What is the purpose of the BLZ Committee?

There is a two-fold purpose to this model:

1) takes the politics out of business approval; and

2) empowers local business leaders to work together to create a stable, profitable local business environment.

 

When does the BLZ Committee meet?

BLZ meetings are every second Tuesday of the month or the following Tuesday if a holiday falls on the second Tuesday (Please call the office if you’re not sure). This meeting is open to the public. All business owners are welcome to attend. The Alderman chooses voting members, and those voting members are not compensated for their time.

 

If I want to start a business, what should I do first?

To ensure the full cooperation of the 15th Ward, anyone seeking to open a business within the 15th Ward must provide a written description of the business to the Alderman’s office. If any zoning, licensing, or support letters are needed, the BLZ Committee will meet to determine if that is possible.

 

Does an existing business need the BLZ Committee?

Any current business wishing to make any change to their zoning or licensing that requires aldermanic approval MUST submit a written explanation to the Alderman’s office for consideration by the committee.

 

How are decisions made? Can the Alderman override them?

Applicants are invited to present directly to the Committee. The Committee makes all decisions by a simple majority. The Alderman gives full authority to the Committee and will NOT override any decision made by the group.

 

All meetings are held virtually unless otherwise noted.  Meetings convene at 6:30 PM every second Tuesday of the month, and businesses are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.​

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How do I sign up to present my business plan or zoning change?

Applicants can submit their request to present before the BLZ Committee by filling out this online form. Please fill out every required field and upload all required documentation. Once the 15th Ward Office has all required information, you will receive the Zoom link to attend the BLZ meeting. 

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Once your proposal or request is on the agenda, you will be asked to present before the BLZ Committee on Zoom. Please note that applicants present their proposal in the order in which they log on. Once you log into the Zoom waiting room, you will be admitted to the meeting. Please DO NOT log off and sign back on or you will lose your place in line to present. For day of or meeting questions, please call Hugo Lopez at (773) 823-1539 Ext. 101 or email at Ward15@CityofChicago.org.