Code Compliance Update
The Code Compliance Division of the Neighborhood Services Department continues to receive a high number of tenant inspection requests. Through the end of September, 243 tenant inspection requests had been received. This is a slight increase over the same period in 2022, and an increase of more than 30% over the same period in 2021. […]
Connecting Communities: A Conversation with Javier Zenil Pena
In the latest episode of Champaign City Profiles we talk with Javier Zenil Pena, one of the City of Champaign’s dedicated Neighborhood Ambassadors in our Neighborhood Services Department. Javier explains why he loves his job which allows him to proactively assist residents, share information, and enhance community wellness and safety. From working downtown on weekends […]
Ashland Park HOA Hosts Neighborhood Resource Fair
On Saturday, September 30,2023, the Ashland Park HOA hosted a neighborhood resource fair. Hundreds of neighbors gathered in Toalson Park to learn more about local programs and services, and to enjoy music, games and food. Staff from Neighborhood Services, Police, and Fire were in attendance, serving food, playing games with the kids, and making cotton […]
City Celebrates 2023 CU Pride Fest and Parade!
On September 30, 2023, the City of Champaign joined the CU Pride Fest and Parade to celebrate everything that makes us fabulous! Council members, Alicia Beck, Matthew Gladney, Kathy Shannon, Michael Foellmer and City Staff from the Equity & Engagement Department, Public Works, Neighborhood Services Department, and Planning Department all came out to walk in […]
Champaign Unit 4 School District Hosts Operation Hope Informational Meetings
Neighborhood Programs staff attended informational sessions this week for Unit 4 School District’s upcoming program year for Operation Hope. A meeting was held at both Centennial and Central High Schools to inform current and newly students enrolled in Operation Hope of expectations for the coming year. Operation Hope is a college and career readiness program […]
Neighborhood Services Department Submits CAPER to HUD
On September 28, 2023, Neighborhood Services staff submitted the FY 2022-23 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The CAPER summarizes the progress the City made in carrying out its strategic plan outlined in its 5-year Consolidated Plan, including accomplishments, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) resources […]
City Awarded Strong Communities Grant
In June 2023, the Neighborhood Services Department applied for the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Strong Communities Program (SCP) grant. The City was recently notified it was awarded $135,000 in grant funds. This money will aid in returning approximately 11 vacant residential properties in Champaign to productive and taxable uses. This is done by demolishing […]
Two New Registered Neighborhood Groups
On Monday September 11, 2023, Old Warson Road neighborhood watch held their first group meeting at Powell Park. Ten neighbors participated in the initial group meeting and discussed challenges and opportunities impacting the neighbors. NSD staff shared engagement and organizing strategies to address some of the neighborhood stability issues. The initial group meeting will be […]
Liberty on the Lake HOA Hosts Neighborhood Bash
On August 19, 2023, the Liberty on the Lake HOA hosted their Neighborhood Bash at Henry Micheal Park. The event included food, slushies, games, a bounce house, music and an inflatable obstacle course for neighbors to enjoy. The neighborhood bash was one the many neighborhood-based events implemented as part of the City’s 43:43:43 Neighborhood Engagement […]
Strides Low Barrier Shelter End of Summer BBQ
On August 26, 2023, staff from the Strides Low Barrier Shelter hosted an end of summer BBQ for residents and volunteers. Neighborhood Ambassador, Javier Pena, supported the event by bringing the Neighborhood Engagement Trailer to Skelton Park to provide tables, chairs and music for the afternoon. Javier also assisted with event set up and tear […]