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Dear Neighbors,
Can you believe we’re already more than halfway through February? The recent warmer temperatures may make winter feel like a distant memory, but we’re not putting away our snow shovels just yet—“Fake Spring” won’t fool us!
As temperatures swing from cold to warm, you may start noticing new potholes on your street. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles, melting snow, and heavy salting during the winter months can weaken pavement and cause it to crack and break apart. Water seeps into those cracks, freezes, expands, and creates the irregularly shaped holes we recognize as potholes. Check out the City Services section of this newsletter to learn more about why potholes form and how to get them repaired.
February also means Fat Tuesday, and our office marked the occasion with paczki! We’re also excited about St. Ferdinand’s Fish Fry, which starts tonight—be sure to visit the Community Events section for the menu and schedule.
Finally, a reminder that we’re hosting Family Lotería at Riis Park tomorrow, Saturday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to noon. There will be light refreshments, fun for all ages, and prizes. We hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Ruth Cruz Alderwoman, 30th Ward |
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| To read this newsletter in your preferred Language: Follow this link, click on the newsletter you’d like to read, and select your language from the drop-down menu in the top-right corner. You’ll be redirected to a Google Translate page, where a blue drop-down menu in the top-left corner lets you choose your preferred language. |
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UIC Latinos in Politics ClassWe visited a UIC class about Latinos in Politics where we talked to students about community organizing and responding to immigration enforcement in Chicago while also giving them a glimpse into the role of city government. Thank you to Professor Macias-Rojas for the invitation and to all the students for asking such thoughtful questions. |
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| Valentine’s Day at Central Nursing Home
It was a pleasure attending Central Nursing Home’s annual Valentine’s celebration. We’re grateful to be part of such a caring community that honors connection, joy, and the residents who make it so special |
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| | Senior Bingo at Disney 2
We had so much fun at Senior Bingo on Saturday and we hope you did too! Thank you to Disney II Magnet School for hosting us and to the office of States Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke for providing information for seniors about protecting against fraud.
Thank you to our small business sponsors - Backlot Coffee , Lola’s Diner , and Cozy Corner for providing gift cards for prizes.
Thank you to all our community partners who helped make the event so much fun: State Representative Lindsey LaPointe, State Rep. Will Guzzardi - 39th District, State Senator Graciela Guzman, Portage Park Chamber of Commerce, Zakat Foundation of America, Love Seal Notary, 17th District CPDt, and Francis Panvino with the 25th District Domestic Violence Committee. |
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| | | The 30th Ward is proud to be partnering on the following upcoming events:Loteria at Riis Park: Tomorrow, Saturday, February 21st - from 10am -Noon.Mobile DMV at Metro Family Services: This event (February 27th) is fully booked but keep an eye out for future DMV events in the Ward.March in Love: Join us for a teen resource fair at La Casa Norte, (3533 W North Ave) on Saturday, February 28th from 11am-1pm.Free Warm Meals: Stop by Metro Family Services from 3-5pm for a free hot meal on Wednesday, March 11 from 3-5pm. Conversation with the Commander: Join the 25th District and Alderwoman Cruz at Dunkin Dounuts (5959 W Diversey) on Thursday March 12th from 9:30-Noon to share concerns directly with CPD in a casual atmosphere.Food Giveaway: Save the date for our next food giveaway with State Rep Guzzardi, State Senator Guzman, and the Chopin Park Advisory Council at Chopin Park on March 27th. Stay tuned for additional details!The Give-n-Receive at Kilbourn Park: We are excited to invite you to a FREE thrifting boutique with clothes and accessories for all ages and genders at Kilbourn Park on Saturday, March 28th from Noon-3pm. The Give n Receive will also be accepting donations of gently used clothes and accessories, a great opportunity to get a head start on your spring cleaning while supporting an amazing community organization.Shred-a-Thon and Electronics Recycling: Join us at St. Viators for our annual shred-a-thon on April 25th. More details coming soon!
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Small Business Fundamentals Join the Crecer Business Incubator and the Northwest Side Community Development Corporation for their small business fundamentals courses. Contact Cesar 773-451-5233 with questions or for additional information.
