meetings, 2023 to 2027, pursuant to the Chicago city
council Rules of Order and procedure rule, 49, the
sergeant-at-arms sets forth, the following rules of convict
to be followed during the public comment period and the
duration of all committee and City Council, meetings,
profane vulgar, threatening abusive or disruptive language
is not permitted. Demeaning discriminatory or harassing
behavior and speech directed towards. Others is not
permitted disruptive behavior, including disruptive or
disrespectful, condo during others, presentations is not
permitted, banners flyers, or signage are not permitted
backpacks, large bags, and sharp objects are not permitted.
Clear bags, not tinted in color that do not exceed 12 by 12
by 6. In will be permitted in our subject to search all
food and beverages including in metal canisters.
Are not permitted cell phones. Must be placed on silent
prior to entering the meeting room. Individuals must remain
seated, public comment speakers are permitted to stand only
when providing public comment, small handheld devices may
be used only while seated and the user must refrain from
interfering with the view or hearing of other individuals,
individuals or groups failing to adhere to. These rules
will be asked to see such disruptive conduct and failure to
comply. Will result in there being subject to removal from
the meeting by the sergeant arms.
You know what? I just realized something.
City of Chicago city council rules of conduct for public
meetings, 2023 to 2027, pursuant to the Chicago city
council Rules of Order and procedure rule, 49, the
sergeant-at-arms sets forth, the following rules of convict
to be followed during
Good morning, members of the city, council the meeting will
begin shortly. Please remember to log in to your devices.
Thank you.
Speech directed, what happened?
Disruptive or disrespectful others. Presentations is not
permitted banners.
Signage are not permitted, backpacks, large bags, and sharp
objects are not permitted. Clear bags, not tinted in color
that do not exceed 12 by 12 by 6. In will be permitted in
our subject to search health food and beverages including
in metal canisters are not permitted cell phones. Must be
placed on silent prior to entering the meeting room.
Individuals must remain seated, public comments speakers,
are permitted to stand only when providing public comment,
small handheld devices may be used only while seated and
the user must refrain from interfering with the view or
hearing of other individuals, individuals or groups failing
to adhere to. These rules will be asked to see such
disruptive combat and failure to comply. Will result in
there being subject to removal from the meeting by the
sergeant-at-arms.
You know what? I just realized something.
City of Chicago city council rules of conduct for public
meetings, 2023 to 2027, pursuant to the Chicago city
council Rules of Order and procedure rule, 49. The
sergeant-at-arms sets forth, the following rules of convict
to be followed during the public comment period and the
duration of all committee and City Council. Meetings,
profane vulgar, threatening abusive or disruptive language
is not permitted demeaning discriminatory or harassing
behavior and speech directed towards. Others is not
permitted disruptive behavior including disruptive or
disrespectful condo tearing. Others presentations is not
permitted, banners flyers, or signage are not permitted
backpacks, large bags, and sharp objects are not permitted.
Clear bags, not tinted in color that do not exceed 12 by
12. By 6 inches will be permitted in our subject to search
health food and beverages including in metal canisters are
not permitted.
Cell phones must be placed on silent prior to entering the
meeting room. Individuals must remain seated, public
comment speakers are permitted to stand only when providing
public comment, small handheld devices may be used only
while seated and the user must refrain from interfering
with the view or hearing of other individuals, individuals
or groups failing to adhere to. These rules will be asked
to see such disruptive conduct and failure to comply. Will
result in there being subject to removal from the meeting
by the sergeant-at-arms.
Good morning.
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to today's city
council meeting. The meeting, will convene momentarily at
this time? Please take your seats and silence your
listening devices and please be curious of your neighbor.
Thank you.
Good morning, the council will come to order. Madam clerk,
please take a corn roll call.
City council. Oh, good morning city council. Uh, there are
some connectivity connectivity, Wi-Fi issues and Chambers
today. But DTI is actively working on resolving this issue.
And interest of time we're going old school today with our
roll call.
Boo.
Alder person, laspata.
Laspata votes. Yes.
Alder-person Hopkins. Hopkins is present all the person
Dao.
Dal is present.
All the person Robinson Robinson is present.
Alder-person Nancy.
Yancey is not present, Alder person Hall.
Hall is not present.
All the person Mitchell.
Mitchell is present.
All the person Harris.
Harris is present.
All the person Beal.
B is not present.
Alder-person Chico.
Chico is present.
Alder-person Lee.
Lee is present.
Alder person, Ramirez Ramirez is present.
All the person Quinn Quinn, is present Alder person.
Gutierrez Gutierrez is present.
Alder-person Lopez.
Lopez is present all the person Coleman.
Saw her Coleman is not present.
All the person more.
More is not present.
Alder person. Curtis
Curtis is present.
All the person, OSHA.
OSHA is not present, all the person Taylor
Oh, not present in Chambers Alder person Mosley.
Mosley is present.
alder-person Rodriguez, Rodriguez is present all the person
Tabares is not present. Alder person, Scott
Scott is present Alder person. See Joel Lopez.
Tito Lopez is present all the person Fuentes.
Fuentes is present.
Alder-person Bernett.
Bernett is present.
All the person Irvin.
Irvin is present.
Alder person talifero.
Talifero is present.
Alder person, Cruise.
Cruise is present all the person Cardona.
Cardona is present.
All the person wages pack wages pack is present.
All the person Rodriguez, Sanchez.
rodri Rodriguez, Sanchez is present all the person Conway
Conway is present all the person rare mayor's Rosa
Ramirez, Rosa not present alderman viegas.
Ba guest is present all the person Mets.
Mets is present, alderman pasado.
Pasado is here Alder. Alder person n.
N is present all the person Vasquez.
Vasquez is present all the person enpal Tano.
Apollo Tonneau is present.
Uh, Riley. All the person. Riley not present in Chambers
all the person. Can you send? Can you send is present all
the person Lawson Lawson is present.
All the person Gardener Gardener is present all the person
clay.
Clay is present all the person Martin Martin is present.
All the person Mana happened with
Mana happened with is present, all the person Haden
Haden is present all the person Silverstein.
Silverstein is present.
I did. Oh all. All all the women Coleman is present.
Alderman, David Moore.
Present Alderman, O'Shea.
O'Shea Is present. Anyone else I missed?
Okay, the Quorum is now closed.
Did you get?
Okay.
Very well, there are 43 members that are present. So we do
have a quorum
Because of our Wi-Fi, we will not proceed with our rule 59
at this point.
So, but we do have a quorum.
So let's rise for the Pledge of Allegiance, though.
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of
America.
And to the Republic for which it stands, 1 nation, under
God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Could
you please remain standing for our
Invocation, which will be delivered today by Dr. Mildred
Harris from God first church and Ministries.
Hallelujah.
I exhort therefore, the first of all.
Supplications prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks
be made for all men for kings. And for all that are in
Authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in
all godliness and honesty.
I exhorted all the elected officials that are here today
that you move in wisdom, knowledge and understanding today.
I exhort that you may be found blameless but working in the
vocations by which you have been called public officials
and Gatekeepers for hundreds and thousands and millions of
people in Chicago.
I exhort that. You be blessed in all of your endeavors,
blessed, shall there? Be when I come as Sin? And bless
shalt, thou be, when thou goest out and may Everything You
Touch be multiplied and increased with love
I exhort that as you speak for the people live, for the
people, direct the people and Servants of the people that
we will be found to be diligent. For he who is diligent in
his work, shall be found to be prosperous and blessed
exceeding. Abundantly above all that we ask or think
according to the power that works within us. I exalt that
you walk in the confidence and boldness and knowing that
you are called to be the weak makers and Builders of the
Human Society of which you represent. Now met the Creator,
protect you, keep you and guide you in the city of Chicago,
the nation of the world of which you are an integral part.
And I say peace.
Peace. Peace. Be Within These Walls. Peace, peace. Peace for
for Chicago. Peace. Peace. Peace for the world, hallelujah,
and amen. Thank you. Amen. Thank you. You may be seated.
Thank you very much for your patience. I would have asked
that we would
Have leave from this body to allow us to acknowledge um, our
former United States, Senator and ambassador.
Because of her schedule. Um again if I could have leave
from this body to allow us to make comments and to
acknowledge our former United States, Senator
History maker and Ambassador Madame Carol Moseley, Braun.
Thank you, you may be seated if there are any individuals
that wish to comment and speak at this time. Please do. So,
as the chair recognizes all men.
Thank you, Mr. President, uh into, uh,
Her Her Excellency and all that she has done uh for
Citizens. Not a not only of Chicago uh starting out her
journey in Illinois, House of Representatives or moving to
the county and then on to our federal uh government uh you
you are a piece of history that we can live with C touch
and still talk to 1 thing that you told me a long time ago,
she said that being here was about 75 80% of getting the
job done and you have always been there, no matter when you
were called, how you were called, you've always been there
on back.
Behalf of our community. And again, even though we bring you
here today, just to say thank you and just to honor you,
uh, this is not enough for all that you have done to help
help make the city of Chicago, the state of Illinois in our
country, the best place that it can be. So again, thank
you, thank you, thank you. And may God be with you.
Thank you very much. We will have time for Just 2 more
comments because the Ambassador has to leave. And so, the
chair recognizes the last 2 comments here, almond Moore and
alderwoman Haden.
Thank you so much, Mr. President, and I'll be, uh, really
brief, um, just graduated from college in 1990 and then,
um, return back home in 91, um, getting back involved with
push, I can't say get him back because I never left and our
mandate was to get out there and make sure you got elected
and that was something and a fight that I enjoyed so much,
um, working out there, and it was easy because we were easy
to to Galvanize the community, um, for you. Um, Senator but
1 thing, um, Reverend Evans. I remember saying, when you
came to fellowship and I had to laugh because he cracked me
up, uh, he said not only is she smart, but she easy on the
eyes as well. And um, so he complimented you so well and
at the church um to get out there and get out there for
you. But you stood up you fought for this um um state.
You brought resources back and we just want to say thank you
and that we appreciate you and forever. Love you for not
leaving Chicago, but always staying here to make sure you
add value, especially to our young people and that I
appreciate God. God bless you. Thank you Alderman, Moore.
The chair. Recognizes finally, all the woman had
Thank you, Mr. President, your Excellency, it is wonderful
to see you again. And um,
In this time period I more deeply. Appreciate your
commitment to Public Service, your lifelong public service
and Civil Service. We've been seeing weeks and day after
day where I know our our very government is under attack.
Right. We're losing employees. We are seeing the decimation
of the structures of government.
And you being here today with your continued service, your
continued, lifelong service is such an inspiration. I know
all of us in this body and so many people here, um, in in
the chambers. But also watching live, we're committed to
the city. We're committed to our state and we're committed
to this country. Um, it's going to take all of us to
continue to fight and to struggle. So I appreciate the
living example that you have for us. And a reminder that
black history is American history and that Chicago History
is American history. Thank you so much for your service for
the model that you set for us.
Um, we appreciate you.
Thank you. Thank you. Otto woman Haden.
As a part of our celebration, for Black History Month. Uh
this resolution that will be voted on later in the meeting
today. Um recognizing Chicago's very own The Honorable
kamosi Braun. As the first black person elected to, to a
county executive position. It's the first black woman to
serve in the United States Senate. Um, we honor you, but we
also honor you for your lifelong Relentless, advocacy for
justice for education, and for working people and families.
Your leadership is certainly positive, but has had has had
a lasting impact on the lives of Chicagoans but so many
people around the globe, you fought hard for funding, for
job opportunities for young people. You fought hard to make
sure that Progressive education bills will be put forth and
having better laws around gun control. Um, but you went on
to to be an ambassador for New Zealand, who will be here
this fall in the rematch between Ireland and New Zealand.
Um, so I'm not quite sure which team you'll be rooting for,
but I have an idea.
But thank you for laying the foundation for so many people.
You've paved the way for so many folks to experience their
best in leadership position. So once again on behalf of the
city of Chicago, we honor you being comparable.
Carol Moseley, Braun.
Thank you from this body to allow for leave. Now, we will
proceed with our um,
Order for public comments.
The council will now begin the public comment period, which
is limited to a maximum of 30 minutes. Each speaker is
limited to 3 minutes, speakers cannot yield or transfer
their time to another speaker. Any written comments that
have been submitted will be posted and made available for
all their medic review.
Our first Speaker this morning is JJ Betts.
Mayor, Johnson and esteemed members of the city council.
My name is JJ Betts, and I'm a board member of the Gompers
Park Athletic Association.
I come before you today not just as an advocate for our
youth, baseball, and softball programs. But as a voice for
the hundreds of children, who simply want a safe place to
play.
For the past 2 years, our young athletes kids ages 12 and
under have had to play under conditions that no child
should have to endure.
Our newly renovated, little Gompers Diamond at Keeler and
Foster Avenue.
Has become encircled by homeless tents with ongoing illicit
activity.
What should be a place of joy and teamwork has instead
become a place of fear and intimidation.
Parents have expressed deep concern over the aggressive
threats shouted at our players and the reality is simple.
Our kids
are afraid to play the game, they love on a field that
should be safe for them to enjoy.
The situation has escalated Beyond just intimidation, we
have witnessed indecent exposure to children when people
stripped naked in front of a baseball game. Drug drug
paraphernalia and needles found on diamonds. Debris human
feces weapons found hidden in trees and vehicles parked on
the grass overnight by the tents and this month alone. As I
think we're all aware. There have been 3 large-scale fires
in the tents encircling little Gompers field.
This is not just a matter of Park maintenance, it's a direct
safety threat to the children and families who play at
Gompers Park.
Mayor Johnson.
We have reached a Crossroads the GPA board recently made a
difficult but necessary decision. If these tents and the
associated illicit activity remain, come spring. We will be
forced to suspend all league play on this diamond. This
decision was not made lightly as it forces us to shift
games to other fields that are already struggling to meet
demand.
But it sends a message to our league families that their
children's safety comes first, the citizens of Chicago are
your constituents Mayor Johnson? But the families of Mayor
of Gompers Park are your constituents too.
The impact of this crisis is already being felt for years.
Our league enrollment has grown steadily a sign of a
thriving program.
But for the first time in years, we are now seeing lower
registrations because some families are afraid to play at
the field. If this continues to damage to our community's
baseball program and the park itself may be irreversible
without our players, coaches and field prep Crews on this
dime and every day illicit activity will surely increase.
Mayor Johnson, we are asking the city of Chicago and the
parks District to enforce existing Park ordinances today to
ensure Gompers Park is once again a safe place for our
children to play our kids deserve better. Thank you.
Thank you very much for your comments. Our next speaker
this morning is Nicole Foster.
Honorable Mayor Johnson and esteemed members of the Chicago
city council. The time for Action is now, Gompers Park has
been occupied for over 2 years by a tent encampment.
The residents of Mayfair. In Albany Park, have fought Tyler
Tire tirelessly for a Humane and effective resolution. And
at long last, the unhoused individuals, in Gompers Park,
are being given an opportunity for housing and vital
Services through an accelerated moving event.
once the unhoused, accept the housing and help being
offered to them via this AME, The Residents expect the same
Equitable enforcement of existing Park ordinances. Just
like you provided Mayor Johnson to both humbled and Touhy
Parks after their aims.
This is not about criminalizing homelessness.
It is Criminal to keep people intense inside parks without
any means to support basic human needs and 6 degree
weather.
Once suitable housing has been provided via an AME
residents want Public Safety to be restored to Gompers Park
so that it may be safe and accessible for everyone again
for over 2 years residents, have endured a public safety
crisis.
Just this month. Alone 3, very large fire fires occurred in
a single week, 3 violent dog attacks happened with an off
leash pit bull, grant that drug use prostitution, assaults
and threats against residents Parks, littered with used
drug needles alcohol, bottles garbage and human waste
environmental destruction, including damage to trees.
Bumpers Park Athletic Association warns that it may have to
suspend little league play on its newly renovated, baseball
diamond. If Kent remain or return and just this weekend,
wooden structures, we're starting to be built at
accomplished Park. Enough is enough, this is not
acceptable. Parks are not set up for housing individuals.
This is not a viable solution, compassion and must go hand
in hand. We cannot continue to surrender. Our parks to
dangerous activities in chaos while the parks district and
City fails to uphold the
Responsibilities May fear in Albany Park, will not accept a
double standard. We demand the same Equitable enforcement
of existing Park ordinances. Just like you provided to both
humbled and 2E Parks Mayor Johnson, no more delays.
the time to restore Gompers Park is now
Thank you very much for your comments.
Our next speaker is Gail Betts.
Honorable Mayor Johnson, and esteemed member of the city
council. My name is Gail bites. I am a resident of North
Mayfair in the 39th Ward from 48 years and a member of the
restore Gompers Park Coalition. I'm here to express my
concern, with the unhoused, encampment that has occupied
Gompers Park for over 2 years. There is an accelerated
movie event, scheduled to begin the first week. In March,
we are comforted to know that the unhoused will be offered
housing at Support Services. What we are not comforted by
is the lack of enforcement that should follow.
A representative from the restore conference Park. Coalition
has spoken at the last 4 Park District Board of
Commissioners meeting to shed light on the issues and
Compass Park and pleaded for them to enforce the ordinances
for the safety and pleasure of all Park patrons. The park
district chose to enforce. The rule with Banning toys left
in the Parks throughout these City because they put
children in danger yet. They give prostitution alcohol and
drug use open, fires and destruction of the park a pass.
Additionally, human feces, used toilet paper feminine.
Sanitary products, use Neil's. Alcohol bottles and cans are
found throughout the wetlands and park trees have been
destroyed. Fences have been broken removed and portion of
the fence has was melted by the recent fire. All these fix
fixes take time and money away from regular maintenance and
upkeep of the parts during several Little League games. The
players were heckled and Jered by people who have chosen to
pitch tents near the Outfield.
Children have witnessed nudity and erratic behavior from
members of the encampment. The conference Park is leather
Association sent a letter to their players that they will
suspend play on its newly. Renovated, baseball diamond. If
the tents remain or return, this is totally unacceptable.
Shoppers Park Day Camp, utilizes, this area for playtime and
to explore nature. There was a nature play space that was
awarded 50,000 through the automatic. Participatory budget
that the community voted for, it has been on hold for, over
2 years again, due to the encampments
for years, the 17th District Police Department hosted
hooked on fishing events for the Youth. In the community,
the Lagoon were, were fishing takes place is just a short
distance from the Pulaski encampment.
This well, attended family event was resurrected this past
year after a 2-year hiatus.
The F water feeder feature ahead that fees the Lagoon for
irrigation had to shut off this summer due to concerns of
contamination from the unhoused bathing using it as a
laboratory and washing clothes and dishes. This could
threaten the return of hooked on fishing. If the DNR does
not stock the Lagoon due to pollution, we are pleading
mayor.
For an accelerator moving event, followed by a Park
District enforcement enough is enough.
Thank you.
Thank you very much for your comments. Our next speaker
today is Melanie Hogan.
Hello, all I am Melanie Hogan founder of shy love. I'm here
on behalf of our Legacy black club and my block, my hood,
my city, my comment is in regarding to
R 2024 D. 0001243 expression of support for victims of
slavery.
There is a request in the resolution that we stand in
humanitarian solidarity.
With Africa, I am here to emphasize the importance of
character, development and accountability in this matter.
I would first like to acknowledge the sensitivity of this
subject.
And that there are a number of people who prefer that this
state. A thing of the past. We cannot refer to something as
the past when it is still current, not only in Africa, but
in in many forms, right here in the US,
The manner in which these forms of slaves, we have
prospered are in direct correlation to the character and
lack of accountability of the group's implementing it
supporting it or turning a blind eye.
A lot of those who cannot relate justify their lack of
support due to the argument. That a lot of us were already
here and not shipped over that, their ancestors are not
technically white and did not participate in the slave
trade or that we have other more important matters to tend
to
This is not a call to shame, but to bring awareness, not
only on the subject but self-awareness of the roles that we
we play and do not play. When Injustice arises, we cannot
claim to stand against Injustice and falter and action.
Deny, lie, or remain silent. We must face this
There should be a positive correlation between our words
and our actual actions.
Holding those accountable does not mean that we do not love
them. It means that we love us too and that there are
boundaries and systems of change that must occur in order
to continue this relationship.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Our next speaker is Lisa Stringer.
Good morning. I am Lisa Stringer. A member of the restore
Gompers Park Coalition. I have been speaking at the park
Board of Commissioners meeting since October. I am asking
that. Once the unhoused in the park are rehomed through the
upcoming. Am that the park ordinance is being forced. Like,
they have been at 2 and Humble Park following aims.
today, I'm going to read to you about a dog attack that
happened in Gompers Park earlier this month, the owner of
the dog that was attacked couldn't be here today to have
her voice heard
This is her story.
Almost 2 weeks ago on Sunday, February 9th, I was on a walk
and Gompers Park with my spouse. A friend, a senior dog,
Nala. And 3 week old baby, when we were attacked by an off
leash dog. I had read about this dog on neighborhood
community forums, as early as December 20th, when David
Bentley posted, the video of his similar attack on Pulaski
Avenue. And just the night before, I had seen a Community
member warn that this same dog had attacked at least 3
other dogs, last humans, all of whom filed police reports
to no avail
So when I saw a dog matching, the description near the
encampment, I tensed up.
Second later, the dog was sprinting toward us towards us
from about 100 feet away. My friend just had enough time to
put herself between the dog and our infant. But I couldn't
pick up my dog Nal and time to keep the off leash dog from
latching. On to her backside. It took my spouse plus 3 men
from the encampment several minutes to to pry. The
attacking dog off. Nala the whole time, I held Nala's face
and tried to keep her calm as she yelped in pain.
When the 4 men eventually managed to restrain the attacking
dog, I rushed Nala to the emergency vet where she received
extensive treatment for her wounds.
Her overnight stay and follow-up visits cost 4,469. So far,
though. Bottom line we are thankful. She is still with us.
I filed a report at the 17th District police station and
spoke to my Alderman. Samantha nugget at both the police
station and the emergency vet officers, and doctors knew of
this dog given previous attacks.
still it remains at the park and its owners either, not
present at the scene, according to the men who helped us or
not willing to identify themselves. Have taken no
responsibility as an Albany Park resident. I am deeply
saddened that I cannot go to my own neighborhood park out
of fear for my safety.
Moreover I am horrified at the thought that these attacks
will surely continue unless the city intervenes. What if
it's a child next time?
This is my message, Mr. Mayor, I know you have the power to
make sure these ordinances are enforced, the chaos and
gomper park. Cannot continue. Please enforce the
ordinances, thank you.
Thank you very much. Our next speaker this morning is Mrs.
Lawrence
hello all and um, as the selected mayor,
I'm gonna bring this scripture to you. This is starting
with James 31 because you are the son of a pastor, and I'm
quite sure. You should be well, aware of this that states.
Not many of you should become teachers because your
brothers since, you know, that you will be judged more
severely. So just so that you like that. While you're
getting up there on that little pool Podium whatever you
call it and want to claim out these all Races and Prejudice
and everything else that is going against you that, you
know, that we also are speaking as well. Next on my bullets
Indoctrination versus education. Let's go with that 1 and
social studies teacher.
Uh, dismantle the board of education is a problem for you,
but yet you all want to indoctrinate these kids, let's talk
about that next. Let's go to Raleigh North Carolina since
you're acknowledging politicians back. When there was a
Willis grave, 1898 that ran for the House of
Representative, then a couple of days, later, the Dem
My cracks had the audacity to burn down black newspaper
companies. Oh, that sounds like something good. Now, let's
go to the next 1 on your executive order 202316 where you
want to make fearful of the black people, that we going to
be deported, let's go to the 13th and the 14th Amendment
social studies teacher.
now, next let's go on to uh, the black massacre in 1917
when people had migrated from the south to, the 3 states up
here in North, why did they migrate Massacre of blacks?
You don't talk about that in your social studies, do you?
Well, I'mma scroll on down some more here because when you
go to Washington DC,
let's talk about. You don't represent your cargo.
We represent ourselves. So, stop getting up there talking
about how you represent us. You're not even a Chicago in,
you're from Elgen. So we don't need, you representing us,
we represent ourselves, just fine because I'm a natural
born citizen right here in Chicago. And I can represent it
better than you can.
So you need to stop with all this blah blah blah. And let me
tell you you don't have to do that for us because you're
not like us. Let's take a little Kendrick. Lamar throw it
up in here too.
Thank you very much for your comments.
Our next speaker is David Mason.
Our next speaker is W. Robert Schultz III.
Good morning. My name is W. Robert scha third. I reside in
Belmont Cragin.
Mayor, Johnson and members of the Chicago City Council on
behalf of, uh, I also represent active Transportation
Alliance forgot to say that on behalf of our thousands of
members and supporters across the city, active
Transportation Alliance respectfully as your support, in
our efforts, to eliminate serious injuries, and fatalities
on our roadways. This is a serious problem. In our city, C
dot recently, released annual crash report that shows in
2023. 136 people were killed and more than 2,000 seriously
injured in crashes in the city while people walking and
fight
Or specially vulnerable. It Is people driving or riding
inside cars that make up the majority of these preventable
deaths. Everyone is impacted. In addition to this human
tragedy, this Public Health crisis has a serious impact on
our economy and fiscal Health in 2022, crashes cost the
state of Illinois, an estimated 8 billion dollars,
according to the Illinois Department of Transportation with
Chicago and its residents being a significant portion of
these costs.
Today, 2 items are under consideration by this body that
have the potential to transform our city streets and to
create a safer environment for all our residents. Uh, that
is the ordinance to lower Chicago's default speed limit to
25 miles per hour and the proposed Bond funding for our
City's Capital Improvement program. Other cities, such as
New York, Boston and Seattle have lowered. Their default
speed, limit to 25 miles per hour and are enjoying improved
safety and enhanced quality of life. A lower speed limit is
just 1 tool in our tool box of safer streets, but this has
an outsized impact
With 70% of the crashes, associated with speeding, the
change in driver Behavior. Uh, can happen. It's happened in
other cities and it directly, um, leads to lives being
saved. Notably in many of these cities, this was achieved
without an increase of enforcement last month. The city
council adopted a resolution, to create a working group to
reform, the city's approach to traffic fines and fees. We
look forward to that work.
Taken together a lower speed limit and an investment in our
streets will help continue to make progress towards
eliminating, serious injuries and fatalities on our
roadway. We respectively as for your support on both
measures today. This is a critically important for the
young people in our community and the seniors like myself.
Thank you.
Thank you very much for your comments.
Our next speaker is, did you many Smith?
Our next speaker is Mel konar.
Cars.org.
My name is Mel konar. Uh I'm a homeowner in District 42 and
I'm also representing better streets Chicago. Uh Chicago
Streets, have become increasingly dangerous and speed is a
major factor with a recent C, dot study, showing 47% of
drivers exceed 40 miles per hour on city streets and 67% of
of traffic fatalities involve high speeds on when uh, today
today, you have the opportunity to vote. Yes, to lower the
speed limit, uh, to 25 miles per hour as the default speed
limit for Chicago, which is a proven strategy that other
major cities have taken to successfully slow drivers down
and save lives.
Studies show reducing speeds by just 5 miles per hour from
30 to 25 miles per hour. Can cut the risk of pedestrian
deaths in half during collisions with 81% of Chicago
streets. Located within a quarter, mile of a school or
Park. This change would protect our most. Vulnerable
residents other major cities have already proven. This
works. Seattle saw a 20% reduction in injury crashes, after
learning speeds while Toronto experienced a 28% decrease in
pedestrian. Crashes,
Recent data shows that nearly half of Chicago drivers are
driving over 40 miles per hour in major streets, far above
safe speeds, for urban environment. This dangerous speeding
isn't just an occasional problem. Unsafe speeds were
recorded on 98% of Chicago's major streets during the study
period.
uh, we already have proof this works in Chicago when seed
outputs the speed limit to 25 miles per hour on North
Broadway between Foster and Devon average speeds dropped by
11%. And there was a 28% reduction in drivers exceeding, 30
m per hour. These significant safety improvements were
achieved through simply changing the speed limit without
additional infrastructure changes, its relatively not too
expensive to just change the signage. That's not going to
take too much money and it also is important for an equity
consideration communities on Chicago's South and West sides
are currently just experiencing a disproportionate share of
highspeed traffic and resulting crashes Laurel. Speak lower
speed limits, would provide crucial protection for all Road
users in every neighborhood. Regardless of age ability or
how they get around making our entire city safer and
livable for everyone. I moved here from San Diego. So I
wouldn't have to have a
The car. So I need to be safe. Be able to cross the street.
Thank you.
Thank you very much for your comments. Our next speaker is
David Mason.
We got cameras going. All right. So since this is Black
History Month,
let's talk about how the Trump Administration stand on that
14th Amendment for a black descended slaves. Let's talk
about that.
Also, let's talk about my 6 world, all the middle over the
who walked in late for another more than just a disgrace
for the 6 W.
Oh yeah, his name is Alderman. William Hall, that's his
name, but we gonna make a famous on Friday. Don't worry
about it.
Today. Let's discuss an issue that his home for all of us,
inflation is more than just a buzzword, it's a reality that
affects how we live work and spend, and inflation is just
about raising prices. It's about our money losing value,
making it harder to stretch each dollar.
The government has limited ways to fund his activities
without directly raising taxes. And what is it? It can
either borrow money like how he did, what the 40 million
dollar amount of credit that he pulled out, or they can
print more of it, but both axes lead to more inflation when
the government borrows is when the girl when the government
Borrows more more money, my fault. It could piece with us
for loans, drove up, interest rates, when it prints money,
increases the money supply, without a correspondence
increase in goods and services leading to too much money,
Chasing too, feel goods and also, Brandon Johnson. Let's
about how you get on Twitter and you talk about how you
actually standing for the your constituents in Chicago, and
how you sit up there and you talk about how you actually
helping us. When you got citizens over here, she keep
telling you to solve her case. But what you do, you slam
the door in our faces? You don't actually help us and like
she always say, you ain't gonna play Kick, the Can with our
last. Now, we ain't going for that historically inflation
has spiked during times of War where production focuses on
weapons rather than consumer goods. Raising taxes, might
seem like a solution but we hit the ceiling of what people
can build.
