19th Ward Business Breakfast Recap – 2026

The following is a detailed summary of the 19th Ward Business Breakfast at Barraco’s Mt. Greenwood on March 24, 2026.

MPBHBA Executive Director Davia Douglas welcomed the group to Barraco’s and shared a video the MPBHBA created to showcase Beverly/Morgan Park for prospective residents and business owners.

19th Ward Alderman Matt O’Shea thanked business owners for their involvement in the community and introduced the new 22nd Police District Commander Patrick Darling. Welcome to Commander Darling, who grew up in the area and is newly appointed to lead the 22nd District.

Officer Jeffrey Zwit, the 22nd Police District Business Liaison, shared resources for staying informed and safe in the 19th Ward. Business owners can email Officer Zwit or dial 311 for non-emergency issues; emergencies should be reported to 911. While the 311 portal is useful, Officers Zwit and Darling recommend contacting the 22nd District directly because it could take up to four months for them to receive the information from downtown.

The 22nd District also reminded businesses to check on the status of their business license and their business entity (i.e. LLC). There has been an increase in enforcement and to avoid fines and legal issues, operating with an active business license and entity are important. You can apply for or renew a business license online. 

Nora Gainer joined us from The Art Institute of Chicago to discuss the Project Windows Window Contest. The 19th Ward is an active participant in the contest and we hope businesses sign up by April 14 for this fun creative collaboration. Businesses Cakewalk Chicago, Hillside Florist, and Everything’s Relative Salon received a shoutout for participating in past Project Windows.

Jorge Garza Norrick of New Fronteras Inc. has partnered with the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce to provide complimentary one-hour audits for your Google Business Profile. He explained the importance of having an updated and engaging profile. If you’d like him to review your Google Business Profile, contact Jorge via email or by phone at 312-399-3942.

View handouts and announcements from the Business Breakfast at the link below.