Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission

Regular Meeting

Skokie, IL · April 10, 2025

Minutes

APPROVED Meeting Minutes for Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission April 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM Skokie Public Library | 5215 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60077 | Radmacher Room Members Present: Peter Levavi, Chair Jeff Burman Cindy Franklin Jonathan Lavin Katherine Niedorowski Erin Ryan Charles Saxe Paul Schroeckenstein Ellen Weber Joe Maschek Members Absent: Dr. Edward Linn Maegen Akers Howard Meyer Presiding Officer: Peter Levavi, Chair Staff Present: Johanna Nyden, Community Development Director Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coord. Kate Portillo, Planning Manager 1) Meeting Called to Order / Declaration of Quorum A quorum being present, Chairman Peter Levavi called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM. 2) Approval of Meeting Minutes A motion to approve the minutes as presented for the January 2, 2025 meeting was made by Jeff Burman, seconded by Charlie Saxe. The votes were 10 in favor, 0 opposed. 3) Discussion of Housing Chapter Implementation Items (3) and Work Plan Chair Levavi asked about the status of Implementation Area 1 and what steps are still needed in order to get the right information. Mr. Schroeckenstein stated that they are still in the information gathering stage and looking at what data is available. Ms. Niedorowski stated that there is still data to be gathered as well as determining what should be extracted. 625890 APPROVED Chair Levavi asked if the group would be able to find the data sources and missing gaps by the next quarterly meeting. Ms. Niedorowski stated that finding out what Skokie’s housing goals were would help guide this task. Mr. Burman stated that we should be asking Skokie residents what their goals are with a Village-wide survey. He also noted that previous efforts have not been as successful as they’d like. Chair Levavi stated that this Sub-Committee’s task is to guide efforts to find goals and that this is a good starting place. Ms. Weber stated that it might be helpful to survey realtors who are working with clients who are looking for homes in Skokie to find out what is missing or difficult to obtain. Mr. Schroeckenstein stated that it would also be helpful to look at Zillow for data and supply and demand. Ms. Ryan stated that we’d need to look at both rentals and ownership in efforts to consider a more diverse range of family groups in Skokie. Mr. Maschek stated that diversity is important but we are looking for what the next housing type that is needed. Chair Levavi stated that there needs to be a consideration of what housing is available for multiple groups such as seniors and the disabled and to include those groups when considering diversity of housing. Ms. Franklin stated that aging in place needs to be considered. Chair Levavi stated that the group looking at this Implementation Area can look at what data is missing, for example how difficult it is to find a 3-bedroom condo. Mr. Saxe stated that while we can look at available data and those trends, it would help to have community engagement through this process. Chair Levavi stated that it might be helpful to have some information in front of the public before asking the larger question of what they want. Mr. Burman stated that a survey could ask correct questions. Mr. Lavin stated that in the Housing Sub-Committee’s previous engagement efforts, they received over one hundred different answers as to what people want and it would be difficult to please everyone. 625890 APPROVED Mr. Schroeckenstein stated that they have not yet looked at the survey results from the previous Housing Sub-Committee’s survey and would like to. Chair Levavi stated a possible next step could be a survey or focus group, but it would be helpful to have an idea of what we are looking to find. Ms. Nyden stated that there is good data out there regarding the existing conditions, however we’d be interested in finding what is missing out there. Mr. Saxe stated that the data can help but getting first-hand accounts would greatly help with what is missing. Ms. Weber stated that we could look at building permits that may have been turned down for data. Ms. Nyden stated that “turned down” may be the wrong word as many applicants may have conversations early on with contractors or the Building Department staff, but were informed that their project could not move forward, due to the current code. Ms. Nyden stated that it would be helpful to look into focus group discussions as to what common requests are, but it is also important to understand that there are many processes along the way during a project and that the Village’s part may be only one part of it. Mr. Maschek stated that there could be data available from Evanston, Oak Park, or Chicago about ADUs and how it has worked out. Ms. Weber stated that Skokie has one of the widest ranges of housing in the area compared to other nearby suburban communities. She stated that property maintenance is a housing need in Skokie as well. Chair Levavi stated that when thinking about housing gaps we should be mindful of which groups are not in the room with us. Ms. Ryan stated that we should also think about other factors influence housing, such as schools and transportation. Mr. Burman stated that school and transportation data might be available, however it is important to keep in mind that the Village does not influence what happens within school districts. Ms. Nyden stated that Illinois might have report card scoring for certain factors that may lead to housing, such as walkability scores. Ms. Niedorowski asked if this group is looking at how to bring diverse people to Skokie or looking at more diversity in housing? 