Today.
We work 4 months of the year just to cover taxes compared
to just over 1 month before World War II.
So also, 1 last thing, inflation isn't happening because we
live our lives, as extravagantly, it's because the
government is living beyond, its means
When the policies that prioritize physical responsibility
and accountability, as time for a change, for the sake, of
our wallets and our future.
Thank you very much for your comments.
Our final speaker this morning is Juiceman Smith.
so, Jasmine represent
So, I am Jasmine Smith, um, activist with Chicago alliance
against racist and political repression. Um, we are here
today, we thought that the vote was going to be made the
past the settlement for the next 3 family. But we're being
told otherwise, but I just want to educate everybody in
this room before we get to this city council meeting. Like
it's a lot of people always here on this particular day.
there are decisions being made throughout the week. In
these small committees meetings, I was just in the finance
committee meeting to speak about, the Dexter read situation
and they put it on hold. I don't understand why it's on
hold. But it seemed like this body when it comes to
organizations. That's fighting for accountability. Police
accountability. Y'all like to turn the Blind Eye and y'all
try to block everything that we doing, as if we're the
enemies, we are the community that's being harmed by CPD.
My loved ones are still rotten in prison, 13 and a half
years 17 and a half years for crimes that they did not
commit. So if we get it right the first time, if y'all
order them is, will meet with us. We should not.
Have to be pulling trying to pull a needle out of a hay
stack to get a meeting with y'all when we're trying to get
to the Solutions in the root of the problem. If there's no
accountability with these police, the city and and and even
our young kids I have a grandson. He would never trust the
police. Y'all harming us, they're not being held
accountable when they do harm us. Y'all saying if the
ultimate paid is 1.25 million to this family, which this
young man should still be alive because they illegally
poured them over.
They illegally pulled them over lied about why they pulled
them over. That's the facts. Let's talk about the facts.
It's PTSD in these streets when it come to police, we don't
trust our already.
They need to start being held accountable when they
shooting and killing us and kidnapping us for things that
we didn't do.
If you putting the innocent people in prison, where is the
real criminals? They still roaming our streets. There's no
Public Safety.
There's no Public Safety and not just that the officers,
you got the states attorneys in the judges, there are
complicit as well.
They are incompetent, get them out of our out of our
systems. It's 19 all the Miss that's getting fop donations.
I can't, I don't got time to speak to y'all names today.
Stop selling us out and do what's right by us. My love was
should not be happening to fight and keep fighting in the
city, which all lawyers against cases that they have no
wins again. Then y'all worried about why the city is liable
for almost a billion dollars. We the taxpayers are paying
for this misconduct buy these cops charged them for their
crimes and take their pensions simple as 1 123.
I got friends that I caught. So I'm not saying that they
all are bad, but when they get in them them officers and
they take that off, they take an oath to the Code of
Silence so they become complicit to the corruption. Do,
what's right? We should not have to beg. Y'all got 2 years,
I'm knocking doors. You will not be revolted back in y'all
too comfortable.
Y'all too comfortable.
Y'all seats will be taken. Come 2 years if you don't do
rocks. Thank you very much for your comments.
Your honor. There are no further speakers who have timely
signed up for the public comment period, very well thank
you, Mr. Clerk this completes our public comments period.
There are 2 members that have requested to participate. In
today's meeting remotely for reasons, stated in rule 59,
Alder, Reilly
Alderman, Reilly in older woman tailor. Um, Madame clerk,
could you confirm that? Both of them have logged on
remotely Alderman. Alderwoman Taylor is here, Alderman.
Reilly present is here. Thank you. Madam clerk. Can I get a
motion to approve? The remote participation and have them
added to the role?
It's been moved all those in favor signify by saying I and
it posts saying nay in the opinion of the chair. Um the
eyes have it Madam clerk please mark, both of those Alders
participating remotely and make them present for the roll
call. Um this is the portion for Resolutions before we
attend to the resolution. We have 1 and in partnership with
the lgbtq caucus, Alder Rodriguez, Sanchez. Um, scheduled
to honor transgender day of remembrance for the month of
January.
But we could not make the scheduling work until today,
then all the Ramirez, Rosa and others have championed the
work to honor those who have lost their lives as a result
result of violence and discrimination against trans people.
I want to acknowledge the importance of combating trans
femicide in our city on January 15th, 2025 I filed an
executive order with the clerk that declares a trans
femicide. Emergency and establishes a working group on
trans femicide and protections for the transgender and
gender diverse Community. As such, we are happy to welcome
the guests to our here. Today for this month's meeting to
be honored and join in collaboration with Alder Ramirez
Rosa and others on this initiative Auto Alder Ramirez. Rosa
would like to say a few words to acknowledge these.
Esteemed guests, the chair recognizes ottoman Ramirez,
Rosa.
Thank you so much Mr. President
Trans people are sacred.
Trans people. She's pardon me for a second altar. Wrote
premieres, roses, please refrain from your Outburst,
please.
Thank you so much Mr. President
I'll say it again.
Trans people are sacred.
And trans people have existed since time in Memorial and
they will always exist. Regardless of who is in the white
house or what hateful policies, they are putting forth to
harm our trans siblings.
We should all be proud.
That here in the city of Chicago, our mayor has taken a
clear stand to say that we are going to prioritize
protections for Trans people.
And today in this body, when the committee on health and
human relations puts forward, its report, we will have an
opportunity as a council to join with our community. And
with our mayor hand, in hand to say that the city must take
action to support trans people.
See when the federal government fails our residents, the
city of Chicago stands up time and time again. And with the
establishment of the trans femicide working group here in
the city, we will not just be making a declaration of our
values, but we will be taking tangible action to make sure
that we are leading on policies to protect some of us most
vulnerable residents. So I want to take a moment to
recognize some of the leaders that are standing right here
to my left. Well I want them to stand. Would you all?
Please take a stand and please give them a big round of
applause.
We have silus Leslie.
so,
Mr. Mayor, could you please?
Let's please. Thank you very much. Thank you, please.
Please re. Thank you for all of you who are here to
express.
Your position. But I would ask that you all refrain from
your Outburst, please.
okay, if you continue to have these outbursts will have, do
you remove
I would ask that the sergeant-at-arms when you identify
those that are
Engaging in outbursts I would ask that you remove them as
soon as you see and hear and outburst.
Remove them, please.
Chair recognizes Alderman. Ramirez Rosen. Thank you so
much. Uh, Mr. Chair.
And so thank you to my colleagues. Thank you to the people
in the chamber for joining me in recognizing these leaders.
We have seles Leslie from the Chicago therapy Collective.
We have Raina Ortiz from task for Chicago. We have Sahara
Bassett from life is work and we have Shannon Lynn Parker
from Brave space Alliance. Please give them 1, big round of
applause once this morning.
These leaders are going to work with the city of Chicago,
to stand up, the trans femicide working group.
which is tasked with ensuring that black Trans women are
protected on the west side of Chicago, on the south side of
Chicago and that we as a city are the leading and
developing policies to protect all of our trans siblings.
So I want to thank you Mr. Mayor for signing this ordinance
and making it an executive order. I want to thank the
committee on health and human relations for advancing this
measure to the body today. And while we were not able to
recognize uh trans day of remembrance as a body uh at the
end of last year, I'm glad that we were able to take a few
moments today to recognize
These leaders for their work to recognize this important
issue and to send a clear message to president Trump and
everyone who wants to spread hate hate, has no home here in
the city of Chicago. Thank you.
Well, ottoman Mitchell.
Chair recognizes ottoman Mitchell.
Mr. President, I move for the temporary suspension of the
rules to allow for the meeting consideration of the next
resolution.
Very well by my apologies.
There's 1 more order that wishes to be recognized before we
actually move to suspend the rules ottoman Conway, which is
to commemorate heart health month. The chair recognizes
Alderman Conway. Thank you, Mr. Mr. President, I'm I'm I'm
proud to introduce this resolution, recognizing February is
American Heart month. Uh, it's really an opportunity to
raise awareness in the ongoing fight against heart disease
and stroke, uh, in partnership with the American Heart
Association. Um,
Uh, we conducted CPR classes, this week and I want to thank
a lot of you for showing up as well as many of your many of
your staffs as well. Uh learning this life-saving skill
increases the chance of someone survival 2 or 3 times if if
uh in the case of cardiac arrest. This is also something
that is that is near and dear to uh to my heart, I guess.
Uh, for those of you who don't know, I I was born with a,
uh, a bum ticker as well. I had a, I had a hole in my heart
among when I was born, uh, it was surgically repaired. When
I would when I was 18. Uh, my 3 year old daughter, birdie
was also born with with a heart defect. It was. Fortunately
hers has gone away.
Um but this condition originally prohibited me from joining
the joining the military uh which I'm happy to say. I was
eventually able to get a, get a waiver. And, uh, now the
military will tell you, I'm an outstanding physical shape,
shockingly. Um, so all I would say to all of you is, is
please please take care of your hearts and and I want to
thank you all, and thank you, Mr. Mayor, for letting me say
a few words and uh, appreciate all of your support for
heart health month. Thank you very much. Thank you, almond
Conway, almond Mitchell, just indulge us please and make
chair recognizes. Alder tabarez.
Recognized for quorum.
Very well. Thank you. Madam clerk the chair recognizes
almond Hall.
President. I would like to be at to court as well. Thank
you madam clerk. If you can add both to bars and halt to
The Forum roll call
Now Al Mitchell to indulge us to for the suspension of the
rules because I I I renew my motion to are no objections.
Did you make it already? I'm sorry. Yeah hearing no
objections. So ordered in the interest of respecting
people's time we will forgo reading the resolution. We will
will go straight to the remarks from the city council. The
first we will have a combined appreciation and we'll hear
remarks from the, for the first 2 resolutions and they are
a resolutions honoring National reparations awareness day
and honoring Black History Month.
Are there any chair recognizes the chair of the black
caucus order woman? Stephanie Coleman? Thank you, Mr.
committee now,
I want to thank, uh, our former colleague Rod Sawyer who
chaired the health and human Relations Committee Circa 2019
to 23, where
To lay the groundwork. Uh, as we have this conversation,
coming to the city of Chicago regarding reparations and
then this Administration that has uplifted reparations to
now, Restorations, it was once a time. Uh, we were not even
supported. We couldn't even get a meeting on this
subcommittee, yet alone, any participation from the former
CPO. But I am so grateful that we have a chief Equity
officer in Carla. I'm starting June 15th.
and now this initiative will be more than just a flag
raising ceremony at the beautiful Daley Plaza. But we will
now have a real, a real concrete data analysis, and study,
in the amount of $500,000 that we will be able to redress
housing, Economic Development, health, education,
Community, safety mass incarceration and over policing.
you all we have been inflected uh by centuries of Injustice
against our community and we are not ashamed of who we are,
where we have come from and I am so thankful for people
like ham, Howard V's voice, Lakisha DOC for being
intentional about making sure that we are redressing
restoring, those harms that have been put upon us as a
people, especially in this city of Chicago. With this city
has been built on our backs. There are no, greater talents.
There are no greater swag. There are no greater flavor than
the African-American community in the city of Chicago. So
thank you.
For the word.
I never had a chance to meet Dr. Uh, world. But certainly
his legacy continues to live through each and every 1 of
you, God bless you, the Chicago automatic Black Caucus. We
are ready to work. Thank you, Mr. President, thank you. Are
there any other Alders that wish to speak to these 2
resolutions? The chair recognizes Alder Haden.
Thank you, Mr. President
Hey everybody.
Happy Black History Month.
I um appreciate the work you've been doing and the work
that you're going to do. Um, so this is 1 of those moments
where uh for for the public for folks who don't know
everybody in this box, um, has been committed to the cause
for reparations for black Americans in Chicago and
nationally.
For quite some time.
I appreciate the work that you have been doing and I think
in this moment again I'll say you know we got to see Her
Excellency Carol Moseley Braun here this morning and again
this is a time for us to come together.
Right now, I know a lot of people are feeling overwhelmed
with the changes that we are facing in our city, right at
our country level.
And you know even folks folks who come to the audience. A
lot of times you guys speak about a lack of Justice.
Write a lack of Justice.
Um our our chairwoman of the caucus uh alderwoman Coleman.
I think spoke very eloquently in talking about the plight
the plight of black Americans in our city, and in this
country. And I know that people here in this body,
certainly, the residents of the 49th Ward, but also the
residents of the city of Chicago. Um,
You've got our support. We know that until we have Justice
until we have repair, right? Reparations is about repair.
It's not just about compensation of money. It's about
restoration, it's about reparations, it's about
acknowledgement of harm.
We've got to acknowledge that harm because we see what
happens when you see some of those attitudes here today.
Right? Some of these attitudes of people.
Who can't who feel like they need to boo and shout down
other people who feel like they need to put people down.
That's what happens when people aren't healed.
That's what happens when people aren't repaired. And, and
there's truth in that, the government of the city of
Chicago, the government of this country, we're responsible
for, for bringing that repair, for bringing that
restoration, so that we can be healed, so that we can be
whole so that we can move forward together as a people.
Black, Americans, black Chicagoans all Chicagoans being able
to move forward, and be healed. So I really appreciate the
work that you've been doing the heart, the soul, the energy
that you put into it, and I know what you're working
towards. So even if sometimes a lot of people don't
understand it, what you're doing isn't just for black
Chicagoans is for all Chicagoans, so that we can stand
together. So that we can protect all of our people, so that
we can lift up all of our people. So that people don't have
to feel like they're less than so that they don't have to
feel like they're not loved, they're not held sacred so
that they don't have what they need. And that's the work
that we're going to continue to do. So I look forward to
doing that with all of you. Thank you. Thank you. The chair
recognizes Alderman. Mike Rodriguez.
Uh, thank you, Mr. President, I wanted to stand and join uh
my colleagues particularly cheer, uh, the black caucus
chairwoman Coleman, um, and also uh, chair of the black
caucus Foundation. Alder, Irvin, uh, as chair of the
Chicago Latino caucus Foundation. I know how hard it is,
uh, and how much time treasure and talent that we put in to
help in raising funds, raising scholarship dollars for
individuals for our community. So, I just want to commend
my colleagues for their work on behalf of black youth and
investing in the next generation of leadership.
uh in our great City, your foundation is 1 that we respect
that we think and that we shall continue to invest in as a
city because you're doing very hard work. So thank you for
that, Sweat Equity and to the broader uh uh community of
black leadership that has really shown the way.
On how to fight for equity in decades and generations of
fighting, uh, leading the way. I know that my community and
the social uh the leaders of our social movements, uh
really have learned uh, from those who have fought against
a part tied in South in, South Africa, have fought here in
the city for the empowerment of the black community here in
the city of Chicago and across the country. You know, I
continue to live every day on the shoulders of, uh, great
black leaders. As we all do in the Latino Community, our
movements. So I just want to connect today as well. And
say, thank you for continuing that Legacy of leadership
that Legacy of struggle, and that Legacy of fight that
leads to a better uh Community uh, for the, for the, for
the African-American and black community here in the city
of Chicago, that yes, does benefit all Chicagoans. Thank
you for your Lucha. Thank you. Thank you.
Chair recognizes Alden Byron essay Lopez.
Thank you. Um,
Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you. Um, thank you to
Chicago for standing during very difficult times.
Um, I think it's hard to love what we don't know.
And many times we do not the history behind people.
When I came to this country at 17 years old, it was a
family, a black family, an African-American mother who
opened the door to me.
So I'm able to go to school and finish High School.
And be able to go to college.
There's so many stories like that and I tell you that,
today, I would like to celebrate Black History Month.
Remembering.
Those extraordinary leaders doing extraordinary things
every day regular people doing kind acts of love for their
neighbor.
1 of the first things that she did, and I would like to
publicly at this is the first time I have the opportunity
to publicly thank
my second mother Carmen Turner because she told me the
history of Black Liberation in this country,
And those were some of the first books as a black.
Mother, raising 4 children in this country, in the south.
I am grateful. She is, of course, a professor of black
studies.
But someone like raising a child and now having 3 on my own
today more than ever, I think is important that we know our
history so we don't repeat it.
there is a history of Black Liberation on the civil rights
movement that have shown us revolutionary Love in the Time
of Darkness,
Great leaders.
Like, Rosa Parks.
People who have used.
Disruption and protests in times of tyranny, and I tell you
that we need to remember that I am grateful for the city of
Chicago for upholding those values in times of Darkness.
I tell you that.
For.
Us for today. Leave in Terror.
Because tyrants are back.
I remember.
Those who have paid with their lives or ability to vote.
Or ability to have a voice and black liberation, and the
Civil Rights Movement was led by black leaders. And let me
just say some very prophetic words
by Malcolm X.
V careful with the media.
Because they will get you to hate those, trying to help us
and elevate.
those who are oppressing us all
so I'm thankful that we here in the city of Chicago, we
continue to fight so our children can learn history, the
true history when some people try to ban books
We continue to fight for our schools.
So the history teach us, and we look at the side mirror and
the back mirror, the rear mirror, what happened before us
before our time, so we don't repeat it again. So again, I'm
thankful for the seed of Chicago electing, the first black
mayor in the city.
Who gave us a lesson of Coalition building?
And a black community or black brother, sisters, and
siblings in the city of Chicago are struggling and they
need our leadership today more than ever. I'm grateful for
all the leaders in the box today, the block occurs, all the
residents, the city of Chicago, who continue to fight in.
Despite of all the challenges, I am grateful and I
celebrate in Black History Month. Committing myself to
fight for liberation.
For all. Thank you so much, Mr. President, thank you. The
chair recognizes all the woman Emma mitts.
Thank you, Mr. President
um,
I'm always happy to be able to talk about history because I
think that we are allowing our history.
To get away from us.
And when you don't know where you came from, you don't know
where you're going.
And as I look back and can remember not having, but
1 pair of shoes.
and went to school with the soul of my shoe flopping,
trying to just make it
I think about where I'm at now.
So you have to in order to get past the bag.
You gotta remember where you at and
I history, tell us.
That we were loving black, folks.
We had a lot of love.
Out of family of 16.
If nothing else.
We have some love in that house.
And that love lasts yet today.
We raise our kids. We help each other with the kids and if
1 needs a nephew out of line, somebody else gonna step in
That's what the parents taught us to do.
I look back at my history and I'm still wondering where my
48 acres in a mulet
as a young girl,
Having to go out.
in the fields when my father,
And cut down Acres of wood.
For the white man to come back and take it out. I'm looking
for my 40 acres in a moo.
I worked to the blisters, got in the corns in your hand. Oh
y'all don't know nothing about that. You don't nothing
about no coins in your hand.
You don't know nothing about pulling no cotton, you don't
know. Nothing about picking cotton.
Top and cut.
Whatever you had to do.
We did it because
We didn't know anything else to do. You know what we played
with?
Pop cans.
Take uh a clove rack put it in the cans and make you some
Walkers. Tom Walker to walk on that kind of fun. You take
your uh a rope off a when you hang your clothes out, that's
what you use to jump rope, you made things. So when you say
a Visionary, that's what I am. Because I can make
Something out of nothing.
Any day any time?
Because that's where I I'm vision and looking at things.
And I think that's what we need to look at today as black
people.
Not what everybody else got.
Is what you can do for yourself.
You know, how you make quiz when it rain? We was in the
house. Making quiz everybody get around and so
We had something to do.
Whether you go, I had to go milk a cow every morning before
I went to school. You all.
Now, you can imagine me standing here in the city council.
I'm telling you this history because you need to know.
You need to know where people came from and I'm not ashamed
of it.
I tell my C, his name was Bessie back your leg Bessie, and
let me get to that tittie because I want to get that milk.
And then we take the milk.
And you got to join the milk. And what the milk do make
butter?
And when you get the butter, now you got your butter and
you got your milk now, I can fix me some cornbread.
Milk and cornbread.
My sister yet today. I eat a mayonnaise sandwich. I'm like
golly, you know it.
It is that we long as you are able to feed yourself.
Is not how much you got is that that you have utilizing
those things?
People came up that way, but we haven't passed the history
on to our children. They have to have all that the nicer
things that the gym shoes, we never could get that paid 2
dollars for a pair of gym shoes and you was good to go.
We didn't go to the beauty shop. We didn't go to no nail
shop. You did that stuff yourself?
We saved money.
and if we teach these things these days, I think that black
says I'm forgetting our history know that we'll be a better
off race putting love back in the home, working with the
kids training them.
Sometime, you might need to. We go on trips.
Guess what? I like to go, y'all know I like to go right,
everybody know back home back to the South
Why? Because they are loving their, they the community and
no matter white black. They are way event. I went down
south recently.
I had a flat tire. It was a white man.
That came out.
With his truck.
Put air in my tire and then charge me a dimes. I have a
nice day.
Where is that at here?
Where is it at?
So it's not about a color, it's about you recognizing who
you are and making sure you pass that on.
The goodness kindness of your heart. That's what we should
be doing.
We don't have to worry about who I like or who we don't
like, love everybody.
And and my history will live on my kids. They know it, I
send themselves so they can learn the family history, our
family plot
Can you my mother and father are all buried in the
cemetery. In the South, we go down there, clean it up.
What they do here. Do they do they go out and visit? Are
you teaching them to remember your your, your history?
visiting your loved ones, keeping their memories in front
of you and always looking to them for that guidance because
they do there is a spirit, you know, that we can reach back
and grab uh,
So, I'm just thankful for where I am today. And for what I
leave for
Black folks, in general.
And how I treat black folks in general and that treat
everybody with love. That's all you can do.
That's the best thing. No matter what they do, you
responsible for yourself.
And I want to thank you all for allowing me to share.
A history with you. Just a small part of what I went
through with and it wasn't, uh, uh, an easy road to go
down. So I don't pay it away and I kept the faith, and I'm
still keeping the faith today because I know that they are
still brighter days ahead and we have to give more back
give back.
Not not just think you got it all.
I always say that because we down here as ottoman is just
the title. You all.
It's a title.
We make the title.
The title, don't make us.
And remembering to be respectful of everyone wherever we
at. So thank you all. God bless you.
Thank you.
Here, recognizes order laspada.
Thank you much, very much, Mr. President. I, I Rise.
in support of this resolution, what there's not much that I
can add
That hasn't already been said so much more eloquently by my
colleagues except to speak as Ottawa. Admits does that? The
best guide of the present is the past
And I was reading from a book recently that said the
segregationist school is the total reversal of all reforms
with reestablishment of naked oppression and if need be a
native form of fascism,
And those words were written in 1968 in a book called,
Where Do We Go From Here? And anyone who would want to know
the author of that book already does?
And it just confirms to me that where we are as shocking as
it is.
Is also not surprising.
That.
What we are seeing this counter Revolution always follows
after gains that have been made.
and it is up to us, particularly
Those who as Dr. King wrote their Consciousness Burns most
brightly until the most atrocious behaviors have been
curbed and then settle into their complacency.
And I think you can imagine who Dr. King is talking about
What does their solidarity look like, outside of moments of
Crisis? What do we all call to in Partnership and in
collaboration?
That is the question that will be on my heart. Now in the
coming months in the coming years and I will say this. Now,
because I think chairwoman Dallas already gonna have a long
enough committee report when we were in our hearing on
municipal depositories,
And when you look at the loans that are made in white
communities, and then Latino communities, and at least
there's a bar on those bar charts when you're looking at
household wealth.
And when the number is so low, in Black communities, it
does not show up on the chart.
We we do not get there simply through.
some notion of equality alone, we get through through Equity
direct Investments, the reparations work that former
Alderman Sawyer chairwoman Coleman are currently
championing, that is the path. That is the only path
towards the city that every resident deserves that is safe
and whole and thriving.
So I want to thank all of my colleagues for not only their
continued, work and their courage, but their accountability
to those of us who rest and reside in personal privilege,
and in communities of privilege. Thank you. Thank you. Are
there any other Alders that wish to speak to these
resolutions? A chair. Recognizes vice mayor, Alderman,
Walter Burnett.
Thank you very much. Uh, Mr. Chairman, I'll be remiss if I
did not. Um say something. Um how do I didn't have the
experience of growing up in Mississippi? Um, like my
colleague, my wife did, uh and I hear a lot of stories. Uh,
about when the schools changed over, she had to pick
cotton.
and and, uh, a myriad of things when they were struggling
out there and using the bathroom in our houses and all of
those things,
but I just want to say this, um,
I'm proud to be African-American.
A lot of our folks have gone through a lot of struggles.
We have a lot of scars.
from way back when
uh,
you know, getting taken to come over here.
um,
you know, some of those scars weren't just by
uh, 1 group of people, some of some of the tribal fights
got us over here.
Uh and and and added to those scars, unfortunately.
Uh, some of the tribal fights that we have right now in our
city.
Is killing a lot of people in our neighborhood.
Uh,
you know.
We need to work on these scars. That that we have because
some of it is psychological.
And some of it is, uh, trauma.
And and and a lot of times the trauma that we have caused a
lot of other things to happen in our community.
uh, and unfortunately, you know, we are still going through
trauma. When you talk about mass incarceration when you
talk about police brutality, when you talk about a myriad
of things that happen in this society, that that that's
happening that continues to happen to us. Uh, when you talk
about, we can't get loans to buy places to live. We get
discriminated against uh just by our name or how we look. A
lot of those things are still uh are going on.
But I want to commend all of the leaders who have stood up
and and fought for our freedom.
From day 1, I I commend our ancestors who have um, been
killed and passed away for trying to be free.
And we're talking about people who have been hung.
People who have been utilized.
People who have been raped.
Uh, people who have been taken away from their families,
any and all of the other things that any other group of
society have gone through, we have gone through
And and and we're continuing to unfortunate thing about it
is we continue to go through it.
Uh, a lot of things that we don't hear about.
But there's a lot of things that do happen to our folks,
just because they're African-American.
So black history for us is a celebration but also a painful
painful situation because we have gone through so much, but
celebrate the folks who have broken all of the, um, all of
the glass ceilings. So I want to thank all of the
Trailblazers in our society, curl mostly Brahman. And I,
you know, I hate, I didn't get the opportunity to speak
when she was here, but she was, she was a, uh,
you know, she broke the glass ceiling first
African-American, senator first, uh, Cook County recorded
Deeds, you know, I look back and I say, if there if it
wasn't for if it wasn't for curl Moseley, Braun first, it
wouldn't have been a Barack Obama.
If it went for a curl Moseley, Braun first, it wouldn't
have been a Jesse White as recorder Deeds. So, you know,
she, she led the way and opened up some doors for, uh,
folks to follow behind her. But we are a proud people
because we have a lot of people in spite of the scars, in
spite of the trauma that we have gone through, uh, we still
persevere.
We still continue to be successful to all of the people in
that Booth right there. I want to commend you all for uh
standing up and and continue to fight for reparations.
you know, we uh,
you know, I've been to several of the meetings when you all
started out over at Malcolm X and and all of those little
meetings and I was like, okay I'm going to go, you know,
uh, I don't think anything's going to happen with this but
we going to go
Well, thank God. It wasn't based on what I thought, right?
Because look at you all now.
So so I'll be remiss if I did not commend the mayor for
putting in this budget uh 5 million dollars uh for
reparations. Uh so we want to thank him but also be remiss.
If I did not commend, the mayor for allowing me to break a
glass ceiling. I'm the first African-American vice mayor in
the city of Chicago History.
uh, we have, uh,
The first African-American, female head of our Law
Department right here.
We have several um we had a first African-American female
over the finance committee.
Miss Pat, Dow.
We have several.
I don't know how many vice mayor but I think those are the
first African-American Vice Mayors in the city of Chicago
that this mayor has appointed.
Not vice mayor. As I'm sorry. Deputy mayor's Deputy Mayor.
Several Deputy Mayors and, and we have several of them. Uh,
and I just want to commend the mayor but but not being
ashamed.
2.
Help African-Americans to reach levels that they never been
before.
And all of us need to continue to help our folks because we
all got challenges, we all got scars.
We all have trauma.
But we all have opportunities to advance ourselves but also
also pull someone else up, so they can advance themselves.
I want to thank you all again for everything you doing with
reparations. I know, right now is a a million dollars but
who knows how much it's going to be in the future. But this
is a time right now where we have to come together more so
than ever before with what's going on in Washington DC
right now we we celebrating Black History Month. There's no
telling what those guys going to do down there, but here in
the city of Chicago, we going to continue to stay black.
Thank you very much.
Thank you to our vice mayor. And Alder, I do want to
acknowledge, um, the the individuals that are in the box
today again from the Conrad World Community reparations
commission, as well as the National Coalition blacks for
reparations in America.
Um, I'm grateful for all of you, miss vitrac Boyce, the
Kesha, leatham, Vanessa, Kimball Samayra Campbell Miranda
Alexandria brother brother. Daryl heard uh cam Howard Dr.
Jeffrey tasks. And of course we've uh alderwoman Coleman
acknowledged that the former Alder of the 6 W is here Rod
Sawyer but thank you all. I will try to keep my remarks
brief. I'm really grateful that there's so much recognition
in this moment of what it means to have a democracy,
particularly through the lens of Black Liberation. And so,
you know, I definitely stand in solidarity with this entire
body with our city, as we speak to, um, this incredible
month where we celebrate from the very founding of the
establishment of this beloved City, black, man, Jean.
Baptiste point to Sabo, who helped shape the achievements
in the contributions that many within our communities are
celebrating from now, we strive to continue to uplift our
residents, particularly our black,
Residents every single day. But during Black History Month,
it presents us with an opportunity to honor and celebrate
celebrate. Those that have come before us.
