On February 28, 2023, Chicago voters will elect three community members to serve on District Councils in each of Chicago’s 22 Police Districts. In July 2021, the Chicago City Council passed the Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) ordinance, creating a new model for police oversight, accountability, and public safety. The ordinance establishes the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, a citywide body with the power to advance systemic reform, as well as District Councils that will work to improve policing and public safety and build stronger connections between the police and the community. The District Councils will have several key roles:

● Hold monthly public meetings, where residents can work with the police on local
initiatives rooted in community concerns and priorities;

● Work to address concerns about policing in the district and increase
accountability;

● Help develop and implement community policing initiatives;

● Provide input on police department policies and practices

In the upcoming municipal election, candidates in each District that receive the greatest, second greatest, and third greatest number of votes will assume office on the first Tuesday in May. District Council members serve four-year terms and receive a monthly stipend. In all District Council elections, voters may vote for up to three candidates. Deputy Director of District Councils Damon Smith will lead the team that will support the 22 elected District Councils. For more information about the District Councils and the election process, visit https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/ccpsa.html.