If you’ve ever done business in Chicago or plan to, you may have heard of “Aldermanic Prerogative.” It’s a unique feature of Chicago’s local government that gives each Alderman significant influence over what happens in their Ward. Whether it’s approving a new development, zoning changes, or even smaller things like driveway permits, the Alderman has the power to say yes—or no. For business owners, developers, and residents alike, this can be both a blessing and a source of frustration.
Let’s break down what Aldermanic Prerogative is, where it comes from, and why it still matters today.
The Basics of Aldermanic Prerogative
In simple terms, the Aldermanic Prerogative is a longstanding tradition where each alderman has the final say on many decisions affecting their Ward. It’s not just a formal rule—it’s an unwritten understanding that has shaped the way the City of Chicago operates for more than a century.
Historically, Aldermen acted as local gatekeepers. In the 1800s, for example, City Council wouldn’t move forward with street repairs or assessments without the local Alderman’s approval. Over time, their power expanded to include veto power over key issues like zoning changes or whether a business could get a liquor license. Today, Aldermen continue to wield influence over everything from development proposals to whether the City cuts down trees in your neighborhood.
Why Does This Matter?
For businesses and residents alike, this local power can feel like a double-edged sword. On the one hand, Aldermanic prerogative ensures that someone close to the community is making decisions on your behalf. After all, who better to understand the needs of a neighborhood than the person elected to represent it?
But there’s another side to the coin. Aldermanic Prerogative can also create inconsistencies across the City. A development project that flies through in one Ward could face roadblocks in another, depending on that Ward’s Alderman. This kind of discretion, while valuable for local control, can sometimes feel arbitrary and lead to delays or conflicts, especially for developers navigating the zoning process.
For businesses, it’s important to understand that having the support of your local Alderman can be essential. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant, expanding your property, or seeking approval for a zoning change, getting buy-in from the Alderman is often the key to moving forward smoothly.
A Brief History of Aldermanic Power
Aldermanic Prerogative has deep roots in Chicago’s political history. Back in the 1890s, aldermen had the power to enforce local restrictions like shutting down liquor sales in certain areas. This power to “veto” decisions in their Ward grew over time, allowing Aldermen to make decisions on things like zoning changes, construction permits, and even public services like tree trimming or alley cleaning.
The mid-twentieth century saw Aldermen reach the height of their power, especially those who were also Ward committeemen. These “little mayors” wielded enormous influence, often shaping the political landscape of their Wards—and sometimes, their own political fortunes.
Reform efforts kicked in during the 1950s, when Mayor Richard J. Daley centralized some decision-making processes, particularly in zoning and permits, to reduce the unchecked power of Aldermen. But even with reforms, Aldermanic Prerogative hasn’t disappeared. In fact, it’s still alive and well today, particularly in matters like zoning, permitting and licensing.
Navigating Aldermanic Prerogative
So, what does this mean if you’re a business owner or developer in Chicago?
First, it’s essential to understand that Aldermanic Prerogative isn’t just a political buzzword—it’s a real dynamic that affects how things get done. When considering a project, whether it’s real estate development, expanding a business, or any other endeavor that requires City approval, your first step should be to engage with the Alderman’s office. Building a positive relationship can be crucial to navigating the process smoothly.
While reforms have introduced more transparency in how Aldermen exercise their power, the system can still be complex. It helps to work with professionals, like lawyers or consultants, who are familiar with the ins and outs of Chicago’s political and zoning landscape. These experts can guide you on when and how to approach the Alderman, what to expect, and how to best position your project for success.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not considered legal advice on any subject matter. The information provided here does not create, and receipt of it does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. You should not act upon this information without seeking advice from an attorney licensed in your own state or country.