October 19th Meeting Minutes

Posted On October 21, 2021

October 19, 2021 via Zoom

Board members present: Maureen Martino, Heather Way Kitzes, Michael Zink, Jean O’Neill, Tom Rothschild, Patrick Nagle, Brandon Cunningham, Tim Lindsay, Gregory Ratcliff,

Board members absent: Kit Welch, Terie Kata, Brian Murphy, Marty Wallace, Mark Usiak and Patrick Carlson

At 6:02 pm, President Michael Zink called the meeting to order.

Report from IL 5th District Staff: Yoni Pizer

Congressman Quigley and other members of the Chicago area delegation held a field hearing regarding the USPS. Service from the USPS has been on the decline and Congressman Quigley and others feel it is time for the Postmaster General to resign. This hearing gave constituents a chance to voice their opinion.

The new congressional map based on 2020 Census date is still being considered. From Pizer: The Congressman is confident East Lake View will remain in the IL 5th.

Rep. David Price (DC-NC 4th) is retiring. This is important because he is the chairman of the THUD Appropriations subcommittee to which Congressman Quigley is the vice-chair. This retirement could lead to the subcommittee chairmanship for Congressman Quigley.

Report from the 46th Ward: Alderman James Cappleman

Repaving of inner LSD to beginning. The 46th Ward gained population and will therefore likely shrink in geographic size.

Hearing have been held for the 2022 city budget and now awaiting full City Council vote.

He reminds everyone to register for Smart 911.

His longtime chief of staff, Tressa Feher, has moved on to a new role in the private sector. ELVN thanks her for her service.

Report from the 44th Ward: Calvin Cottrell and Alderman Tom Tunney:

On Monday, October 25th at 6 pm, CPD 19 will host a community conversation/strategic planning session which is open to all community members. Information can be found at 44thward.org.

Kelly Park on Grace Street is slated to receive state funding for improvement. The park’s community led PAC will be applying for those funds via a grant (although the money has been committed via State Senator Feigenholtz and State Representative Croke).

Northalsted Business Alliance will be hosting their annual Halloween Parade this year after a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Information is available at 44thward.org.

Resident Linda Cohn had questions for Alderman Tunney regarding Redefine the Drive project. Specifically, in regard to scope, timeline and budget/financing. She asks if residents will “actually have a say” in the design concepts before they are finalized. Alderman Tunney assures her there is still time for input and nothing is finalized yet. He does not have timeline and process specifics.

Michael Zink adjourns the meeting at 6:30 to a closed board session.