Homes program presents housing action plan and next steps for Lindenhurst

A Homes for a Changing Region representative for the Metropolitan Mayors' Caucus and BRicK Partners on March 9 presented the Lindenhurst Housing Action Plan, summarizing a multi‑month engagement and a community survey that identified four primary housing challenges and several recommended next steps.

The presenter said the program found: (1) some older homeowners need assistance with home repairs and accessibility improvements; (2) many renter households need rental options they can more easily afford; (3) seniors need more opportunities to downsize into smaller, lower‑cost homes; and (4) younger adults need smaller, more attainable housing options for ownership and rental. "The Homes for a Changing Region (Homes) program helps municipalities identify solutions to their most pressing housing challenges, create a balanced mix of housing types, and serve the needs of multiple generations of residents and workers," the presenter told the board.

Recommendations offered for the board’s consideration included meeting with Community Partners for Affordable Housing to explore home‑repair assistance, down‑payment counseling, and the possibility of community land trust homes; updating comprehensive plans and zoning to permit multifamily and missing‑middle housing; pursuing developers with a track record in affordable rental production (possibly using an RFQ); and coordinating with Lake County Partners to examine workforce‑housing strategies and commercial development opportunities. The presenter suggested next steps such as a market study, identifying candidate sites, updates to the zoning ordinance, and educational presentations for the board.

Board members provided comments and asked questions; the minutes record that the board will consider the recommendations and that staff follow up on the suggested next steps. No formal vote was taken on policy changes; the presentation was received for consideration.