This petition is on behalf of residents of the rental buildings near the 5th & Linden in Wilmette. These neighbors face the daily challenge of finding a parking spot near their homes. The lack of available parking is not only inconvenient but also poses safety concerns as they often have to park far from their residences, some with children in tow.

Residents have been granted P Zone passes, which amount to very little. There are about 25 total spots and at least three to four times that number of adults with cars living in nearby rental properties.  

Additionally, this petition respectfully requests that the Village of Wilmette remove/relocate leaf pick up in the very small P Zone on 5th Street. Residents have to move their cars from 7am - 5pm on those days, and the leaves are not picked up oftentimes, adding to tenants' frustration. It does not seem equitable that leaf pick up is in front of apartment buildings with a dearth of street parking, and no garages. Additionally, leaves are piled into at least 2 of the very limited P Zone parking spots throughout the Fall.

Wilmette is a vibrant community that has seen significant growth over the years. However, this growth has not been matched with adequate development to accommodate the number of vehicles owned by tax paying residents of rental properties.

This situation calls for urgent action from our local government to increase parking availability on 5th Street and Linden Avenue. By doing so, you will be improving safety conditions and making life more convenient for all residents. I met with the Village Manager and the Engineer in late 2023 to discuss this, but was told that I'd have to embark on what would amount to a part time job to petition and try to get it done, which I do not have the time nor energy to do. I feel the Village needs to step in and help resolve this problem.

So, we are calling upon you, the Village Board of Wilmette, to address this pressing issue promptly. 

While we can rent a spot at the Linden El Park & Ride, this is cost prohibitive for some. Utilizing a CTA parking lot also poses safety risks. Cars get plowed in during heavy snows, as well, rendering them unable to use for days at a time.

There is an enclosed Village lot on 11th, but cars have to be out by 7am, thus this is not a viable option either.

Renters are social workers, teachers, musicians, recruiters, carpenters, young people starting out, and other members of the backbone of Wilmette. 

The simple matter of having a parking spot each and every night will decrease stress loads and improve lives.

Thank you.