office will reopen for regular business hours on Monday, June 22, at 9:00 am.
There will be no city garbage or recycling pickup on Friday. If your regular pickup day is Friday, please put your carts out on Thursday, as crews will be working ahead. In the unlikely event that they do not get to your carts on Thursday, they should then be put back out on Monday.
To check your pickup day, please click here.
To learn more about the significance of Juneteenth, click here.
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Cook County Property Tax Bills To Be Delayed
It was recently announced that Cook County Property Tax Bills will once again be delayed, this time by an estimated two months. This unacceptable delay places undue stress amid continued tax rollout issues in Cook County government. As the current county administration fails to distribute these bills on time, the likelihood increases that local governments and smaller taxing bodies may have to take out high-interest loans to finance operations. This is poor governance, and its consequences fall heavily on the taxpayer.
In light of this announcement, my office has begun working to contact 2nd Ward property owners to inform them of missing exemptions that they might be eligible for. While not a substitute for a fully functioning county property tax system, I believe beleaguered taxpayers should be refunded money that is owed to them, hence the effort.
I am grateful to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas for her office's assistance with this endeavor, and I encourage residents to contact my office to check if they have missing exemptions that can be applied for.
Learn more about these tax exemptions by clicking here.
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SOAR Farmers Market 12th Anniversary Celebration: Tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16
The Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) will be having its official ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16, celebrating its 12th year in operation!
Stop by for great local produce, baked goods, and plants, and enjoy complimentary Eli’s cheesecake samples and remarks from local stakeholders.
As a reminder, please stop by our mobile ward office to say hello each Tuesday!
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Committee on Public Safety Advances Ordinance Donating Equipment to Waukegan Fire Department Bomb Squad in Committee on Public Safety
Last week, I held a Committee on Public Safety meeting, during which we advanced an ordinance to donate explosive magazines to the City of Waukegan Bomb Squad. This transfer of explosive magazines not needed by our own CPD Bomb Squad to Waukegan represents an example of Chicago's strong partnership with neighboring public safety entities. Filing Sponsor Alderman Napolitano spoke about the importance of these relationships during the meeting, emphasizing that this donation will allow Waukegan to better execute training exercises and contribute to greater public safety in the Chicagoland area at no cost to Chicago. I was pleased to see the passage of this ordinance through Committee, and look forward to supporting it on the Council floor this week.
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Tree Debris Cleanup
 City workers have been busy removing debris in the days since last week's major storms throughout Chicago. There were over 5,000 service requests for major tree issues citywide. I am grateful for the work of the Department of Streets and Sanitation (especially our Ward Superintendent, John), our 2nd Ward survey crew, and everyone else who has worked to get fallen trees and branches off the ground. Additionally, I want to thank you all for your patience as teams work to address this significant amount of damage. I invite you to contact my office should you need assistance with tree removal as a result of a limb or branch that is obstructing the public way.
 Cook County’s Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) and the City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) are reviewing damage from these severe storms and asking that residents who have been impacted submit an initial damage assessment to help determine if the County, along with partners at OEMC and at the state level can pursue any options for additional assistance for residents. Reporting damages to emergency management is voluntary. It is not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance agency and does not guarantee disaster relief assistance.
To fill out a survey, please click here.
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Get Behind the Vest Fundraiser: Wednesday, June 24
Join me and Committeeman Egan for a special fundraiser supporting Get Behind the Vest, hosted by Mario Stefanini. The event will be held Wednesday, June 24, from 4:30 - 6:30 pm at Mario's Table (located at 21 W Goethe St).
This is the 5th Annual Get Behind the Vest event we have hosted in the 2nd Ward. Since 2022, we have raised over $250,000 (approximately 500 life saving vests for our men and women in the department).
A vest is not bulletproof forever. It wears out. It breaks down. It needs to be replaced every 5 years. At $500 or more per vest, in addition to other equipment and uniform expenses, the costs can quickly add up. That is why we need your help. Your donation ensures that every officer out there protecting you is protected.
Click here for tickets.
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Street Sweeping
The Department of Streets and Sanitation continues to operate its regular street sweeping schedule. Residents can view street sweepers in real time using the Sweeper Tracker online tool.
