Evanston residents oppose Airbnb proposal on Grama Street amid neighborhood concerns

The Planning and Development Committee of Evanston held a meeting on June 9, 2025, where community members voiced their opinions on a proposed Airbnb rental at 2222 Gray Avenue. The discussion highlighted a divide among residents regarding the impact of short-term rentals on neighborhood dynamics and housing availability.

One resident, who has lived nearby for three years, expressed support for the Airbnb, noting that the guests have been respectful and that the rental has not caused any issues. She emphasized her desire to maintain the neighborhood's quality while preferring short-term rentals over long-term ones, citing concerns about problematic long-term tenants.

In contrast, several neighbors raised strong objections to the proposal. Carol Nielsen, a long-term resident, argued that allowing the property to operate as a vacation rental would effectively turn it into a motel, disrupting the community's residential character. She expressed concerns about the potential for unsupervised dogs and the loss of affordable housing options, as the property could otherwise serve as a long-term rental.

Melinda Shanklin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the neighborhood's charm lies in its stability and community feel. She pointed out that the property had previously been a long-term rental, which contributed positively to the area. Shanklin also questioned the rationale behind converting a residential property into a vacation rental, given the existing hotel options in Evanston.

Ava Martin, another neighbor, highlighted the close proximity of the properties and the impact of transient guests on her family's enjoyment of their home. She raised concerns about safety, particularly regarding children in the area and the potential for unregistered guests.

Chris Nevels, Martin's husband, reinforced the argument against the Airbnb, stating that the property has not been occupied by its owners for over a year and that granting a rental license would undermine the residential zoning of the neighborhood.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to preserving the character of their neighborhood while navigating the complexities of short-term rentals. As the committee considers the feedback from residents, the outcome of this proposal could significantly influence the future of housing and community dynamics in Evanston.