Beach Park board approves resolution opposing state preemption of local housing rules

The Village of Beach Park board on March 26 approved Resolution 2026 R12 urging state lawmakers not to preempt local zoning and housing regulations.

The board’s discussion centered on a package of state bills described by members as sweeping changes to local land‑use control. Mayor said the proposals were “terrifying when you look at it through the lens of municipal control,” warning that state mandates could force accessory dwelling units and multifamily buildings into single‑family neighborhoods and strip local parking rules.

Trustee Johnson, a member of the board, said the board should also monitor a related bill moving through the legislature that would limit municipalities’ ability to remove homeless encampments from parkland. “Keep an eye on that,” Johnson said, arguing the board should register opposition where appropriate.

The resolution expresses support for maintaining the village’s authority to regulate housing and directs staff to coordinate with the Municipal League and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and to contact legislators to make the village’s position known.

The roll call on the resolution recorded Aye votes from Trustees Niles, Johnson, Searing and Witt; Trustee Miller voted Nay. The clerk declared the motion carried.

The measure is nonbinding and directs communication and advocacy rather than imposing a local policy change. The board suggested residents and trustees contact legislators to express their views; staff will also follow up through intergovernmental channels.