 
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| | Immigration & Know Your Rights
Community leaders and elected officials are watching the developments in Minnesota closely as winter turns to spring. Recent actions by city leadership — including directives to document and investigate federal immigration activity — show that local government is preparing.
There are upcoming opportunities to hear from the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights about what comes next and steps you can take to protect your family and your community. |
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| Our office will continue to share reliable updates and connect residents with Know Your Rights resources. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know needs support. |
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Potholes
As winter gives way to warmer temperatures, many residents begin noticing more potholes across Chicago streets. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles, melting snow, and heavy salting during the winter months can weaken pavement and cause it to crack and break apart. Water seeps into those cracks, freezes, expands, and creates the irregularly shaped holes we recognize as potholes. These are usually shallow, with the base of the roadway still visible.
If you spot a pothole, you can submit a request through CHI 311 to ask the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) to make repairs. You can also call our office and we can help you submit the request. When you include your email or phone number, you’ll receive a tracking number so you can check the status of your request and receive updates. CDOT uses computerized mapping to track reports and deploy crews efficiently, allowing the City to repair hundreds of thousands of potholes each year.
It’s also important to know the difference between a pothole and a cave-in. Cave-ins—sometimes called sinkholes—often occur when underground utility infrastructure is damaged and are usually found near manholes or catch basins. They can range from a small dip to a deep hole requiring urgent attention. If a hole appears to be a potential cave-in, residents should submit a request for a Pavement Cave-In Inspection through 311. CDOT inspectors will assess the damage, determine the cause, and coordinate repairs with the appropriate agency or utility company. In some cases, underground repairs must be completed before the street surface can be fixed.
December through April is typically peak pothole season in Chicago, so CDOT schedules crews to work seven days a week during this period, including weekends and overnight shifts. In colder months, crews use high-performance cold-patch asphalt; during warmer seasons, they switch to hot-mix asphalt for longer-lasting repairs. While winter is the busiest time, crews work year-round to maintain city streets. |
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February City Council meeting Here are updates from this past Wednesday’s City Council meeting. Last week, Mayor Johnson vetoed an ordinance to ban most intoxicating hemp products in Chicago (with exceptions for certain beverages, topical solutions, and products for animals). I voted in favor of the ordinance in January, when it passed the Council by a vote of 32-16. At this month’s meeting, I voted to override the Mayor’s veto and pass the ordinance over his objection, but the override motion failed. These hemp projects are currently unregulated at any level of government, and in many cases, products have been marketed at children or in confusing ways that resemble other products (for example, Doritos or Jolly Ranchers). They are also contributing to the large number of smoke shops in many of our neighborhoods. Although I am sympathetic to the small businesses that make and sell intoxicating hemp products responsibly, the negative impacts of bad actors in this field makes it clear to me that regulation is needed. The Illinois General Assembly is expected to consider legislation in its spring session to regulate hemp products, but if the state does not act, expect to see new proposals for City regulations later this year. Another ordinance approved by the Council will allow each alderperson four honorary street designations per ward per year, up from two. (See more information below.) The City Council also approved two zoning map amendments in the 30th Ward at its February meeting: 3352 N Milwaukee Ave, from B3-1 Community Shopping District to C3-1 Commercial, Manufacturing, and Employment District, to allow for cabinetry assembling operations to take place at the property. 3538-3540 N Milwaukee Ave, from C1-1 Neighborhood Commercial District to B2-3 Neighborhood Mixed-Use District, to allow construction of a three-story, six-unit residential building with six parking spaces.
Finally, the City Council postponed consideration of two other matters to a future meeting: 1) an ordinance authorizing the Civilian Office of Police Accountability to investigate allegations of Chicago Police Department assisting federal immigration efforts in violation of the Welcoming City Ordinance and 2) naming a new Zoning Committee chair and vice-chairs. Survey: Rezoning along 3200 and 3300 blocks of Karlov The owners of several properties along Karlov Avenue near School and Melrose Streets have applied to change their current Planned Development zoning designation and reinstate standard zoning categories. All of the lots were previously part of the Kindred Hospital complex that was part of the neighborhood for many years. Lot 1, currently occupied by a three-story, three-unit apartment building, would be zoned RT-4. This would legalize the three units currently in the building. Lots 2, 3, and 4 would be zoned RM-4.5. At present, there are no plans to build anything on Lots 3 and 4, but a developer has proposed two 6-unit buildings with 12 parking spaces (1 per unit) for Lot 2. Click here for more information and to respond to the survey. 