"Sweep Around Us" — a third-party email reminder service used for street sweeping alerts — has rebranded as "We The Sweeple." Their website is now live. Click here for more information.
Click here to find the Street Sweeping section of my website. There is an interactive map of all seven street sweeping sections included, as well as the full schedule of 2026 sweeping dates. Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for respective sweeping dates in the event that they have visitors or are out of town.
Scheduled for cleaning on Tuesday, June 16: Section 2 (blue), Section 4 (red), Section 5 (yellow)
Scheduled for cleaning on Wednesday, June 17: Section 3 (purple), Section 4 (red), Section 5 (yellow)
Scheduled for cleaning on Thursday, June 18: Section 3 (purple)
Scheduled for cleaning on Friday, June 19: none (Juneteenth)
Scheduled for cleaning on Monday, June 22: Section 6 (green)
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Coffee with the 18th District Commander: Thursday, June 18
 Join the 18th District Commander, Christopher Bielfeldt, and the CAPS team for coffee and conversations about public safety in your neighborhood on Thursday, June 18, at 10:00 am at Wintrust Bank, located at 100 W North Ave.
This is an excellent opportunity to meet with the officers who patrol your beat. If you have any questions, contact the CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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Opportunity to Provide Feedback on CPD Policies
The Chicago Police Department is currently accepting public feedback on three policies, and they want to hear from residents across the city. If you have a few minutes, please take a look, share your thoughts, and pass them along to anyone in your network who may be interested. The more perspectives that are represented, the better.
Comment periods for policy G03-06: "Firearm Discharge and Officer-Involved Death Incident Policy" and "Search Warrant Policy" close today. The comment period for D22-04: "Community Police Mediation Pilot Program" ends Wednesday, June 17.
Click here to submit feedback.
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18th District CompStat Report
Computer Statistics report (CompStat) is a weekly report of incidents that have occurred in the respective police district. Each district compiles a statistical summary of the week's crime complaints, arrests, and data analysis.
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
- 05 June 26 - Offenders Charged with Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking of 63-Year-Old Male
Community Alerts:
- 10 June 26 - 1st District - Arson
- 11 June 26 - CPD Business/Community Alert
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
- 06 June 26 - Offender Charged with Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of an 8-Year-Old Male and Unlawful Restraint of an 11-Year-Old Male
- 05 June 26 - Offender Charged with Multiple Felony Counts, Including Armed Robbery & Aggravated Battery
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Updated 2026 Chicago Police CAPS Meeting Schedule
The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) Beat community meetings are a key part of the Chicago Police Department's strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in person, with the option to participate remotely, and are an excellent way to communicate with the officers who patrol your beat and to engage with and meet your neighbors.
The entirety of the 2nd Ward falls inside the 18th District. Click here to find which beat you reside in. You may also call 312-742-5778 or email CAPS.018District@chicagopolice.org for more information about the 18th District CAPS office.
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General 2nd Ward Infrastructure Updates
While out and about in our neighborhoods, you will certainly see that road construction season is well underway. Crews are busy resurfacing streets and alleys, building pedestrian safety improvements, and replacing street lighting. Here are some highlights of ongoing or upcoming infrastructure improvements in our ward. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. My office always stands ready to answer questions about these or any other infrastructure projects in our ward and to receive your suggestions for future consideration.
