Alderwoman Cruz believes strongly in adding to the City’s housing supply—which currently needs an additional 100,000+ units of affordable housing to accommodate demand—but also encouraging it to be built where it is most appropriate. This includes vacant and underutilized parcels, especially along busy corridors close to transit, retail shops, and other amenities.

All significant zoning change requests and development proposals are reviewed by the 30th Ward Community Zoning Committee (CZC), a group of nine residents of varying backgrounds and expertise from across the ward who volunteer their time. The CZC meets monthly (and more often as needed), asking questions of developers, providing constructive feedback, and making recommendations to Alderwoman Cruz.

Neighbors are also consulted, with feedback gathered through surveys and/or community meetings, depending on the size, character, location, and other characteristics of the proposal.

Here is the full 30th Ward development review process:

1. Submit ZPD Intake Form – Part 1.

2. Meet with Alderwoman and/or staff.

3. Submit ZPD Intake Form – Part 2.

4. Meet with Community Zoning Committee. CZC issues recommendation to Alderwoman.

5. Community feedback (one or both, depending on project characteristics and community response):

   1. a. Survey.

   2. b. Community meeting.

6. Alderwoman considers CZC recommendation and community feedback and makes decision on project.