The Chicago City Council’s zoning committee has taken a significant step forward by advancing a long-awaited measure to allow the construction of additional dwelling units (ADUs), such as coach houses and basement apartments, across the city. This decision comes after an often contentious debate in City Council chambers on Tuesday, showcasing the divide among council members regarding the implications of the proposed ordinance.
The compromise version of the ordinance was first proposed two years ago by Ald. Bennett Lawson (44th) and seeks to permit the construction of ADUs without requiring a zoning change. However, the legislation is still subject to approval by the full City Council, which is scheduled to meet on Wednesday for a final vote.
Some key amendments to the original legislation were made to secure support from hesitant members of the City Council. For instance, the updated ordinance sets limits on the number of ADUs that can be built on specific blocks in residentially zoned districts. These adjustments reflect the ongoing negotiations to achieve a balance between promoting density and addressing concerns about neighborhood character.
Supporters of the ADU expansion argue that these units represent a straightforward method to increase housing density and affordability across various Chicago neighborhoods. This initiative aligns with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s Cut The Tape initiative, which aims to streamline the development process in the city.
During a press conference last week, Johnson emphasized the need for more housing in Chicago, stating, “In order to build the safest, most affordable big city in America, you have to have more housing. That’s a challenge, of course, that exists around the country. I just believe it’s important that the city of Chicago lead the way in creating more units.”
Despite these efforts, opposition remains strong among some City Council members who are concerned about the impact of ADUs on single-family neighborhoods. Ald. Marty Quinn (13th), a vocal critic from the Southwest Side, expressed his belief that the ordinance would undermine the character of his constituents’ neighborhoods, expressing, “For someone that represents the Bungalow Belt, I feel like my residents are having this ordinance jammed down their throats, and that’s not fair.”
Quinn’s contention highlights a significant point of contention within the council. He asserted that such measures could potentially harm the integrity of single-family dwelling areas, leading to greater density without sufficient consideration of local input.
The ordinance was passed by the zoning committee with a vote of 13-7, but some members have signaled intentions to delay the vote at the full City Council meeting through parliamentary means. As it stands, both coach houses and “conversion units,” such as basement apartments, would qualify as additional dwelling units under the new legislation.
Under the proposed ordinance, homeowners would be allowed to build ADUs “as of right,” meaning they would not need to go through the zoning change process. Nevertheless, the ordinance imposes specific limitations, allowing one ADU for each block in RS-1 zones, two units in RS-2 zones, and three units in RS-3 zones annually. This provision attempts to respect the character of single-family neighborhoods while facilitating gradual ADU development in suitable areas.
In another notable stipulation, homeowners must reside in the detached properties where they intend to construct an ADU. Individual alderpersons would also have the option to exempt certain areas within their wards from these regulations. The ordinance would extend the option for ADU construction in some commercial and business zoning areas as well.
Several aspects from the pilot program initiated in 2021 will remain unchanged should the ordinance pass. For instance, it mandates that every second unit constructed must be designated as affordable housing, alongside a prohibition on short-term rentals like Airbnbs. Ald. Lawson emphasized this point, stating, “This is housing for Chicagoans, not for visitors.”
The debate during the zoning committee meeting underscored the stark differences of opinion regarding the necessity of introducing ADUs without the input of local council members. Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) described the ADU expansion as a “disaster,” contending that it would lead to an uncontrolled increase in housing units without proper oversight.
Conversely, Ald. Jessie Fuentes (26th) countered Beale’s arguments by stating that the housing crisis in Chicago existed well before the arrival of the migrants. Fuentes pointed out the bureaucratic challenges that have historically hampered the ability of small landlords to provide housing units to the community.
Furthermore, Ald. Daniel La Spata (1st) praised the revised ordinance, asserting that ADUs would not significantly alter the character of neighborhoods and would, in fact, increase housing availability across the city.
The looming vote by the full City Council on the proposed ADU expansion is significant. Should the measure pass, it is set to be implemented on February 1, marking a potentially transformative moment for housing policy in Chicago. Regardless of the outcome, the ongoing discussions reflect broader tensions over real estate development in urban settings and the balancing of community character with housing needs.
image source from：blockclubchicago