- Inner Lake Shore Drive resurfacing from Michigan to Ohio
- Scheduled for later this Summer or Fall
- Will include some pedestrian safety improvements for crossing perpendicular east-west streets
- Additional details will be shared by USPS letter with nearby residents once known
- Division St streetscape from State to Dearborn
- New, wider sidewalks with decorative pavers and space for outdoor dining
- Addition of landscaped planters and street furniture
- New lighting
- Southport/Belden intersection reconstruction
- Intersection will be reconstructed over the summer to raise it
- Raised intersections calm traffic and increase pedestrian safety
- Curb bump-outs will also be added to shorten pedestrian crosswalks
- A comparable nearby intersection is Belden and Sheffield
- Aesthetic improvements are included
- Additional details will be shared by USPS letter with nearby residents
- Southport Ave resurfacing from Webster to Fullerton
- Will be completed in conjunction with the Southport and Belden intersection reconstruction
- LaSalle/Delaware installation of rapid flashing beacons for pedestrian crosswalk
- Requested and funded in 2024
- My office continues to push the Chicago Department of Transportation for installation as soon as possible
- LaSalle/Burton installation of rapid flashing beacons for pedestrian crosswalk
- Requested and funded in 2024
- My office continues to push the Chicago Department of Transportation for installation as soon as possible
- Chestnut St complete lighting replacement from Mies van der Rohe to Lake Shore Drive
- Wells St replacement of lighting fixtures on existing poles from Division to North Ave
- Wabash Ave resurfacing from Huron to Superior
- State Pkwy resurfacing from Schiller to Burton
- Huron St resurfacing from St. Clair to Fairbanks
- McClurg Ct resurfacing from Ohio to Ontario
- State Pkwy resurfacing from Scott to Schiller
- Pending spot curb replacement on 1300 block
- Additional details will be shared by USPS letter with nearby residents
- Delaware Pl resurfacing from Clark to LaSalle
- Magnolia Ave resurfacing from Webster to Belden
- Blackhawk St resurfacing from Sedgwick to Larrabee
- Magnolia/Belden detached pedestrian bump outs
- Dickens Avenue resurfacing from Clifton to Racine
- Requested early in 2026 but on hold while fiber optics (Lumen) project is completed
- If still necessary after fiber optics restoration, will be done in 2027
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Weekend Ramp Closures at Ohio and Ontario Feeder Ramps: June 26
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will be performing pavement patching repairs that require full weekend closures, alternating between the Ohio St and Ontario St ramps. Closures are expected to begin at 10:00 pm on Friday and continue through 5:00 am on Monday.
The scheduled closure weekends are:
- June 26
- July 17
- July 24 (backup weekend)
IDOT will share additional details next week, including specifics on traffic impacts and detour routes. We will provide updates as they become available.
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Construction Activity Notice: Red Line Tracks Closed For Repair on Weekends Until Monday, June 22
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) continues its weekend track renewal of the Red Line subway through Monday, June 22. From 9:00 pm Friday through 5:00 am Monday of each weekend, Red Line trains will operate on elevated tracks between Fullerton and Cermak-Chinatown, stopping at Loop stations and bypassing the subway stations.
Normal service is expected on weekdays. Go to transitchicago.com for real-time updates during the weekend.
Click here for more information.
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Follow Me on Social Media to Receive Pertinent Updates
 While the weekly Email Newsletter is the best way to stay up-to-date with communications from my office, you may also get updates about grand openings, community alerts, and other news from my official office accounts on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X.
Please follow us at the handles below:
Instagram - @aldhopkins
Facebook - @aldermanhopkins
X - @aldhopkins
TikTok - @alderman2ndward
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Division St Farmers Market and GCNA
The 2nd Ward maintains a satellite office at the Division Street Farmers Market every Saturday from 8:00 am to 11:00 am, along with the Gold Coast Neighbors Association (GCNA). Stop by and say hello while shopping at the market.
Please note: The 2nd Ward will not be at the market this Saturday, June 20, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. In addition, the market will not be open on July 4th (Independence Day).
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Seasonal Tree Care Tips from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board
The Chicago Urban Forestry Advisory Board would like to remind tree owners about proper protocol for tree care in warmer months, sharing the following information:
Mulching Reminder: Show Your Trees Some Love: Mulch Like a Donut, Not a Volcano
Proper mulching is one of the simplest ways to care for a tree. Follow the 3-3-3 Rule: apply mulch 3 inches deep, in a 3-foot-wide circle, while keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. This creates a donut-shaped mulch ring that helps trees thrive.
A properly mulched tree benefits from improved moisture retention, moderated soil temperatures, reduced weed competition, and protection from damage caused by lawnmowers and string trimmers.
Avoid creating "mulch volcanoes" by piling mulch against the trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, encourage decay, promote circling roots, and create conditions favorable to pests and diseases.