It also challenges us to continue to fight for equality,
civil rights and Justice time.
time again, we have witnessed the resilience of black
Americans as we work to overcome the barriers that have
stood in front of us, whether it's through slavery,
segregation, systemic racism, disparities mass
incarceration. Black people continue to love as alderwoman
mitts articulated support and uplift 1 another and we do it
because we understand that our existence really requires us
to fight for our rights.
And now more than ever, we must continue to come together
and fight back against those who are trying to divide Us by
removing things like Dei, which is really a dog whistle for
removing black people from political leadership.
But we have to continue to make sure that the
fear-mongering does not seep into our hearts that we
continue to root out that which is evil especially if it
causes fear. Our city is what it is today because of the
acceptance to diversity and the incredible challenge that
we continue to overcome that those who wish to divide us.
So we will continue to fight for what is right? We will
ensure in quality and inclusion for our black communities.
I'm proud that we stand. As black Chicagoans to celebrate
our history. Let us continue to honor and recognize those
in the past. And as we continue to fight for reparations,
our country has been through a lot but to acknowledge the
historic systemic injustices that have happened against
black people as 1 that, um,
Requires more. And so on National reparations, awareness
day, let's continue to educate the public of the importance
of reparations and how we can Inspire Collective action for
justice as we celebrate Black History Month, and awareness
of all that have come before us. Let's make sure that we do
not end our celebration without fighting for True economic
Justice.
20 years on this road.
To fight for reparations, I would be remiss if I did not
acknowledge that reparations cannot just be secured through
government. It was all the woman Dorothy Tillman who said
that we have to hold corporations accountable for how they
have been benefited from slavery.
And so now it's incumbent upon us to lead the way as
Chicagoans and black Chicagoans.
Because there's also, uh, an attempt to separate us from
the continent as well. And so whether we fight for black
reparations here in Chicago, we have to keep in mind that
there are still forces that wish to attack black folks, in
South Africa, black folks in the Congo, black coax black
folks along the coast.
of the continent and folks, even within the Middle East,
that still identify as black and those who are on Central
and South America, who identify as black black reparations
not just for us in this country. But let's make sure we
store Blackness across the globe. Thank you all very much.
uh, so with that, uh,
Thank you as they prepare to move. Let's um, can we go
ahead and just pass this 1? Um, so the chair recognizes
ottoman Mitchell. Can I get a motion for passes of both of
these resolutions? Mr. President, I move for passer both
resolution and Omnibus very well hearing no objection. So
ordered
So today we already acknowledge, uh, Ambassador The
Honorable Carol Moseley Braun want to thank her family for
being here today. Almond Mitchell, can I get a a motion to
pass her resolution as well?
This problem move for passes of that resolution Beyond this
hearing no objections. So ordered finally, our last
resolution is honoring Mr. Larry Huggins, who is joined by
Dr. Robin Ferguson his children Erica Latoya Maya, his
grandchildren Jaylen, Jace or yeah. Jace met him early, his
brother, Anthony his niece.
Actually nieces Alexia and Aaliyah? They're all here today.
Are there any Alders that wish to speak to this resolution?
And I just, I know all of you will recognize that there are
hats from Larry Huggins black history, Chicago. Um, if you
don't have room, we have room in a gift closet on the third
floor, if you wish to place it there.
All right. The chair recognizes chairwoman Harris.
Thank you, Mr. President, I wish to be associated with this
resolution today. Um, I want to give Larry some flowers.
For all the exceptional things that he's done and what an
exceptional leader, he has been come. Um, over the past
I've been around here that almost 18 years, but my whole
career, it's a city employee spans over 30 plus years. Um,
Larry Huggins has been around.
he's been a part of everything that we've done, uh,
Politically, and socially.
Uh and he has been committed to helping each and every 1 of
us, your generosity knows, no bounds.
As I began to grow in my career.
You have stretched out your hands and your arms, uh, to
embrace other folks. You started in Englewood with
Christmas and awards, you expanded it to Aid in 34. Then
you said, oh, add on a few more Alderman then you expanded
it to the entire black Pockets, then you expanded in
Citywide.
And it has become a real thrill to have Christmas 365,
which is Christmas Around the World Around the wards every
day of the year. I couldn't be more grateful for you doing
this um at Christmas, you truly make E. I know I feel like
Santa Claus going to be a little personal here. I feel like
Mrs. Claus, I ain't going to say I'm Santa Claus, but I
certainly feel like Mrs. Claus at Christmas time and
spreading, uh, joy and cheer to children in my ward who
need a hand up and not a hand out. And I want to say thank
you for always, trying to figure out how to make something
bigger and better.
And let's talk about the football class.
I've not missed the football class again.
since you started them, I think that they what you've done
is, you've also taken that and send it to the moon, you
expanded it to where our children have the opportunity to
to come and see HBCU to see that in work to see that in
Rhythm to have the opportunity to apply for scholarships.
Um, it really has become a real amazing feat that you've
done Larry and I can't just say, thank you. Um,
I'm happy that you're here today so that we can say that we
love you we care about you. How and and really how grateful
and thankful I am that God allowed you to be a part of my
life and how much I really appreciate you. I've been the
the little will you've been the big wheel so as the big
wheel in my life, I am grateful and thankful for you being
here to help and to be again to be. So generous to not just
me but to many many others across the city of Chicago. We
appreciate you. We thank you, and thanks for being here
today.
And I want to thank ottoman, Derek Taylor.
Oh Derek Curtis. I'm sorry. Yeah I'm sorry Alderman. You
know I want to thank all the and Derek Curtis because it
was his he called me and he said we ought to do this thing.
So I really want to say thank you to you Derek and give you
the credit for pushing this off. Today for us to say uh a
thank you to Larry and to give him to quote you his flowers
while he still around to see him. So thank you Autumn and
Derek Curtis for your leadership. Thank you. Thank you.
Chairwoman chair recognizes Alderman. David Moore.
Thank you, Mr. President this is a real easy 1. Sometimes
you got to get up in fake, the funk on some folks. Know I I
never do, but um this is this is a real easy 1. First, I
want to Echo everything, um, that chairman Harris has said
and and the sake of time, I'm not going to repeat all of
that. But I will um focus on the uh fact that she said um
um Christmas is an award um started in in um the Englewood
of aggression area. Actually in the 17th Ward office um
under Terry Peterson and it has been running strong since
then under your leadership, all of that she said because
the Bible talks about too much is given much is required
and um some people don't adhere to that um you have and you
have given back but what impressed me most about you
although yes I love the toy giveaway.
We love, um, the uh, football classic. But what people fail
to realize of how many young black men, you have helped
through your, um, construction industry. Um, not only
getting them started and work but helping them get started
with some of their own companies, man. And so, um, I
appreciate you for that because you've left our city better
off than it was. I think the right way, construction was
founded in what, 85, something like that? I think it was
85. Uh, somebody correct me if I'm wrong but I remember I
graduated in 84 then? Yeah. I think it was 85. And so, um,
my thing is, when you're able to bless people who can bless
their families and build some form of wealth and make our
community better, that's what we call a stronger Chicago
and that's what you've made Chicago, a stronger and a
better place to live my brother and for that I would never
ever, ever. Ever. Forget what you've done. Love you man,
thank you so much. Thank you all
And the chair recognizes almond Gil, viegas.
Thank you, Mr. President, I stand to be associated with
this resolution. I met Mr. Huggins
back in the day, when, when I was with the Department of
Transportation,
And there was a big project going on. And I remember Mr.
Huggins advocating to make sure that it was set aside and
the contracts are smaller in order to ensure that Community
was participating on these types of contracts and it was
that advocacy that led to a lot of African-American firms
performing, work with the Department of Transportation
building their capacity and in turn hiring subcontractors
that were also minority. So I appreciate the advocacy and
the Legacy that he's put forward around advocating for
small businesses understanding that Economic Development.
Workforce Development is a way to level the playing field
for our communities.
I also remember uh as a chairman of Latino caucus in my
first term him talking about expanding Christmas in Awards
into the Latino community and that was something that we
really appreciated uh because he had done such a great job
in providing all types of toys and I think he had so much
toys, he needed to figure a way to get rid of it. So he
said, let me get, let me get some other people involved
here, we appreciate that. And then lastly as the chairman
and my first term, remember him talking about extending the
the invite to the Latino Community to engage in the
football classic. And I had to remind Larry that football
and our community is a little bit different. Um,
nonetheless, it was an opportunity to experience, uh, the
HBCU classic uh experience, uh, the young men and women
were participating, not only in the football game but also
the bands that were battling against 1 another
What a great experience and I appreciate the fact that you
invited our community to participate in that. And so, your
legacy is something that is going to stand the test of
time. Uh, your advocacy for, uh, minority uh, disadvantaged
business companies is something that, uh, we're all proud
of so pleasure to have met you Mr. Huggins over 20 years
ago, continued, success, and looking forward to continue
working with you. Thank you Mr. Hoggins. Thank you. The
chair recognizes alderwoman. Nicole Lee.
Thank you, Mr. President
I too uh, rise in support of this resolution. I stand
proudly on behalf of the people of the 11th ward. Um, and I
think probably most of the people here on the city council,
um, to thank you Larry for your contributions, your your
lesions of contributions to this city. Um, 1 might even
call you a Titan of Chicago. I wrote down a few names when
I was thinking about you. Um, I I think easily 1 of our
favorite sons and, um,
Undoubtedly the biggest heart um with all that you've done,
not just in business um to help people in their careers and
to help leave your mark on this city across the city. Um,
but your generous Spirit, um, especially with Christmas in
Christmas in the wards, um, and uh, with the with the
classic as well. I, I have not known you for 20 years. I
for 20 years. I only met you, um, through Alderman Harris,
uh, when I first was appointed, um, and you welcome the
11th ward in to participate, um, in Christmas in the awards
and it was an incredible opportunity.
Um, because there is no shortage of need across this city,
and I appreciate that. You recognize that, um, and I thank
you for all that you've done, um, to support the people of
the city of Chicago myself and many of us here in this
room. So thank you to you and your family for all that you
do. Um, there's no doubt that there is a legacy that will
live on for Generations due to your work. Thank you.
Thank you, have to be confused with, Derek Taylor, the
chair recognizes ottoman. Derek Curtis
Thank you, Mr. President uh I 2 rise to say thank you. Um
thank you for just being you. Uh Larry you you've uh
You've been a great great uh inspiration to to not only to
me to to everyone uh, in the room, uh, young people. Uh,
You've just been so humbled. I I've I've only known you to
be a giver. You never asked anyone for anything. You always
jump up there and say I'll do it. I got this. Don't worry
about it and I really, really appreciate it. I I bugged the
chairman Harris.
Well, I don't know a few months now uh to get you right in
this box and and this is the fitting moment to give you
your flowers. I thank you so much. I think you get uh a
better kick out of out of uh, those kids. You know, you
think you're making them happy, I see the happiness on your
face when you able to do this. So, uh, again, thank you so
much for all that you do. I see it in your daughter's
already? They taking, right? Uh, you know, they live in,
your journey, you know, uh through you and um, hopefully
hopefully that come with your grandson there. Also, so,
thank you so much for who you are and what you've done for
the city of Chicago. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President,
thank you. Cheer, recognizes aldermen will halt.
Uh I stand to the rise and supporters resolution thanking
you for your consistency, the wisdom shared and the
opportunities to just learn from the things that you've
done and being able to share and not gatekeep has been
inspirational to me. And so I thank you and your history.
Your legacy is submitted in the hearts of so many young
people in this city. And so, I'm grateful to know you and
to serve alongside you. Thank you Mr. Huggett
Thank you. The chair recognizes chairwoman Dao.
Uh, thank you, Mr. President, I too rise to be associated
with this resolution Larry I've known you for over 20 years
and, um, I am so proud that today, we can celebrate you.
You are a real Bridge, bulk Builder. Someone who likes to
connect people, to other people to make things greater, in
the city of Chicago. And I think that's evidenced by the
consistency and the longevity of the Chicago football,
classic, and Chicago. In the wards, many people in my
community have benefited tremendously from the ability to
be able to be in that space. And so I thank you for that on
behalf of the residents of the ward.
Um, the other thing I want to say is on a personal note, is
that I thank you for connecting me to black men United.
When I was, um, a little unsure about some of the work that
they were doing in the war. Um it was you who actually
pulled me aside and talked to me about some of the things
that they were doing and to support that activity. And I'm
so glad that I did because uh, they've grown, I've grown
and my community is better because of their involvement,
and their involvement is because of you. Um, so I want to
thank you for that. Uh, the other thing I want to thank you
for is um,
Just exposing our young people to the opportunities, within
the HBCU, um, uh, sometimes, young people don't think about
that. They only think about what's in their Community. They
can't go outside of their community, and I think your
ability to expose young people and to provide opportunities
for them to see their
Life beyond their Community. Like you did is a great thing
and so I'm glad that we're able to celebrate you today. I
wish you continued success. And I'm going to claim you as
the resident of Third Ward.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman, Lamont Robinson.
Mr. Mayor. Thank you. I Rise to support this resolution.
Larry, thank you.
For.
Being Chicago's uncle.
Supporting us.
Through.
Making sure.
Folks at Christmas time have gifts.
but also as chairwoman, Dow mentioned, exposing our young
people to historically, black colleges
You know, that I'm an Alum of Clarks Landing University.
That changed my life.
Growing up in chadam.
Having the exposure to Clark Atlanta is the reason that I
was a member of the Illinois General Assembly that you
supported me on.
Being in this body as Alderman of the fourth war. That you
also supported me on it was again because of exposure. And
if we can continue to expose our young people to
historically black colleges and trades.
Larry, it will transform our communities. And I know, you
know, that because we've had several conversations on that,
And so again, I want to thank you for all that you do for
the city of Chicago. And let me step back and thank your
family, for allowing us the opportunity to have you 365
days a year. And so, I want to thank this body. I want to
thank the mayor for honoring you today, because it is
absolutely, well, deserved Chicago is a better City. A
better place because of you, because of the rains and
again, what you all have done for this city. So God bless
you. Thank you. And we love you.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman. Nick spazer.
Thank you. Mr. President uh, Mr. Larry Huggins. Um, I don't
know if I should call you. Larry or Mr. But I think Mr is
appropriate. So I just want to thank you for all you do. I
never really knew you uh until recently I know of you and I
met you this this past summer so I just want to thank you
for all you. Do I know the first time I worked participated
in uh Christmas and awards. I just know the, the the the
impact that made on a couple families on how much they
thanked us. Of course, I got credit for it, not you. But,
uh, we really appreciate all you do your, your, your, your
generosity is just unbelievable and, and that everything
off onto your daughter, you and your daughter also. So, she
deserves some credit too. So just want to thank you for all
you've done for everybody in the city. You're a, you're a,
you're an an amazing, unbelievable individual. So just
thank you. Thank you, thank you. Thank you Mr. President,
thank you. The chair recognizes vice mayor Alderman.
Bernett.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I also like to, uh,
be signed on to this resolution. Um, Larry, I just want to
commend you. Um, I'll go back a little further. Um, I
became Alderman in 95 and 96. You worked on the Democratic
Convention. I think in 94, you helped them build the United
Center if I'm not mistaken. Yes, you did. So, you built the
United Center, a lot of folks don't know that. Uh but it's
it's Unique to hear stories, you know, when I talk to you,
uh, you told me about how
how you went through a training many years ago as a painting
contract, I think that was with Taylor, was it with Taylor
or 1 of the uh construction companies used to do those
do those training things and from there you just been
growing so you started at the bottom. Uh and now you here,
right? So,
Thank God. But now you have become not only 1 of the larger
contractors. Um, you wanted to lead contractors over at the
at the Valley's Casino
um but also your developer uh you and you just partner as a
developer on the rehab of the Cook County Hospital building
which is now a hotel. Um so you've done a myriad of things,
you are black history Larry here in the city of Chicago. Uh
you come from Englewood. Uh you still identify with guys
that come from the neighborhood. You don't shun them, you
don't look down on them, you incorporate them and you
inspire them to be great. Uh, you tell them your story, uh,
I've had you to work with many, uh, small contractors that
you have worked with to help them to get Advanced and hire
people from the community and the things you do with
Christmas in the world. Um,
I think we need to change the name. It need to be Christmas
in the City in the suburbs because it is a band scene and
growing all over the city. And, and let me, let me say this
Larry, a lot of folks don't understand. It takes a special
person.
to be able to tap into Corporate America and poor their
their Heartstrings
To show they love to people in our community and you do
that. You do that in a myriad of ways. I just saw you on
the interview on channel 2, you almost made me cry talking
about your mother and everything, but it, but it was well
deserved, uh, and talking about your daughter's and how you
so proud of them being involved with you and, and, and
taking the, you know, taking on a mano, to be able to
continue on the work that you have started. And I, I think
your grandson may start getting involved pretty soon if he
keep hanging around around all of you guys, it just comes
natural, but I just want to say thank you for everything
you do for everyone in the city of Chicago. Um, you're, you
know, a lot of us uh, initially I gotta be honest, I was
like hating on you because I was like man you keep doing
this on the South Side man, when you come to the west side
and now you done took it further than passed the West Side
you on the North side, you're in the suburbs, I just want
to
Say God bless you. Larry thank you for everything you do for
the city of Chicago, you're a true role model for
African-American and African African-American young men and
women in the city of Chicago. God bless you and
congratulations. Thank you.
Chair recognizes. Alder. Maria Hatton.
Thank you, Mr. President, thank you Alderman Moore for the
theme music. I got intro music
I don't know. I might, I might request that every time I
stand up to speak. Now,
Um, thank you, Mr. President, I too rise to be associated
with this resolution. Uh, thanks for the Mad Hatter. So I'm
gonna get this together and it matches these fantastic
sashes that our chairwoman got. Um uh Larry. Thank you so
much for all you do. Um, I know that Christmas and the
awards was already on the path to growth and expansion. As
you're always thinking about how you can make this bigger
and better you and the family, that's what you do. Um, but
I do think that, uh, Matt Martin, and I might get a little
credit for the expansion to the Citywide. Um, we became,
uh, I sorry, sorry, vice mayor. You claim you claim the,
the northwest side piece. So I think Matt and I get the
first black altars on the North side uh claim there and and
then you're like, oh man. So uh thank you. It's been an
honor to participate in that event.
Um, and I just want to, um, add to what my colleagues have
said, as we celebrate Black History Month. And as we talk
about the significance of black Americans, in our city, and
our country, um, 1 of the things that stands out to me
about, um, the classic and about Christmas in the wards is
that there's such joyous events and the importance of joy
in our community and of black Joy, not just the black
people, but for everybody in the city. And that's what that
these events feel like to me, and I know to our
constituents who participate, right? Because you do this
and they're not just for black Chicagoans, right? Like the
generosity and, um, the experience that you guys have
provided and that your whole team puts together. Um, I know
sometimes the our staff and and your family and your team
have to do a lot of work. There's a lot of work that goes
into making these events happen. Um but it is worth it for
the experience that you are providing to the kids to their
families being
Being able to hand out gifts, being able to share food and
music and that experience with folks. Um, it is so
important. So it's not just the generosity of the financial
contributions of the mentorship that you provide, but also
that experience that you're providing, write these kids get
to leave our neighborhood, they get to go to McCormick
center, right? They get to go to amazing places and visit
other neighborhoods in their city, and they get to see and
experience and just have a day of fun and like that is
That is so valuable. It's such a valuable thing. So I
appreciate you, your whole family. Um, thank you for the
gift. Um, and I look forward to continuing to work with
you.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman. OSHA.
Thank you, Mr. President, I have 2 rise in support of this
resolution.
The story of Larry. Huggins goes back, many, many years of
product of the Chicago Public Schools,
You were a self-made, man.
And you for more than 50 years.
Have helped uplift others.
oftentimes,
Young people are impressed by Hollywood.
More professional athletes.
You are the type of people.
That are young people.
Could emulate.
What you do in bringing people together.
Making life for others to be better.
Uh, it's been such an honor to be a part of Christmas in
the wards and each and every year.
I hear back from the families.
And what Christmas was?
For their children.
Who have nothing?
But it's not just Christmas.
It's everything you do. It's helping others.
Get started.
whether it be an entrepreneurs or or starting a company,
you truly are.
Someone special.
And I just appreciate all that you do for our city.
and for the young people,
you just celebrated a big birthday.
But I don't think you're going to slow down.
Because you need to continue to show this next generation
and the generation after that. What it is.
To be a leader.
And your legacy will be told for generations to come.
Honor to call you a friend. God bless you and your family.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman, Brian Hopkins.
Uh, thank you, Mr. President, I too, uh,
is my colleague, elderen hadn't, it. I'll I'll down the,
Huggins hat in tribute to you and I rise in support of the
the resolution and join this outpouring of uh, tribute to
you, Larry to the man, you are, you are 1 of Chicago's true
Treasures. Um, your good friend of mine, we go back a ways.
Like, Alderman, Bernett mentioned to your first, uh,
involvement in in the Cook County Hospital project. Uh,
when you're, you're your company was, uh, instrumental in
uh, in construction back in the late 90s when you first got
started there. Um, and everything you've done since then.
Uh, his only, uh, proven what a person can do when they
attain that kind of success. And they know the right thing
to do to that calling is, is to give back your philanthropy
philanthropy, uh, your charitable Works. Your generosity,
uh, it's simply unsurpassed you lead from the heart.
And you lead by example. And that's the best way that
anyone can lead. Um, you're an inspiration to so many
people and you have brought such Joy, uh, to so many
families and it has been a privilege for me and and my team
to be a part of that every year with Christmas. In the
awards um it it renews uh our our sense of dedication to
to our city every time we see the success that that program
uh, has brought and and all of the beautiful things that
that come about it. So uh,
Larry, I just can't thank you enough. I, I value your
friendship, I value our relationship. Uh, and I give you
due tribute and I, I tip my Huggins hat to you, uh, and
your family, uh, and I wish you continued blessings and
continued success. Thank you, Mr. President, thank you. The
chair recognizes ottoman. Irvin
Thank you, Mr. President, uh, also stand to be associated
with this resolution, uh, Larry, uh, knowing you for a
number of years. Uh, all the words that have been stated,
uh, for the most part are true, uh, however, uh,
I am the reason that he brought Christmas to the wars uh on
the West Side uh as I went out to where we at Flay steel.
Uh somewhere out there saying we were out there trying to
figure out if she would tell the truth. Thank you ma'am.
But nonetheless, we appreciate everything that you've done.
Not only just in the community but across our city. Uh the
real Measure of a Man is what he does not for himself for
seeking gratitude, but for what he does for others, the
work that you've done with black students on the South and
West sides of Chicago. Getting them to see. You were almost
like the what was that a different world. When we came up
there sent more black kids to HBCU. I think you've done the
same thing in the city of Chicago, sending more black kids,
making those schools, more accessible, having them to come
to us and and come to the city of Chicago. So, again, the
education and this is something that we may not see the
Dividend from today. But we'll see a 2030 years from now.
When the next Larry Huggin sits in that box can come back
and say hey I made it because of the Investments that have
been put in by this community. So again the work that
you've done is to be commended and we all here as a
collective uh, vote of thanks. Can we keep these hats or we
gonna get okay? I just want to be sure. I don't know
problems but depends on how much their value that I'm gonna
rock. My is under fifty dollars. That's right. Okay. So we
we can keep these hats. Thank you mad. How to you from the
from the west side? Or are you, are you not? Okay, get you
there. Uh, but nonetheless, we're gonna thank you and honor
you and continue to work that you're doing and may God
continue to bless you. Thank you. The chair recognizes
Alderman Mosley.
Thank you Mr. President uh I Rise to be associated with
this resolution because what a Chicago example. What a
Chicago way. What is Chicago dream?
To work hard and to be honored.
by success from your hard work and then to take that same
work ethic to get back, it's truly humbling to have this
example here, in the city of Chicago. Uh, I think about,
uh, we're uplifting rap lyrics today. Kendrick Lamar said,
I don't want to be something that comes and goes.
And that has not been your work. And I hope that today,
Sean's light that we will remember your work going forward.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you the chair recognizes
Alderman. Talia farro.
Thank you Mr. President I too rise in support of this
resolution. Larry I think is very befitting um that we
honor you on today and that we honor you during Black
History Month. Um as we reflect on
Uh, those that have brought tremendous, tremendous, uh,
resources, um, tremendous. Uh,
Progresses, um, to our culture.
Uh, Larry I think when I, when I think of you all.
I think of the thousands and thousands and thousands of
families that you've brought.
Um, a lot of Happiness to when that you put smiles on their
faces, um, I think it's because you love people.
You have a genuine love for people in. That is really
reflected in the people that you surround yourself with.
Um, and the people that are growing as a result.
Um, of your love for people.
But I, I really want to say thank you for the residents, in
my ward in the 29th. Ward that I get to see often on the
bicycles, that came from Christmas and awards and came from
the Rands and Huggins,
um, to see their smiles and not even though that
You're the man behind it. Uh but to see the smiles that you
put on their face every single year touching 1 family after
another uh, without even a thought of quitting without even
the thought of passing the torch, or at least, I don't know
of a thought of passing the torch, but even if you do pass
it, you've surrounded yourself with some great. Um, great
folks that will carry on a a tradition that you've started
and putting happiness in families in the lives of families.
So thank you so much for all that you do um, in this great
City. And and I hope that after today. Uh, when we look at
Chicago on Wikipedia or anywhere else uh as 1 of its
notable residents, we'll see Larry Huggins, thank you so
much.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes all the woman
Coleman.
Thank you Mr. President uh it was a unanimous decision to
have the Chicago automatic Black Caucus recommend and honor
honor. Uh, Mr. Englewood himself. Uh, Mr. Huggins, there's
a picture of you and mayor, Daly, and Chuck Benn, and
Harrison my mother. And I is a little girl at about 4 or 5
years old in front of Moran Park, and the difference that
you made in 1991, I believe that summer.
And at the young age of 75 you all Mr. Huggins just
celebrated a birthday less than 10 days ago.
Um you have exemplified Englewood, Excellence Mr. Huggins
you not only give a hand out but it's for a hand up and I
want to impress upon everyone. We all get to enjoy
Christmas in the wards but even the the challenges of Dei,
uh, you have formed, uh, 3 Wards 360. And I want to impress
upon my colleague to get involved with Wards 360 and
Donovan and Corey and Sarah who was here earlier. We thank
you for that investment.
In Wars, 360 to make an impact upon everyone, but to Latoya
and Erica and Jasmine the future of RightWay Huggins right
there. Uh, we are grateful for your life. Uh, it's 1 thing
to say, thank you. But it's another thing to show you how
grateful we are on this platform and to give you your
flowers yet while you can still smell them.
Exemplifying Englewood Excellence. I hope we make you
proud. Thank you for just, thank you for being that hope
and that Guiding Light in our community and uh everything
that you've done in the city of Chicago. God bless you Mr.
Huggins.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman. Raymond Lopez.
Thank you, Mr. President in good afternoon members of the
city council.
I was upstairs.
Making a few edits.
An ordinance while listening to all of the accolades coming
down to our good friend.
And I couldn't concentrate because I was too busy smiling
while typing because everything that we were talking about
every memory, every step of the way that you and I have
taken over the last 10 years, has always brought us smile.
Even if I'm late. Answering your emails.
We know your impact Chicago will know and continue to know
the impact uh that you have done through all of your good
deeds.
but I think, what's important for me to add
not just as 1 of the Anglewood 5 but also as a Chicago in
is that words truly cannot express the Gratitude admiration
and love that. So many people have for someone who they
probably will never meet
the impact that reach isn't just something that we write
about isn't something that we just Inspire our families
with
It's something that is palpable, you can feel it in
communities like, angle it and even like the west side.
We know that your name will long Be Remembered in the
annals of history when it comes to the city of Chicago.
Even as we prepare to celebrate its birthday, yet again.
You know, we often think of what are those 5 Star moments?
And I dare say you are probably 1 of them with everything.
You've done to unite the city of Chicago,
To bring people together.
to not let neighborhood or
preconceived notions stop.
What is in you what God has given you?
so to you, my friend,
all the best.
You will remain inspiration and I am still glad that you
took a chance on me 9 and a half years ago. Um but I'm I
can't wait to see what the the next decades have to bring
uh moving forward with everyone that's in your Universe.
Everyone that will follow
And whatever theme song, my colleagues pull for me next
time.
Um,
only from the angular fee.
Yes, thank you for that correction.
Um, but we love you, we appreciate you. And we know that
all of Chicago stands with us even in this moment to
humbly, say, thank you.
Thank you. Thank you. Our final speaker, unless anyone else
wishes to speak will be alderwoman, Emma mitts. The chair,
recognizes all the woman in mitts. Thank you. Um,
Mr. Chairman Larry
My first day in office.
I you was doing a project in my ward.
No, often cisro.
um,
Under construction.
part of it, I wanted to say that uh,
The work that you've done and still doing.
has just been, uh,
Exciting and even with, uh, you working with the young
man's black man's United now.
I see you, too.
Them from uh say your your road have been always been easy,
which is why I'm very proud of you. I've seen um, times
where you was under the gun with
Haters. People that didn't like,
because you was, uh,
trying to do better with your life and, um, fact, they
would uh, come out and protest and
Call all kind of names but you still have that test and you
just kept on moving with your vision of doing what was in
your heart to do. So when you tell your story of all the
things that you've done and all my colleagues have a
particularly them very well.
it, it just makes I can see why you wanted to cry and so
I'm so proud of
The Legacy that you've left and this is not for anyone
else, but your family to be able to feel and see that
you're doing something with your life that are very
meaningful and it's just not about you. You are carrying
others along with you and some of the same folks who are
doing The Hating now, respect you, and you've been able to
help them. So that's what that's what you do when you uh,
committed to doing the right thing. So thank you so much uh
Uh not only for myself, but on behalf of the 37 War, we
appreciate all the work that you've done and all that work
that you're doing and that that you are going to continue
to do so thank you and your family. God bless you, thank
you alderwoman mitts and again to
All the individuals who are in the Box, the family. Um, I
fail to recognize Tim the fever, of course, everybody knows
knows Corey Foster with ComEd is here Tom, Ricketts was
here earlier with the Cubs. Um, from Walgreens our favorite
Donovan. Pepper. Sarah glavine Amazon. And of course, Mark
ran. Thank you all for being here. Um, today to to
celebrate and recognize Larry Huggins. As we continue to
celebrate Black History, we are proud to present this
resolution. The Chicago's very own englewoods very own Mr.
