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Morton Grove Introduces Ordinance for Structural-Integrity Inspections of Older Multifamily Buildings
Summary
Board introduced ordinance 2613 to create a structural integrity inspection program for multifamily properties 30 years or older following a March partial building collapse; staff proposed a phased inspection window with reports due by July 1, 2027 and said the proposal draws from Florida precedents. The item was presented for first reading and no vote was taken.
On June 9 the Morton Grove Board of Trustees received a first reading of ordinance 2613, which would establish a structural integrity inspection program for select multifamily residences 30 years or older.
The ordinance was presented on behalf of Trustee White; the presenter noted that the March partial building collapse on Lincoln Avenue had displaced residents and prompted a review of whether older multifamily properties should be required to submit structural assessments. The presenter said the proposed program would require reporting and establish a mechanism for identifying structural deficiencies and paths to remediation.
Key program elements described in the meeting: applicability to multifamily buildings 30 years or older; a phased start with properties given until July 1, 2027 to provide assessments for eligible buildings; reliance on professional assessments and an inspection cadence patterned on programs used in Florida; and a focus on ensuring early identification of structural safety risks so owners and the village can pursue remediation and resident protections.
Trustees asked for updates on the specific Lincoln Avenue property referenced in the presentation. Staff said the building remains unoccupied, the village’s occupancy order remains in place, and the owner is working with an insurance carrier and homeowners association to evaluate repair options. Staff emphasized the village’s priority is resident safety and noted ongoing contact with displaced residents.
Staff said the ordinance would return for a second reading and possible adoption at the board’s next meeting. The first reading generated questions from at least one property owner asking how often inspections would be required and noting the cost of engineer reports; staff replied the inspection cadence would be every 10 years after an initial first-year requirement and invited follow-up via email for technical questions.
What’s next: ordinance 2613 is on the board’s forthcoming agenda for a second reading and potential approval. If adopted, staff would implement the reporting schedule and work with property owners to identify and address structural deficiencies to minimize resident safety risks.
