Committee advances zoning-code consultant despite criticism over two bids and short public review

The committee voted 4-2 to advance staff’s recommendation to contract with Code Studio for a comprehensive zoning-code rewrite, but the decision followed extended debate over procurement, limited responses, and the pace of public review.

Public commenters and several committee members argued the city should seek additional proposals for such a consequential contract. Kira Kelly asked council to request additional proposals and preserve consultant independence: "We need to provide more competition and choice for such a consequential contract that will shape every neighborhood in Evanston," she said. Multiple residents urged tabling to recruit more bidders and to write stronger independence clauses into any contract.

Staff said the RFP was sent to 21 firms and five firms attended the pre-proposal meeting, but only two submitted responsive proposals. Purchasing staff confirmed no proposals were deemed nonresponsive; two valid proposals were received. Council members expressed differing views: supporters said Code Studio’s proposed community-engagement budget and local approach matched resident expectations, while skeptics warned that choosing from two responses risked insufficient market testing for a once-in-a-generation zoning rewrite.

Council member Rogers compared the choice to buying a new car without comparable options and said he favored Code Studio’s approach to engagement, though he acknowledged the committee’s responsibility to ensure due diligence. The motion to advance the recommendation passed 4-2; the item will be considered at City Council where members expected further discussion and possible hold.