Accomplishments
The UCC has devoted its time and resources to these important
activities:
- Supported the establishment of three historic districts
in Uptown -- Sheridan Park, Buena Park, and Uptown Square
-- which have been a catalyst for the renaissance of the
residential and commercial community.
- In 2000, organized public testimony for the Wilson Yard
and Lawrence-Broadway Entertainment Tax Increment Financing
(TIF) districts affecting Uptown, with the aim of establishing
a stronger retail environment and more job opportunities.
- Supported two successful 'vote dry' initiatives that
banned the sale of alcoholic beverages from within specified
boundaries (along Wilson and Sheridan intersection).
- Pressured CTA to eliminate sales of alcohol to tenants
in Wilson L Station.
- Highlighted need for area residents to serve as court
advocates in judicial proceedings against repeat offenders.
- Strong advocate for enforcement of "One Strike" policy
in public housing to help reduce drug use/trade and provide
a safe living environment for tenants.
- Organized community response to a request for a zoning
variance by a homeless shelter with a history of code violations
that jeopardized safety of residents and surrounding community.
- Worked with management of 920 Lakeside, a high-rise building,
to improve security and tenant screening, resulting in improved
area public safety.
- In 2004, with full cooperation of local aldermen and
liquor commissioner, secured voluntary consent of 28 area
liquor stores to stop or restrict the sale of an extensive
list of packaged liquor associated with public drinking.
- In 2003, facilitated voluntary consent among seven (7)
area liquor stores to restrict sale of certain types of
packaged liquor associated with public drinking.
- In 2003, instituted the "Good Neighbor" policy to recognize
residents and businesses within the community that meet
or exceed UCC's "Good Neighbor" policy guidelines (link
to Good Neighbor policy).
On an on-going basis, the UCC devotes its time and resources to these important activities:
- Represents residents at monthly Leadership Communication Council meetings with Uptown Chamber of Commerce, Uptown Development Corporation, Organization of the NorthEast, and area aldermen.
- Advocates at all levels of government, focusing on issues of community concern to ensure that the voice of our membership is incorporated into public policy decisions affecting Uptown.
- Hosts a semi-annual Block Club Forum to foster greater communication among neighbors.
- Sponsors cultural and recreational events for the benefit of area residents and businesses.
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