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The Plan Commission is one of several City of Evanston boards, commissions, and committees. It consists of Evanston residents who volunteer their time to review, gather public feedback, and make recommendations to the City Council on matters related to land use, zoning, physical planning, and urban design. Below are frequently asked questions about the Plan Commission.

1. What is the purpose of the Plan Commission, and who serves on it?

   The Plan Commission's responsibilities include:

   • Making recommendations to the Planning and Development Committee on planned development proposals, zoning map amendments, and text amendments
   • Formulating core policies for a Comprehensive Plan
   • Initiating research on current and future city development and redevelopment
   • Preparing recommendations for annual Capital Improvement Program revisions
   • Creating an annual report assessing the Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and Capital Improvement Plan

   The Commission comprises nine voting members appointed by the Mayor and several non-voting associate members appointed by the Commission itself. All members are Evanston residents.

2. How can I become a Plan Commission member?

   Appointments are coordinated through the Mayor's Office. Application forms and additional information about the process can be found on the city website.

3. When does the Plan Commission meet, and how can I learn about upcoming meetings?

   The Commission typically meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 pm in the Civic Center Council Chambers (2100 Ridge Ave, second floor). Special meetings may be scheduled as needed. Meetings are announced through:

   • The City's online calendar and Plan Commission webpage
   • Posted hardcopy agendas at the Civic Center
   • Email notifications to zoning_information listserv subscribers
   • Mailed public notices for proposed developments and amendments
4. What should I expect at a Plan Commission meeting?

   Meetings are open to the public and follow Illinois Open Meeting Act requirements. Attendees typically include residents who received notices about proposed projects. For planned developments or zoning changes, the meeting follows public hearing procedures outlined in Article XI of the Commission Rules. For city or neighborhood plans, discussions take the form of public meetings following modified hearing procedures at the Chair's discretion.

5. How can I get more information before attending a meeting?

   City staff can answer questions about projects and meetings, provide Commission Rules copies, and direct residents to additional resources online and at physical locations where meeting materials are available (Civic Center and downtown library). Contact Scott Mangum, Planning & Zoning Administrator, at 847-448-8675 with questions.