Larry Huggins. Larry, of course, you know, everyone knows
is a part of a a very deep profound history. Incredible
story, uh, with some amazing accomplishments. As a business
person, the founder of RightWay Huggins construction
founding member of black contractors United has been just
an incredible philanthropic leader as well. Um, as
Alderman, Bernett expressed played in an integral part in
many of the landmark projects, including the O'Hare.
International Airport expansion, the McCormick Place
expansion.
And leading as a construction manager for the Democratic
National Convention. Um, growing up in the Englewood, you
certainly grown up with a level of toughness, but, um, you
were, um, raised with the, the, the spirit that we embody
as entrepreneurs, uh, to provide leadership in Industry,
um, but thank you for preserving, um, all of that hard work
that you were raised under. And so, again, your service
goes, well beyond the city of Chicago, the work that you
have done to expose our young people to, um,
To historically, black colleges and universities. We are
incredibly grateful for you today, of course, the
Christmas, and the awards. It's just 1 of the best events,
I believe, in the country, and to your grandson. Keep as
much hair on top of your head as possible. Sir, I just
don't don't, don't be afraid. You have a lot of time, so
just let those Locs grow out. Um, but in the words of
Booker T Washington, who said, the difference between a
white boy and a black boy, is that a white boy knows his
legacy? And a black boy doesn't, but that's not the case
with a Huggins family. So he here to your legacy and to
Generations to come. Thank you sir.
Ottoman Mitchell. Can I get a motion to the past this
resolution? Mr. President, I move passage in the omnibus
hearing no objections, or
Congratulations again.
Hang in there.
Ottoman Mitchell on a motion to return to the regular order
of business, Mr. President, I, I move that we return to the
regular order of business hearing no objection. So ordered,
Next up communications.
As the chair recognizes Alderman. Anthony Bill, Mr.
President, before we get to uh Communications, I was just
wondering
Thank you. I was just wondering if, uh, through the chair
if we can figure out. Uh, when's the next time we're going
to have a rules committee meeting before the next city
council meeting date, certain.
I don't know if that's been determined just yet. Um,
Alderman. Bill
Okay. Okay. Thank you.
So next up again, communication thank you madam Clerk.
Communications from Miss out of the mayor to The Honorable
the city council the city of Chicago.
Ladies and gentlemen, the request of the commissioner of
Planning and Development. I transmit here with an
ordinance. Amending chapter, 2-45 of the municipal code
regarding economic disclosure statement requirements for a
right of Entry agreements.
Your Vashon of this ordinance to be appreciated. Very true
to the years. Brandon Johnson mayor bird the committee on
housing and real estate.
After 2 committees have been called please. Yeah, I heard
budget, right?
After 2 committees being called, it will go to rules.
Ladies and gentlemen, at the request of the Chief Financial
Officer or Transit here with an ordinance authorizing. The
issuance of Chicago Hair International Airport, special
facilities and revenue bond series 2025. Your favorable
consideration. This ordinance will be appreciated, very
true to the Earth. Brandon Johnson mayor for the committee
on finance
After 2 committees have been called, it will go to rules.
Ladies and gentlemen, at the request of Commissioner of
housing, I transmit here with an ordinance authorizing.
Issuance financial assistance for the jigga zip, pick
affordable housing development project. If you look at
station, this ordinance will be appreciated. Very 2 years.
Brandon Johnson mayor for referred to the committee on
finance.
After 2 committees have been called, it will go to rules.
Ladies and gentlemen, request the commissioner of Planning
and Development. I transmit here with an ordinance
authorizing. The execution of a neighborhood opportunity
fund, Redevelopment agreement with Cup O, Joe coffee, LLC
favorable consideration this morning to be appreciated.
Very truly yours. Brandon Johnson, mayor for the committee
on budget and government operations.
Ladies and gentlemen, of the request of budget director, I
trans here with a fund, 925 Amendment your payload
consideration. This ordinance, we appreciate very 2 years.
Brandon Johnson mayor for to give me a budget and
government operations.
Ladies and gentlemen, at the request of the commissioner of
Planning and Development, I trans here with our ordinances
authorizing, favorable property, tax, incentive. De
classifications, for specified properties located, within
the city, your Facebook consideration, these ordinances
will be appreciated. Very truly yours. Brandon Johnson,
mayor. We've heard the community and economic capital and
Technology development.
Ladies and gentlemen, the request of Commissioner of
housing. I transmit here with an ordinance authorizing. The
establishment of a non-for-profit Corporation, your
Facebook conservation, this ordinance would be appreciated,
very truly yours, Brandon Johnson mayor referred to the
committee on housing and real estate
Um after 2 committees have been called that will go to
rules. Ladies and gentlemen, the request of commissioner
Planning and Development. I transmit here with ordinances
authorizing the sale of specified city-owned properties
your payable consideration, these ordinances will be
appreciated very till yours. Brandon Johnson. May I refer
the committee on housing and real estate
Ladies and gentlemen, at the request of the commissioner of
Planning and Development, I transmit here with an ordinance
authorizing, the execution of an adopt, a landmark
agreement with First Baptist Congressional Church of
Chicago. If able consideration of this ordinance would be
appreciated, very truly yours. Brandon Johnson mayor for
the committee on zoning landmarks and building standards.
Ladies and gentlemen, here with an ordinance authorizing,
the execution of adopt, a landmark agreement with greater
Union, Baptist Church, your Facebook conservation. This
ordinance will be appreciated very till the year is Brandon
Johnson, mayor for the command zoning, landmarks, and
building standards. Ladies and gentlemen, I transmit here
with an ordinance, authorizing, the execution, renewed
lease agreement with Sit, Stay read Inc for the use of city
property located, 2861 North Clark Street. Your faithful
consideration that's orense will be appreciated. Very 2
years. Brandon Johnson mayor for the community on housing
and real estate.
Ladies and gentlemen, the request of commissioner Fleet and
facility management. A transplant here with an ordinance.
Authorizing execution of city as tenant. Renewed, lease
agreement with stick Chicago. LC for the property located
at 6348. South Archer Avenue. Your family consideration is
an ordinance ordinance. We appreciate it very 2 years.
Brandon Johnson mayor for the committee on housing and real
estate.
Ladies and gentlemen, I have appointed coffee Morgan,
Patterson as a member of the Board of Trustees of Community
College District number 508 for a term effective. Meeting
expiring June 30th 2027 to succeed. Peggy, a Davis whose
term is expired. If you would consider this appointment
will be truly appreciated, very truly yours, Brandon
Johnson. May I refer the committee of on education and
trial development.
I city clerk annab, Valencia here by informed the city
council that the following documents were filed in my
office relating to the respective subjects, as onate as
follows automatic designation of century building.
at 202, South State Street in Chicago Landmark, automatic
designation, consumers, building at 222, South Street,
State Street as Chicago Landmark City Treasurer and Report
regarding overall income on total Holdings, across all
funds held by Charter's office for year.
2024 off office of Inspector General's, follow-up
evaluation of use of affidavit overrides and disciplinary
investigation of Chicago, police department. Members office
of Inspector General's, advisory concerning non-compliant
separation of water mains and sewers comprehensive annual
Financial, audit report. The City College of Chicago for
fiscal year. Ended June 30th 2024
Hi city clerk, Valencia, also, informed the city council,
that all those matters were considered by the city council
at the regular meeting held on January 15th, 2025 and were
required by Statute to be published in book or pamphlet
form or in 1 or more newspapers were published in pamphlet
form on February 19th, 2025 by being printed in full text
and printed pamphlet copies of the journal. Proceedings of
proceedings of the city. Council City of Chicago, I city
clerk. Valencia also transmit here with the following
miscellaneous Communications and reports. Requiring city
council action, zoning, and classifications are particular,
areas referred to committee on zoning landmarks building,
standards claims against the city of Chicago. Which
referred to the committee on finance amendment of Municipal
Code title, 17 removed, designation of segments of North
Cicero Avenue, as a pedestrian street, which referred to
the committee on zoning, landmarks, and building standards
recommendation by Commission on Chicago, landmarks for
designation of 79 West, Monroe Street at Chicago, Landmark,
which is referred to the committee on zoning landmarks and
building standards. Your honor that concludes the reports
and Communications for the mayor and other City officials.
Well, thank you madam clerk for committee reports. We will
begin with the finance committee. The chair recognizes our
finance chairperson Dao.
Okay.
all right, we will move on to our
Okay.
Very well. The chair recognizes chairwoman Dow.
Sorry, Mr. President
Special month. Special activity, Euro just fine. All right.
Thank you. Uh, Mr. President, the members of the city
council reporting for the city council's committee on
finance which held a committee meeting on February, 7th,
2025 and February 10th. 2025 the following items, received
a due pass recommendation from the committee.
Item. Number 1 is an ordinance authorizing. A tiff read
development agreement with Oak. Laravel LLC for mixed
income housing development located at 9555 North, Larrabee
Street in the 27th Ward Mr. President unless there's
someone who wishes to speak on this matter. I moved passage
of this item by a roll call vote.
3. No hands. I'm sorry. Hearing no objections. See, you
know, ends Madam clerk. Um, please make the evote, if that
is available for us now. Nope. Okay. So we're doing an old
school style, um, each and every single member prepared to,
um, offer up your vote at this time, Madam Clerk,
No, they're still working on it. Okay, the Wi-Fi is still
down. Okay.
Alder uh, alderman laspata.
Laspata is a yes.
Alderman. Hopkins. Hopkins is a yes.
Alderwoman Dao.
Dao is a, yes.
Alderman Robinson.
Robinson is a, yes.
Alderman. Yanni
Is a yes, Alderman Hall.
Hall is a yes.
Alderman Mitchell.
Mitchell is a yes alderwoman Harris.
Harris is a yes.
Almond Beal.
Is a yes Alderman Chico.
Chico is a, yes.
Alderwoman Lee.
Lee is a, yes.
Alderwoman Ramirez Ramirez is a yes.
Alderman Quinn.
Quinn is a, yes.
Alderwoman Gutierrez Gutierrez is a yes, Alderman Lopez.
Lopez is not present alderwoman Coleman.
Coleman is a yes.
Alderman Moore.
More is a yes.
um, Alderman, Curtis
Curtis is a yes, Alderman OSHA.
OSHA is a yes.
Alderwoman Taylor, are you there?
Although I'm in Taylor.
Okay, not present.
Alderman Mosley.
Mosley is a, yes.
Alderman Rodriguez, Rodriguez is a yes,
Alderwoman Tabares Tabares is a, yes.
All the woman Scott.
Scott is a yes.
Alderman, CEO Lopez.
Ticho, Lopez is a, yes.
All the person Fuentes.
Cuentas is a yes.
Alderman Bernett.
Bernette is a yes.
All the Sailor is a yes. Okay. Alderwoman Taylor is a yes.
Alderman, Bernett. Sorry, did you already go to you?
Burnet is a yes Alderman, Ervin.
Irvin is a yes, Alderman. Talifero talifero is a yes,
alderwoman Cruise.
Cruise is a yes, Alderman, Cardona.
Cardona is a yes, Alderman waguespack waguespack is a yes
alderwoman, Rodriguez Sanchez.
Rodriguez. Sanchez is a yes, Alderman, Conway. Conway is a
yes, almond Ramirez. Rosa.
Ramirez, Rosa is a yes.
Alderman. Viegas.
Vegas is a yes.
Alderwoman mitts.
Mitt is a yes.
Alderman pasado.
Basado is a yes, alderwoman nugget.
New is a yes, almond Vasquez.
Vasquez is a yes, ultimate Allah politano.
Palano is a yes. Almond Riley. Are you there?
Yes. Uh, I
Are you a? Yes, I am. Okay, great Alderman. Reilly is a
Alderman. Canen is a yes almond Lawson Lawson is a yes
Alderman Gardiner.
Gardener is a, yes.
Alderwoman clay. Clay is a yes.
Alderman. Martin.
Martin is a yes Alderwood mahor.
Man Of Happiness is a yes.
Alderwoman Haden.
Is a yes, Alderman's Silverstein.
Is a yes.
Oh, Alderman Lopez, you're back? Yes, okay.
Lopez is a, yes.
Everyone voted that wish.
Robinson. Yeah, we got Robinson.
Yancey you? I got. Why is a yes? Yes. Why is a yes?
And Beal is a, yes.
Okay.
50 to zero. Okay, the Voting is now closed.
Thank you madam clerk. There are 50. Y zero, Nays.
Of this matter is passed automate Mitchell on a motion to
reconsider.
All Aller chairwoman Harris on the motion to reconsider.
Motion to reconsider the vote all those in favor. Signify
by saying, I any oppose say no, this motion fails chair,
recognizes chairwoman Dao,
You Mr. President item. Number 2 is the substitute
ordinance.
Issuing a City Loan and other financial assistance to hpumc
Redevelopment. Limited partnership for the project at 2120
through 28 North Mozart Street. In the First Ward, I moved
passage of this item by the first most. Favorable roll.
Call vote on the committee on finance report and the
associated unsuccessful motion to reconsider hearing no
objection. So ordered item number 3 is an ordinance
concerning the Redevelopment agreement. With an issuance of
tax increment financing funds for
Franciscan Outreach for the property at 25008 through 2538,
West 21st, Street, and amendment number 4 to the Western
Ogden tax increment, financing Redevelopment area project
and plan in the 25th. Ward, I move passage of this item by
the same motion hearing no objection. So ordered item
number 4 is an ordinance concerning, the expenditure of tax
increment, financing funds for the Haven on Lincoln at
5230. North Lincoln Avenue in the 40th. Ward, I moved
passage of this item by the same motion hearing no
objection. So ordered item number 5 is an ordinance
approving. The designation of Municipal depositories for
the city of Chicago, and the Chicago Board of Education for
fiscal year 2025. I moved passage of this item by the same
motion hearing no objection. So ordered item number 6 is
the substitute ordinance, authorizing, the issuance of
General obligation bonds to finance and
improvements to public rights of ways, public
infrastructure, and transportation loans, and grants
acquisition of property construction and maintenance of
public buildings economic programs and led service
replacement lines. I move passage of this item with the
exception.
Of alderman, Hopkins, Lopez and Conway who all wish to be
recorded as voting no on this item.
Chair recognizes Alderman Conway.
Mr. President.
today we stand at a, a pivotal moment for the city of
Chicago, our our
financial situation is dire and demands.
Responsible action.
Some of, you know, I I teach finance and corporate finance
law at deepal University. I also worked uh, in the
Investment Bank at JP Morgan and was part of about a
hundred Bond offerings, I try and lend that experience when
I can, in fact, it's why I spoke in favor of the sales tax
securitization bonds a few months ago
Uh, whose issuance was was sound uh financial decision.
And I've been trying to speak up in recent days uh from a
from a financial perspective and certainly not a political
1.
But I understand the perhaps you don't want to take it from
me.
recently, 2 prominent, uh, Credit Agencies standard at
pores as well as crawl downgraded, Chicago to just above
junk status,
in the case of s S&P to Triple B, which is much worse than
any, any US city. Any major US city, and 1 reason they
cited was the fact that Chicago carries the heaviest debt
load of any major city in the United States and I have
copies of the S&P report here. If anyone would like to see
for yourself,
uh, we're also of course, being confronted with potential
cuts from the federal government that could have
Devastating consequences for our city.
so, it is
Downright, ludicrous for us to borrow an additional 830
million with this proposed. Debt structure is when our
financial challenges are so evident.
And I will make this clear I support.
Capital Investments to our infrastructure, but the question
before us is not the what. But rather the how it is
dishonest to suggest that there is only only 1 way to
finance Road improvements and it's somehow either this way
or the highway.
Investment is vital, but the proposed debt structure is
fiscal insanity and not normal. No payments until 2027
followed by 18 years of interest-only payments. Um and
that's of course verified by the paper that that was put on
your chair. This moh morning via the committee on finance.
And this is akin to, to taking out a mortgage with a 2-year
grace period where you just watched the the interest
accumulate and then only pay the interest paying interest
on it for another 18 years at which point you face a
staggering repayment obligation and a past due bill that is
Double what you originally borrowed?
Such a reckless strategy, not only jeopardizes our
financial future but also showcases an alarming disregard
for the for the economic realities and Rising costs that
working families and businesses across Chicago grapple with
every day.
Now, as a result of this payment schedule,
this 830 million of debt will require over 2 billion
dollars of payments from now until the period ending 1 1
1255, it's in fact it's so back loaded.
That if you look on here the period between 2050 and 2055,
the city will have to pay a little over 821 million just
for that 6 year period.
Now, since since I'm speaking first, I'm going to go ahead
and anticipate some of the counter arguments that may be
made.
1. Some are saying, this is the way we've always done it.
Well, frankly, this is exactly why we shouldn't continue
doing it this way because that's how we came in this mess.
You were all sent here to not make the same canned kicking
decisions that our predecessors made. And I can't overstate
that those who came before us made some terrible awful
decisions that we are here paying for today.
And by the way, this isn't this is worse. This isn't the
same as it's done in past years.
Municipal Market analytics and independent Municipal Bond
research organization. Told our newspapers yesterday that
this plan is quote, a more extreme version than what the
city has done in the past and that quote, it would not be
viewed favorably from a credit perspective that's 1
argument second. I've also heard the argument that we need
to
provide extra authorization to give the give flexibility to
the finance department to issue debt. Now I won't
Be labor issues of trust, but I don't think.
That we should be giving a blank. Check authorization for
the administration to Simply issue debt as as it pleases.
and there's 1 last critical point, I'd like to make
We all have a fiduciary responsibility.
To the taxpayers of Chicago.
The finance committee voted last money to advance this
proposal to the full Council today.
and on Tuesday,
this the debt schedule that we received in our box, which
is, which is identical to what was placed in our chair this
morning. Hit some of our inboxes at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday a
day after the finance committee voted. And by the way, the
fact that this had to be put on our chair today illustrates
the exact
Exact problem.
In fact, actually, as I'm looking at it now it looks like
there's a
Bit of an error here. You'll note, it says 2026 on the bar.
It says 2 2025 bond interest, but if you look at the chart
on the top, you see bond interest, starting period, ended
11 128.
Which shows where we are on this.
Now that said, I suspect that if a lot of us had seen that,
we'd be paying 2 billion in total dollars, which is the
number almost the exact middle of this page.
On an 830 million loan. We may have asked more questions in
in committee.
Now, we need to ensure that we make informed responsible
financial decisions that prioritize the long term long term
term stability of our beloved City and I know you all love
it. Where everything else will be subsumed by our financial
problems. We can build stronger communities for the next
generation without burdening them with billions of dollars
and irresponsibly structured debt.
Therefore Mr. Chairman I move to send this plan back to
finance committee to address these unanswered questions.
Reconsider the amortization schedule and explore ways to
reduce the scale of this borrowing in these dire times. And
I'd ask for a roll call, vote on that. Thank you.
there's a motion on the floor to
send this item back to the finance committee. It's also
been requested that this matter, be recorded through a roll
call vote.
Madame clerk, if you can prepare yourself.
To accept the vote at this time.
The chair recognizes chairwoman Dow. Yeah. I I'd like to
speak to this too, but I also would like to pull this
motion.
Okay, just a second, please.
Okay, fair enough. So the requested there are 2 requests
1.
To be able to speak to this.
Item. And then 2, the motion is to table the motion to send
back to the finance committee. Did I get that correct? Yes,
chair recognizes chairwoman Dao.
Chair, recognizes Alderman Lopez.
Thank you, Mr. President
I believe you are ruling to allow.
The chair of the finance committee to make a motion. Once
you've already ordered the vote on the previous motion is
out of order.
You didn't, right? So the vote was not actually officially
started. So, the motion, the request is that the chairwoman
have an opportunity to speak to the item and then the
subsequent.
engagement was to table, the motion to send back to the
finance committee after you had already instructed the
clerk to call for but because the vote was not actually
taken then it's not out of order, but thank you then then I
would appeal the decision of the chair to move forward
with. This is on a pillow. Yes, everything is available,
Mr. The chair recognizes chairwoman Dao.
Thank you, Mrs. There's not, there's not an official motion
that the motion for that was put on the floor, was a motion
to vote to send it back to the committee that vote was not
taken. And so it's, it is out of it is not out of order.
The chair recognizes chairwoman Dao. Thank you, Mr.
President and members of the city council.
Um, let me begin first by recognizing The Angst in the room,
surrounding our current financial status.
With uncertainty becoming the new normal when it comes to
our federal funding streams.
A tense budget process that is still in our recent memory
and an overwhelming. Number of VO voices, providing
feedback on the city's current Financial State. I
understand the trepidation to this ordinance
However, at the same time as the posturing in the public
square has become the new determination of fact. I urge you
to look at the current position that the city is in and the
necessity. This Bond issuance holds and ensuring the safe
and continued growth of our city.
We've been issuing Geo bonds year after year to ensure that
our city continues to improve every day.
This ordinance represents a continued commitment to the
people of Chicago that we hold their standard of living
Paramount.
Improvement projects that continue to keep our streets up
to Snuff.
Our street lights lit, our bridges standing, and our
sidewalks walkable go beyond just daily maintenance. They
represent the wealth of infrastructure that makes Chicago,
the city that it is. These infrastructure projects. Just do
not even begin to get into the automatic menu and the
Individualized projects that we as all this take on within
our communities. As only, we know how
All of this is included in this run of the mill issuance.
Now, I would like to quell some of the more direct
criticisms of this ordinance.
but those worried about the recent credit rating downgrade
and the impact that another Bond issuance would have
I urge you to look at the reasonings for their downgrade.
More specifically, the fact that they did not cite
borrowing for CIP as the reason for the city's downgrade.
In fact borrowing for capital projects already factors into
into the ratings, agency's expectations as part of their
Outlook period. And it does not introduce new risks to the
city's credit standard.
But those worried about the creation of new debt for the
city to pay off and citing. This issuance as a main driver
of that debt, let me point you to where the debt is
actually held.
Most of our debt is from pensions not borrowing.
Our 2025 pension contribution is 2.9 billion. While our
general obligation Debt Service payment is 361 million.
This Bond issuance does does result in some debt being
taken on. However, it does not rise to the catastrophic
level that it has been made out to be.
But those worried about the size and the scope of this
Bond.
I offer the language of the ordinance itself.
This Bond ordinance, ensures the flexibility to spend less.
The 830 million figure represents a not to exceed limit,
which allows flexibility to the size of the bond
appropriately, based on market conditions and the needs of
our city
This ordinance is an authorization, not a directive.
The schedule being discussed disseminated, and unfairly
ridicule is dependent upon and adaptable to the
circumstances, the city faced at any single point in time.
When it comes to the scope, I frankly cannot see how we can
further limit it.
The proceeds from this Bond will only be used to fund
capital projects in the city's 2024 2028 CIP.
They will not be used for awards and settlements or
operating expenses.
There is no scope beyond the fundamental purpose of capital
investment, which is maintaining and improving our City's
infrastructure, that supports daily life. And helps our
residents, get around safely.
for those worried about where specifically, the revenue
from these bonds is going, we provided a list of projects
that outlines the capital Improvement Pro proposals to be
undertaken.
Once again, these bonds can only be put towards Capital
Improvements, not operating expenses.
For those worried about some of the more anti Antiquated
language within the ordinance. I have committed personally,
if you all have heard in the finance committee to sit with
the Corporation Council to work to remove some language in
future ordinances, I did so in our committee meeting and I
refer that committee commitment now
but those worried about the 30-year time period over, which
this debt is spread
I urge you to look at the projects that this Revenue will be
going towards. The goal of these bonds is to address the
improvements that need to be made. While also spreading the
costs equitably across the life of the assets.
Finally, I must touch back to my earlier nod regarding the
uncertainty of federal funding.
Under the Trump Administration, the city of Chicago, can't
risk pulling back from borrowing and issuing our own bonds
to fund desperately needed capital projects because we're
already know there will be little help and support coming
from Washington anytime soon.
Any delay in the passing of this Bond.
Deprived Chicagoans of the infrastructure, they rely on
every day with the construction schedule, that is already
numbered delaying infrastructure. Improvements creates a
snowball effect of construction. Delays leaving aging
infrastructure under construction and under adverse
conditions.
This Bond issuance is standard and necessary. We have a
duty to the residents of our city to provide them with the
safe accessible and vital infrastructure. That makes
Chicago what it is.
But those who want to.
um, reduce
Our CIP to attention, grabbing headlines.
Do so.
But do so knowing that nothing short of the safety and
accessibility of our city is at stake.
And I call for a vote on table, this motion very well.
There's a motion on the floor to table.
There's a motion on the floor to table the initial motion
to refer or re-referred to the finance committee. It has
been asked that this vote be taken up by roll call.
so, thank you, madam clerk for preparing the documents and
the necessary illumination of the vote.
once it is set Madam clerk, you may take the Roll Call
And just for clarification.
If you vote Yes, to lay this item on a table. You wish to
proceed with the initial motion for the passage of this
ordinance. If you vote, no, you wish to consider the
initial motion.
Which was to refer or re-referred to committee the chair.
Recognizes ottoman. Wages back. Thank you, Mr. President,
uh, if this motion, uh, moves forward, are you going to
open up the floor for more discussion?
We can do that. No, we have to do it because, okay, so
you're not asking and you're just saying what the rules
are. Very well. Thank you for the clarification, so yes, we
will continue to have as much discussion as you all like
again to vote. Yes, on this.
Motion to lay it on the table, you wish to proceed with the
initial motion, which is for the passage of this ordinance,
if you vote. No, uh, you wish to consider the initial
motion, which was to re-referred to committee Madam Clerk
alderman laspada.
Laspada is a yes Alderman Hopkins.
Hopkins is a no.
Alderman Dao. Our all all the woman Dow
Dal is a, yes.
Alderman Robinson.
Robinson is a, yes.
Alderman. Nancy.
Yancey is a yes.
Alderman Hall.
Call is a, yes.
Alderman Mitchell.
Mitchell is a s.
Alderwoman Harris.
Harris is a yes.
Alderman Beal.
Beal is a no Alderman, Chico.
Chico is a no.
Alderwoman Lee.
Is a no.
Alderwoman Ramirez.
Ramirez is a s.
Alderman Quinn.
Quinn is a no.
Alderwoman Gutierrez.
Gutierrez is a yes.
Alderman Lopez.
Lopez is a no.
Alderwoman Coleman.
Coleman is a no.
I'm sorry.
Sorry Alder Alderman Moore.
More is a no Alder woman or Alderman. Curtis
Curtis is a know, all the men. OSHA.
She she is a no.
Alderwoman Taylor. Yes.
Taylor is a yes, Alderman Mosley.
Mosley is a yes, Alderman Rodriguez.
Rodriguez is a, yes.
Alderman, Tabares
Taras is a no.
Alderman Scott.
Alderman, Scott know.
Alderman. CTO Lopez.
CTO Lopez is a, yes.
Alder person, Fuentes.
Cuentas is a yes, all member net.
Bernette is a yes Alderman, Ervin.
Irvin is a yes, alderman talifero.
Talifero is a no.
Um, alderwoman Cruise.
Cruise is a no.
Alderman, Cardona.
Cardona is a no.
Alderman waguespack.
Waguespack is a no Alder uh alderwoman Rodriguez Sanchez.
Rodriguez. Sanchez is a yes.
Alderman Conway.
Conway is a no.
Alderman Ramirez. Rosa.
Ramirez. Rosa is a yes, almond viegas.
Vos is a no.
Alderwoman mitts.
Sorry, could not hear you. Yes. Mitts is a yes.
Alderman, Pat.
I'm sorry.
Yes.
Pasado is a yes.
Uh, alderwoman nent.
Is a no.
Alderman Vasquez.
Vasquez is a yes.
Alderman Napolitano.
Napolitano is a no Alderman, Reilly.
Reilly is a no.
Riley is a no.
Alderman. Canen
Is a yes.
Um, Alderman Lawson.
Lawson is a no.
Alderman, Gardiner.
Gardener is a no.
Um, alderwoman clay.
Clay is a yes, Alderman, Martin.
Is a yes, Aldo and Mana hoppenworth.
Moana happened with is a yes.
Alderwoman Haden.
Haden is a yes.
Alderwoman Silverstein.
Silverstein is a know, anyone else I miss?
Okay, the Voting is now closed.
There are 27, yeses 23, NOS the motion to lay this on the
table has passed.
Now, back to the initial motion for the passage, there were
individuals that wish to speak the chair. Recognizes
ottoman, Wagers back.
President appreciate that. Um,
well, ladies and gentlemen, um
You know, it should be natural for all of us to be cautious
about these types of bond deals. Um, having been through
what we saw with mayor Daly other Mayors doing scoop and
toss watching how that panned out. Not so well for us about
Bond deals, gone bad, um, other projects gone bad, where we
were racking up millions and billions of dollars.
Um, we have to be cautious. Now, as we move forward and
know that whatever we are voting on, we are voting on for
our constituents, not just of our Wards, but the whole
city.
And we have a fiduciary duty to make sure that we have all
the information available to us to make a good decision.
Um, the non-payment of these bills.
When you look at the document that was given to us after
the vote.
And I hope everybody saw the email. I didn't see it until
the last minute because it was well after the vote tucked
into another email, that didn't have this information in
the header or the subject line.
And it didn't have it in the base of the email. It was
tucked between a few other documents. And I'm talking about
this 1 that's sitting on your desk. I think if people had
seen this
and as, to Alderman, Conway's Point realized that we were
not making principal payments for 20 years and kicking the
can down the road. You would at least. Look at this and
say, should we take this back to the finance committee and
have a second look at it.
