About the Alderman   >  Background

A proud resident of the Galewood-Montclare community, Alderman William JP Banks has served the people of the 36th Ward for nearly two and a half decades.

In addition to his aldermanic duties, Banks serves as Chairman of the City Council's Committee on Zoning.  This is one of the City Council's most important committees which handles many complex tasks related to civic improvement.

He is a graduate of DePaul University College of Law.   He received his undergraduate degree in history from DePaul after graduating from nearby Oak Park River Forest High School.

Banks began his work in the 36th Ward as a volunteer with the 36th Ward Democratic Organization. After a brief term as Ward Committeeman, his passion for community improvement won him election to the City Council in 1983.

Prior to his election as Alderman, Banks served as Chief Research Aide and Legal Counsel to U.S. Congressman Morgan F. Murphy. Banks later handled over 10,000 cases in his position as Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago.

Banks is a licensed lawyer who was admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1975. He raised two children in the Galewood community with his wife Shirley, his partner of more than 30 years.

In addition to his service as Alderman, Banks remains an active member of the community through his membership in numerous local organizations.

Alderman Banks is currently a member of the following local organizations:

• Blue Ribbon Commission of the Chicago Coalition to Save Our Mental Health Centers
• The Galewood-Montclare Community Organization
• The North Austin Business Association
• The Montclare-Elmwood Park Chamber of Commerce
• The Belmont Central Chamber of Commerce
• Board Member of the Chicago Shriner's Hospital
• The Fraternal Order of Police
• The Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans
• The Justinian Society of Lawyers
• The Polish National Alliance
• The Emerald Society
• Member of the Chicago Chapter of ABATE
• The District Council for the Boy Scouts of America