625890 APPROVED Chair Levavi stated that diversity of housing stock brings diversity of people. He also stated that the objective of the research into housing diversity, such as ADUs, is one way to fill in housing gaps in Skokie. Mr. Lavin stated that he has started looking at the ADU initiatives from communities such as Oak Park, Chicago, and Evanston can help address questions that Skokie may have such as how to address parking and height requirements. Chair Levavi stated that the Housing Sub-Committee should lay out the case for ADUs for the Plan Commission to see how it would work out in Skokie, making the case before the conclusion. Ms. Nyden stated that Evanston had many existing ADUs and carriage houses with archaic rules such as limiting residency to related individuals. She also stated that Evanston looked at ADUs in terms of accessibility, including internal ADUs. She stated that Evanston’s ADU adoption process was piecemeal, first addressing detached ADUs then internal ADUs. She stated that the common issues for ADUs anywhere continue to be parking and utilities. Mr. Lavin stated that the Evanston ordinance seemed to address many of those issues. Ms. Nyden stated that the Evanston ordinance was adopted over the course of many years. Mr. Burman stated that Skokie’s lot sizes and housing stock is different than Evanston. Ms. Ryan stated that it seems as if the direction for the ADU conversation is more of a how, not if. She stated that if Skokie allows ADUs, they should make sure they do it well, but they also do not need to reinvent the wheel. Chair Levavi stated that we need to explore how likely ADUs will be used in Skokie and we have to be smart about what we are advocating for. Mr. Maschek stated that internal ADUs may be more tangible than external ADUs at the moment, but from a planning point of view, ADUs may look different in different neighborhoods due to zoning and lot sizes. He also stated that there are different ways of looking at ADUs than just garage ADUs. Ms. Ryan stated that she does not agree with ADUs being only for “the people who are already here”. She also stated that density is a good thing and it allows affordability. Mr. Saxe stated that how people live in their homes has changed and that some are looking for workshops, studios, or additional family rooms and they may even put these spaces in their garages, which may not be legal. He also stated that we need to think of accessory structures not just for living. 625890 APPROVED Chair Levavi stated that public input could be solicited, asking them how they might use the allowable space. Ms. Ryan stated that secondary or Kosher kitchens are already in many homes. Ms. Nyden stated that when ADUs were permitted in Evanston, lot coverage was allowed to increase, however the parking requirements did not change. She stated that while the code requires a homeowner to provide parking, but checking to see if the parking is being used does not always happen. Ms. Nyden called out a written comment from Lauren Grodnicki that the Village’s Sustainability Plan calls for an increase in density. Ms. Weber stated that for her ADUs are still a question of “if”. She stated that she feels the Village should go slowly with them. She stated that she sees the need, but is more open to internal ADUs than external ADUs. She stated she is interested in who would be using them. Mr. Lavin stated that while we may not look into an ordinance right away, it may be worthwhile to at least look into some examples. Ms. Weber stated that we should look at Northbrook’s ordinance, which allows ADUs within the principal structure. Mr. Maschek stated that from a developer’s standpoint, there has been a recent push for new build to rent townhouses, however many clients are concerned with storage since garage space is limited. Ms. Franklin asked if there were any conversations regarding allowing the conversions of attached garages for dwelling units. Ms. Nyden stated that there was a recent case that was brought to the Appearance Commission that was a good example of how take advantage of the space between the garage and the home, which could potentially work as an ADU. She also stated that Skokie homes are lived in differently and many code and regulations may hinder that livability or limit investments in a home. Mr. Saxe stated that in his personal experience, he needed a variance to put a second level in his home and had to determine if the value was worth the expense of going through the process. Mr. Lavin asked if the Sub-Committee has move too far forward with their work as compared to the goals as listed in the memo. Chair Levavi stated that the group could take a step back to find the goals and get public input on what things are holding homeowners back from accomplishing their goals. He also stated that there should be information shared within the Sub-Committee as there is a lot of overlap between the implementation areas. 