To the Editor:
Your recent article about a possible SSA on Clybourn misrepresented the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce's position, both in tone and content. As the premier catalyst of business success, the Chamber's mission is to help businesses in Lincoln Park succeed and grow. We also believe that by bringing businesses, property owners, residents and government officials together, we can help the neighborhood produce more focused, longer-lasting solutions to local problems.
Our application to create an SSA on Clybourn was sparked by a litany of comments we received about the increasing problem with traffic congestion and in sustaining a pedestrian-friendly environment in the area. After careful study, we concluded an SSA could be an effective mechanism for creating and financing local solutions to these problems.
Forming an SSA on Clybourn was never about the Chamber's economic interests. The Chamber invested time, energy and financial resources in the SSA research process. These resources were willingly committed with the belief that the proposed SSA would directly benefit the North and Clybourn commercial district.
From the start, our process was inclusive and followed the requirements for taxpayer notification as required by state statute. In fact, our first public meeting was held in June and was followed by many discussions with property and business owners on Clybourn and North Avenues. Early feedback was favorable for establishment of the SSA with some questions about the services to be provided. As the Public Hearing date for City Council approached, more property owners began voicing their concerns—both objections to an added tax and disagreement about the best balance of services. Once again, we listened to property owners and supported Ald. Vi Daley (43rd) and Ald. Ted Matlak's (32nd) decision to hold a second public meeting about the SSA so that all property owners had another chance to be heard.
Our commitment to helping resolve the challenges facing the Clybourn corridor does not end here. The Chamber will continue to collaborate with property owners, businesses, residents and government officials to focus on achievable improvements for the area.
Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce
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