Evanston residents demand urgent action on affordable housing crisis during public meeting

The urgent need for affordable housing took center stage at the Evanston Land Use Commission meeting on January 8, 2025, as residents voiced their concerns about the ongoing housing crisis in the city. Speakers highlighted the struggles of families, educators, and essential workers who are unable to afford living in the community they serve.

Mary Beth Schroeder, a long-time resident, shared her personal experience of housing insecurity, emphasizing that her grandchildren and their mother, a dedicated preschool teacher, are forced to live with her due to the lack of affordable options. "There is literally not a single place in Evanston that she and her children could afford," Schroeder lamented, calling for improvements to the inclusionary housing ordinance and better utilization of the affordable housing fund.

Olin Wilson Thomas echoed these sentiments, presenting stark statistics that revealed a 57% increase in average rent for two-bedroom apartments since 2015, while median household income rose only 20%. He urged the commission to act swiftly, stating, "Every day that we put this plan off is another day that families go without an affordable place to live."

The discussion also touched on the need for regulatory measures to control rent increases and ensure developers prioritize affordable housing over profit. "Housing is a human right, first and foremost," Thomas asserted, calling for immediate action rather than waiting for a perfect solution.

Gail Kemp, a newer resident, challenged the notion that the process was rushed, arguing that community involvement is a shared responsibility. "We are citizens. We have a responsibility to get involved," she stated, urging long-time residents to engage in the planning process.

Architect David Galloway critiqued the current comprehensive plan, labeling it a "failed document" and calling for more specific references to Evanston's unique needs, particularly regarding "missing middle housing" options that could bridge the gap between single-family homes and larger apartment buildings.

As the meeting concluded, the consensus among speakers was clear: Evanston must prioritize affordable housing solutions to ensure that all residents, especially those who contribute to the community, can live and thrive in the city. The commission's next steps will be crucial in addressing these pressing concerns and shaping the future of housing in Evanston.