625890 APPROVED Ms. Weber asked what the difference between zoning gaps and housing gaps are. Ms. Nyden stated that the group can sit down with the Village’s Zoning Administrator and architects in town for a focus group as to what the common challenges are. Ms. Nyden stated that people may night be able to move homes due to their lower than current interest rates and some might not even apply for home modifications due to limitations allowed and the process. Chair Levavi stated that one implementation area is focused on what is missing, while the other is focused on the reasons. He stated that the final implementation area is to look into a home modification plan book for residents to know in advance what may be approved. Mr. Maschek stated that the goal was to create an efficient system to help residents with timing, costs, and predictability. He stated that the Chicago Bungalow guidelines are great, however bungalows are only a small part of Skokie’s housing, so there is a need to increase the range of houses within the guidelines. Mr. Maschek characterized some important Skokie housing types as the split-level ranch, Georgian, bungalow, or corner lots. He stated that with a set of approved plans, a homeowner could possibly bypass the Appearance Commission if there were no concerns with sprinkler codes, visibility or materials which would allow the homeowner to apply for permits sooner. He stated that municipalities such as Naperville had adopted design guidelines for commercial corridors that would be worth looking into, although the goal is not to hinder creativity. Chair Levavi stated that this sounds like a sort of form-based code. Mr. Maschek stated that the previous Housing Sub-Committee noted the lack of efficiency and predictability as major concerns for homeowners. He also stated concerns about stifling change within certain communities in Skokie. Chair Levavi stated that the plan book could be a sort of menu that homeowners could pick from, or could decide to go off-menu and go to the Appearance Commission. He also asked the Housing Sub-Committee to be on the lookout for examples of well-done additions to use as a starting point for the plan book. Mr. Maschek stated concerns about making this efficient but also not burdensome toward homeowners or their neighbors. He stated that if things are too efficient they could go off the rails. Ms. Nyden stated that it might help to think of it as helping people write the scopes of work for their projects. She also stated that the goal is to make additions look like a completed house and preserve home designs. 4) Public Comment 625890 APPROVED LyLena Estabine from Chicago stated that she is a Housing Policy Researcher and noted that the price of housing is growing. She also stated that Illinois is behind on building housing supply and the allowance of additional dwelling units can help. She stated that additional dwelling units can help provide flexible housing options, boost home values, and support home worth. She stated that the city of Chicago allows ADUs but they are heavily regulated which makes them more difficult to implement. Cori Brown from Skokie stated that she is a current resident and is looking to purchase a home in Skokie. She stated that she is in favor of ADUs, but would suggest increasing the allowable height maximum. She stated that if she purchased a home, she would like to build an ADU and live in it. Lauren Grodnicki stated that parts of the current building code become expensive to homeowners, such as when they need to add sprinkling to their home. She stated that some of these codes should be updated. Mr. Maschek stated that there are differences between the zoning code versus the building code versus the fire code. Ms. Nyden stated that there is a push and pull between the fire department. She stated that parts of the code may hinder home modifications for some applicants, however life and safety codes are in place for a reason. 5) Adjournment A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Jeff Burman, seconded by Charlie Saxe. The votes were 10 in favor, 0 opposed. Meeting adjourned at 8:24 PM Respectfully Submitted, Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coordinator 625890

Agenda

Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission Thursday, April 10, 2025 7:00 P.M. Skokie Public Library, 5215 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL, Radmacher Room I. Call Meeting to Order/Declaration of Quorum II. Approval of Meeting Minutes January 2, 2025 III. Discussion of Housing Chapter Implementation Items (3) and Work Plan a. Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment b. Addressing Zoning Code Gaps and the Feasibility of Accessory Dwelling Units c. Housing Design and Skokie Home Addition Plan Book VI. Next Steps VII. Public Comment VIII. Adjournment Individuals with questions or feedback about an agenda item may contact Justin Malone with the Community Development Department at 847-933-8411 or publiccomments@skokie.org. The Village, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain accommodations to allow them to observe or participate, or who have questions about the accessibility of the meeting facilities, contact the Village’s ADA Coordinator Angel Schnur at Angel.Schnur@skokie.org or 847-933-8400. 625596 DRAFT NOT APPROVED Meeting Minutes for Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission January 2, 2025 | 7:00 PM Scheduled for: Skokie Village Hall | 5127 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60077 | Conference Rooms D&E Relocated to: Skokie Public Library | 5215 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60077 | Radmacher Room Members Present: Peter Levavi, Chair Maegen Akers Jeff Burman Cindy Franklin Jonathan Lavin Dr. Edward Linn Katherine Niedorowski Erin Ryan Charles Saxe Paul Schroeckenstein Ellen Weber Members Absent: Joe Maschek Howard Meyer Presiding Officer: Peter Levavi, Chair Staff Present: Johanna Nyden, Community Development Director Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coord. Others Present: Richie Requena, Pioneer Press 1) Time Meeting was Called to Order / Declaration of Quorum A quorum being present, Chairman Peter Levavi called the meeting to order at 7:06 PM. 2) New Business Members of the Housing Sub-Committee introduced themselves and Chair Levavi stated the goals of the Sub-Committee. Ms. Nyden presented the themes of the Housing Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan for discussion. Chair Levavi read the vision statement for each theme within the Housing Chapter for discussion. 624037 DRAFT NOT APPROVED Ms. Nyden presented staff’s recommendations for the Housing Sub-Committee to form two working groups in its implementation work. She stated that the working groups’ work should be led by the members of the Sub-Committee, but could be supported by staff. Ms. Nyden stated that the first working group should look into a housing needs- assessment to understand housing gaps and needs as well as guide any policy work. She stated that the second working group should look at areas in the zoning code to make it more efficient, including making the efforts for residents more streamlined, as well as looking into the feasibility of the Village allowing Accessory Dwelling Units. Chair Levavi stated that a third working group could look at the possibility of a set plan- book for residents who are seeking to build additions to their homes, based on the type of home they own, similar to what the city of Chicago did with their Bungalow Belt. Ms. Nyden stated that there is not a strict deadline for the work done by this Sub- Committee and the work can be done at a pace that makes sense. Chair Levavi took a poll to gauge interest in the working groups. Mr. Levavi stated that the first working group who will work on the needs-assessment will consist of Mr. Schroeckenstein, Ms. Niedorowski, and Ms. Akers. Mr. Levavi stated that the second working group who will look at opportunity areas of the zoning code for efficiency and Accessory Dwelling Units will consist of Ms. Weber, Ms. Ryan, and Mr. Lavin. Ms. Nyden stated that these working groups should be capped at 3 members. Ms. Nyden also stated that these working groups can meet as needed and when members are available and Village Hall can provide support and supplies if needed. Chair Levavi asked how often should the Housing Sub-Committee meet. Ms. Nyden stated that since this Sub-Committee does not have a deadline, quarterly meetings will suffice. The next meeting will be scheduled after reviewing schedules of members. 3) Public Comment There were no members of the public present to provide public comment. 4) Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 8:26 PM Respectfully Submitted, Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coordinator 624037 Memorandum Community Development Department TO: Chair Peter Levavi and Members of the Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission FROM: Johanna Nyden, AICP, Community Development Director Kate Portillo, AICP, Planning Manager Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coordinator DATE: April 4, 2025 SUBJECT: Master Cover Sheet and Work Plan for the Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission To move forward with implementation of the Housing Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan adopted August 19, 2024, three (3) areas of implementation were established: 1. Implementation of a housing needs assessment to understand Skokie’s housing gaps and needs in order to guide policy work. 2. Addressing zoning code gaps and looking into the feasibility of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Skokie. 