The non-payment of these bills during the next 20 years.
And the non-payment of interest for a couple years until
after. The next election is really problematic for me as
well as the way this was put forward or wasn't
The.
Thing that we're doing here is basically kicking the can
down the road for future generations, for a future mayor
and for future city council. I mean members to take on a
responsibility after we have used up
The assets.
and the funding that we're voting on today,
I don't have an argument against borrowing for our asset uh
fixtures for our infrastructure. That's not the problem
here. The problem is
The lack of transparency.
The lack of honesty and the lack of trust that came by
sending this document. After the fact,
We sat here and everybody had good questions in the
committee.
There's no doubt about that. Um, the CFO was here,
answering a few questions. I think the frustrating thing
for me is that
You know, when they talk about the S&P and some of the
others, not making a direct, uh, by line to this vote that
we're doing here today.
They did reference it, they said that.
The 2025 budget that we voted on leaves intact, a sizable,
structural budgetary imbalance.
That will make future budgets very challenging and that's a
direct quote.
Now if we look at what we're doing here, yes, we're making
a very challenging by kicking the can down the road for 20
years and not taking on the responsibility that we are
accepting here today by voting. Yes, for this
infrastructure Bond deal.
if um,
if we could restructure this payment schedule,
It would seem that, that would be a point today where we
could send it back and say we should do the appropriate
thing.
so again, it's not so much about the improvements that we're
doing but it's the lack of paying our bills and kicking the
can down the road so that our kids, the next mayor in 2045
mayor in 2045 and that Council in 2045 gets a bill, that is
astronomical folks astronomical.
Now, we might not be here then, but we should sure take our
fiduciary responsibility. Much more seriously than we are
today. And much more seriously than what happened with that
email.
That came out after the fact after we voted.
That is just a horrible approach to governing.
we sat here, and some of us were talking about
Yes, we should move forward with this Bond deal.
Because we need these assets. We need the fire trucks, we
need the police cars. We need the bridges fixed. We need
the roads. We need the menu to do the things we need to get
done in this city. But with that comes the responsibility,
the fiduciary duty.
That we have to take seriously.
In this body and we're not taking it seriously. When we get
that document, hit it into some other email after the fact,
I found that very disturbing. Um,
And it it really sits wrong with me to see that.
We don't have that transparent so we don't have that
Honesty. We don't have that trust that we should and that's
been a Hallmark of this Administration.
And it is just absolutely goes to the fundamentals of
managing the city.
To be open to be transparent and predictable about what
we're doing. So yeah. Maybe the rating agencies don't come
out today and say,
Wow, this Bond deal is a is bad because uh, we were talking
about the budget with that particular comment.
But what we're doing by kicking, that can down the road for
20 years is setting people up for failure, 20 years from
now.
I intend to be around. I hope all of you are
But what about our kids? What about those future
Generations that? Yeah? It this is how they used to do it
back and it's standard. This is how they did it back in the
old days under daily. Well, guess what? A lot of us were
sitting here fighting against that and trying to put a stop
to these kind of deals.
And all we're seeing is regurgitation of the same old
thing.
It's a necessity. Yes, it's a necessity but not the way
we're doing it.
We sat here, we asked a lot of questions, there's no debt
about that.
Did we asked the precise question?
to get the precise answer that led to this coming out late
know we didn't
And that's what I have a fundamental problem with.
Felt like we got snookered after the vote that email comes
out and it's tucked in there where nobody would look at it.
That's wrong.
And it doesn't cover up the fact that yes, we need those
assets again. We know we need to fix stuff, but we've got
to be transparent people. We've got to be onest.
If it doesn't start from up top, it's got to start here.
And therefore if it doesn't, if this thing goes forward
today, I'm voting. No, thank you Mr. President
Thank you. The chair recognizes ottoman Vehicles. Do you
still wish to speak to this item? No, I want to
That you're good. Okay, the chair recognizes ottoman Hall.
Thank you. Uh, Mr. Chair, the concern that I have in
moments like this is that essentially
when it was opportunities to bring forth Alternatives, way
back, when we drafted this budget season,
Alternatives would not present. What's clear is number 1.
Chicago is crumbling
When I look at my ward and Wards, especially past 55th
Street, we need as much infrastructure upgrades as
possible, boutiques, and Analysis are needed. But at the
end of the day, when will we get to the place? Where the
alternative solution is at the beginning, but not
necessarily in the 9th, our high headlines and other
political points. So my question in all
Also, my encouragement is an alternative if this is not it.
That's really sustainable and fair to everyone in Chicago.
Thank you, Mr. President, thank you. Are there any other
orders that wish to speak? I have 1 more order then before
I turn it back to the chair. Chair recognizes Alderman.
Ervin.
Thank you, Mr. President, sorry. Hold on a second. Oh, very
good ability is a chair recognized Alderman. Ervin.
Good. Please continue. All right. Thank you Mr. President.
Um,
I said before that, uh,
I think uh, Alderman uh,
Oay will quote this, um, maybe put it on his headstone that
um, everybody wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to
die.
that too is appropo because
the same body.
Doesn't want to deal with Revenue.
The same body.
Doesn't really want to deal with expenses other than to
keep doing them.
440 million dollars in briz work.
I guess.
The ninth 10th 34th and 42nd Wars. Don't want us to match
the federal dollars that are needed to do the work and the
infrastructure that needs to be done.
We talk about kicking the can down the road as the chairman
stated, it's not this that's caused the challenges. It's
the decisions that some members of this body made on not
making pension payments that we've got almost 3 billion
dollar pension payment that is due this year and going
forward.
Again, what was this conversation when the Skyway was sold?
Where was this conversation? When the parking meters were
sold? What was this conversation? But now when it's time
for the South and West Side to see stuff in this bond
issue. Oh, let's pump the brakes.
when you see the streetscapes that are that are that are
laid out on the South and West sides, the alleys
The streets, the resurfaces.
The lights.
For our community. Now we need to pump the brakes. Get the
hell out of here.
This makes no sense. And again, if we're in an environment
where we do not want to look at Revenue,
And 1 to keep spending money, the only options that you do
have are again, to structure the debt and the matter in
which does not raise property taxes, but then also allows
for the assets that we're using to be paid for over the
time, they're going to be in use.
This is not different. This is not.
This is how you do Financial Planning in debt over time,
just like you buy a car. Now, granted, again, if you're not
in a position to increase the revenue because we can go
take out 830 million in pay for it today if we wanted to
get the revenue, but it's clear that we don't want to do
that.
So, again, you got to make a decision here but again, we're
we're not. I'm not going to sit back and allow everybody
else's Community to flourish and people have supported. And
when it's time for the black and brown communities in the
city of Chicago to see something. Now, we want to pump the
brakes. I I can't stand for that, this is not irrational.
This is not illogical. The way that this debt is
structured. Again is dealing with the confines that we've
set forth. Again, we don't want to raise revenue, but again
again, we still want to have the sidewalks, the streets,
the streetscapes, the bridges fixed, all of those things.
So, I think that, at the end of this conversation and our
citizens and our residents, send us down here to get
results for the community and by not having the resources,
we cannot deliver the results.
And that's what this is about. At the end of the day is that
we want to deliver the results from doing this. This is not
is not scooping toss, we're not borrowing and deferring,
we're spending money in a way that for the capital expenses
that have been laid out.
And again.
At the we must we must be honest here.
I've never seen.
The chairman of the committee of Finance.
Not be able to get her word out.
But somebody downstate and the vice chair can have their
words out. Some may add up to y'all.
Something's not adding up here.
and so,
At some point in time, we got to talk about the elephant in
the room.
And what it seems like to me.
That we start talking about what we can do in the interests
of black folks. In this city, the flags go up.
And so, if this the game that we gonna play, Let's Play.
But we will not.
Decimate. The communities that we were sent here to serve
on some BS and some rhetoric. So Mr. President, I ask that
we consider this and move forward with a roll call vote.
Thank you, chair. Recognizes ottoman bill.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman
Mr. Chairman I uh, I wasn't gonna speak on this 1 here,
but, you know, when people start calling out Wars
And they happen to have the worst war in the city of
Chicago. I got problems with that.
When we look at this bond issue,
we say this all for infrastructure,
That's fine.
You may have the prettiest streets and the prettiest
sidewalks with a city that's falling down the
you know what?
So, it's all right, you can walk out, see a nice sidewalk.
But it won't be in economy for this city to move forward.
But what good is that?
what good is having nice furniture, if you ain't got a
house to put it in,
What good is it?
What good is it if we sit here?
And we are sitting in a house.
and then we get a bill from our great-grandfathers saying
that you owe
$500,000.
But you didn't have nothing to do with.
But you got to pay that bill, that's what we're doing to
our kids and our grandkids.
Now, we're all for bonding, we get that, but the terms of
this Bond are ridiculous.
Ridiculous.
The fact that the first payment is not due until the new
Administration takes seated.
What sense does that make?
What if it's so good. Let's pay on it now.
If it's so good but we don't want to add to our deficit
that we already have, which is going to be 1.3 plus. Come
next year, we don't want to add on to that.
And let's not even talk about the fact that some of you all
have been promised the world.
To vote for this bond issue. You gonna get all this extra
work. I think some, I remember hearing the last
Administration, say the same dog on thing.
that they gonna promise the black community, all the work
If you vote for my budget, if you don't vote for it, you
ain't gonna get it.
Are y'all still waiting on it?
You still waiting on that false promise that you all were
given to vote for the last administration's bonds.
Did you get that?
Or are your streets still crumbling?
It's the city still having problems.
Ladies and Gentlemen, let's get real man. Yes, we've made
errors in the past.
But if we going to make errors in the past, let's learn
from our mistakes and not make them again but no. Now we
want to make. We want to do it now.
Because we in the seat, let's do it now.
Let's get real in this house, y'all.
This is a horrible bond issue.
I've yet to have my CIP briefing.
I bet you 27 people have already had theirs.
The same 27, they voted not to lay this on the table.
The same 27 has had their CIP briefing. This, you know,
gonna promise you all, this extra work.
You all the extra work, we don't have the capacity in the
city to do all this extra work.
Menus get carried over the next year and the year after
that, because we don't have the capability to do, all the
work that we have in front of us today.
So how we gonna get all this extra work done?
Y'all.
You're looking up in the sky.
On a dream, that ain't even there.
And so I can go on and on, but I'm, I'm gonna get off my
little box today, but, Mr. President me and probably the
other 26 other people. That voted no wish to the firm
Publishers item.
Very well. There's a a motion to defer and publish this
item. Is there a second?
Uh, the second is identified, as Alderman Lopez, this item
will be deferred in publish the chair. Recognizes
chairwoman Dow.
Uh, thank you, Mr. President, I will move on, but I want to
say that, if you still living in your great, great
grandfather's house
You're you're, you're, you're addressing me Madam chair.
You're addressing me. The house is still good. All right.
Um, moving right along to item. Number 7. Yes, that's
correct. Is the communication, transmitting reports of
cases in which verdicts judgments and settlements were
entered into for the month of January 2025. This will be
placed on file with the clerk.
Item number 8, a is an ordinance authorizing, Corporation
Council to enter into and execute a settlement order. In
the case of cremer versus City of Chicago. In the amount of
$250,000, I move passage of this item by the first most.
Favorable roll call vote of the committee and the
associated unsuccessful motion to reconsider with the
exception. That Alderman Quinn Lopez. Talia, Ferrell
Cardona waguespack and Conway all wish to be recorded as
voting know, you know, other objections. Yes, sir, Mr.
Chair recognizes Gardner. I'd like to be recorded isn't all
as well. Chair recognizes this order woman Tobar
The chair recognizes ottoman Napolitano.
4 days ago as well. Here, recognizes ottoman Chico.
Of course, no, the chair recognizes ottoman Silverstein.
Despite the division here in no other objections to the
order. Mr. President, we'll add Riley very well. Thank you.
Spa would like to be recorded as I know as well.
Please proceed, thank you, Mr. President, that motion does
pass despite the division. Thank you. Madam chair.
Item number 8, B is an order, authorizing Corporation
Council to enter into and execute a settlement order in the
case of Cervantes versus City of Chicago. In the amount of
690,000, I moved passage of this item by the same motion,
with the exception of alderman Lopez who wishes to be
recorded as voting no on this item. Are there any other
individuals that wish to be recorded as no hearing no other
objections? So ordered item HC is held in committee item. 8
D is an order, authorizing Corporation Council to enter
into, and execute a settlement order in the case of
peligro, versus City of Chicago and the amount of 3.5
million, I moved passage if this item by the same motion,
with the exception of alderman Lopez, who wishes to be
recorded as voting. No. Farewell do you wish to add
something else? The chair recognizes ottoman Lopez.
Thank you, Mr. President
And I wish to thank the chairman for noting my objection to
this lawsuit, but I want to warn the city council.
This is the third.
Time, we've settled.
With regards to.
311 requests not being answered.
Or addressed this precedent.
as much as we talk about all the other lawsuits that we
deal with when it comes to, whether it's the police or
other matters, this is a continuation and setting us down a
very, very dangerous and financially arduous path.
This situation.
We saw the city respond within a month and then 4 months
later in Winter. A tree snapped, a limb broke. Someone was
hurt and unfortunately,
If I remember correctly.
Fatally.
If I'm correct.
No, or is it just badly?
I,
Brain injury, excuse me.
Profoundly injured. Thank you.
It's a horrible situation.
acts of God, usually are
but if we've done our job and we are still paying out after
the fact months later,
This story is going to start repeating itself over and over
and over again.
We're going to have to start a new category in our finance
committee to deal with settlements to deal with 311
requests.
And I'm sure every single 1 of us that takes these calls
knows.
Just how dangerous a path that can be.
This Council may vote. Yes.
But I know that this is not going to end with this 1
lawsuits to be set. Will only get worse, will only get more
expensive as those individuals who make an industry out of
s finding weaknesses. In our sympathies are going to
continue to manipulate our Council and our lawyers for the
best financial benefits. Moving forward.
Thank you chairman. Thank you hearing no other objections.
This item is so ordered.
Chair recognizes chairwoman Dow. Thank you, Mr. President
item. Number 8, e is an order authorizing Corp, Council to
enter into and execute a settlement order. In the case of
Elizabeth Galla, as independent administrator of the estate
of Angela Parks deceased versus City of Chicago in the
amount of 27 million dollars. I move passage of this item
by the same motion hearing no objection. So, ordered items
number 9, and 10 consists of orders of authorization, for
the payment of various small claims against the city of
Chicago, Chicago, and denials of payments of various small
claims against the city of Chicago. If there are no
objections, I move that these items be placed in passage in
the omnibus hearing none. So ordered item, number 11 is a
proposed order. Authorizing charitable, solicitation on the
public way for Mizer, ricordea foundation, on April, 23rd,
2025 to April 26th, 2025, this will be
Placed on file with the clerk.
Uh, the committee on finance also held a subject matter
hearing on.
Uh, February 7th at 11 oclock am and discuss Municipal
depositories is required by section 232400 of the municipal
code. Know folks were taken, Mr. President. This concludes
my report from the committee on finance.
Thank you, madam chair, and also, Mr. President, reporting
for the city council's. Joint committee on finance, the
subcommittee on revenue and the committee on health and
human relations. The Joint Committee on Finance
subcommittee, on revenue, and committee on health, and
human relations held the subject matter hearing on January
30th and discussed hemp safety, regulation, and revenue.
No, votes were taken this recruit. Concludes my report from
The Joint Committee very well. Thank you again Madam chair
for the committee on budget and government operations. The
chair recognizes chairman, Ervin.
Thank you, Mr. President from the Great West Side of
Chicago.
That didn't lose population.
We report for the committee on buzzing and government
operations, which held the committee on February 10th 2025,
the committee has a series of reports recommended passage
of the following items. Item number 1 is a communication
recommending, a proposed ordinance concerning an annual
Corporation or this year, 2025 Amendment within fund, 925
move passively
This item by the first favorable roll call to the committee
on finance and the associated unsuccessful motion to
reconsider their no objection. So ordered item 2 is a
communication recommending, the proposed amendment to
Municipal Code section, 3-56 050 by adding a new subsection
e under fees and late fees, a move passes of this item. By
the First Federal role call the committee on finance and
the associated not successful motion to reconsider
hearing no objection so ordered uh items number 3 through 9
9 are transfers um, within various uh committees and Wards
Wards including the 9th 2629, 38th 42nd 47th and the
committee on immigrant and Refugee Rights for year 2025. I
make the same motion if there is no objection, hearing
none. So ordered
Uh, Mr. President that concludes the report from the Great
West Side of Chicago. Thank you, Mr. Chair for a committee
on economic capital technology and development. The chair
recognizes chairman in Vegas.
Good afternoon, Mr. President of the city council reporting
for the committee on economic capital and Technology
development.
Which meant on Tuesday, February 11th, the committee held a
meeting. And here are the recommended passages of the
following items. Items, 1 and 2 on the report, our series
of appointments to special service aerial number, 76224 of
John Harter and Julie, Julie Cameron. I move for pass of
these items by the first available roll call of the
committee on finance and the associate Associated
unsuccessful motion to reconsider hearing no objection. So
ordered items 3 through 7 on the report are series of class
6B tax incentives. Voted on by the committee for the
following property. Addresses and Wards item 3 is reported
at item 3 at 420 09. West Lawrence Avenue in the 39th, Ward
item 4 at 4901 West Arrington in the 24th. Ward item 5 at
45555, South race scene Avenue in the 15th. Ward item 6 at
5440 to 5450 North Northwest Highway in the 45th. Ward item
7 at 4221 North. I'm sorry North Normandie Avenue in the
30th. Ward I move for pass of the
Items by the first available roll call vote of the
committee on finance and the associated unsuccessful motion
to reconsider hearing no objection so ordered. Thank you,
Mr. President that concludes my report. Thank you, Mr.
Chair for committee on health and human relations. The
chair recognizes chair. Rodriguez, Sanchez,
Thank you chair reporting for the committee on health and
human relations with met twice. Since our previous city,
council meeting. Our first meeting was January, 22nd 2025
at 10:30 a.m. the committee, considered 16 major
appointments to advisory councils, including 9 appointments
to the commission on human relations 7. Appointments to The
Advisory Council on new Americans and the full list of
appointees can be reviewed on the summary of reports that
is on your desk. The committee also considered ordinance
all 2024 0144446 introduced by other man Ramirez Rosa to
direct the Chicago Commission on human relations, to
establish a working group, to address issues impacting, the
VIP Park, transgender and gender diverse community in
Chicago and Cook County. All of these items received a do
pass recommendation from the committee, Mr. President, I
move passage of this item by the first most favorable roll
call of the committee on finance and the associated on
successful motion to reconsider
Hearing no objection. So, ordered the committee met a
second time. Yesterday, February 18th at 1 pm to consider
the resolution Sr, 2024000012436, and expression of support
for victims of slavery. The resolution was substituted in
committee and received a dup pass recommendation from the
committee Mr. President, I move passage of this item by by
the first most favorable roll call of the committee on
finance and the associated on successful motion to
reconsider here. No objections or ordered that concludes my
report. Thank you. Madam chair for the committee on housing
and
Real estate. The chair recognizes chair 6o Lopez.
Mr. President and members of the city council reporting for
your committee on housing and real estate, which held an
in-person meeting on February, 11, 2025 that was recess and
reconvene on February 18th 2025, the committee has a series
of reports, recommending, passage of 18 ordinances, this
include various negotiated land sales, Acquisitions and
agreements.
The first item is starting on page 2 is from the Department
of Housing ordinance 202500000014975. First amended
amendment to Sunshine Gospel Ministries Redevelopment
agreement, for sale of additional additional vacant, Lots
at 6020 60286332, 6036640, and 6046 South Avenue to under
City. Lots for Working Families program, in the 20th, word
and move passage of this item by the first most. Favorable
roll call vote on the committee on finance and Associated,
A successful motion to reconsider hearing no objection. So
ordered the next 2 items are grouped together for from the
Department of Planning and Development ordinance. 2025
Dash, 0000489 acquisition of various properties for
Englewood nature. Trail project in the 16th world and
ordinance. 2025.000 14901 pedestrian. Access easement
agreement on city property.
At 6025 South Rhodes Avenue. I've moved passage of these 2
items by this emotion here. No objection. So ordered the
following, I 2 items are ordinance, 2025, D 0014972, an
ordinance, 2025.000 14968. For sale of City on property
through the chai block, Builder platform in the third and
the 10th words. Abu passage for these items by the same
motion hearing no objection. So ordered the next 7 items
are ordinance 202500000014960 0001496 as amended ordinance
That 0002025 does 000014 961 as amended ordinance,
2025000014963 Ordnance 2025.00 0001496 as amended
ordinance. 2025000014959 and ordinance 2025.000 149654. The
market rate sale of City on properties.
In the 24th 2728 and 36 words.
I've moved passes of these items by the same motion.
Hearing no objection. So ordered the next 3 items are for
the sale of City owned property under chai block, Builder
platform under the open space and urban gardening programs,
programs, ordinance 2025.001 14966 Ordnance, 2025.001 14969
amended and ordinance, 2025 d001 14970 in the 29th. 616
20th. And 25th words, I move passage of these items by the
same motion hearing no objection. So ordered the next item
is ordinance. 202500000014 9273, sell of 3, vacant city
owned Parcels at 11:35, that's 1325 West 119th Street to
West pulman development Partners, LLC owner of contiguous
Parcels subject to remediation Redevelopment agreement,
construction and operation of 413,400 square ft, light
industrial facility with parking.
And loading dock opportunities in the 2021. I move passage
of this item by the same motion hearing no objection. So
ordered the next item was direct introduction orders.
2025.000 15406 from the Department of Planning and
Development, commissioner for the request to Grant at
acquisition and Authority as part of the long-term dpd
planning. Uh, efforts I move passes of this item by the
same motion hearing no objection. So ordered and the last
item is ordinance 2025.00.
014967, Redevelopment agreement with Matthew skorski and
Katherine Mullan for purchase of vacant. Fire station at
6411 South Central Avenue for a single family home,
conversion in the 13th word, Abu passes of this item by the
the same motion hearing no objection. So ordered Mr.
President, this concludes my report. Thank you, Mr. Chair
committee on licensing and consumer protection.
Your chair recognizes chairwoman Silverstein.
Thank you, Mr. President, I am reporting for the committee
on licensing and consumer protection. We held a meeting on
February 10th, 2025 to consider 5 Orden regarding liquor
moratoriums and the 28th 3547 48th and 49th Wards. The
committee has recommended passage of each of these items.
2025 d148, Z3 and others ending 1447514868147.
14902, Mr. President, I move that the city council concur
in the recommendations of the licensed committee by the
same role call as the item. Number 1 on the committee of
On the committee on finance report and the associated
unsuccessful motion to reconsider here are no objections.
So ordered
02024 z001 2863 prohibiting pedaling and portions of the
Seventh. Ward. I move passage of this item by the same
motion if there's no objection, hearing none. So ordered
02025 d 014776. A 1-time exception exception for to the
Chicago cups to hold a concert at Wrigley Field. I move
passage of this item by the same motion if there's no
objection, hearing none. So ordered 0202023 d, 0000029 83
was held in committee, Mr. President, this concludes my
report. Thank you, madam chair for the committee on
pedestrian and traffic safety. The chair recognizes order
laspada.
Thank you, Mr. President, reporting for your committee on
pedestrian and traffic safety for to meeting was held on
Wednesday, February 5th, 2025.
Before the committee, there were 114 routine traffic items,
all of which passed if there are no objections, I move
passage of these items by the first most. Favorable roll
call vote from the committee on finance and the associated
unsuccessful motion to reconsider the vote hearing none. So
ordered that concludes my report. Thank you, very well.
Thank you.
Mr. Chair.
For the committee on police and fire. The chair recognizes
chair. Talia farro.
Mr. President members of the city council reporting for
your committee on police and fire for which meeting was
held on February 18th, 2025, the committee recommend the
following the passage of the following items, the
appointment the appointment of Mark and McDonald. The
district council 2 the appointment of Kola Joseph.
as member of the district councilman in 24th district,
Ordinance, 202514824 the amendment of Municipal Code
chapter 236, by adding section 23363, Z 3303030 to
authorize the Chicago Fire, commissioner to accept grants
of equipment, supplies, material, and other personal items
committee. Also, recommended the direct introduction for
the donation of various items. By the Chicago Fire
Department to the Chicago Fire Museum of Greater Chicago,
if there are no objections Mr. President, I move the
passage of these items by the first favorable roll call
vote in the committee on finance and the associated
unsuccessful motion to reconsider hearing none. So, ordered
Mr. President that concludes my report. Thank you, Mr.
Chair for committee on transportation and public way of the
chair recognizes chairman Mitchell.
Mr. President and members of the city council reporting for
your committee on transportation and public wave. Which
held a meeting on February. 1125, the following items
passed by the majority of the members present page, 2
amendment of Municipal Code. Chapter 9-8 substitute
ordinance, 202400010137 amendment of Municipal Code,
9-8 by modifying section, 9-8 to expand description of
vehicles, parked on the public way for the sole purpose of
displaying vehicles for sale.
Page 3 includes 9 Ordnance for miscellaneous items.
Introduced by the local Alderman, from Wards, 1, 222
273541434548. And 50, if there is no objection, I move
passion of these odds by the first most. Favorable roll
call vote of the committee on finance and the associated
unsuccessful motion to reconsider.
Chair recognizes ottoman Vasquez.
Cameron Mitchell.
Up for point of clarification, was the item mentioned, uh,
the curve zoning.
Okay. Thank you. Thank you very much and thank you, Mr.
President. Thank you, wanted to speak to the matter. Uh,
that passed out of transportation and provide a little bit
of uh uh history lesson. And some grammar for folks. Uh,
some of you all in the city may not understand what the
word curb stoning means. I also did not understand the word
curb stoning but to provide a little context curb stoning
is what occurs when someone tries to sell a vehicle.
Vehicle or a number of vehicles, using your public way. So,
where we're seeing this not just in the 40th Ward, but in
plenty of wards across the city, is a bunch of folks who
will buy cars at an auction.
They'll fix the cars and then use the public way as their
own, uh, their own personal dealership. So you're looking
at 10 12 18, 20 cars taking up residential public uh spaces
spaces for parking and and putting these cars there. Now,
the normal process for the city of Chicago is you might
Mark that as an abandoned vehicle, what those of us here.
Understand now, as members of the city council, did you
submit a ticket for an abandoned vehicle? Your streets in
San Ward, soup? Uh, well, then put a sticker on the
vehicle. A green sticker, some people might know they might
have gotten 1 here in the city. Uh, and then if the vehicle
isn't moved within 7 days, then streets of Sanitation can
actually tow the vehicle to take it off the street. Now, if
you're looking to sell a vehicle illegally,
right? All you have to do is take that same car. You move
to the next uh, parking space. You have park across the
street your time, resets. And that vehicle is never getting
towed.
So what we've seen time and time and time again, is the same
people selling. These cars are taking up these spaces from
residents that live in the area. So with this, uh,
Amendment to the municipal code does, and we also want to
thank chairman Mitchell and chairman Ervin for all their
work on the toe ordinances in the past. What this does to
improve upon that is it changes the process? If you as an
older person know that these uh sales, these illegal sales
are happening in your ward, you can now call your commander
CPD, will go ticket and do a toe order request and it will
be towed immediately on the spot.
What we want to do is this incentivize folks that are
selling Vehicles illegally. If you want to get your own
dealership, get a license to do. So if you want to try to
sell them pay for a lot, don't take up residence owns uh
parking spots. So this is something that for 5 years, since
we've taken office has been an issue in the 40th. Ward, I
am so glad that our our members and committee are
supportive, uh, and and so
Also equally glad that in talking to members of this
Council that there's that support as well. So I want to
thank the chairman thank the administration for their
partnership on this and look forward to getting rid of some
of these vehicles off the street. So our neighbors could
park where they need to. Thank you very much. Thank you.
The chair. Recognizes all the woman Cruise.
Thank you, Mr. President, I'm pleased to have joined um
other man Vasquez, Other Woman Gutierrez on this ordinance.
Um our residents have been dealing for this for 2 too long.
And many of the calls are that you know that these
individuals know the system, they know the 7 days and move
on from 1 side of the street. So what this ordinance does,
it doesn't hands up Public Safety increases parking space
for authorized vehicles and also expedite the tracking of
stolen and abandoned cars. But more importantly also again
gives that um parking spaces for those Vehicles, they need
to belong in the street. But also more importantly closes,
the loopholes the delays, the process, again, those 7 days
will turn out to be months and months and months. Um, now
this is about getting things done faster and also making
our streets safer and more accessible for everyone. Again,
this is a change that has done but again, like other men
vascular said for this individuals who are doing
These um, illegal, um, Car Sales, do it the right way. Get
a license contribute to the economy, the right way and also
free that space from a residents, but also a residents will
be glad to know that. Now there's action action that we can
can take in and not give them the run or run of 7 Days and
7 days. So, I'm pleased to have worked with my colleagues
also please who have had a lot of conversations with my
colleagues as well. When I there's some calls during this
weekend, so thank you. Thank you hearing. No objections,
see you in a chair recognizes
Order woman Halu kieres, thank you.
I'm also happy to join my colleagues being 1 of the
sponsors of these ordinance. And uh thank you uh
for my Vasquez and um other women cruise and mostly for
allowing me to be also a sponsor on this
and I just wanted to add. We thank you for explaining how
this ordinance will will work for us now, but I just wanted
to add that is, this is about furnace residents, should not
have to struggle because Bad actors manipulate the system
and avoid penalties. This is about safety.
Uh, no. 1 should have to walk blocks at night because
unregistered cars. Are taking up their parking spots. This
is about basic city services. Often times also our
department of Street and Sands are not able the sweeper
streets or when they need to remove snow. Also, those cars
are parked there.
