About this episode
Every ten years, the city has to redraw the boundaries of the city’s 50 wards. Alderpeople are supposed to use census data of who lives in the community areas, but there’s also self-interest seeped into the process. After all, the ward boundaries help determine if they’ll get re-elected. Alders tend to create these maps behind closed doors in a way that serves them. But a good government group is trying to change the process. CHANGE Illinois is behind the Chicago Advisory Redistricting Commission, made up of 13 members who represent Chicago’s diversity. The commission hosted community meetings all summer, livestreamed their boundary-drawing sessions, and now they have a map. Commissioner Chris Kanich explains why these aren’t just arbitrary lines on a map and why it’s critical to ensure your alderperson is representing your community’s needs. Guest: Chris Kanich — Commissioner, Chicago Advisory Redistricting Commission At 1 p.m. Wednesday, the City Council his hosting a public hearing on redistricting . Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm