CHICAGO – To revitalize the community while prioritizing businesses and affordable housing, Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council will receive nearly $1.5 million, Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) announced Tuesday.

The Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council is a not-for-profit community organization serving a large area of Chicago’s Southwest Side, including the communities of Brighton Park, McKinley Park and New City. BYNC was created in response to growing social issues, including social disorganization, unemployment, poor housing, and juvenile delinquency, and continues today to organize residents and bring social services and economic resources to the community.

“We need to continue uplifting our community and prioritizing local businesses to create a better future,” Munoz said. “This essential funding will boost the local economy by bringing more affordable housing and investing in the community.”

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SPRINGFIELD – To prioritize the safety of first responders, Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) championed new requirements drivers must adhere to when approaching an emergency vehicle on the side of the road.

“First responders prioritize Illinois residents’ safety every day,” Munoz said. “We need to come together to protect the individuals on the front line who are assisting roadside emergencies. Slow down and move over when approaching any vehicle on the side of the road.”

Under the new law, drivers must change lanes, reduce and maintain a safe speed, proceed with caution, be prepared to stop and leave a safe distance until passing an emergency vehicle. The visual signal, such as flashing lights, is an indication to drivers that they are approaching a hazardous condition when circumstances are not immediately clear.

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CHICAGO – Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) is encouraging local businesses struggling from pandemic losses to apply for the latest round of the Back to Business grant program before the Oct. 13 deadline.

Overall, the B2B program will provide $250 million in American Rescue Plan dollars for small businesses negatively affected by the pandemic. Grants will range from $5,000 to $150,000 per business and can be used to cover a wide range of operations, such as staff and overhead costs.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and show the diversity of our state,” Munoz said. “Throughout the pandemic, we have continued to see businesses close their doors. I strongly encourage business owners to take advantage of this grant opportunity before it closes.”

Priority is given to businesses in hard-hit industries, in hard-hit areas, and with revenues less than $5 million, as well as businesses that have not yet received any government assistance.

More than 45 businesses in the district Munoz represents have already received nearly $2.3 million in grants. They include restaurants, medical centers, beauty parlors, art studios and more demonstrating the diversity of the local small business community and how many different kinds of businesses are eligible for grants.

“A large number of grants have already awarded to businesses in the 1st District, but there is still funding available” Munoz said. “Business owners and employees have worked tirelessly to provide for the community – now it’s time for us to help them.”

Learn more about the B2B grant program and start an application on the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity website. The deadline to submit an application is Oct. 13.

CHICAGO – Bourdeau-Griffin Interiors & Architectural Supplies, Inc. will receive nearly $2 million in state funding to create a business hub and development center on the Chicago’s South Side, Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) announced Thursday.

“This funding will fuel economic development in our community,” Munoz said. “I’m pleased to see funds go to a business that will expand and bring more jobs to the 1^st District.”

Bourdeau-Griffin Interiors & Architectural Supplies, Inc. is expected to receive $1,901,518 to create a business hub and development center hub on the South Side of Chicago for interior designers, architects, contractors, artists, business owners and buyers.  

Frantzie Bourdeau-Griffin began experimenting with designer products in the 1980s to find a way to serve interior design clients at an affordable price. The company has since established a reputation for quality and innovation.

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