So I think my colleagues for supporting these efforts.
and um, this will, uh,
Be it with stronger. Forcement will have safer streets, and
we have a better quality of life for Chicago Ones. Um, I'm
happy that we're taking action today and fixing this
problem once, and all since I took office, many of our
residents have come to our office, have put in multiple 311
requests. And as we said not that, they move the cars to
the uh, to the other side of the street by just moving a
couple of inches the car, it resets.
The clock again for the 7 days. So I'm glad that these cards
will be towed right away. And as usual, uh, I would like
just to say a few words in Spanish because I know a lot of
our constituents, uh, may need to understand these
ordinance. Because sometimes it's complicated when we have
the wording
So I just wanted to answer by sharing this story that I
just spoke in Spanish, uh, many of our constituents was, we
said, had to walk 2, 3 blocks to to find parking. And it's
not fair for others. And for our moms with little kids,
right to have to come at night struggling for find. Find
parking. So I'm glad that we together. We're able to uh,
pass this, uh, through comedy and I do. Thank you, uh,
colleagues for supporting these efforts. Thank you. Thank
you, the chair, recognizes ottoman Lopez.
Thank you, Mr. President and again, good afternoon members
of the city council. Um I wish to congratulate my
colleagues and helping to further streamline, the municipal
code that is oftentimes confounded. Many of us who deal
with
these illegal car sales.
And our communities but I also would be remiss if I didn't
point out 1 very simple. Glaring fact.
Is that oftentimes?
we have heard in this body individuals are articulating,
the need not to punish those individuals who are working on
our streets who are vending who are doing things outside of
the scope of the law. Because they are new because they are
trying to get by because they are trying to make a path for
themselves.
That is no different than what brings us to this issue.
Today individuals who go to dealership to auctions in
Indiana in Port cars by the dozens and drop them in our
neighborhood so that they could repair them in an illegal
mechanic at garage so that they could sell them on the
street so that they can continue the Underground Market.
That roads, our tax base here in the city of Chicago.
We know that the quality of life issue here.
Is that oftentimes we are struggling to remove those cars
that we see?
Sitting on our streets for 10 days because that's what the
law is 10 days. When you can finally call it in,
After that, it's an additional 7 days before it's towed.
We absolutely should be taking measures.
That Focus people back into the application and existence
within the confines of the law.
And I hope that my colleagues in doing this are willing to
work on other matters, where we have seen individuals
skirting, the law even in front of our licensed businesses.
In front of our restaurants.
In front of our stores.
just trying to get by as the argument would be
All of these things are interconnected. All of these things
are the same and all these demand just as equal amounts of
our attention.
I do also want to add Mr. President, if I met that 1 of the
other difficulties that we've had up until this point
Is the inconsistent level of enforcement.
By the police department by streets and sanitation. And by
the third peg in this,
Store the Department of Revenue.
We know that enforcement oftentimes falls apart when all of
those 3 are not in coordination
Actually they are like the Spider-Man meme where all 3 of
them are pointing at the other 1 as to why someone else has
to go write that ticket.
Many of our wards.
Rely heavily on the Department of Revenue to in fact issue
those tickets that we're talking about to begin those
processes. We're addressing
and as we are right now,
the Department of Revenue itself has divided the the city
and sends Revenue individuals out to different Wars on any
given day.
But they don't put them to the 15th and 16th where we're
neighbors, or the 17th and 18th, where they're neighbors.
My Revenue enforcement guy comes from the 24th Ward on the
west side.
And if I want Revenue to come out and do something in my
ward, I have to wait until they are finished on the west
side and vice versa. And that is a story that again repeats
itself because the issue is always the lack of consistent
enforcement.
The lack of consistent ticketing.
The lack of consistency overall between the 3 departments
who are responsible for effectuating, all of this. When
every 1 of us in this room gets those phone calls.
I have a list right now I could pull up of 14 cars that are
waiting. That either have been
Gone on arrival because as our colleague said they were
moved 7 inches or 8 inches and that restarts the clock or
because the police department didn't consider it.
As much of a danger, as we had hoped.
even though the windows are busted out,
In the airbags are deployed with 3 bullet holes in the
hood.
These kind of things.
Cannot be allowed to continue.
And what I am glad in this discussion is that we're
elevating some of the issues that we offer articulate.
Individually.
But it'll always will fall down fall, Mr. President on the
effective and consistent administration of the laws that we
have and to ensure that they are done equally and
equitably. Thank you Mr. President.
Thank you hearing no objections or any other.
Hands. The motion for the passage of this item has already
been made. So ordered chair recognizes chairman Mitchell,
Mr. President, that this concludes my report very well for
the committee on zoning landmarks and building standards
the chair recognizes
Chairman Bernett. Thank you, Mr. President, and members of
the city council, presenting a series of reports for your
committee on zoning, landmarks, and building standards,
which held in meeting on February 18th 2025. These reports
are grouped for convenience. The following items were
passed by a majority of the members present.
Page 1 contains text amendment 02025 014865 that immense
Municipal Code by requiring taping, tapping of water, mains
to be performed, only by dep Department of Water
Management, or contract contracted licensed plumbers.
I move passage of these items by the last most favorable
roll call vote of the finance committee report and the
associated unsuccessful motion to reconsider very well. The
chair recognizes ottoman spazer.
Oh, I'm
We're good. I'm sorry about that the motion hearing no
objections, no hands. So ordered
page 1 also contains text amendments, 020024 0000008 277
that creates an administrative adjustment. To allow the
conversions of ground floor, commercial space and to
residential units. I move passage of these items by the
same motion, if there is no objection, hearing none. So
ordered
Also contain.
Page 1 also contains the historical landmark designation for
Kingdom Baptist Church at 301 North Central Avenue in the
the 37th. Ward, I move passage of this item by the same
motion if there is no objection, hearing none. So ordered
Moving on pages, 1 through 11 contain, various map
amendments in the first second. Third 10th, 11th 12th,
15th. 16th. 17th 25th 2728 30th. 31st 35th. 39 43rd, 44th
4647 49th and 50th Wards. Before I make a motion, I would
like to call out a couple of items specifically, um,
file 22180 in the 46 Ward on page 11 for the black isambo
theater. Uh, Mr. Mayor, I know, uh, Alderman, clay, if she
was able to still be here with, would have liked to have
said something about the Black Ensemble Theater, but I just
want to take this opportunity to commend, um, uh, Alderman,
clay, I don't know if I did, I say Reverend Clay, all all
the I said Alderman. Okay, Alderman clay. Um, on being a
Freshman Alderman and carrying carrying this project over
the threshold and working on it. So diligently with
yourself and your staff uh,
To help such a historical. Um
Help such an historical venue to be built. Uh, this
proposal is for the Black Ensemble Theater to uh, enhance
their theater, but also have a training, uh, space and
training program to get needed parking that they need for
that theater, but also to have affordable housing for 52
units of affordable housing all affordable for
people who work in the theater. So I just want to commend
the alderman commend your staff, but also, I like to um
commend Jackie Taylor.
Who's from Cabrini Green? Uh who's very sharp on her, um
due diligence on starting from
Coolie High
to now building houses and training centers and enhancing
the theater for many other people to get into the industry
of thesbc.org.
If I did not take the opportunity to thank you and your
staff for all of the help that you have given. Um, my ward
and the United Center on their project of 1901.
um, this project we're talking about up to 94946 units,
which a 1,893 are going to be affordable. And with
negotiating, for more uh, portable units for Malcolm X
College, uh, in that number also, 25.5 Acres of Green
Space, 30% MBE and 8% wbe hiring. 20,000 construction,
and 1400, direct placement jobs in Phase 1, 32,000 total
construction, jobs and 7,000 total direct permanent jobs
for the full project.
we are so proud of this project, you know, it's uh, 2
things that in in in, in my 30 years, uh, and working with
the United Center because 30 years ago, I came and they
were building the building and they worked with the
community. So diligently, they bought all those folks back
to the table and worked with the community on this. There
was not 1 person against this project. Uh, it was such a
great meeting with all of the unions here. Uh, the
residents from uh, the neighborhood. And also institutions
uh
Rooting for this project to go. This is going to have a
major impact. On the west side has always been my goal for
2 ends of my ward, to do great, which is Cabrini Green area
in the west side and this is helping me to fulfill all of
those promises that I've uh, given to the community. This
is taken the West Side further west, and it's going to
attract more development to the community and it's going to
get rid of a lot of parking. Lots, a sea of parking lots
that have been in this neighborhood for a long time. So I
just want to commend yourself. Mr. Mayor, all of your
staff. The deputy mayor Kenya Merit, uh, commissioner, uh,
Sierra bolt Wright and also, uh, the the housing
commissioner, um, for all that, the help that they have
given us on this. And also I, I'll be remiss if I did not
acknowledge and and thank also Jason Lee for all of his
help on helping to get this passed to finish line. So I
just want to say thank you and we're very
Very excited uh about this project. And so are so many
other people uh in the community. So I moved passage of
these items Mr. Chairman, if no 1 else want to speak.
Please continue Mr. Vice mayor. Okay. So um I moved passage
of these items by the same motion um and I'll be remiss if
I did not.
I did not talk about all other neighborhood opportunity,
fund money, that's going to come from this project that's
going to help the Southside and the west side in the north
side wars in the city of Chicago. So I move passage of
these items by the same motion, if there is no objection,
hearing none. So ordered
last lastly page, 12 contains various large signs over 100
square feet in area, 24 feet above grade and the first
second 1127 302nd. 35 35th 3947 and 50th Wars. I moved
passage of these items by the same motion if there is no
objection, hearing none. So, ordered Mr. President that
concludes my report. Thank you, very well. Thank you.
You the chair recognizes Alderman, Lamont Robinson.
Mr. Mayor, thank you for allowing me this opportunity.
To members of the city council and esteemed guests, Mr.
Mayor. First, let me thank you for
Your executive order, 2024 establishing a reparations task
force. Uh, we had many of the members, uh, here today.
Also.
Acknowledging.
A formal apology, excuse me, on the behalf of the of the
city of Chicago.
For the historical wrongs against black Chicagoans?
as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of
African-Americans during Black History Month, 2025
I stand before you.
To acknowledge a painful yet undeniable truth.
The city of Chicago, like the rest of this nation has been
shaped by the enduring Legacy of slavery and racial
Injustice.
While Chicago stands as a beacon of resilience and
progress.
We must recognize that its foundation is interlined with
the struggles of African-Americans who have endured
centuries of systemic oppression.
It is fitting That We Begin by remembering that Chicago's
first indigenous. Settler Jon batiste's Point Dabo,
Was a black man of African descent.
he established the first permanent settlement on the mouth
of Chicago River in the late 18th century laying the
foundation for the great Metropolis. We know today,
Yet despite this Legacy African-Americans in Illinois, have
have faced Relentless barriers, first through the
institution of slavery, then through the unjust laws that
have restricted their freedoms and denied them from Full
participation in society. Thank you Alderman. Um Lamont
Robinson let me just offer up a point of clarity. Sorry
apologies you all
um Alderman wishes just to speak to an item that he has um
um, or will put forward. So leave from the body to allow
Alderman, Robinson to speak to this item.
Let's know, there's no, there's no action being taken up on
it.
We're not taking on any action. He's just wishes to speak
to this item. So leave point of a clarification. Dove can
this body offer leave so that almond Robinson can continue
to speak, uh, to a matter that's related, just a personal
privilege to speak to a matter. Um, that's pressing in this
moment because this body Grant him leave. All right. Thank
you. Thank you very much. Uh, Mr. Mayor, please continue
all. Thank you. And thank you to my colleagues.
even after Illinois, entered the Union,
As so-called free state in 1818 slavery, continued to
practice and free, black residents with the subject to the
Illinois Black Codes.
This oppressive laws enforced from 1819 to 1865. Stripped
African-Americans of basic rights. Barring them from
voting, testifying against White Citizens gathering in
groups or serving in militia.
Thus denying them, the right to self-defense.
The forced labor of black people included indentured
servants.
At salt mines and Southern Illinois.
Further enriching the state while denying black families,
the opportunity afforded to others.
The former abolition of slavery in 1865 did not bring an
end to racial Injustice. It instead involved into new
forms, segregation redlining disenfranchisement, and
systemic injustices and housing employment, health care and
education.
These injustices.
Perpetuated for Generations have created disparities that
still shape the live experiences of black Chicago Ones
today.
and yet, despite these injustices,
African-Americans have played a defining role in the
cultural economic, and political life of the city.
They have led movements for civil rights, labor, Justice,
and social change.
They have reached enriched Chicago through music,
literature business and faith.
Their contributions have shaped the city into what it is
today.
It is long past time.
that this
Chicago city council.
Formerly acknowledges, the harm done.
Acknowledgement is the first step to Healing.
Reconciliation and Justice, and apology alone is not enough
colleagues, but it is necessary.
by issuing this apology, we airm our commitment to riding
the past wrongs and advancing policies, that promote racial
Injustice economic Justice, and the full inclusion of
African-Americans in all aspects of Civil Life,
I call on this Council to stand on the right side of
history, let us not allow the mistakes of the past to
Define our future.
Let us ensure that the apology is not merely symbolic.
But a catalyst for lasting change.
And let our heartfelt words and the form of a city council
resolution.
Be entered into the official record as a statement to the
city of Chicago's recognition of history and its dedication
to more than just inclusive Society. Thank you very much.
Thank you very, very much Alderman, Robinson.
I do apologize. There was 1 more recognition for committee
the chair, recognizes our chairman for the committee on
special events and cultural Affairs and Recreation of the
chair recognizes Chairman's. Pisado. Thank. Thank you Mr.
President. That's what I was trying to get your no problem,
no problem. Uh, before I get my report Mr. President, I'd
like to just take a point of personal privilege about my
meeting so running a meeting. It's a very difficult thing.
Normally it's pretty easy, especially for the happy
committee, it's in and out. It's all everybody's happy.
This was a very long contentious meeting. Unfortunately, a
couple of our my colleagues were there, till I feel
disrupt, the meeting. Um, but we, we, we, we made it
through. Tried to start on, time was a little difficult,
but I never really got a chance to give my opinion. And the
whole thing was basically about,
Are dead. People feel as unacceptable me including 1 of
them. So and that's anti-American anti-semitic Arc. So
that's what this meeting was about to learn the process,
how this happens. So it's funny how some people feel that
it's okay for this art to stay. But yet art that's been up
in the city for 90 years and 50 years, meaning, the
Columbus statue would added to come down. So you're fine
with the Columbus statue coming down after 90 or 50 years
but you're not okay with a with a with a a with a with a
piece of art on a public property that I feel is
anti-Semitic and anti-American. So I appreciate me, getting
a chance to say that. And with that, I'll give you my
report now. So
Mr. President members of the city council. Thank you
reporting on your committee at special events. Cultural
affairs.
I don't know if you could call it the happy committee for
that meeting, but held the subject matter hearing on
February 4th 2025 discussing the following items uh review
of process of selecting our display in a city spaces and
also safety strategies for outdoor special events. No votes
were taken and with that. Thank you, Mr. President that
concludes my report. Thank you, Mr. Chair for the agreed
upon calendar.
Um, the chair recognizes all the woman Harris. Thank you.
I've received from clerk Andrea in Valencia, total of 186
items. Proposed for the agreed calendar. Consisting of
congratulatory commemorative, tributary resolutions from
clerk, Valencia from the following, Alder persons, all the
person Hopkins, all the person Robinson, all the person and
see. All the person. Here is all the person, Quinn, all the
person Lopez,
other person Coleman, all the person, uh, Curtis all the
person, OSHA, all the person Mosley, all the person
Rodriguez, all the person tobars, all the person Winters,
all the person Conway, all the person Ramirez, Rosa all the
person, viegas, all the person, admits all the person,
nent, all the person, Riley and all the person, their
Gardener, I move these in the Omnibus. Mr. President no
objection. So ordered for new business, the clerk will call
the wards beginning with the first.
Zodium. That means we shall refer to the committee on
zoning landmarks and building standards traffic
regulations, traffic control signals and traffic signs,
which are referred to the committee on pedestrian and
traffic safety. An exemption from physical barrier.
Requirements for commercial driveway, Ali access to parking
facilities, which are referred to the committee on
transportation and public way.
All the personal spot has proposed ordinance for amendment
of Municipal Code titles, 2 and 10 to direct Commissioner
of transportation to implement plow. The sidewalk pilot
program. And to extend end date of program, working group
to December 31st, 2026, which is referred to the committee
on pedestrian and traffic safety.
2 committees called committee on traffic and the committee
on Transportation.
The matter is referred to the committee on committees and
rules.
all the, all the person that also has proposed ordinance
for amendment of Municipal Code section, 460 023 to allow
additional package because licenses on portion of West,
Fullerton, Avenue, which is referred to committee on
license to consumer protection.
Other person list Spa also has proposed orders for
amendment of Municipal Code section. 4- 58. 030 to disallow
BYOB on portions of West Division Street, which is referred
to the committee license and consumer protection.
All the person list spot also has proposed resolution to
call for hearings on various
Functions of the city of Chicago's, Human Resources
Services Information, Technology, health insurance claims
workers, compensation and similar issues, which is referred
to the committee on the budget and government operations.
All the person list also has proposed orders for amendment
of Municipal Code section 4-60. 022 to allow additional
alcoholic, liquor licenses on portion of portions of North
Ashland Avenue, West Division Street and Northwestern
Avenue. And that this allow additional alcoholic liquor
licenses on portions of North Ashland Avenue. Northwestern
Avenue West Armitage Avenue West Division Street and North
Milwaukee Avenue, which is referred to the committee on
license and consumer protection. All the personal spot and
others have proposed orders for amendment of Municipal
Code. Chapter 17-3 by modifying section 17-10-22.
This is referred to the committee on zoning landmarks and
building standards.
All the person. Hopkins has proposed ordinance for
amendment of Miss M. Code section, 1020 020, requiring
contractors performing work on public. Way to remove all
temporary parking restrictions upon work completion. Which
is referred to the committee on pedestrian, refer to the
committee on transportation and public way.
All the person. Hopkins has a proposed ordinance for
amendment of Municipal Code section. 952 020, prohibiting
operation of bicycles scooters and low speed, electric
vehicle devices on any sidewalk which is referred to the
committee on pedestrian and traffic safety. All the person
Hopkins also has proposed ordinance for parking meters on
North
Avenue from well Street to LEL Street and to remove parking
meters on portion of North Macy from North Shifty Avenue to
West Willow Avenue, which is referred to the committee on
pedestrian and traffic, safety. Other person, Hopkins also
has proposed ordinance for amendment of Municipal Code
chapter 9-5, by modifying sections, 952120 and 952130,
prohibiting parking of low-speed, electric bicycles, and
Electric Mobility devices on the public way, which is
referred to the committee on transportation and public way.
All the persons dowel and others have proposed resolution to
to call for hearings on neighborhood. Impact the pharmacy
store closures on South and West sides which is referred to
committee on finance.
All the person Harris has proposed ordinance for amendment
of annual appropriation ordinance. The transfer funds
within the eighth, Ward. All the medic expense wage
allowance account for the year 2025, which is referred to
the committee on the budget and government operations. All
the person, Chico has proposed ordinance for vacation to
the public, alleys in the area, bonded, by South Avenue, O
East, 134th Street. South Green Bay Avenue and East 133rd
Street, which is referred to the committee on
transportation and public way. All the person lie has
various proposed orders for issuance of permits and sign
sign boards, which are referred to the committee on zoning,
landmarks and building standards. All the person who
Gutierrez has proposed to oronsay for an honorary Street
designation as officer Louise Mousa way, which is referred
to the committee on transportation and public way.
All the person.
Wescoe way, pardon which is referred to the committee on
transportation and public way. All their person Gutierrez
also has a proposed ordinance for an honorary Street
designation as Regal, Alberto Regal, Padilla Perez way
which is referred to the committee on transportation and
public way. Other person Lopez has the proposed ordinance
for amendment of Municipal Code section. 4-60 023 to allow
additional packages because licenses on on portion of West,
59th Street, which is referred to the committee on license
and consumer protection. Other person Lopez also has
proposed ordinance for the
The Department of Business Affairs and consumer protection
to authorize them to issue. Emer emerging business. Permit
holders allowance for at least an Unleashed
least dogs with licensed Tavern, premises, which is
referred to committee on license and consumer protection.
All the person Lopez and others have proposed orders for
amendment of Municipal Code section 7-12-21, which is
referred to the Committee on Public Safety.
All the person Lopez has proposed orders for amendment of
Municipal Code section 2922420, including Freeman America,
as minority as minority group within minority women-owned
business Enterprise procurement program, which is referred
to the committee on Contracting oversight.
Other person Lopez also has a proposed orders for amendment
of Miss mood section. 292 d605 requiring. Affidavit from
existing contractors working, with City of Chicago.
Verifying non-utilization of any supply chain using sweat,
shop labor, which is referred to the committee on health
and human relations.
While the person Lopez also has proposed D for amendment of
Miss mood, chapter 2-80, by modifying section, 2-8-0 040 to
revive to revise, composition of community commission for
Public Safety and accountability, which is referred to the
Committee on Public Safety.
All the person Lopez and others have opposed order for
Corporation Council the Department of Law. The chief
procurement officer and the department of procurement
services are being directed to cease business operations
with Barns and Thornburg LLP, which is referred to
committee on ethics.
All the person Lopez also has all the person Lopez and
others have a proposed order post resolution to call for
hearings on City of Chicago business operations with
Thornburg LLP, which is referred to the committee on ethics
and government oversight.
All the person calling has a proposed. Order from amendment
of Municipal Code section 4-. 60- 023 to allow additional
package Goods licenses and portion of West Garfield
Boulevard, which is referred to the committee on license
and consumer protection. All the person Moore has the
proposed ordinance for amendment of Municipal Code section.
17-9-22 to include definition of beauty shop as any
business offering cosmetology services. And any retail
store primarily selling personal grooming items related.
Regarding permitted, use within business districts, which
is referred to community and Zoning, landmarks and building
standards. All the person. Taylor has a proposed ordinance
for vacation of public alleys in the area of bonded by
South Kelly, Med Avenue East 60th Street South Dr. Martin
Luther King Junior drive and East 61st Street which is
referred to the committee on transportation and public way.
All the person Mosley, has the proposed orders for an
honorary Street designation as Maple Park Way which is
referred to the committee on transportation and public way.
All the person Rodriguez has a proposed ordinance for
amendment of Municipal Code section 9.
642 06 to establish parking meter hours of operation, on
portions of South Springfield Avenue, which is referred to
the committee on pedestrian and traffic safety. All the
person Rodriguez also has proposed orders for the issuance
of permits for sign, sign boards, which are referred to the
committee on zoning landmarks and building standards.
Other person. To the bar, says, proposed an ordinance for
Amendment of the annual appropriation ordinance. That
transfer funds within the 23rd. Ward wage allowance account
for the year 2025, which is referred to the committee on
the budget and government operations. All their person.
Bernett has proposed for parking meters on at 2:01 through
299. South Sangamon Avenue, which is referred to the
committee on pedestrian and traffic safety.
All in Irving, has the proposed ordinance for amendment of
Municipal Code section. 46 022 to allow additional
alcoholic, liquor licenses on portion of Southwestern
Avenue, which is referred to the committee on license and
consumer protection. All their person Irvin also has
proposed orders for the issuance of permits for signed sign
boards, which are referred to the committee on zoning
landmarks and building standards. All the person Irvin also
has a proposed ordinance for amendment of Miss code,
section, 333, 040, authorizing, accredited production,
certificate holders to be exempt from certain taxes, which
is referred to the committee on finance.
All the person, Cardona has the proposed Ordnance for
amendment of Municipal Code. Title 9 to expand. Definition
of hazardous.
Dilapidated Motor Vehicles to include damaged tires,
windows or openings exposing Vehicles whether which is
referred to the committee and pedestrian and traffic
safety.
All the person wages pack has proposed orders for the
issues of, excuse me, for the issuance of permits for sign
sign boards at 3335 North Ashland Avenue which are referred
to committee and Zoning landmarks in building standards.
standards. All the person that areas Rodriguez. Sanchez has
a proposed ordinance for amendment of Miss M, code section
allow additional package, licenses on portion of West
Irving Park Road, which is referred to the committee on
license and consumer protection. Other person, Rodriguez,
Sanchez also has a proposed ordinance for Amendment of the
annual appropriation, Ordnance to transfer funds within the
committee on health and human relations for the year 2025,
which is referred to give me on the budget and government
operations. Other person review. Sanchez also has a
proposed ordinance for Amendment of the annual
appropriation, Ordnance to transfer funds within the
committee on health and human relations for Personnel
Services, which is referred to the committee on the budget
and government operations. All the person. Rodriguez,
Sanchez also has proposed the order for Amendment of the
annual appropriation orders, the transfer funds within the
33rd Ward, all the medic expense account, which is referred
to the committee on the budget and government operations.
Other person Ramirez, Rosa, and all the person Fuentes have
a proposed ordinance for amendment of Municipal Code
section 1733 0500 to designate portion of West Armitage,
Armitage Avenue as a pedestrian street, which is referred
to committee and Zoning landmarks and building standards
all their person, vagus and others have proposed resolution
that the commissioner of Human Resources be directed to
reject or disqualify any applicant for City employment.
Who participated in the January 6th riots at the US Capitol,
which is referred to the committee on Workforce
Development.
All the person in Vegas, has proposed ordinance for
amendment of Mr. Code section 292412 to authorize Chief,
procurement officer to allocate percentages of contract,
base bids as specified for contracts over 100,000 dollars,
which is referred to the committee on Contracting
oversight. All the other men Spas has proposed ordinance
for Amendment of the annual appropriation ordinance to
correct transfer funds within 38th Ward wage allowance. All
the medic expense account for the year 2024, which was
referred to the committee on the budget and government
operations. Almond Vasquez has a proposed ordinance for
amendment of Municipal Code title, 3 by adding a new
chapter 3-57 establishing hemp beverage tax on beverages,
sold at retail that contain up to 80 mg of THC, which is
referred to the committee on finance 2 committees called
committee on finance and the committee on rules, the Meuse
referred to the committee on committees and rules.
All the person in the politano has proposed order for the
issuance of permits for sign, sign boards, at 8101 West
Higgins Avenue Higgins Road, which is referred to the
committee on Sony, landmarks and building standards.
All the person to palitana when others have proposed order
that the commissioner of cultural Affairs, be directed to
reinstall all public artworks removed from the Chicago
monuments project. This is referred to the committee on
special events.
All the person in the politano also has a proposed
ordinance for Amendment of the annual appropriation
ordinance. The transfer of funds within the 41st Ward wage
allowance account for the year 2025, which is referred to
give me on the budget and government operations.
All the person Apollo Tano and others, also have a proposed
ordinance for to refer amendment of M code chapter 2-78. By
striking disciplinary related recommendations duties from
the civilian office of police accountability, which is
referred to the Committee on Public Safety.
Oh,
2 committees called the Committee on Public Safety and the
committee on the budget and budget government operations.
The matters referred to the committee on committees and
rules.
All the person Lawson has a proposed ordinance for an
honorary Street designation as John sasky way, which is
referred to the committee on transportation and public way.
All the person lost and also has a proposed ordinance for
Amendment of the annual appropriation ordinance to transfer
funds within the 44th Ward.
All the medic wage allowance account for the year 2025,
which is referred to the committee on the budget and
governor and operations. All the person, Martin and others
have proposed ordinance for amendment of Miss makode
chapter 2-56. The modify powers and duties of the office of
Inspector General in regard to issuance of defense against
subpoenas, which is referred to the committee on ethics and
government oversight.
Your committee's call the committee on ethics and the
committee on rules.
The mayor's referred to the committee on committees and
rules.
All the person. All the person, Martin has proposed orders
for amendment of Municipal title 2 by adding new section.
2152165 prohibiting, any City officer granted access to
sensitive locations, from participating in any extremist
activity, was referred to the committee of Workforce
Development.
All the person Haden has a proposed ordinance for amendment
of Municipal Code section. 46000023 to allow additional
packages like this on portions of West Jarvis Avenue, which
is referred to the committee on license and consumer
protection.
All their person Bernett has a proposed ordinance for the
alley vacation, which is referred to the committee on
zoning landmarks and building standards.
Correction the refer to the committee on Transportation.
You're out of that concludes the presentation of all the
medic introductions be well, thank you very much for the
agreed upon the approval of the journal.
Ottoman Mitchell.
Mr. President I'm not aware of any corrections to the
general from the January 152022.
Thank you, Mr. President, I have noticed on filed 1, item
of unfinished, business with the clerk, pursuant to rule
41. This item passed in the committee on pedestrian and
traffic safety on October 21st, 2024 and was deferred and
published at the October 22nd. 2024 city council meeting by
myself and older woman groups. This item is 02024 0000010
0990 Amendment of the municipal code section. 9-12 Dash,
070 establishing a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour
on streets, 15 miles per hour in alleys and absolute
statutory non-urban limit of 55 miles per hour,
Pursuant to rule 33 of distributed. A substitute ordinance
via email. And in person today this substitute ordinance
was created in collaboration with the Department of Law and
adds language that includes an explicit determination by
the city council that they have found that the statutory
speed limit is greater than is reasonable or safe. And that
the finding is based on the traffic engineering
investigation from C dot that has also been distributed
today.
Mirrors. The language in the Illinois, vehicle code
regarding Urban and non-urban speed limits as well as
defines what an urban district is and clarifies that
changes made to the speed limits prior to the effective
date of January 1st 2026 are still in effect and finally
clarifies that the lower speed limit will be enforceable.
Only after signs are erected,
I asked for acceptance of this. Substitute ordinance by a
roll call vote.
Very well. There's a motion on the floor to accept this
substitute motion by a roll call vote.
Madam clerk. Could you please is anyone wish to speak to
this item seeing no hands?
Madam clerk, could you please provide the necessary?
Mater, or you have the material?
