Chicago's Pay-to-Play Zoning Redux

A continuation of the series of articles from the Chicago Tribune that look at zoning and the politics that shape the city's land use.

1 minute read

February 12, 2008, 5:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg

"Compare and contrast results of the Chicago tradition of aldermanic prerogative and the cozy relationships that guide zoning decisions in the city."

"After nearly 50 years, in 2002 Chicago re-wrote its Zoning Ordinance to better reflect the current market realities. Rather than follow that law that guides how zoning changes are to be evaluated, in Chicago's 11th Ward--home to the Daley family political dynasty--the current alderman seeks zoning advice from the party committeeman (a Daley) and zoning changes appear to be negotiable (as long as you play along)."

Thanks to Lynn Stevens

Read the full story: A curious tale of two properties

Saturday, February 9, 2008 in The Chicago Tribune

Government / Politics Urban Development Illinois

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