3. Providing a quicker and more streamlined approval process for homeowners looking to construct simple home modifications by providing preapproved home plans via a “Skokie Home Addition Plan Book”. Work Plan for the Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission 1. Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment in Skokie Objective: To understand the Village’s current housing conditions, identify unmet needs, and propose strategies to meet Skokie’s future housing demands, particularly in terms of diversity, affordability, and accessibility. Actionable Items The following steps were developed to address housing needs in Skokie: • Search for Code Modifications: Ongoing research will identify building code modifications that may unnecessarily hinder home modifications or development, such as restrictions on adding units or modifying existing structures. • Research Housing Information: Further research on Skokie’s demographics, housing data, and real estate trends will be conducted to better understand the housing market and its dynamics. • Narrow Down Specific Data Points: Focus on identifying specific data gaps, such as household composition and zoning-related issues, to create more precise housing strategies. 625558 Next Steps Draft Housing Policy Recommendations: Begin developing policy recommendations based on the data gathered, aimed at increasing housing diversity, improving accessibility, and aligning housing policies with the community's goals. 2. Addressing Zoning Code Gaps and the Feasibility of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Skokie Objective: To identify gaps in Skokie’s zoning code to allow more flexibility for homeowners, streamline the home modification processes, and examine the potential for implementing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as part of the Village’s housing strategy. Actionable Items Develop the following steps to address zoning issues and facilitate the potential introduction of ADUs: • Zoning Code Modifications Continue to explore zoning code changes that could reduce barriers to home modifications, particularly those related to lot coverage, height restrictions, and parking requirements. • Research ADU Regulations Ongoing research will focus on ADU policies from other municipalities, considering internal and external unit regulations, registration methods, and enforcement practices. The goal is to draft clear regulations for ADUs that align with Skokie’s needs. Next Steps • Draft ADU Code Language Using successful ADU models, draft zoning code language to regulate ADUs in Skokie. This includes size limitations, entrance and parking requirements, and design considerations to maintain neighborhood character. • Create an ADU Guidebook Develop a guidebook to help Skokie residents understand the ADU process. The guidebook will offer step-by-step instructions for homeowners interested in adding an ADU to their property. 3. Housing Design and Skokie Home Addition Plan Book Objective: To streamline the home modification process and create a Skokie Home Addition Plan Book. Actionable Items Developed the following steps to assist with a more streamlined home modification process: • Research & Data Collection 625558 Continue to identify common zoning and administrative barriers to home modifications, gather data on trends and demand, and analyze successful models from other municipalities. • Development of Policy Recommendations Draft modifications to the zoning code to allow for a more streamlined home modification process and develop criteria within a Home Addition Plan Book for “express approval” of home modifications. Next Steps • Creation of the Skokie Home Addition Plan Book Develop a standard home modification guide for Skokie’s common home types, established easy to understand guidelines for streamlined approvals, and create a checklist of pre-approved design modifications. Attachments: • White Paper documents (3) for each of the areas of implementation of the Housing Sub- Committee, which outlines the issues, resources, and potential solutions or recommendations. 625558 Memorandum Community Development Department TO: Chair Peter Levavi and Members of the Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission FROM: Johanna Nyden, AICP, Community Development Director Kate Portillo, AICP, Planning Manager Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coordinator DATE: April 4, 2025 SUBJECT: Implementation Area 1: Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment in Skokie Introduction This paper outlines the actions taken by Skokie’s Village Board to address housing concerns, including the creation of a Housing Sub-Committee within the Plan Commission. The document highlights the recommendations toward Implementation Area 1, which aims to understand the Village’s current housing conditions, identify unmet needs, and propose strategies to meet Skokie’s future housing demands, particularly