At the Chicago Growth Project, we are striving to elect a pro-growth, pro-reform, good-government majority to the Chicago City Council in the 2027 election. Our vision for Chicago isn’t rooted in factional politics or rigid ideology but is inclusive, forward-thinking, and centered on guiding principles that unite and inspire. A fresh start.

We are stepping away from imposing grand policy schemes and instead are focusing on listening—listening to Chicagoans, experts, and communities. Our approach is rooted in building a platform that meets the city’s needs and supporting the candidates who step up to champion and deliver on these shared goals. This is not just about creating a plan; it’s about fostering a shared purpose, offering a unifying and solution-oriented framework that resonates with all Chicagoans.

We are seeking a path forward that grows our economy, fixes governance, improves education, and makes life better for every resident. Our vision invites everyone to align with deeper ideals of progress, equity, and opportunity, making our movement less transactional and more aspirational. Now, more than ever, Chicago needs steady, forward-thinking leadership to guide us through these times and toward a brighter future.

 

Guiding Principles

The Chicago Growth Project is committed to building a policy framework that is based on the following four key values:

 

City Charter

Chicago needs a city charter to create a clear, modern framework for how our city operates, making government more transparent, accountable, and effective. A charter would act as Chicago’s “constitution,” outlining the rights of residents and the responsibilities of leaders in a way that’s easy to understand. It would replace outdated laws with a streamlined system that promotes good governance, ethics, and fiscal responsibility. A charter could empower communities, giving neighborhoods a stronger voice in decisions that shape their future. Reducing bureaucracy and promoting smarter planning would make Chicago more efficient and fair for everyone, from families to small businesses. Other cities have used charters to drive equity and innovation, and Chicago can, too. This isn’t about politics—it’s about building a stronger, more united city where everyone thrives.

 

Governmental Excellence

Chicago is an expression of its citizens. It is defined by its residents, businesses, and visitors. The way that local government operates influences how and where people invest their time, energy, and money. Sound governance is directly related to fiscal conditions, the impacts on residential and business property taxpayers, the ability to provide public services, and ultimately, the desirability of Chicago. Governmental excellence is not simply a virtue, but a necessity if Chicago expects to remain a community of choice for future generations. City Hall should aspire to provide excellent and innovative public education, transportation, and infrastructure, as well as a compassionate helping hand in times of need. We believe this can be accomplished through responsible use of public funds.

 

Growth and Prosperity

Economic health and vitality affect all aspects of the overall quality of life in Chicago, from access to local goods and services to municipal financing. The impact of a healthy and vital local economy is felt not only by City Hall, but also by our schools, the park district, the CTA, and others that collectively define local quality of life. A healthy growing economy provides a diverse tax base, which in part, relieves reliance on residential property taxes. It also ensures quality services, which attracts additional business, employment, and residential investment. In this way, the local economy is a key component to a sustainable and high quality of life. We believe that business-friendly conditions and entrepreneurship are the keys to this economic success. City Hall should ensure Chicago creates a better climate for business that facilitates economic investment, reduces red tape, and encourages creativity.

 

Quality of Life

We believe that a great quality of life starts with strong, connected communities, where people feel a sense of belonging and pride. Recreation, sports, arts, and culture play a vital role in fostering these connections and creating shared experiences. By supporting programs and public spaces, the government can help strengthen communities, making them vibrant and resilient. However, we must urgently address disparities in crime, economic vitality, education, and quality of life across neighborhoods. Chicago’s growth can’t come from just a few areas—it must be shared by all. Investments in these community-building efforts will promote health, creativity, and opportunity, ensuring that no neighborhood is left behind. A strong, united city is built on strong communities, and the government must play a central role in making sure every community thrives together.