Spending a few minutes flattening a mulch volcano into a donut-shaped ring can help prevent common tree health issues and support long-term growth.
Watering Reminder for Newly Planted Trees
Newly planted trees need regular watering to establish strong, healthy root systems and give them the best chance of long-term survival—especially during dry periods and drought conditions.
To support healthy growth and establishment, provide 10–15 gallons of water each week at the base of the tree—about 2–3 five-gallon buckets. Water slowly and deeply so the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the developing roots rather than running off the surface. During drought periods, watering can also help established trees stay healthy.
Consistent watering during the first few years after planting is one of the most important steps you can take to help your tree thrive.
Click here to learn more about the Chicago Urban Forestry Advisory Board.
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Misericordia Heart of Mercy at the SOAR Farmers Market Every Tuesday
 I am pleased to announce Misericordia as a new vendor at the SOAR market on Tuesdays in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E Chicago Ave) from 7:00 am - 1:00 pm. Misericordia has become a national model for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing services designed to meet each persons changing needs, and maximizing independence.
Stop by and support this incredible organization at the market.
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Making Mosaic Coasters at the Chicago Public Library: Tuesday, June 23
 The Near North Library, located at 310 W Division St, is hosting a crafting event where participants can make mosaic coasters. This event will take place on Tuesday, June 23, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, and is suitable for participants ages 10 to 19.
Registration is required. Click here for more information.
Near North has several exciting events planned for this summer. Click here to view their summer calendar.
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June Activities at Lake Shore and Seneca Parks
June is a busy month at Lake Shore Park and Seneca Park, featuring exciting programming from the Seneca Park and Lake Shore Park Advisory Councils. Check out their list of upcoming events below.
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RNRA I Love River North Happy Hour Event: June 16
Join the River North Residents Association on Tuesday, June 16, for their Happy Hour at Ila's Chicago, located 15 W Hubbard St, from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm.
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Dearborn Garden Walk: Sunday, July 19
 Tickets are now on sale for the 66th annual Dearborn Garden Walk, put on by the North Dearborn Association. Taking place on Sunday, July 19, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, this event showcases the beauty of an iconic stretch in Gold Coast and Near North.
Click here for more information.
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Sheffield Neighborhood Association Garden Walk: July 18-19
 I am proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 55th Annual Sheffield Garden Walk this July for the second year in a row. The event will take place on Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19. This incredible free community event will feature a self-guided walking tour of 50+ beautiful gardens, a Family Fest (on Saturday, July 18), live musical performances, interactive installations, architecture walks presented by the Chicago Architecture Center, live painters, and much more.
This time of year, Lincoln Park exemplifies Chicago's reputation as a "city in a garden." Celebrating the beauty, vitality, and biodiversity of this neighborhood is always a highlight of my summer. As you may know, I was recently able to strengthen our now-active Native Pollinator Garden Ordinance by increasing the maximum plant height to 36 inches in an effort to further support our parks, yards, other green spaces, and local ecosystems altogether (you can read more about that here). My hope is that these efforts to encourage and foster native gardens will ensure the health and beauty for years to come.
My staff and I will be greeting neighbors and visitors as they collect their program books ahead of the garden walk on Saturday and Sunday. Many of you stopped by last year to say hello and enjoy some complimentary popcorn, and I look forward to seeing you all again at this wonderful event.
Click here for more details.
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Discover the History and Architecture of Fourth Presbyterian Church
 Step inside one of Chicago's architectural treasures this summer. On July 19, August 9, and August 30, architectural enthusiast Ken Hazlett will lead a free guided tour of the church's historic sanctuary.
Learn about the sanctuary's remarkable design, history, and architectural features during a brief presentation and walking tour. Tours begin at approximately 11:15 a.m. Participants should gather at the rear of the sanctuary.
Fourth Presbyterian Church is located on the corner of Michigan Avenue and Delaware Street in the heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile. No registration is required.
Whether you're a neighborhood resident, architecture enthusiast, or first-time visitor, this is a unique opportunity to explore one of Chicago's most iconic sacred spaces.
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