"We're turning vacant lots into jackpots, that's what I like to say. Essentially what that means turning empty lots into community fitness gardens and wellness sanctuaries," said Marcelino Riley, founder of Pull Up the City.

The organization is a branch of Go Infinite Training, an indoor fitness center for children on the West Side. Riley said they are targeting communities that lack access to gyms, fitness classes, and healthy fresh food.

"If we give our youth something to do, opportunities, healthy food, we can change the trajectory of the West Side of Chicago," said Justina Davila Winfrey of Pull Up the City.

We believe the costs savings school districts are experiencing, should result in reduction and/or rebates for property tax payers.

The City of Chicago has claimed budget shortfalls will increase property taxes. Meanwhile, Illinois is saving billions on breakfast and lunch program costs; utilities; overhead, operating costs, and other (non-teacher) wages.

This is another opportunity for the tax to disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities.

Since the Covid-19 Pandemic, students have been forced to attend school remotely. Home schooling, places additional financial burdens on families.

Perhaps, the Pandemic is the perfect opportunity to begin discussions about consolidation.

Justina Winfrey and Chicago Mayoral Lori Lightfoot, discussing a path forward on the west and south sides of Chicago.

Justina Winfrey Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle discussing the Cook County Land Bank.