Peoria City Council urges state to preserve local zoning authority, opposes BUILD preemption proposals

The Peoria City Council voted unanimously April 14 to adopt a resolution urging state leaders to preserve local zoning authority in response to the governor’s ‘BUILD’ proposals, which would set statewide zoning standards, legalize ADUs and change parking and density rules.

City attorneys and staff told the council the package contains provisions that would preempt local codes. Corporation counsel noted that some bills drafted after the governor’s announcement would limit municipal control over lot sizes, accessory dwelling placement, parking minimums and other local controls. “The overwhelming issue throughout these bills is pre-emption of local authority,” the city’s counsel said.

Council members and staff said Peoria is already pursuing local housing and infill projects — such as Churchview Gardens and Exposition Gardens — and argued changes imposed from Springfield could undermine neighborhood character and local problem-solving. Councilmember Hayes said some elements in the package could allow eight-unit buildings on single-family lots with minimal parking, a change the city said would disrupt existing neighborhood form.

The resolution instructs the mayor and staff to continue outreach to the governor’s office and the city’s legislative delegation to seek modifications that protect local decision-making and preserve form districts and historic neighborhoods.

Why it matters: The resolution signals unified municipal opposition to state-level preemption of zoning decisions and positions Peoria to press for amendments to preserve local control over design, parking and density rules.

Next steps: City staff will continue meetings with legislators and the governor’s office to seek changes and share visuals and examples of local concerns.