What is a Special Service Area?

Special Service Areas (SSA) have been used for over 30 years nationwide as a funding tool primarily used to protect and promote neighborhood shopping districts.  An SSA allows for a property tax levy to underwrite special services in addition to those generally provided by local municipal government.  The SSA tax provides benefit as all funds are locally managed and can only be used for SSA services within the boundaries.

Why do we need a Special Service Area?

As the north side gateway to the City, Rogers Park is home to the second busiest transit hub in Chicago and has a diverse population. Howard Street Special Service Area #19 and Clark/Morse/Glenwood Special Service Area #24 provide programs and services to increase the neighborhood’s competitive edge.  The Street Special Service Areas were established to provide maintenance and beautification services, to coordinate promotional and advertising activities, and to provide security and other technical assistance to promote commercial and economic development.

In light of government funding cuts, the SSA's are filling the funding gaps and putting decision-making in local hands.

How is an Special Service Area held accountable?

When an SSA is approved in Chicago, a local SSA Commission is created.  The Mayor appoints local business and/or property owners to the Commission pending City Council confirmation.  These Commissioners provide local management and oversight by authorizing expenditures and evaluating program performance.  DevCorp North serves as the Sole Service Provider of these SSA's and streamlines management and administration of SSA programs.  DevCorp North is also accountable to the state of Illinois and the City of Chicago through annual certified audits and budget reviews.

For more information, contact the Rogers Park Business Alliance at (773) 508-5885.