Evanston Council aims to expedite affordable housing amid community displacement concerns

The Administration and Public Works Committee meeting held on May 27, 2025, focused on the urgent need for affordable housing in Evanston. Council members discussed the challenges the community faces due to rising living costs, which have led to significant displacement of residents.

Council member Burns emphasized the importance of balancing the delivery of affordable housing with the community's needs. He acknowledged that many residents feel the situation is dire, with some believing that the battle for affordable housing has already been lost. He expressed a commitment to addressing these issues as the new chair of the Affordable Housing and Community Development (AHCD) committee.

Burns highlighted the necessity of expediting housing initiatives, suggesting that the city should allocate funds to support these efforts. He pointed out that the community development department is currently overwhelmed with existing projects, which limits their capacity to take on new housing initiatives internally. As a result, he proposed seeking external contracts to help advance the city’s housing goals.

The discussion underscored the urgency of the housing crisis in Evanston, with Burns calling for immediate action to provide solutions for residents in need. The committee's focus on affordable housing reflects a broader commitment to addressing the pressing challenges faced by the community.