Ramirez Acknowledges Reelection Campaign

Alderwoman Julia Ramirez acknowledged she’s again running to lead the 12th Ward at the McKinley Park Civic Association meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.

She “will be announcing very soon,” Ramirez said about her reelection campaign, which may culminate in a primary election on February 23, 2027, in Democrat-dominated Chicago.

The consolidated general election follows on April 6, 2027.

Board of Education

Chicago Board of Education Member Cydney Wallace speaks at the McKinley Park Civic Association meeting on June 3, 2026.Incumbent Chicago Board of Education Member Cydney Wallace also attended the civic association meeting to introduce herself and speak to her campaign for board election following her term as an appointed member.

Wallace, who represents 35 schools and their communities in District 8B, said her focus is on accountability, accessibility and culture change.

Importance of Trades

“I need to say something with my whole self to be able to stand up for it,” she said, noting that she won’t support measures “if I can’t explain it to my kids.”

Wallace emphasized the importance of trades education opportunities and allowing students to “hold tight to their educational careers.”

4th of July Parade

“Trades are what built our city,” she said.

McKinley Park Civic Association President Chris Bania announced new programs for summer 2026, including a 4th of July parade to celebrate the United States celebration of its semiquincentennial anniversary: 250 years from the date of the country’s founding.

McKinley Park Garden Contest

The 4th of July parade will be conducted in partnership with William McKinley American Legion Post 231, Bania said. It will follow the same route as the McKinley Park Memorial Day parade, which both groups also partner to support.

Another brand-new program will be the McKinley Park Garden Contest, which will offer multiple categories to support and acknowledge all types of neighborhood gardens, Bania said.

Winners in September

The contest and call for participants will be announced soon, and judging will take place the week of August 7, 2026, Bania said.

Garden contest winners will accept their awards at the September 2, 2026, McKinley Park Civic Association Meeting.