The July 2021 Ordinance that established the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) also established twenty-two District Councils (DCs), one for each police district of the Chicago Police Department. Each DC is it’s own separate public body, consisting of three Councilors elected in the same Chicago municipal elections where voters select their mayor and members of City Council. The first-ever election of DCs took place in 2023. Like the mayor and City Council, District Councilors serve four-year terms. They are accountable to the residents of the police district. Unique to Chicago, the DCs provide a grassroots level of representation for addressing concerns and advocating for change around public safety and policing issues. Each DC holds a monthly public meeting, which serves as a hyperlocal venue for community members to create and collaborate on innovative public safety solutions and ensure police accountability. The DCs also function as the eyes and ears of the Commission, helping Commissioners understand community needs and providing Commissioners with insights, information, and recommendations, including strategic priorities.
