Lakeview East, Chicago, January 25, 2017: The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce, Sole Service Provider for Special Service Area #17 (SSA #17), has awarded HLSA Security, a certified City of Chicago Women Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), a six-figure security contract funded by SSA #17 to patrol the Lakeview East/SSA #17 area which general boundaries include: Clark Street (Fletcher to Byron), Sheffield (Diversey to Irving Park Rd.), Belmont (Halsted west to Racine) and Diversey (916-1012W).

HLSA is owned and operated by Janice Dillon, a retired Chicago Police captain with over 28 years of services which included assignments to the 19th District as the watch commander and 23rd District as a sergeant. Her past assignments to 19th and 23rd districts and her experience in Community Policing will be a key component to service Lakeview East/Special Service Area #17 with the proper security and expertise.

SSA #17 Commissioners have responded to Alderman Tom Tunney’s request for increase security patrols and to work with the 19th District Police Department, CTA, SSA #8 and the entertainment security teams currently under contract with North Halsted Business Alliance. 19th District Commander Marc Buslik has met with the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce and SSA #17 commissioners and stated the 19th District will have dedicated foot patrols on Belmont beginning this Sunday and operate seven days a week. SSA patrols will augment the current plans of additional officers assigned to the 19th District. Other initiatives in the 19th District plan will include police cars, bike officers and midnight watch for the entertainment district area.

Maureen Martino, executive director, Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce, stated “We all need to get involved to keep our community safe and we are taking that next step by putting forth a cohesive plan with a very qualified security firm and working with the 19th District police department as well as other SSAs currently contracting security.”

“SSA #17 Commissioners will continue to work with Alderman Tunney, Chicago Police District 19 as well as residents and businesses alike to ensure that we are using every available resource,” said Stephen Johnson, chairman SSA #17.

The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce (LVECC) recently expanded their boundaries in January, 2017 to best service the businesses and taxpayers for SSA #17. LVECC also manages SSA#8 which includes private security.

HLSA Security will begin their contract in March and will share a new office with Lakeview East Chamber/SSA #17 located at Belmont and Sheffield. This office will also serve as a check in for local police.

*Special Service Areas are local tax districts that fund expanded services and programs through localized property tax levy within contiguous areas.The enhanced services and programs are in addition to those currently provided through the City of Chicago. SSA funded programs typically include but are not limited to: public way maintenance and beautification; district marketing and promotions, economic development, security and façade improvements.