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Hey Chicago, how about that CityKey?


By Michael H. Wasserman
You may have heard that Chicago just made the CityKey ID available to its residents. If you haven’t, CityKey is the city’s first municipal ID card that makes city life more convenient, less expensive and, in some cases, more secure. But is it good for Chicago? 

As you likely know, our firm focuses on Chicago-area real estate transactions, and so we like to stay on top of all things Chicago. Personally, I think CityKey is a good thing, so I’m spreading the news to encourage every resident to sign up for it. That said, here’s a little more about the card and why I like it. 
What’s CityKey?
It’s a city ID card that will be accepted as a government-issued ID in Chicago (only—so far). It provides a unique code for each recipient. The code is similar to a driver’s license number, but it’s not for driving. Importantly, the card will not convey or retain information about national origin or legal status.
It’s practical 
The original intent of CityKey was to give every resident access to city services, like checking out library books, and setting up water and trash. 
It’s also little political
Chicago is a a sanctuary city, which means we welcome hardworking, honest individuals—regardless of their place of birth. CityKey is also a middle finger to certain anti-immigrant politicians who hate Chicago’s sanctuary status.
CityKey serves every resident
Yes, the card is an important tool for residents who can’t document citizenship. 
It also serves:
  • Domestic abuse survivors 
  • Homeless persons
  • Those recently released from jail
  • Senior citizens
  • Veterans
  • And really, every Chicago resident
It does something for everyone
CityKey offers something for every resident (how many city programs do that?). 
For example:
  • Prove age
  • Get a job
  • Secure housing
  • Receive city services
  • Be identified if incapacitated 
  • Track hospital or medical care
  • Enter buildings
  • Pick up prescriptions
  • Sign a lease
  • Get married 
  • Buy alcohol 
  • Vote (if eligible)
  • Access library services
  • Save money (see below!)
  • Enjoy our city 
It’s a “3 in 1” card
As a cyclist, I really like how the CityKey can be used for identification, library services and (rechargeable) Ventra fares. I can go for a long ride, read a book and get a lift home—all without carrying my wallet.
But it’s more like “4 in one” 
It can save money, too. The city negotiated some cool discounts exclusively for CityKey carriers for sports events, museums and restaurants—with more to come. There are talks of future prescription drug benefits, too. 
Finally, it’s FREE
As of April 2018, the first 100,000 CityKey cards are FREE. Better hurry though, 500 residents signed up for CityKey on its very first day. After the free cards are gone, it will cost $10 for residents over 17 and $5 for residents under 17. It will remain free (or fees waived) for certain populations, like senior citizens and vets. 
Will you get a CityKey?I know I will. And I hope you do, too. If more residents have and use it, it could be more recognizable, accepted beyond Chicago, and its benefits and advantages could grow. 
Learn more:
City Clerk’s CityKey page
Press release: Mayor Emanuel and City Clerk Valencia Officially Launch the Chicago CityKey Program
Chicago Tribune: Emanuel launches municipal ID for undocumented immigrants, others
ABC News: Chicago introduces new CityKey identification card program
On first day, Chicago issues 500 municipal ID cards, officials say



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