in terms of diversity, affordability, and accessibility. Problem Statement Addressing several key questions to guide research and assessment: • What are Skokie’s housing goals? Understanding the desired outcomes for housing development. • Who lives in Skokie? Analyzing current demographics to ensure housing meets the needs of residents. • How can housing diversity be increased? Expanding options for different incomes, family structures, and preferences. • What is the housing trajectory? Examining trends in housing supply, demand, and development. • How can Skokie grow sustainably? Balancing development with long-term sustainability and livability. • What influences migration? Understanding factors that attract or push residents to or from Skokie. Existing Data and Resources Identify a variety of data sources available to guide the housing assessment: • Zoning Maps: These maps provide insights into how the community’s zoning regulations have changed over the years, potentially indicating trends in development and areas for improvement. 625379 • CMAP Community Data Snapshot: This tool from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) offers critical data about the community's population, housing, economy, and infrastructure. • Placer.ai Demographics: This resource provides location-based demographic information that can help understand the movement of residents and their housing needs. • Housing Market Availability: Data on the current housing market helps assess whether there are enough housing units to meet demand. • Skokie’s Comprehensive Plan: The village’s long-term planning document provides insight into the village's intended growth trajectory and policies for housing development. Missing Data and Gaps in Housing Needs While valuable data was found, several gaps were identified: • Mismatch of Household Size and Zoning Categories: Current zoning may not support the variety of household sizes in Skokie. • Mismatch of Household Size and Housing Type: The existing housing stock does not align with the needs of various household types (e.g., large families, multi-generational homes). • Aging Population and Aging in Place: Skokie must consider how to support seniors and extended families while also attracting younger residents. • Housing Pricing and Diversity: A deeper analysis of housing affordability, types, sizes, and demographic needs is necessary. Conclusion Understanding housing gaps and needs is crucial for shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for Skokie. The findings will play a key role in ensuring that future housing development meets the diverse needs of residents, accommodates population growth, and contributes to a balanced, thriving community. By addressing the missing data, refining zoning policies, and promoting housing diversity, Skokie can build a stronger foundation for future housing development. 625379 Memorandum Community Development Department TO: Chair Peter Levavi and Members of the Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission FROM: Johanna Nyden, AICP, Community Development Director Kate Portillo, AICP, Planning Manager Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coordinator DATE: April 4, 2025 SUBJECT: Implementation Area 2: Addressing Zoning Code Gaps and the Feasibility of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Skokie Introduction This paper outlines the actions taken by Skokie’s Village Board to address housing concerns, including the creation of a Housing Sub-Committee within the Plan Commission. The document highlights recommendations which aim to identify gaps in Skokie's zoning code that may hinder home modifications and examine the potential for implementing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as part of the village’s housing strategy. The goal is to make zoning regulations more flexible, streamline home modification processes, and incorporate ADUs into Skokie's housing framework. Problem Statement Focus on several core questions related to home modifications and ADUs: • Current Limitations on Home Modifications Skokie residents face challenges in modifying their homes due to restrictive zoning regulations. These issues, along with lengthy approval processes and high fees, prevent homeowners from expanding or modifying their properties. Common challenges for residents include: o Restrictions related to zoning, lot coverage, height restrictions, parking requirements, and setbacks. o Issues with new construction versus home additions, particularly on corner lots or in areas with complex regulations. • Aging in Place and Housing Flexibility Discussing the need for flexible home modifications to accommodate aging residents and multigenerational families. The need for more flexibility in home renovations to support aging residents, extended families, and newcomers were also explored. The goals include: o Streamlining application processes. o Modifying codes to provide greater flexibility for home expansions and conversions. o Investigating whether administrative approval could be granted for certain home modifications to expedite the process. 