Chicago City Council is on the brink of a housing breakthrough as two opposing aldermen have reached a compromise that could see a significant increase in 'granny flats,' or accessory dwelling units (ADUs), throughout the city. The agreement is aimed at tackling the city's rising housing costs and providing more affordable housing options.
Alderman Bennett Lawson of the 44th Ward, an advocate for the expansion of ADUs to curb high housing costs, has found middle ground with Alderman Marty Quinn of the 13th Ward, who was initially resistant to the plan. After concerns were raised about the impact of additional ADUs on neighborhoods dominated by single-family homes, the two aldermen hashed out a revised ordinance. According to a report by FOX 32 Chicago, the revised proposal now includes a citywide expansion into multi-unit residential and commercial areas, with a pilot program for single-family areas, subject to limitations and local review.
The respective local review component, advocated by Quinn, allows aldermen to have a say on whether ADU construction or conversion is permitted in their ward. "I feel this revised ordinance better represents Chicago’s values by lifting up our labor unions and workers," Quinn stated, emphasizing the agreement's alignment with Chicago's labor values. Lawson added, in a statement obtained by FOX 32 Chicago, "This agreement represents a significant step forward for housing in neighborhoods throughout the city. We listened to residents, developers, and our labor partners to craft an ordinance that not only expands housing choices but also creates good-paying jobs right here in our communities."
The compromise is highlighted by the 'opt-in' feature, which provides aldermen with more oversight. Quinn told ABC 7 Chicago, "That piece gives alders more control, or a city of 77 separate neighborhoods, so not having the one size fits all, I think works very well." Additionally, the proposal includes a provision favored by Quinn and labor unions that contractors constructing new coach houses should be part of an apprentice program.
Moving the conversation forward, Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his support for the ordinance, acknowledging its importance in addressing the city's affordable housing issue. "I'm grateful these conversations are moving forward, and we are not getting jammed up of one individual's particular perspective, it's about entire collective as a city," Johnson told ABC 7 Chicago. The full City Council is expected to vote on the revised ordinance at Thursday's meeting, following a push by Lawson and Quinn to garner unanimous support. The passage of this ordinance might mark a collaborative milestone in Chicago's city hall politics, showcasing an effective strategy of compromise and consensus-building.