Honorary Street Designations Each year, I am allowed to propose four honorary street designations in the 30th Ward to recognize historical figures or community leaders. Proposed honorees must be deceased and must have made a significant contribution to the community—anything from service to their local block club all the way up to national affairs. Their endeavors can be related to education, business, the arts, nonprofit organizations, science, athletics, or simply being an outstanding neighbor. For more information and to propose a person for this honor, please visit my website. |
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| | | Feedback Needed: Portage Park Bike Infrastructure
Chicago Department of Transportation is proposing a new network of bikeways in the Portage Park neighborhood. The majority of the proposed bikeways would be outside of the 30th Ward, but would connect to bikeways in the 30th Ward.
CDOT has provided an informational video that explains what is being proposed, the potential impact on the surrounding community, and the expected benefits. CDOT is requesting community feedback about the proposal.Watch the video, take a short survey, and RSVP for the March 5th community meeting at chicago.gov/portagepark.
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| Feedback Needed: Chicago Park District City Wide Participatory Budgeting
In 2026, the Chicago Park District (CPkD) is launching a Citywide Participatory Budget (PB) process to deepen community engagement, increase transparency in public spending, and strengthen resident trust in park planning and resource allocation.
Through this initiative, residents, park users, and community stakeholders will be invited to submit specific park improvement ideas for parks across the city. CPkD will evaluate the ideas for viability and then group the ideas submitted into broader project categories, for instance Public Safety or Environment, to track the general types of projects being requested by the community. Community members will then vote on which broader categories they would most like the Park District to prioritize for funding initiatives.
The winning category or categories will guide how CPkD allocates the PB capital funds. Projects submitted by individuals within the winning category will be evaluated for feasibility of the proposed scope and availability of budget to complete the project. As many feasible projects as possible will be implemented with the funding available. Following a PB model ensures that implemented park improvements reflect the collective priorities of Chicago’s communities. 
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| | | Changes to Vote By Mail
The United States Postal Service does not guarantee that your Vote by Mail return ballot envelopes will be postmarked on the same day you mail them. Any ballot postmarked after Election Day on March 17 cannot be accepted. USPS recommends voters to take additional precautions and mail their completed Vote By Mail Ballot at least one week (March 10) before Election Day.
Returning your ballot close to Election Day (March 17)? You have options! Drop your ballot off into any of 52 Secure Drop Boxes located at all Early Voting sites in Chicago – even on Election Day! Go to the post office counter and request a manual postmark Deliver your ballot directly to 69 W. Washington St. – either at the First-Floor lobby drop box or in the 6th Floor office
All qualified ballots properly postmarked by Election Day (March 17) and received up to 14 days after (March 31) will be processed and counted for the 2026 Primary Election. The Chicago Board of Elections will send you an email when it receives your ballot return envelope, and again when your ballot has been processed and counted.
Please Note: Precinct polling places on Election Day do not have drop boxes. Precinct election judges cannot accept Vote By Mail ballots, and VBM ballots returned at precinct polling places will not be processed. Voters instead can use any of 51 Vote Centers open on Election Day to return their Vote By Mail ballot, including the new downtown voting Supersite at 137 S. State St.
Don’t risk a late postmark on your ballot – take any of the steps above to make sure your vote counts!
For more information, go to: https://chicagoelections.gov/voting/vote-mail |
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| Food Resources The Greater Chicago Food Depository has an interactive map of locations where you can find food assistance: |
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| | The 30th Ward office has a supply of pantry essentials. If you or someone you know is in need we can provide a bag of groceries, no questions asked. Stop by our office anytime during regular business hours. |
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| Green Homes Chicago
Green Homes Chicago helps income-eligible homeowners make their homes more energy-efficient and comfortable.
