With extremely high temperatures predicted for Chicago this week, Ald. Maria Hadden (49th) led calls for action following the apparent heat-related deaths of three seniors last May in Rogers Park's James Sneider Apartments.
Former journalist and media professional Gwendolyn Osbourne, Janice Reed, and Delores McNeely died at the apartment complex during a heatwave last month.
Families of the three seniors, who are suing, said the heating system was turned in the James Sneider Apartments despite complaints from tenants.
At a Committee on Housing and Real Estate meeting Monday, Hadden was urgently calling for a public hearing and a new ordinance.
"We're working on the legislative side to make sure that we're updating code, [and] that we're clarifying things to do our best in supporting the health and safety of residents," Hadden said.
Hadded added that legislators can't be the only ones acting to protect Chicago residents.
"We need building management and building owners to take their responsibility in making sure that they're protecting the health and safety of their residents as well," Hadden said.
Housing Committee Chair Harry Osterman (48th) said he'll convene a hearing within a few weeks.
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