Over the course of the last two years I have been involved with discussions related to the Olympic bid, education, retail and economic development, our youth, health, and safety issues. One thing that I have noticed is that exposure, knowledge, communication or lack of, prohibits people from getting to the marketplace and getting educational resources, youth activities, and benefits. This website is intended to address some of these very issues.  You will find announcements for those who want to do business with the city and county, workshops that will give the ABC’s of starting a business, health and resource fairs, fitness activities, and utility assistance. Please disseminate this information to those you know so it can be a resource.

Many communities around the city are experiencing a high incidence of burglaries. It is very disturbing and we all must take a proactive approach to prevent and apprehend offenders. Please install a security system. A camera monitoring system is a deterrent and an aid to apprehending offenders. Be watchful and report and record all activity you are concerned about.

To address the crime issues that are plaguing our community—such as police service and safety around schools—I requested a meeting with the Superintendent of Police, which took place on October 14, where I expressed community concerns and advocated on your behalf. Superintendent Weis and the leadership of the police department will be in attendance at our town hall meeting on October 24 (see our calendar for details.) I would urge all of you to be in attendance to demonstrate a strong community base and an organized and intelligent response.

I want to commend those block clubs that are doing such a great job. Congratulations to the Woodlawn Neighbors Association and those who have led and supported these organizing efforts. Organized communities are much more effective.

The revitalization of Grove Parc Apartments (60th-63rd  Cottage Grove) will begin in December, starting with the demolition of buildings on 62nd Street. The plan will reduce density, create a mixed income community, and offer new retail space.

I am working very closely with neighborhoods, institutions, and leaders on education initiatives, sports and exercise programs, and safety initiatives. Along with the Department of Community Development and the Committee on Economic Development I am engaging major grocers to bring good shopping choices to the 20th Ward.

Yours truly,
Willie B. Cochran, Alderman, 20th Ward