So you're ready to go. Okay, right, that's right. I agree,
Wi-Fi sold down.
Yes, I could offer that Mr. Um, Alderman, the chair
recognizes Alderman, Bernett. Thank you. I I, what are we
getting ready to vote on something? So, very well. I can
offer some clarity. So, this is, um, this current motion is
to accept the substitute for the, the, the entire, um,
Amendment or ordinance. So, this is just the acceptance of
the substitute, but not the full item just yet.
So in other words a, yes, vote will place the The
Substitute before the item before before the body.
Apologies.
The chair recognizes automatic bill, Mr. President,
something of this magnitude should be discussed in
committee and not an amendment on his face at city council.
This is, this is a huge deal for the city of Chicago. And
this needs to be debated in committee and not in an
amendment on its face on the floor.
Very well. Thank you almond. Still chair, recognizes
almond. Laspada sir if it if it is helpful there is nothing
in the substitute that
Alters the intention or the purpose or the effect of what
was already passed in committee, it simplify clarifies it
and brings it into accordance with the Illinois vehicle
code as requested by the Department of Law.
Thank you. The chair recognizes ottoman, Iran.
No. Okay, so again, this item that is brought before us
this substitute.
Um, a yes, vote allows for the full item to be brought
before this body.
So the in other words, the acceptance of this substitute
does not necessarily automatically lend to full passage of
the item. This is just the substitute that is as ultimately
laspata has clarified. Um, situates the language in
accordance with repeat that again, with the State Illinois
vehicle code very well.
All right. Uh, the chair recognizes Alderman Mitchell.
Question to the ottoman, why? Well, I think so I think you
have your direct your question towards me. Yes. Question.
Why was not? I agree with ottoman. Bill that should be
presented in committee for discussion.
Just voted in. I hear what you but please did. Did you wish
to finish your statement towards me? All right my sentence.
Okay. Very well. Okay, so the clerk is prepared to take the
roll call vote on the substitute.
All right, alderman laspata.
Laspata is a yes, Alderman Hopkins.
Not president Chambers alderwoman Dow.
Dal is a no Alderman, Robinson. Robinson is a yes.
Alderman. Nancy.
Yancey is a yes, Alderman Hall.
Hall is a yes, Alden Mitchell.
Mitchell is a no.
Alderwoman Harris.
Harris is a no.
Alderman, Beale.
Beal is a no Alderman, Chico.
Chico is a no Alderman, Lee.
Lee is a no.
Alder alderwoman Ramirez.
Okay, I was like, I was confused for a moment. Ramirez is a
yes
Uh lee they know Ramirez is a yes Alderman Quinn.
Quinn is a no.
Alderwoman Gutierrez.
Gutierrez is a yes.
Alderman Lopez.
Lopez is a, yes.
Alderwoman Coleman.
Coleman is a no Alderman Moore.
Moore is a yes, Alderman Curtis
Curtis is a, yes.
Alderman. OSHA
Osha is a yes, alderwoman Taylor.
Alderwoman Taylor, are you there?
Okay. Alderman. Mosley
Mosley is a, yes.
Um, Alderman Rodriguez.
Rodriguez is a yes, Alder woman. Tara us
To Barr say no alderwoman Scott.
Scott is a no.
Is a yes. I'm sorry Clark. Okay alderwoman Taylor is a yes.
Um, Alderman, C2 Lopez teacher Lopez is a yes. All the
person Fuentes.
Cuentas is a yes.
Alderman Bernett.
Bernette is a no Alderman. In is a no.
Alderman, tal Aero.
Tal Affair is a no.
Alderwoman Cruise.
Cruise is a no.
Alderman, Cardona.
Cardona is a no.
Alden waguespack.
Waguespack is a yes.
Alderwoman Rodriguez, Sanchez.
Rodriguez. Sanchez is a yes.
Alderman Conway.
Conway is a yes Alderman Ramirez. Rosa
Ramirez, Rosa is a yes.
Almond Vegas.
Vegas is a no.
Alderwoman mitts.
Mitts is a no.
Alderman pasado.
Pasado, is a no.
Alderman. Nugent.
New is a no almond Vasquez.
Vasquez is a yes, Alderman Napolitano.
Palano is a no almond Riley.
Almond Riley, you there.
Okay. Alderman canson
Is a yes.
Alderman Lawson.
Lawson is a yes almond Gardner.
Gardner is a no.
Alderwoman clay.
Yes.
Clay is a yes.
Water in his remote.
We did not. What do I do?
Yeah, so I can't take her. Okay.
I will not, uh, count all the women clay because we did not
accept her for remote participation yet.
Okay, Alderman. Martin
is a yes.
Alderwoman, Mana hoppenworth.
Mana hoppenworth is a yes.
Alderwoman Haden.
Haden is a yes, alderwoman Silverstein.
Silverstein is a know. Are there any others that need to
vote? Haven't
Oh, okay.
Oh yeah.
No. Oh, here we go.
You're now.
This is a yes.
When is it now Ramirez is a guest.
Stacey Ramirez.
More is a yes.
Very well. Madam clerk. Please proceed.
Several uh the roll call is now closed very well. Thank
you.
All right, very well, there are 25 yeses, 22 NOS this
motion passes.
now, for
That's blue. That's 26 to pass an ordinance.
That's how we understand it. Now there is a member that
wishes to be added to the roll call for remote
participation.
Um, older woman clay has requested to participate in today's
meeting remotely at least at this portion stated for rule.
for rule. 59, can I get a motion to approve her remote
participation? It's been moved and seconded all those in
favor. Signify by saying, I
any oppose say no this motion passes, she will be added to
Add her as a remote participant.
Okay, first of all, we're not just a second just for
pointing for clarification. She is being added for remote
participation not to the vote. That's what the motion was
poor rule. 59 is everybody? Clear of what it, what it was.
All right, very well, so
Since they all approved to add.
Alderwoman clay.
For remote participation we can now proceed with the rest
of the order of business.
For city council. And let's just make sure all the woman
Clay is actually still here.
Alderman, clay, are you here?
Present.
Very well. That is her voice. So she will be added to re be
able to participate remotely.
Okay, very well. The chair recognizes alderman. Laspata.
Uh, Mr. President, if others wish to speak, I request the
right to open debate.
Well, we have not I well I know you would think that but I
would actually ask permission to speak first on this item
very well. So the item and we just restate the item then
again. So that we know what we are debating And discussing.
So in, in regulation with the Illinois vehicle code, this
ordinance seeks to lower the city. Statutory speed limit
from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour.
the speed limit in alleys to 15 miles per hour and
the like non-urban area maximum speed limit to 55. Broadly
speaking, it is to lower the stat storage speed limit. Very
well I think we're all clear. Um yes you may commence.
Thank you very much Mr. President I
I'm grateful.
For the spirited debate on this topic. I am beyond grateful
for the conversations that we've had in committee with
Advocates over the phone over the last year because we have
have highlighted in a more powerful way than ever ever
before the relationship between speed and Traffic Safety in
the city of Chicago. And I, I want to speak to how we got
to this moment.
Why this ordinance and more importantly why? Right now?
Uh, a lot of people have talked to me about, um, speeding
in the city.
Speed limits is not a 1 size, fits all issue. That's a
common refrain that I've heard, but in fact, we do have 1
size in a broad sense. We do have a statutory speed limit
in the city of Chicago, which is 30 miles per hour with a
number of different, uh, exceptions where we have
infrastructures sometimes next to schools, but 30 miles per
hour.
The challenge with that. It is based off of
Poor and old information. It is based off of misinformation
that we have communicated for the decades about what is a
safe speed to drive your car in the city of Chicago.
It's not and we know this from the experience of other
cities who have already led the way on this.
So I want to give some examples and none of these are from
myself. They are from the city's annual traffic crash
report they are from the traffic study that c dot actually
did on this topic.
we know that when the city of New York lowered their speed
limit, a decade ago to 25 miles per hour, they experienced
a 39% reduction in total crashes, and a 23% decrease in
pedestrian deaths. They experienced this regardless of any
changes in enforcement regardless of any changes in
infrastructure
we know, similarly, for the city of Boston, they experience
a decrease decreases in speeds across the board, but
particularly for vehicles, going at the fastest most
dangerous speeds, again, they did this without changes to
enforcement.
Seattle, when they lowered their speed limit from 30 to 25
miles per hour,
made no changes to enforcement. No changes to
infrastructure. They didn't even do what we were do, which
would be a public education campaign around this across the
board. They saw 20% decrease in injury related crashes and
slower speeds at every level.
I could talk about Atlanta, Washington, DC, Toronto,
Minneapolis Oak Park, all of them, we might say, well, none
of these are Chicago, Chicago. Chicago is a very unique
city, which is true. But we are not so unique as to expect
that we would Bene experience, none of the benefits of
this. I can even give you a Chicago example that was
Highlighted in the city's, own traffic study on this topic
Broadway between Foster and Devon. The city lowered the
speed limit from 30 to 25 miles per hour.
No changes in infrastructure. No changes in speed cameras,
still, saw significant decreases in speeds
all of this matters because even that 5 mile per hour
difference
Cuts in half the likelihood that your vehicle kills, the
person that it crashes into
Why are we doing this right now?
Despite the fact that I would say notably we have never in
the past decade had fewer than 100 traffic fatalities in
any given year. This is an essential tool. All of the tools
are needed. The way. We're changing infrastructure, is
effective the way. We're changing enforcement.
To be more Equitable transparent and effective is needed.
But this is an essential tool that every other City, our
Advocates even C dot as recognized and I want to read from
their own words on this.
In conclusion of their traffic studies. C dot says this
traffic engineering investigation determines that
comprehensively enacting a 25 mile per hour. Speed limit is
a reasonable and safe approach to improving Traffic Safety
across Chicago. They go on to say, analyses of the traffic
and Engineering conditions of the streets. And highways
within, and under the jurisdiction of the city of Chicago,
indicate, that lowering speed limits and implementing
complete streets infrastructure, results in a reduction in
traffic fatalities, in contributes to a safer
transportation system.
but why now,
So, we know that some of the most dangerous streets in the
city are those under the jurisdiction of the Illinois
Department of Transportation?
Who control 10% of our roadways, but they account for 40%
of all traffic fatalities.
In conversation with our State Legislative Partners in
conversation. With the new secretary of I do we know that
they stand committed and ready to act with us on lowering,
the speed limit on those streets as well.
But they are not going to act until we act. Not only does
that make those streets safer but it has been confirmed by
the Department of Transportation. And it also removes the
need for the vast majority of the additional signage, that
would be needed for us to implement that. So the 2.6
million dollar cost that we've talked about on various
levels
Virtually disappears with eye dots collaboration on this.
But if we wait until after their legislative window is
closed, we lose that opportunity.
So there need for collaboration and coordination at this
moment is great and I would only close
By saying this feels like a deeply emotional topic for me
as well.
when I go through the sleep,
there is a decal that I was given of a 3-year-old that I
keep on my bicycle that I look down at every time that I
ride, she is the age that my daughter will be in September
and she lost her life.
To a traffic crash when in 2022.
She was 1 of 160 Chicagoans who lost their lives that year.
She would be going into kindergarten this year, if she was
still with us.
and I cannot continue to look down at her memory at that
grief and on a daily basis pass or Tyler fabc died in my
ward. Where Kevin Clark died in my ward. Where First Ward
resident? Sam Bell died. Making his way through the city.
And not know that I had a tool.
That I had to wait to act that. By every point of data will
prevent hundreds of deaths in Chicago, over the next
decade.
And not act on that as quickly as I could.
So, for these Reasons, I'm grateful for the conversations
and the collaboration that we've had and at the close of
debate, I do ask, um, a roll call vote on this matter.
Thank you.
Thank you Alderman. Are there any other orders that wish to
speak to this item?
Chair recognizes Alderman, spaz.
Thank you, Mr. President
I don't doubt.
My colleagues sincerity 1 bit in a perfect world. I wish he
was 100% right. People are out of control in the city and I
could only mainly speak for the northwest side. I just feel
if they're slowing down on. Harlem Avenue is a main street
in my word Irving if they're going to get off of Harlem or
Irving because they don't want to do 25. They're going to
start going down the side streets. You want to talk about
accidents and people getting hurt. I don't know about
people getting killed, but getting hurt. You're going to
see more accidents, more people getting hurt on the side
street. So um, I just think it's a bad idea. Um, I'm a
totally against it so therefore I will be a no, thank you,
Mr. President, thank you. The chair recognizes alderwoman.
Maria Haden
Thank you, Mr. President, I rise in support of this
ordinance, I appreciate my colleague, alderman laspada for
working, so tirelessly on this. Um, and so deliberately
Um, I also um, you know, the work that he's been doing on
this reducing the speed limit working to improve our
traffic safety for everyone. This is not just for
bicyclists or pedestrians, but also for those of us driving
in vehicles. Um, we're going to get to where we need to go
and we're going to get there on time. Um, I know that our
Department of Transportation will work to make adjustments
to, you know, traffic timing and things of that sort. But
we know that with our public transit with our, uh, you
know,
well-maintained streets to the best of our ability. Um,
there's plenty of data that shows that this is not going to
have a negative impact on people's lives. It's going to
have a positive 1. Um, we need safer streets for everyone
in the city of Chicago, and this initiative also has the
support of our Chicago Progressive caucus. So I really um,
urge folks to support this
Um urge folks to think about how this is going to make your
neighborhood safer. Um, it's not going to it's not going to
create more traffic. It's not going to take you longer to
longer to get where you need to go. We need uh, enforcement
around this as well in order to make sure that it works. Um
but especially in our neighborhoods that slower traffic is
going to help your main streets. It's going to help your
business districts. It's going to make it feel safer for
you guys to have kids being walked to school. Um, so um,
thank you Alderman laspada. Thank you.
Mr. President for allowing me to speak and I hope my
colleagues will support this measure.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman. Ervin.
Thank you, Mr. President um,
I, I understand and, and
this logic that if you,
Go slow.
That.
Less people are are impacted.
Um,
however,
who's really impacted?
I've got people that can barely.
Pay their bills.
and a
speed camera.
Ticket.
and,
25 or 30 miles, an hour can
Be a a vast difference for some people's budgets.
Smoking.
Is bad.
We raised taxes on smoking to drive down.
Sales. But we also opened up a very illicit Black Market in
many communities.
While I understand.
Where the sponsor comes from on this issue. Um, I don't
believe that the full impact across all of Chicago has been
thought about. And what this would mean to everyone. We
have a system in place that if
People feel that in certain communities that speed limits
lead to be lower that they can do that.
Imposing a Citywide.
Um,
lowering of the speed limit, will have unintended
consequences that may not be. Have may not have been looked
at today.
I think about interactions with the police department and
they said that there's there'll be no more enforcement,
it's illogical to believe that. If you lower the speed
limit, that there will be
Less tickets. It just doesn't make sense. So these
interactions continue. We've got a lot more challenges to
think about and deal with than lowering, our speed limit
from 30 miles an hour, 25 miles an hour. Now at the state
makes a decision to do such then I understand that I don't
think that this is necessarily in our best interest at this
time because it has a disproportionate impact on certain
communities again understand. So
Communities, it may be fine but the folks that I represent
are looking for low speed limit, so they can get more
tickets. They're not looking for low speed limit so they
can have more interactions uh with the police department.
They're not looking for lower speed limits because they're
trying to get the work to do things to get the, get the
lies in order. I just think this 1 size fits a fits all
approach for the city on. This is just not the right
direction that we need to go in. Unfortunately, I
understand the the sponsors uh
Situation. However, as far as residents uh, in the 28th
War, uh, there's not to necessarily support for this
measure and I would ask that people have that consideration
because what may work in 1 part of our city may not work in
other parts of our city. Because the city of Chicago is not
a homogenous, we're not the same. And I think that people
need to understand that we have various constituents
constituencies that we represent. And I'm hopeful that
people understand that. Hey, it may work in some
communities, but may not work in other communities, and I
think we all need to understand that. So I'm asking that
everyone, uh, in that consideration, uh, vote no on this
matter.
Chair recognizes. Thank you. The chair recognizes Alderman
Lopez.
Thank you, Mr. President
And again, good afternoon members of the city council.
I think hell must have frozen over because I rise in
agreement with my colleague from the west side.
We are not all the same in the city of Chicago.
And there should be serious consideration given.
To.
What we are about to do.
To create a universal universally applied law.
That needs to be informed and will be enforced.
By the Chicago Police Department.
Last year.
August of 2024.
In Justice, watch did a report.
With regards to the 200,000 traffic stops. That went
unaccounted for by the Chicago Police Department.
Many of those were considered some of those pretextual
stops which we are about to have a lawsuit on.
Today.
things that are Universal in the city of Chicago aside,
from the speed limit,
Things like failing to turn.
Without a turn signal.
Broken tail. Lights, license. Plates tints.
All of these things.
As well as speeding.
Are grounds.
For being pulled over by the police department.
They are enforcing laws.
In this city.
There, what some in this room would call pretextual stops?
And which some many of whom are arguing today.
For a lower speed limit.
Are wanting to add.
New.
To the municipal code.
To stand in here today while on 1 side of your mouth
saying, we have to end pretextual stops. While on the other
saying, let's have another 1.
Pick the lane you want to drive in, whether it's your bike,
or your car, or choose a lane.
Because the hypocrisy of this argument, the duplicity of
it.
Is insulting.
Who's going to be the 1 in forcing a lower speed limit?
We know.
That in many of our communities. And especially after this
last budget, we are going to see
an explosion of cameras throughout the city of Chicago,
speed cameras in particular,
we have people who routinely come to our offices, come to
this body, who have made whole campaigns to stop the red
light Camp to stop the cameras to say that they are
unfairly and unequivocally and unequally distributed
throughout the city of Chicago. And that is a 100% true.
Because we know that since
The placement by cidat.
That they're not in every neighborhood.
Some neighborhoods would love to have them along the lake
and other neighborhoods have 1 every other block.
we know that we have issues when it comes to
enforcement.
And equality.
We hear about it constantly. And yet, here we are today to
have this conversation.
I know I have seen.
People get hit.
I know that whether it's posted at 20 miles per hour in
front of a school,
30 in the neighborhood.
If you've got a jerk in a car that doesn't care, it's not
going to matter whether it's 20, 25 or 30.
We also have a huge in influx of individuals who don't even
know what the law is for driving a car to be perfectly
honest with you.
And the same applies for those on a bike as well.
Because stop signs. Do apply to them.
Intersections, do apply to them.
There's a lot of things that we need to do before we get to
this point in my opinion.
But what I find?
Most egregious in this entire conversation.
Is to sit here in this room and hear about a tool that can
save lives.
When this room?
Chose to take away a tool that saved lives in my community.
It saves lives in. Police districts, all across the city of
Chicago, the same people who want a new tool to save
people's lives.
Had no care in the world.
About taking away a tool that recorded 260,000 bullets.
Being found in the city of Chicago that saved a thousand
people from bleeding to death in the streets.
The hypocrisy.
Is so thick.
With these arguments of choosing when we want tools. And
when we don't,
When we want to protect people's lives, and when we don't.
And so my colleagues Point whose lives were trying to
protect
Because no 1 caredean.
On the south and west side in Latino communities that had
shot spotter or I should say gunshot detection technology.
And who wanted and communities that didn't have it, but
wanted it to make sure that they had it.
It's not hard to stay on topic, folks.
Safety is safety.
And Mr. President, if we're going to have these
conversations, great have a thoughtful conversation about
how, we ensure that we are doing everything to keep people
safe, how everything is connected.
And not just jumping so that we could be the first so that
somebody else can follow suit.
Or that we're not thinking, what the full impact is.
Or what we're doing by trying to go for a certain agenda
that's squeezing out. Both businesses communities.
And our residents.
We know what our city is, we know what our City's needs are,
and it's our time that we vote accordingly in a way that
makes sense for the entire city of 77 neighborhoods. Thank
you Mr. President.
The chair recognizes alderwoman Lee.
Thank you, Mr. President um,
I do want to say thank you to chair laspata for all the
work that he's done on this and we've we've had lots of
conversations um about this particular ordinance 1 of the
top. Um concerns I get walking in the door at the 11th,
floor is traffic calming, so it's not an unfamiliar
conversation. And I've been working with s dot in many ways
to calm traffic in lots of different areas in my ward. Um
And, and I agree with all of the studies that are out there
about lowering the speed limit, um, by 5 miles an hour is
the difference between saving a life. Um, and not
My biggest problem though is getting people to go under 40
miles an hour in my ward.
today, um, and just lowering the speed limit 25 miles
without what I feel is uh inadequate consideration for what
enforcement looks like and what other infrastructure
projects could go along to complement that um feels
incomplete to me.
I don't want to belabor the point. We've been here, it's a
long day. Um,
I'm I'm, uh,
I don't want to vote against lowering, the speed limit
because I agree that people should be slowing down. I just
don't think that what is being proposed right now is
enough. And with that, I'm going to be a no today. Thank
you.
Chair recognizes all do. I mean Cruise?
Thank you, Mr. President, I also have been part of the
meetings and reviewing all this data that has been shared
with us.
I believe in common measures and that's why I have taken
action in my ward to implement many call measures
throughout the streets that we have. I also have bicyclists
who have been hit and killed
and while I support some of this information and have seen
it myself,
I, I am traveling with the fact that we had agreed to have
a working group.
A working group that was going to hear, everybody's
concerns that we're going to address things, and we're
going to come out with a better plan.
But also is troubling to me when I hear from, you know,
leaders and see that. And says we're we're working on
getting all the details. We're not opposing to it. Clearly.
They they believe in this but we want to make sure that
we're responsible with the implementation and what will
that means to the entire city?
I have asked for that. I asked for that opportunity to make
sure that working group takes effect before taking a vote.
Making sure that our leader feels comfortable. They have
worked with the city, not only the city, the state, and the
county as well to make sure it again that this is going to
be an implementation that's going to be carry on and we're
asking for time we're asking for things and it it's really
hard to support something where I feel that we're rushing
rushing to something, and we're not really addressing
everything that we have to. This is a big thing for the
city of Chicago. Again, it it's, it's hard for me to vote
on something that I believe in common mentions. I believe
in certain things but I also have to do the responsible
thing. And if time has not been given to this uh, working
group and address the concerns that we have, unfortunately,
you know, it's a tough decision that I will have be taken
today. Thank you.
Chair. Recognizes Al mentality of farro.
Thank you, Mr. President. And I'll be very brief.
um,
Mr. President, it's it's been a pleasure and it's been an
honor to to sit here for for for 10 years.
Um,
And see on 1 hand, how we have and not just your
Administration but the 2 previous administrations as well.
Um, how on 1 hand we
Have really given our our minority communities. A lot of
encouragement.
uh, we provided resources and we've tried to build it up,
our minority communities um, over those 10 years and and
What can be very confusing? Um,
is on the other hand, we we we tear them down.
Just when our our, our communities are feeling encouraged
by the work that we do here.
Uh, they often disappointed in the work. We do here.
And I and I say that because speed cameras have been
controversial since they've been implemented. Um, and over
the time I've been here, there's been report after report
of how their disproportionately implemented. Um, there's
some communities that don't have speed cameras at all.
And their communities aren't necessarily impacted, uh, from
a financial perspective.
and so it becomes very dis incur or or disingenuous when I
say
when we try to build up 1 side of the communal, try to
build up 1 part of the city and then then somehow take that
encouragement from them and strike them down with a with a
measure like today.
It becomes difficult to sit down and and and swallow.
when we put speed cameras in,
disproportionately put them in minority communities,
particularly
in the black communities.
It's going to impact them financially. Now I agree with the
studies. I I don't disagree with the studies that have been
had with regard to the the possibility of saving lives.
but what I think the studies should have further done is is
is really giving us a better picture of the financial
impact that this may have in communities of color.
30 miles per hour. I believe, uh, when we reduce it to 30
He had a bigger impact and had an impact, reducing it even
further. It's going to dig into the pockets of those that
at least able to afford it.
And so,
On 1 hand, we encourage them with resources.
and on the other hand, we discourage them with taking
resources away,
Um, and so for that Mr. President, I cannot support this
ordinance until I can see a study.
That says that putting these or reducing the speed limit
in.
Across the city.
Uh, will not disproportionately impact, uh, from a
financial perspective, those in the minority Community.
Thank you.
Chair recognizes almond. Mike Rodriguez.
Thank you, Mr. President and I Rise, uh, in support of this
measure. Um, I think my colleagues for their thoughtful
approach on the item, um, but I, I just want to point to
point to the packet of information, we have right in front
of us, that speaks to the Myriad of data points that
support the suffered. Um, we're looking at 25%,
uh, decreases in the risk of death.
At some of these rates of speed, I think that's enough data
for me.
That's the data point that I need most points pointing to
say that it is my duty and obligation to support the
suffered. Um, you know, we know that our young people are
elderly or more at risk when it comes to traffic accidents
in our city and this type of effort will address those
types of disproportionate impacts on a topic related to uh,
uh, related to earlier and disproportionate impact. The
fact is, is that under our current CPD leadership, uh, uh,
uh, uh, Snelling, we have a 40% decrease in pretextual
stops and those stops those pretextual stops only about 1%
of those are related to speeding. The fact is is that this
effort. Also addresses people like myself
Friends. I drive the speed limit.
and the fact is is that I will be going from 30 miles per
hour to 25 Nick, we follow the rules and the fact is, is
that if I hit someone at 30
Versus 25. They are much less likely to die. Forgive me.
Um, I appreciate the Dynamics here going on today, but the
fact is Alderman, laspada. I thank you for your work, but I
think everyone here for engaging this debate, the fact is,
we need to do everything in our power, to make our streets
safer. Whether that's, uh, whether that's your choice to
put in, um, speed cameras, whether it's my choice to put in
traffic circles or medians, whether it should be our City's
Choice, our Advocates Choice, that's been clear. They
spoken loudly that data indicates that decreasing, the
speed limit has proven success successful across the
country. We need to join those efforts. Join the 21st
century when it comes to safety. This is 1 of those
efforts. And I encourage my colleagues to support and vote.
I thank you, Mr. President, thank you. The chair recognizes
Alder Vasquez.
Thank you very much, Mr. President um,
I really appreciate the conversation. I think we've all had
these conversations amongst ourselves but it's good to have
it in the Public Square. Um, I really want to thank uh all
chairman laspata for the work he's done. I I what I really
really appreciate about Daniel is his passion. Sometimes
comes off differently than mine for example. Uh, when I'm
worked up people can tell, uh, Daniel does the homework and
talks through the numbers, to make sure that people
understand the facts of the matter and puts in that much
work. So people understand it and it's important that we
actually talk about these things for a number of reasons.
Um,
I appreciate our colleagues bringing up Equity as a
concern. It is a very real concern.
what we don't talk about, when we talk about Equity is
who's also disproportionately impacted by traffic crashes
and vehicles hitting people,
2 to 3 times, more are black folks, and people of color
being hit by vehicles.
We want to talk about the impact financially.
Medical bills? Sure, don't help somebody try to survive and
pay their bills.
But we don't think about those things as, as my colleague
mentioned.
Just saying you lower the speed limit actually lowers the
speed limit.
Now, there's a working group that was voted on this. Last
council meeting.
To figure out how to best Implement that and talk to some
of that. And I think it's fair to do it responsibly we
should um,
But there's also a bit of disinformation, that's occurring.
We've got a colleague who mentioned talking out of both
sides of their neck while actually talking out of both
sides of their neck in a way? That's interesting. Uh, we
talked about how we don't want to increase pretextual
stops, but yet when we talk about pretextual stops, they
don't say anything about it.
If you have a problem with pretextual stops, let's talk
about police accountability.
And maybe have them focus on what their core functions of
the job are.
Now let's remind folks what the speed limit is and limit is
an important word that sometimes the council doesn't seem
to understand when it comes to speed.
The speed limit would have 1 believed that, that's the
fastest you can drive legally.
Our council members know that's not the case.
That you actually can drive up to 6 miles per hour more
before, there's any level of enforcement. So, although we
have 30 miles per hour, people can drive 36 miles per hour,
Now if that same logic carries when you bring it down to
25, you still get that 6 miles per hour. So you're actually
driving at 31 miles an hour. So explain to me. How when you
lower the speed limit you still got people driving over it.
That's what the city of Chicago does. If you want to talk
about why people are confused. It's because we don't have
Fair understanding of what the laws are.
It is very real that the speed cameras have historically
been inequitable. We know the state law happens to be is
that speed cameras are placed within 1/8 of a mile from
schools and Parks.
That is the law. Now, if you want to talk about increasing
Equity, I think it makes perfect sense to spread it out
equitably. So everyone's got the same but if we're talking
about the financial impact, the conversation we should be
having is what do we do about the fines and fees when
someone's actually been speaking
Because we know that when you have a flat rate, it affects
people differently, somebody making a hundred thousand
dollars.
It's, it's a drop in the bucket compared to somebody making
40,000 dollars a year.
So if we want to talk about Equity, when it relates, I
think we need to commend our clerk. Who's done a lot of
work, as far as addressing the actual fees, and doing it in
a way that better thinks about how people can afford to pay
these bills.
Now.
I know all of us have lived in the city of Chicago, I would
GA. I would bet a majority of us have had situations where
we almost got hit, or we were almost in a vehicle and got
hit. I myself, when I was in my 20s, somebody hit us going
about 70 miles an hour on Elston.
To the point that in the winter, we were skidding past 2
blocks.
Right.
It's not unique, it's a problem.
Getting people to just slow down.
Really, if you're going 20 to 25 is the difference between
life and death.
Everybody wants to go to heaven. Nobody wants to die. So
about we slow these cards down. Be helpful.
Uh, now I would ask you. I like that, it's good. So
I understand that we care. We've got kids that have been
dying over the past 5 years. We've got seniors that have to
race across the street. Hoping they're not getting hit.
