I attended the marathon village board meeting on July 28 to learn more about the proposed elimination of single-family zones in Oak Park. My thanks go out to trustees and staff who stayed late to hear all public comments. Many questions were asked by citizens, and we got a few answers. Here is a list I compiled:
Q: Will all lots zoned today for single-family homes change to multi-unit zones? Is the change village-wide?
A: Yes and yes.
Q: Can any single-family home be torn down for a multi-unit building?
A: Yes. Current single-family zones will be consolidated into three zones, with 3- or 5-story multi-unit buildings allowed depending on the zone.
Q: Has there been any analysis conducted to evaluate potential population increase and resulting impact on shared resources (e.g. parks, CRC, library, fire/police schools) or infrastructure (e.g. trash, utilities, roads, sewers)?
A: No
Q: Will property values decrease for adjacent single-family homes when a large multi-flat is built next door, or will developer demand raise values?
A: TBD
Q: Will you change setback and height rules to accommodate larger edifices?
A: Standard setbacks apply, but allowed height is increased.
Q: Will parking rules change?
A: Yes, the overnight parking ban will be eliminated.
Q: Will property taxes be impacted?
A: TBD
Q. Can coach houses be built?
A: TBD
Q: How does the village ensure new multi-units constructed will actually be affordable and not high-end?
A: TBD
Q: Does the proposal include support for current Oak Park residents struggling with housing affordability?
A: No
There are more questions than answers. I advocate slowing the process down to better inform, discuss, and refine the proposal to ensure it delivers desired results without unintended consequences.
Grant Johnsey
Oak Park