Hazel Johnson Cumulative Impacts Ordinance
On April 16, Mayor Brandon Johnson, alongside Alders Ramirez, La Spata, Sigcho-Lopez, Rodriguez-Sanchez, and Hadden, introduced the Hazel Johnson Cumulative Impacts Ordinance (CIO), a bold step towards protecting vulnerable communities from disproportionate pollution burdens. By applying a more thorough zoning review process for high-pollution land uses and industries, the ordinance aims to prevent additional stressors from compounding in already-burdened communities.
Alderowoman Manaa-Hoppenworth is in strong support of the CIO, which you can read about in more detail below:
Advancing Environmental Justice in Industrial Zoning
The Hazel Johnson Cumulative Impacts Ordinance is a citywide policy designed to protect communities from unfair pollution burdens by considering the combined effects of multiple pollution sources—such as traffic, industrial plants, and other environmental stressors—on public health. Strengthening the zoning process for industries and facilities with the highest potential for pollution, the ordinance ensures a more thorough review before approval, promoting a fairer, healthier, and safer Chicago.
Developed collaboratively by citywide stakeholders, including impacted residents and City of Chicago staff, the ordinance honors Hazel Johnson, the founder of People for Community Recovery and a lifelong advocate against environmental racism. Known as the “Mother of Environmental Justice,” Johnson fought tirelessly to address pollution in Black and low-income communities, and her legacy continues through this ordinance.
This Ordinance Strengthens Protections By
Defining key terms, such as “Environmental Justice” and “Cumulative Impact Assessment.”
Establishing the Environmental Justice Project Manager position at the Department of Environment, to ensure that the department has a dedicated individual committed to advancing environmental justice initiatives.
Creating a Mayoral-appointed Environmental Justice Advisory Board with diverse leadership, including members of communities historically impacted by pollution.
Outlining specific responsibilities for the Board such as:
Reviewing, assessing, and advising on City plans, policies, guidance documents, and expenditures; and
Reviewing cumulative impact studies as required by the Chicago Municipal Code and providing recommendations.
Requiring applicants seeking a zoning permit for heavy industrial land uses to conduct a cumulative impact study to assess potential environmental and health impacts as part of the zoning process.
Requiring a Planned Development or Special Use zoning review and approval to ensure thorough evaluation before an applicant can proceed.
