Zoning Advisory Council (ZAC)

The 48th ward Zoning Advisory Council (ZAC) is a volunteer council of community members that helps assess zoning change requests and advises the Alderwoman on decisions regarding these requests.

Members of the ZAC are 48th ward residents who have some area of expertise (including professional or lived experience) in land-use, zoning, or development. In its inaugural year, more than 80 neighbors applied to serve on the ZAC. In addition to their expertise and interest, members are selected to ensure the body is representative of our ward’s economic, racial, and regional diversity.

ZAC members are appointed by the Alderwoman and hold one year terms. Their duties include vetting proposals ahead of the Alderwoman’s review; they hear applicants’ presentations, ask clarifying questions, and assist in identifying salient issues of each zoning change request.

As an advisory council, the recommendation of the ZAC is one component of the larger development process, which also includes additional community input.

Mission: The mission of the Zoning Advisory Council is to assess and advise the 48th ward office on issues relating to zoning, land use, and development. The Zoning Advisory Council is an appointed, volunteer council that serves one year terms and aims to represent the entirety of the 48th ward.

Vision: To maintain and expand the rich diversity of our ward through equitable land use for the improvement of the quality of life for all who live, work, and play in our ward. In the view of the Zoning Advisory Council, equitable land use means development that is accessible, affordable, and environmentally sustainable.