What is an SSA?
Special Service Areas are local tax districts that fund expanded services and programs through a localized property tax levy within contiguous areas. The enhanced services and programs are in addition to those currently provided through the City. See a full list of Chicago's SSA providers.
What are the boundaries of SSA#1-2015?
SSA #1-2015 includes property on both sides of State Street between Wacker Drive to the north and Congress Parkway to the south. View a map of the SSA#1-2015 boundaries.
What services are funded through SSA#1-2015?
Services funded by SSA#1-2015 include a Clean Team responsible for providing sidewalk litter, graffiti, and snow removal; a Street Team that manages panhandling, connects the homeless to needed services, and gives pedestrians directions; seasonal landscaping; infrastructure maintenance, including painting, caulking, and sidewalk power washing and repairs; research, including economic and education studies to attract investment; and destination marketing to attract media attention, tourism, and economic development.
Why do we need an SSA?
With federal, state, and city funding becoming increasingly scarce, SSAs guarantee a consistent level of management for a district, ensuring that they remain competitive and high-performing. 100% of the collected tax revenue is devoted to maintaining and improving the designated area.
Who governs the SSA?
Special Service Area#1-2015 is under the guidance of the State Street Commission, a body of public and private officials who oversee the allocation of funding within the service area. Commissioners are recommended by the commission and/or SSA Advisory Committee and appointed by the Mayor with aldermanic support.
Who determines the budget for the SSA?
The budget for the SSA is managed and approved on an annual basis by the State Street Commission. The SSA revenue is collected by Cook County in its regular property tax collection process.
What is the relationship between Chicago Loop Alliance and the SSA?
The City of Chicago contracts with local non-profit organizations to manage SSAs. For SSA#1-2015, Chicago Loop Alliance is the sole service provider for the SSA as designated by the city.
