The Planning and Development Committee of Evanston, Illinois, convened on September 8, 2025, to address key issues surrounding vacation rental regulations, particularly focusing on owner-occupied versus non-owner-occupied properties. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and discussions regarding the city's moratorium on non-owner-occupied vacation rentals.

Director Flax reported that there are currently 65 active vacation rental licenses in Evanston, with 55% classified as owner-occupied. This indicates a higher prevalence of owner-occupied rentals compared to non-owner-occupied ones. The committee discussed the need for better tracking of active listings, as many property owners have removed their listings, complicating the city's ability to monitor the market effectively.

Council members expressed differing views on the proposed amendment to the moratorium. One member voiced strong support for maintaining the moratorium on non-owner-occupied rentals, emphasizing the importance of owner-occupied properties for community stability. They noted that the situation is complex, with many factors still needing resolution.

Another council member clarified that the amendment was intended to revert to the original intent of the moratorium referral, which did not initially address occupancy issues. They emphasized that the amendment would not affect current license renewals, aiming to ensure that existing operators could continue their rentals without disruption.

The discussion also touched on the potential for creating affordable housing options through regulations that allow homeowners to rent out their properties while residing in them. Comparisons were made to neighboring Skokie's regulations, which require owners to live on the premises, suggesting that Evanston could adopt similar measures.

Overall, the committee's discussions underscored the need for a balanced approach to vacation rental regulations, considering both the interests of property owners and the broader community. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of moving forward with a solid ordinance that addresses these concerns while allowing homeowners to utilize their properties effectively. Further steps will be taken to refine the regulations and ensure they meet the needs of Evanston's residents.