We've got pedestrians. Trying to get from, uh, work to home
and at night, trying to travel. So let's make sure that we
do the responsible thing. And if you want to talk about the
responsibility about money and the cost,
Then we just talked about the bond and that's a problem.
So, let's think about being consistent across the board,
when we talk about how we think about cost, and how we pay
for things. So, um, I would ask for our folks and our
Council here, uh, for their favorable consideration, so
we can move this forward. It's just the right responsible
responsible thing to do. And we can have the working group
deal with the implementation in a way that makes sense and
can partner with the state to do better. Thank you, Mr.
President, you're welcome the chair recognizes Alder. Siko
Lopez.
Thank you. Uh, thank you, Mr. President and
Wasn't planning on speaking on a this item, but I do think.
Uh, I think it's important to elevate beyond beyond the
statistics, the stories.
Um, I think there was a father of, um,
Child.
Under 5 years old, who's been calling every single.
Um, word office.
I spent.
Probably about almost an hour talking to this father who
lost her little child to a traffic accident. That could
have been prevented.
This was a minor I believe a 4 year old.
That had discovered the city biking across the city during
the pandemic had developed a special bond with her father.
And I think things take a different turn when we start
talking about.
The secrecy of life and actually Believing on the secrecy
of life. But what can be done to prevent?
The loss of lives when especially when it comes to
children.
but for everybody in the city of Chicago,
I think the city council has the will and the power.
To go beyond the dichotomies of that. We got to do 1 or the
other.
The city of the city council, has the power to do. Both, we
do have the ability and the power to address protection
stops.
And we do have the will and the power.
To make sure that we address.
The speed limit to be in line. With best practices, the
city of Chicago has a long way to go to start moving away
for a car, car Centric economy, A Car, Central
transportation system, and invest in public transportation
to make sure that our families and our children and our
community can safely move around in the city of Chicago.
But I cannot
in good Consciousness, believe in the dichotomy of doing 1
or the other.
I'm glad that chairman lesparre mentioned this study by
cmap because I do think that we got to look at the facts
and we really want to invest and be mindful about what's
happening in communities of the Southern and the west side.
I think that 2023 study showed a 1.1 billion dollar in cost
associated with crashes, in Chicago, for failure to reduce
the speed limit and over 9,000, crashes.
I do believe that there's got to be more work.
With the Chicago Police Department to address protection.
The stops and that is the work that the city of Chicago has
the power and the ability to do the files. Dichotomies
I do think are costly in a time where the city of Chicago
needs us to step up to protect life.
To protect people that often times are afraid.
I think is the duty of the council.
we will have an opportunity to to talk about investing in
the south side of west side and to put people,
Before a special interest.
I do ask the council.
That we work together.
With the chairman, whose has said that his work even with
either and the commissioner at the state level, to make
sure that we are in conjunction. I think streets like
shermack and others in my community will seem way too many
fatalities and I look forward to working with you, to make
sure that we have both our responsibility away. Not to
penalize. People who are in poverty, who are afraid?
Casualties that can be prevented.
As well as protecting the secrecy of life and not only
speak here as a elected official, but a father who spoke to
another father and committed to do everything we can to
address and protect and prevent tragedies in the city of
Chicago. Thank you, chairman. Thank you. I believe those
are all the hands that I saw.
Thank you very much for those who had the desire to speak,
there is another Alder that regrets that they had to.
Bounce. So older Hopkins.
Has requested to participate remotely.
For reasons, stated in rule, 59 can I get a motion to
approve? The remote participation, there's a motion, Madame
clerk, could you confirm that? Um, ottoman Hopkins is
actually online.
Madam clerk. Could you confirm, um, if Alderman Hopkins is
actually online
Alderman, Hopkins. Are there.
Present, thank you. All right, very well can um, is very
well. All those in favor.
Of this motion signify by saying I and oppose say nay in
the opinion of the chair.
Eyes. Have it? So Madame clerk. Thank you. Please add
Department Hopkins, as a participant put remotely.
All right. Now, I believe that the chair requested that
this item be voted with a roll call and, and that stands
the motion has been renewed.
So thank you all for being patient today. Madam clerk,
thank you for this incredible material that is available.
Now for those to participate you are now in the hands of
our Clerk.
Thank you for your patience today. The Wi-Fi
still acting funny, but we're going to
Keep it moving. All right alderman laspata.
Laspata is a yes.
Alderman Hopkins.
No.
Okay. Other than Hopkins is a no.
Alderwoman d.
D is a no.
Alderman Robinson.
Robinson is a, yes.
Alder uh, Alderman. Nancy.
Nancy is a no.
Alderman Hall.
Alden Hall is a yes.
Alderman Mitchell.
Mitchell is a no.
Alderwoman Harris.
Is a no.
Alderman Beal.
Beal is a no almond Chico.
Chico is a no Alderman, Lee.
Lee is a no.
Alderwoman a Ramirez.
Ramirez is a yes.
Alderman Quinn.
Quinn is a no.
Alderwoman Gutierrez.
Gutierrez is a yes.
Alderman Lopez.
Lopez as they know.
Alderwoman Coleman.
Coleman is a no.
Alderman Moore.
Moore is a no.
Alderman. Curtis
Curtis is a, yes.
Almond OSHA.
OSHA is a no.
Alderwoman Taylor.
Alderwoman Taylor you there?
Yes.
Okay. Uh is that a yes, vote.
Yes. Okay, perfect. Got you down as a, yes.
Alderman Mosley.
Mosley's a no Alderman Rodriguez.
Rodriguez is a yes, although I'm in Tabares
Tabares is a no Alder woman Scott.
Scott is a no Alderman, CTO Lopez.
Teacher Lopez is a yes, Alder person Fuentes.
Friend is a, yes.
Alderman Bernett.
Bernette is a no Alderman, Ervin.
Irvin is a no alderman talifero.
Talifero as a.
No alderwoman Cruise.
Cruise is a now.
Alderman, Cardona.
Cardona know.
Alderman waguespack.
Waguespack is a yes.
Alderwoman Rodriguez, Sanchez.
Rodriguez. Sanchez is a yes.
Alderman Conway.
Conway is a yes.
Wagas. Pack is a yes.
Waggles pack of the, yes.
Alderman Ramirez. Rosa.
Ramirez, Rosa is a yes.
Alderman. Viegas.
Viegas is a no.
Alderwoman mitts.
Mitts is a no alderman pasado.
Pasado, is a no.
Alderman. Alderwoman nugget.
Nugget is a no.
Alderman Vasquez.
Vasquez is a yes, almond Napolitano.
Napolitano is a no.
Alderman. Reilly
Alderman, Reilly you there.
Okay. Alderman canson
Ken is yes.
Alderman Lawson.
Lawson is a yes, Alderman Gardner.
Gardner is a no alderwoman clay. Yes.
Clay is a yes, Alderman, Martin.
Is a yes.
Aldo and Mana happen with
Mana happen with is a yes, alderwoman Haden.
Haden is a yes, alderwoman Silverstein.
Silverstein is a know, anyone I miss
Okay.
The Voting is now closed.
I know it's it's here. We're catching up over here.
Very well. There are 21 years.
28, Nays this motion fails um, Alderman Hall on the motion
to reconsider
reconsider ottoman Mitchell on the motion to reconsider,
there's a motion to reconsider all those in favor of the
reconsideration of this vote signify by saying, I
All those opposed say no. Right. This motion, fails
farewell, Alderman Mitchell, any other business.
I don't write any other unfinished business.
Are you aware of any other unfinished business?
1 second.
Right. All right.
Um, I'm aware of 3 pieces of miscellaneous business, but
but you're not aware of any other unfinished business. Very
well.
Thank you. So now for miscellaneous, businessman Mitchell.
Good job. I'm not the, I'm aware of 3 pieces of
miscellaneous, business filed, by Alderman Vasquez, almond,
Lopez, and ottoman Bill. The second item was disposed of
earlier. This meeting the first item was filed by Alderman
Vasquez, and I divert deferred to him very well. The chair
recognizes Alder Vasquez. Thank you, Mr. President, um,
after uh really good, faith conversations with the
administration with uh, budget share Irvin and education,
chair. Taylor, uh, we are actually withdrawing the rule 41,
so we can pass it through committee and through the city
council next month. So wanted to save you guys some time.
Thank you so much, farewell. Thank you.
There are no objections there.
Uh, Alder Mitchell. Almond Mitchell on any other
miscellaneous items.
The second item was filed by ottoman Lopez. However, the
resolution he proposed to move to discharge from the
committee Was Heard by the committee on health and human
relations on February. 18202 and reported our earlier. This
meeting
Very well. So this item has been disposed of. Uh thank you
Alderman Mitchell.
So we're doing this. All right. The third item was filed by
ottoman bill and I defer to him very well. Thank you the
chair recognizes Alderman, Bill. Thank you, Mr. President,
I'll be real brief. Uh, Mr. President, I have talked to
numerous, uh, chairman, uh, and members of this body,
Who have expressed interest that we need to do away with
rule 59. We are the only government that is still doing
remote. Uh, and based on what I'm hearing from other
chairmen is that we're having problems getting Quorum
because everybody wants to stay home and just log in
And so this motion is to just be consistent with every
other level of government that has done away with remote.
Uh, whether it be the federal government, the state
government or the county, nobody else is doing remote other
than us. And this is just to do away with that particular
rule. Thank you Alderman. Does anyone else wish to speak to
this?
Item, farewell of the chair recognizes alderwoman Lee.
Thank you. Uh, uh, Mr. President
real briefly. Um,
I I've been in.
Council. Now for 3 years I not as long as many of my
colleagues have um and certainly not during Co and where we
are now I I've we've had so many meetings committee
meetings um in the last year where we didn't have enough
Quorum in the room. Um to hold the meeting and people have
had to come back. Um, for me meetings. And the people who
the public speakers who came the, the people who came to
testify at those meetings, then had to come back and do it
all again. Um and I do think that's a real disservice. I I
do think that there's some room for a hybrid model
especially when you know if I've got coid and I'm but I'm
well enough to speak to people but I don't want to infect
anybody. I think that's a perfectly reasonable reason, not
to come, but I think that there has been abused. And you
know, this is what happens, this is why we can't have nice
things. Um, I wasn't I wasn't sure how I was going to vote
on this, um, but but I do feel like this is, um, this is
something we need to, uh, we need to get a handle on. So
thank you. Thank you. The chair recognizes.
This is ottoman, Irvin drink. We
have, who is that?
Taylor has her hand. I do. I see that. Thank you. Uh, thank
you, Mr. Uh, thank you, Mr. President. Uh, I understand,
What uh, gentlemen from the ninth ward is getting at.
However, I do not think we need to throw the baby out with
the bathwater. Um, I think that we may need to make some
adjustments to um,
Rule 59, but to do away with it in its totality, I don't
think would be of service to the body nor to the citizens
of the city of Chicago. So uh, today, write this down, we
have an agreement on doing something, I'll be willing to
work with the gentleman from the 9th, for to come over to
the framework that as agreeable to most people. Thank you
very well. Thank you the chair recognizes.
Alder Fuentes.
Thank you, Mr. President, I won't be making any creative
analogies like my uh, colleague over. We are certainly on
the road with a number of oxm that have been used today, so
very impressive. But I will say, look, there are members of
this Council who have faced serious health concerns who
have had serious emergencies or, uh, in a rare instance,
gave birth to a child.
and we want to ensure that they still have the right to
participate in business of the city of Chicago to ensure
that they are doing what's right by their constituents to
ensure that they are keeping up with ordinances and casting
their votes. I think to do away with rule 59, in the world,
by the way, where we still have Co where it's flu season,
and we're individuals should have the right to work from
home.
If there is a level of abuse that we find with our
colleagues, I invite folks to have conversations with their
colleagues about needing their participation in committee
or in Council. I do believe there's a way to hold each
other accountable that doesn't do away with the rule that
individuals can utilize in an emergency or a rare
circumstance. We have individuals today that are
participating in Council that very much need to be at home
and should not be here today. And so I think that there are
other creative ways, uh, to do it Alderman be here is
trying to accomplish
Thank you, the chair. Thank you. You're welcome. The chair
recognizes alderwoman Taylor.
Thank you, Mr. President
I'm not at home because I don't want to be bothered. Even
though watching this is
Been quite entertaining.
I'm at home because I'm getting ready for a procedure
because I'm losing my sight, that ain't nothing that I
chose to do. That's just something that's happening to me.
And so, to take away my right to participate and do my job
is it's, it's not cool.
and so,
I don't know who abusing that system. I'm not.
But also while we we we want to take away some let's take
away folks putting meetings on top of meetings on top of
meetings. At the same time let's take away us not having
committee meetings right after 1 another
Let's let's put in committee meetings that we can advance,
so people could prepare themselves to work in their
community and also be a city hall.
Like sometimes I just wish we would have the conversation
to understand each other and not to to to to knock each
other down.
I'm at home sitting waiting for a procedure, but I'm still
want to do my job regardless and so give me that ability. I
would not want to, I've been hospitalized 3 times for Co I
never want to bring that to City Hall. I'm not going to
bring it there but to take away my right to participate
from home. So that I am still doing my job. Doesn't seem
right and fair
Thank you. The chair recognizes alderman, spazer.
Thank you, Mr. President
By the way Janette, I don't I don't think you're abusing it
but it is out of control. We are totally out of control,
not just as a chairman uh
I've been to many a meetings. Well, first of all, I don't
think many people have a more hard time getting here than
me. I'm not. But I asked them for a pity party or nothing.
As you all know Life's a challenge for me, I do my best to
come if I can't make it, not that big of a deal. There are
a few times I asked for to participate remotely people.
It's not the end of the world. If you can't make a meeting,
it's not that big of a deal. I mean, we all know who they
are. We all know who the same people are. They're abusing.
The thing. You know, I don't need, I'm not calling anybody
out, maybe. Maybe you have a good reason, but I don't, it
doesn't look like it. So it's just the real problem. It's
not fair to the people that come. I'm sorry. My colleagues
that come to meetings, make an effort to come here and a
crappy day. Whatever it may be, the people that come to the
meeting to speak or anything, and we don't have a quorum
and we have to turn around and go home. Um, I don't have a
problem with some sort of hybrid where you can maybe 1
meeting a year you can participate uh remotely with it but
this has been out of control. People are abusing it. Okay,
Okay, so we need to stop it. We need to get on like, what
our lives like everybody else does. Once again, it's not
the end of the world, people even miss the meeting, okay?
People aren't going to vote you out because you only made
90% of your meetings.
So with that, I totally support eliminating the remote
process. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. The chair recognizes Alder Vasquez.
Thank you, Mr. President, um, I appreciate our colleagues
comments, I think. Um,
What I'd like to add is, we're trying to solve for a
problem, but trying to find only 1 way to solve it. Uh, I,
we've had at least 2 committee hearings in Immigration
where we didn't have Quorum physically. So, we couldn't,
therefore, move forward and had to reschedule. Um, I would
argue the way to solve the problem isn't eliminating rule
for 59. It's what we've been saying to do since, we've had
remote participation, it's including the remote virtual
participants in Quorum, which is something we would need
the state to change at that point. All the folks who are on
here, would count towards the corpsman, you can continue
having the meeting. I know that many of us really loved
hanging out for 3 months straight during budget, and want
to continue that when we actually have things to do in the
ward as well. When our neighbors are coming to knock on our
doors at the office because they want us to address their
issues to then be told, hey, they can't right now they're
City Hall. I think reinforces this idea that it's like
these are do nothing, altars that. All they do is hang
around with each other, have lunches and and talk in these
hearings. So I think, if we want to solve the problem,
let's talk about actually doing so, because again, as we
seen sometimes passing,
A lot doesn't mean you can enforce it and it doesn't mean
you change the behavior. So as we've motioned, as we've
introduced legislation before, I think it makes sense to
allow for rule, 59s to count, count towards Quorum. And so
I would ask our colleagues to partner with us to get the
state to do. So in a way that allows people to flexibility,
should they have medical conditions? Should they want to
make sure they're safe in a world where now having quad
demyx and Nora virus and everything else? And if they want
to just participate, while still being in their Wards to
make sure they can do more work with the time a lot. So I
would ask that. That's a path forward and I'm happy to work
with anyone who's willing to thank you Mr. President, thank
you the chair recognizes Alder Haden.
Thank you, Mr. President, um um I'll say I appreciate
chairman Irvin's um uh offer to work on something. I'll
throw in my support and working on something and just agree
with colleagues. Eliminating rule 59 is foolish.
And I don't think it's necessary. Um, I chair committee. I
think those of us that chair committees can have a
conversation. Um, I'd like to hear from chair people who,
um, are finding it difficult to have Quorum. Um, I think
that, um, under rule 59, currently, the other thing is
chair, people have the power to enforce this as well. So if
if I've got members of my committee, um, they have to
request rule, 59 participation, right? So we have to give
rule 59 participation, uh, approval. And that means that
it's that's another point of control.
As the chairperson we can say, hey, is it? Because of 1 of
these reasons we can also and I know a lot of us do. So I
appreciate the chairman that do this work. Um, let people
know. Hey you you can't, I need you here. Um right. Are
are you you know incapacitated are you out of town? No.
Okay I need you here um because we need Quorum and so I
think that while it is more responsibility to be a
chairperson, that is what we signed up for that is what our
colleagues voted for us to do. Um,
The state piece. I also agree with my colleague Alderman
Vasquez on that, but that's not within our scope. What's
within our scope is to manage ourselves and our attendance.
I would ask my colleagues to, um, make sure that they are
not abusing this so that people who actually need, it can
use it. Um, we don't know when we're going to have a
medical emergency, we don't know. Um and while some people
might be okay um uh on their attendance record and have
different circumstances. Very honestly it's important for
us for our constituents for us to be here.
Um and it's not just about the committee meetings, right? I
I know there are some committee meetings, that may not be
as important to um our constituents and so in attendance
record thing, isn't just the measure 1 of the challenges.
Here comes down to our votes and our record. And so rule,
59 is important. We should keep it. I would urge my urge my
colleagues to vote against um, um, Alderman, Bealls
proposal and Alderman Beale. I would urge you to
To work with the chairman. I didn't, I didn't hear from you,
um, to work with the chairman to actually assess the issue,
um, so that we can determine if this is really a problem
because we seem to also, um, we're seeing the trend in this
country of people trying to address problems, that aren't
really problems. Um, and we're still here this evening, at
this point, almost evening, I think, trying to address a
problem. That's not really a problem. So, throwing my hat
in there, please. Vote against this. Let's actually work on
actually work on a real solution, um, within our
memberships and within our authority to share people. Thank
you, Mr. President, the chair recognizes Alderman, Hopkins.
Yeah, thank you, Mr. President. Um, I can see this argument
both ways on both sides, uh, obviously, um, rule 59 right
now and I'm also here so, uh, clearly I've managed to, uh,
look at it both ways, but, um, alderwoman Fuentes
mentioned, uh,
You know coid and flew those 2 viral illnesses have
something in common right now. They're both at elevated
levels, we're in the 11th wave of Co ladies and gentlemen.
It's not gone and influenza A right now is at higher levels
than any time in the last 15 years.
And as we all know by now.
Those those viruses spread by the Airborne route, when you
sneeze, or when you cough, you put them out into the air
and people around you, breathe. Uh, even when you're just
talking, when you're exhaling, you put them in the are
people around you breathe and catch it. So my last Co
infection, it wasn't that long ago, gratefully the symptoms
weren't that bad. I could have come here, I could have made
it to this meeting and I didn't I stayed home and I stayed
home because Daniel Pat.
Care about you guys care about your health. I didn't want
to come and infect you and I might have done that. It's
that simple. We have to address that. We have to recognize
that. Yes. The rule 59 is somewhat abused. I think so. I
think it has. We've got to find a way to do that and still
allow people who are ill and know that they're potentially
contagious and do not want to infect their colleagues can
stay home, do the right thing. Stop the spread and still do
their job. We've got to find a way to do that. Thank you,
Mr. President. Thank you. Are there any other Alders that
would the chair recognizes Alderman Lopez?
Thank you again, Mr. President, and again, good afternoon
members of the city council.
I believe.
That what we did?
At the start of Co.
When many of you were just barely 6 months on the job.
Was a necessary thing to do to, to allow for the continuity
of government to allow for.
Chicagoans to know that.
We were still moving forward. We were still making
decisions.
We were all still learning Zoom. By the way.
But for a 10085 years, this Council has been able to do
both meet in-person and address constituents.
It's only in the last 2 and a half years that we've had
this option not to be in this most historic chamber 2
years.
It is not just a matter of
Illness, because I do believe.
As.
Our colleague from the 20 20th. Ward in our colleague from
the second war have shown us. Even right now, in many
others who are up there
Sometimes, when your health calls it, you need it.
And that I can appreciate.
But it's a disservice.
To all of those individuals who come here.
To see an empty room because now we want to push so that we
never have to be here.
To say that.
Constituent services are somehow going to falter.
Unless each and every 1 of you are answering the phone at
the front desk, at in the front of your office, I believe
you have 4 employees who can do that.
On the 1 de you're not here in a month.
and this or the 1 day when you're here, or if you have
committees
We used to even have under the life foot Administration. A
schedule that was published to our colleagues point about
when committees were so that you could actually plan and
schedule and be prepared, not only for ourselves, but for
the public to know as well.
But we have seen.
Time and time again.
Both abuse in terms of those asking.
and abuse in terms of those allowing,
Because outside of a disaster as required by the law or the
rules.
The fourth paragraph of rule, 59.
states, that you have to
In order to request this option.
You have to have a personal illness or disability.
Employment.
Or the business of the public body.
Family or other emergency.
3 options.
I think we can all identify.
What personal illness or disability is.
But what constitutes the emergency, what constitutes the
the employment or business of the public body, which public
body are we talking about?
Are you talking about that specific committee that you're
asking for a rule 59? Is there a
Committee on Transportation public emergency, you're flying
off to so you don't have to be in Committee on Public and
transportation.
Is there a committee on finance?
Situation that you have to rectify off-site that you can't
be in Committee of Finance.
And I know that is a fact because that's the excuse I was
given when I was denied the 1 and only time I try to use
this.
It was not considered per the Law Department.
Work of the body.
We're also supposed to be told.
By the clerk's office.
What the log is for all of the use of this.
if you're going to keep rule 59 at some of our colleagues
have expressed
then you need to
start fresh.
Start new.
And start with something different than the 6 paragraphs
that make up.
Wool 59, in the rule book.
This is no longer functional.
Most of this.
Isn't even relevant at this point, other than for personal
preference.
Aside from health issues that should be its own issue.
Separate.
And contained.
But if we're going to continue and tell people that we are
worth our salt worth our salary, worth the effort of having
50 of us here.
Then we should be able to show that we can walk and chew
gum as we have for 185 years in this body.
With Alderman who can show up here.
Do their jobs.
Barring an emergency and still be able to maintain a ward
office. That is responsive to their communities and with
that I would urge all members to vote in support of
Alderaan Bealls resolution. Thank you.
Thank you. The chair recognizes Other Woman Gutierrez.
Thank you, Mr. President
I just want to share with you all.
I think I've never spoken, uh, about this before but having
this rule 59 allowed me being the first other woman to give
birth by being in office. And I know I'm the first, but I'm
not going to be the last 1.
I gave birth on Tuesday.
and on Thursday, I was already in the rooms committee to
meet in my boat because I was able to participate with the
rule, 59,
So let's just just consider about that. There's the council
every time is getting younger
More women are coming and more moms will come.
And some maybe some of our colleagues are also thinking of
having a baby or another baby.
Right? Or also our colleagues men 1 also to become parents.
Or grandparents if they have to be with their kids if
they're giving birth as well. So let's just be conscious
about this as I'm sharing my story and my life experience.
But also if people are abusing it as we said, let's talk
about that.
We were elected for a reason to represent our warts, but I
think if you're sick, if you really need to rule, 59 allow
us to keep a doing it. And as a working mom, I appreciate
us the council having this rule. 59. Thank you. Thank you.
The chair recognizes alderwoman Dao.
Uh, thank you Mr. President um,
I want to support uh this resolution but I also recognize
that it may be a little bit too extreme. Um what I find uh
chairing, the largest committee is that sometimes we
struggle Mr. Mayor with the quorum.
People don't come.
Or they call 5 or ten minutes before. The meeting starts in
order to get a rule 59.
um,
I don't think that's fair to the work that the city council
does or the committee.
I agree that personal illness or uh maternity leave or
something, um, needs to be in the rules but this official
business of the city
Coming to the meeting is the official business of the city
and you need to be here.
Um, so I would ask our colleague, Mr. Mayor through you. If
he would be willing to
uh,
Put this aside, put this vote aside and let's work together
to come up with a new rule, 59 between now and the next
meeting.
Because scrapping, the whole thing is just a little bit too
extreme although I support where you're trying to go with
this.
Thank you. Are there any other Alters that wish to speak?
the chair recognizes alderwoman tabaris, you know, I
strongly support here, my colleague um Anthony Beal and
what he's trying to do before Co we didn't have the option
of virtual and zoom. What did we do when we got sick? What
did we do? We have an emergency we just weren't here.
you know, I
if you can't be here, I we we need to hold ourselves to a
higher standard as Alderman, and do our job and show up and
do our work, a lot of our residents that we represent in
our Wards, don't have that option to do Zoom or hybrid. For
example, our police officers, they they can't fight crime
on Zoom, or our firefighters, they can't pull, you know,
they can't uh, pull out a fire
On Zoom. So I strongly support what our colleague is doing
Alderman. We need to hold ourselves to a higher standard
and show up and do our job. So I strongly support you.
Thank you.
are there any other Alders that
would the chair recognizes Alderman Desmond yansi?
Uh, I was raised the youngest of 5 kids and I know what?
It's like to be punished for somebody else's bad behavior
and I feel like dropping this, the rule 59 kind of leans in
that space. I, I do understand that we have certain
circumstances that come up, you know, think about my
sister, all the women Taylor, Who's dealt with some health
challenges this, uh, last this term. And, um, but yeah,
she's still here and, uh, doing her job.
We Have a scheduling issue with the way, our committee
meetings are being held and I think that's come up, but
When we get a 48 hours, notice for a meeting.
And for example, I'll talk about Transportation
Transportation meetings. Tend to be pretty, uh, uh, similar
every time. It's about an hour and some change. But for me,
and I'm 1 of The Closer, alternate, I'm out of my office
for 3 hours.
And I think it's part of the public body is to be able to
serve people in the war and as a new aldermen, I don't know
how y'all were able to do this. Uh, spend all your time
downtown and then still be able to service people in the
war. So I think that, we have an opportunity to find some
place in the Middle where folks, um, and I don't know who
those people are, who are abusing these privileges, but if
there are people that, that are abusing it, then let's come
up with something that sort of tightens up the rules for
this, but to eliminate it completely. I think it's just a
disservice to our community and to us here who are doing
this really important work.
Very well. Are there any other orders?
Very well. The chair recognizes Alderman, bill for his
motion. Thank you, Mr. President um, Mr. President.
Had some interesting conversations here today and I'm glad
we got everybody's attention.
But we get paid to do a job.
Our people elect us to do a job.
And yes people are abusing it. That's the only reason I put
it in.
That's the only reason I submitted this is because people
are abusing this system.
now, the 1 person I do feel bad for
is Alderman, Taylor because she is genuinely fighting
health issues.
And I talked to her all the time. Matter of fact, I talked
to her before I even submitted this ordinance
about how this would affect her.
But I'mma tell you and I'm not being insensitive.
but if I'm sick,
I don't give a damn about y'all down here.
I'm fighting for my health.
Because that's first and foremost, if you don't have your
health, you cannot serve your constituents.
Okay. And I've never heard so many arguments about people
wanting to rule 59, so you don't have to do your job.
That's what I heard.
Rule 59.
So, I can stay home.
I need to serve my constituents.
This is what we get paid to do y'all. This ain't no 9 to 5.
This is by any means necessary serve your constituents
Roll your sleeves up and do some work.
Not sit at home and watch, you know, Whoopi Goldberg and
log in.
Because that's what you're doing.
That's what you're doing.
so, the spirit the spirit of this ordinance and I agree
with my colleagues,
I agree with my colleague.
I will agree to pull this back today.
Only under the pretense.
That the only caveat that we carve out.
Just like any other job. If you're gone, 3 days, you have a
doctor's note.
Well, if you want a roof, 59 present, this body with a
doctor's note submitted to the clerk, like everybody else.
So we can go ahead and move this in. So,
Mr. President on the spirit of
collaboration.
I'mma call this back and hold it in and we'll talk about it
and get it. Well, thank you Alderman deal. This
this item has
been held.
and um,
And there aren't there's any other further, miscellaneous
business.
Okay. Ottoman Mitchell. Is there any other?
Miscellaneous business.
Except for the ordinance setting, the date and time of the
next meeting. I am not aware of any further miscellaneous
business, very well for the date and time of the next
meeting, ottoman Mitchell. I've handed up an ordinance to
the clerk said, in the dating sign with the next meeting.
Very well. Madam clerk, please read the ordinance be
ordained by the city. Council City of Chicago Section 1.
The next figure of the meeting of the city council of City
of Chicago, shall be held on Wednesday, February 26th,
2025, beginning at 10 a.m. and the council chamber of the
second floor in City Hall, 121 Northwest, South Street,
Chicago Illinois. This ordinance shall T take effect of
being forced from here. And after its Passage
Very well. Mitchell 26th at 10:00 am. Very well. Thank you.
Almond Mitchell.
Hearing no objection so ordered.
For the Omnibus. Ottoman Mitchell. I move that matter. Hold
on, guys. Would you all? Just hold on a second, the week. I
promise. We're going to adjourn shortly. Mitchell upstairs
in my office, right, he passed by the first most. Favorable
roll call vote by the committee on finance and the
associated unsuccessful motion to reconsider hearing no
objection. So ordered almond Mitchell on the motion to
adjourn that being no further business before this body, I
move that we are no objection. So order this meeting is
adjourned.