"Aldermanic privilege" is the customary power given to Chicago City Council members that gives each #Alderman the ability to control decisions within their own wards regarding development, zoning, and construction permits. This powerful tool of political strength means that #Aldermen are the final authority in what happens in their own wards. 

Pat Dowell, the Alderman for Chicago’s 3rd Ward, voiced her opposition to Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s proposal to use taxes generated downtown to extend Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line. Dowell called the proposal a “bad deal” that “will take my constituents’ property tax obligations and apply them miles away.” She makes a very good point. Why should the residents of her ward be responsible for funding a project that does not impact them directly?

#AldermanicPrerogative does not need to be abolished, as it has been a defining factor in Chicago’s political sphere for several decades. Illinois House Bill 45 states that someone cannot be elected Alderman “unless that person has resided in the ward that the person seeks to represent.” The entire community should contribute to shaping their neighborhoods, but we can’t very well have each and every citizen serve on the City Council. Who can do a better job of representing a neighborhood than the Alderman who lives there? 

Yes, some Aldermen will abuse their power, but the law ensures that they are held responsible for their actions. If they lose their veto power, it would be difficult or impossible to compel developers to collaborate with the neighborhoods in which they are operating. The Affordable Requirements Ordinance does not contain sufficient provisions in and of itself to enforce their cooperation. Wards where gentrification is already in place would lose the ability to require developers to create additional affordable housing and offer community-driven standards. 

At the present time, this is still the best way to ensure that each community is represented in Chicago’s city planning. Each Alderman representing their own ward is the most effective way that we can make sure every neighborhood gets their fair say in how the city is run. Unless we can find a more optimal system, Aldermanic privilege needs to stay in place.