Through this City of Chicago program, qualifying residents can receive free home upgrades like insulation, energy-efficient systems, and electrification improvements that lower utility bills, improve indoor air quality, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Eligible homeowners must live in their home, own a 1–4 unit property, and meet income guidelines. Applications open during limited enrollment periods. Registration for this program is now open and closes at 4:30pm on Friday February 27th. Applications can be submitted via 311 or at www.chicago.gov/greenhomes 
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| Resources for Veterans The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County will be at the 30th Ward office the third Thursday of each month. The VACCC is a county-based veterans service organization that assists honorably discharged veterans and their dependents who live in Cook County, Illinois. It focuses on both immediate emergency support and benefit navigation to help veterans access the resources they’ve earned. If you or someone you know needs help in the meantime, you can reach out to the VACCC directly at 312-433-6010.
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Resources For Students and Their Families |
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| CLFC Scholarships
Every student deserves a chance! The Chicago City Council Latino Caucus Foundation (CLCF) is providing $5,000 scholarships to students from across Chicago. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 10th, 2026 at 11:59pm. Apply today at https://www.ccclatinocaucus.org/about-scholarships |
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| LSC Elections
The 2026 Chicago Public Schools Local School Council (LSC) elections are coming up on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 — one day when parents, community members, staff, and students (where applicable) will elect representatives to serve on their school’s LSC. Local School Councils are important governing bodies at each CPS school that help shape decisions on school improvement plans, budgets, and the selection and evaluation of principals.
Who Can Vote? Parents and guardians of students enrolled at the school. Community members who live in the school’s attendance area or voting district. Students and school staff may also have opportunities to participate in student-specific or staff portions of the election, depending on the school.
How to Vote:
Voting takes place in person at your child’s school on March 18, 2026. Hours and specific procedures are set by each school — look for information from your school with details on where and when to cast your ballot.
Why Your Vote Matters:
LSCs give families and community members a real voice in the future of their schools. By voting, you help choose representatives who will guide key decisions — from academic plans to school leadership — that affect students’ daily experience and long-term success.
For more details on where and how to vote, check with your school or visit the CPS LSC Election page on CPS’s website. |
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| After School Matters Youth Leaders
The After School Matters Youth Leaders program empowers Chicago teens to build leadership skills while making a positive impact in their communities. Participants gain hands-on experience through service projects, civic engagement, and professional skill-building—while earning a stipend for their time. Youth Leaders develop confidence, teamwork, and real-world experience that helps prepare them for college, careers, and active citizenship. The program offers teens a meaningful opportunity to lead, learn, and give back beyond the classroom. 
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| Employment Resources
Are you seeking a career in construction? The Illinois Department of Commerce is offering a free per-apprenticeship construction program. Apply today!
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| Mental Health Resources
Experiencing a mental health crisis? Be prepared in case you or someone you know needs immediate support. LSSI’s Mobile Crisis Team offers free, confidential help 24/7 and can come to you anywhere on Chicago’s north and northwest sides. Call 833-610-5774 (press 1) to speak with a trained professional who can help guide next steps. 
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| | | Engaging with the Chicago Police Department There are a variety of ways to engage with the Chicago Police Department. Here are upcoming opportunities - including CAPS meetings, Conversations with a Commander, and District Council meetings. If you are unsure of the police district or beat that you live in you can look up that information here. |
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| | | Have you visited us at 5418-A W. Belmont Ave? Stop by and say hi! Here are our hours: Monday: 9am-7pm Tuesday: 9am-5pm Wednesday: 9am-4pm Thursday: 9am-5pm Friday: 9am-3pm Second Saturday each month: 9am-1pm |
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| Meet Alderwoman CruzJoin us Monday night from 5-7pm to meet Alderwoman Cruz. Share ideas, concerns, or feedback directly with the Alderwoman - no appointment needed! |
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| | Connect with your Northwest Side Elected Officials Need help finding out who your state elected officials are? You can look up that information here. |
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| | | For general questions, feel free to send us an email at our ward inbox or visit us at our website: Ward30@cityofchicago.org / https://www.30thward.org/ |
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