🚗 Waymo cars in Chicago this week?!

Chicago To Refund Ticket Overcharges

A Cook County judge ruled last week that the city must refund Chicago motorists about $104 million for illegal overcharges on more than a million tickets from 2012 to 2022. The judge determined the city violated state law by exceeding a $250 fine cap. City Hall is considering an appeal. [Sun-Times]

Chicago’s Hip-Hop History Runs Deep

We’re concluding this week’s tour of Chicago’s Black history with something that may feel modern. Last fall, Chicago rapper femdot taught a course at DePaul University, “Chicago Culture Through Hip Hop,” and shared his rap syllabus on the podcast. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

• Queue it up: Here’s femdot’s historic playlist. [City Cast Chicago 💻]

Waymo Self-Driving Cars in Chicago This Week

But these autonomous vehicles will have a motorist behind the wheel, at least for now. A Waymo spokesperson said these vehicles will be performing “mapping and early data collection” this week. [Block Club]

How Mild Winters Affect the Local Economy

Mild winters in Chicago can briefly reduce business for snow-related services and mechanics, while the retail sector can see a boost. However, these economic effects are short-lived compared to how climate change may shift jobs long-term. [WBEZ]