625481 • Best Practices from Other Communities Investigate how other municipalities have adopted more flexible zoning policies. Examples from other municipalities who have adopted more flexible zoning regulations, include: o Allowing higher building heights or roof pitches. o Supporting creative solutions for accommodating family needs, such as second kitchens for kosher cooking. o Adopting regulations that enable more versatile living spaces. • Feasibility of ADUs in Skokie ADUs are seen as an affordable housing solution, but there are considerations around their implementation. Examining the potential benefits of ADUs, such as providing housing for aging residents or generating rental income should also be considered. Each neighborhood in Skokie has its own character, so any ADU regulations would need to be flexible and responsive to local needs. Additional discussions surrounding ADUs included: o ADUs may not be appropriate in every residential district, and specific regulations would need to be established, including:  Entrance and parking requirements.  Size limitations and considerations for internal vs. external units.  Ensuring that ADUs do not disrupt the neighborhood aesthetic or character. • Lessons from Other Municipalities ADU models from communities like Evanston, Highland Park, and St. Charles were reviewed. These municipalities’ experiences could help Skokie shape its own policies and avoid potential pitfalls. 625481 Memorandum Community Development Department TO: Chair Peter Levavi and Members of the Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission FROM: Johanna Nyden, AICP, Community Development Director Kate Portillo, AICP, Planning Manager Justin Malone, Neighborhood & Housing Coordinator DATE: April 4, 2025 SUBJECT: Implementation Area 3: Housing Design and Skokie Home Addition Plan Book Introduction This paper outlines the actions taken by Skokie’s Village Board to address housing concerns, including the creation of a Housing Sub-Committee within the Plan Commission. The document highlights the recommendations which aim to streamline the home modification process by creating a Skokie Home Addition Plan Book. Problem Statement Skokie is facing housing challenges that need to be addressed in order to maintain future growth, diversity, and affordability. Many homes in Skokie were built decades ago and homeowners often face challenges when attempting to modify or expand their homes. Current restrictions on modifications due to zoning codes, high administrative burdens, and long approval processes have made it challenging for residents to adapt their homes for aging in place or changing family needs. Analysis and Focus on Streamlining Home Modifications Aim to make home modifications more accessible and cost-effective for homeowners. Key questions include: • How to allow home modifications that maintain neighborhood aesthetics? • How to streamline the approval process for modifications? • What barriers prevent home modifications, such as zoning restrictions and parking requirements? A key proposal is the creation of a "Skokie Home Addition Plan Book", which would help homeowners navigate the modification process more easily, specifically for common home types such as: • 1950s Split-Level Ranch (mid-century ranch) • 1940s Two-Story Georgian • Bungalows (1910-1940) This guidebook would only apply to homes that have not been modified from their original design, and modifications that fall within baseline Village standards would be eligible for 625484 expedited approval. This would reduce costs, streamline processes, and maintain Skokie’s architectural aesthetic. Potential Code Modifications and Recommendations Begin exploring potential code modifications that could alleviate barriers to home modifications in Skokie. Key issues that are being addressed include: • Zoning and Administrative Hurdles: Simplifying the process for straightforward home modifications, such as allowing more administrative approvals for minor changes without needing to go through multiple commissions to obtain approvals. • Limitations Based on Lot Size and Setbacks: Adjusting regulations for corner lots and small side yard setbacks that commonly affect home modification requests. • Height and Garage Requirements: Reconsidering the impact of height and garage- related restrictions, especially for second-story additions or garage conversions. Next Steps To address Skokie’s housing challenges, the following solutions are recommended: 1. Modify codes that hinder basic home modifications in order to meet the demand for changing homeowner needs while maintaining neighborhood character (e.g. restrictive roof heights, lot coverage, setbacks) to allow for less delays and costs for administrative approvals. 2. The "Skokie Home Addition Plan Book" could serve as a critical tool in making home modifications more accessible. The guidebook should focus on simplifying the approval process for common home types and include a checklist of approved modifications, similar to that of the Chicago Bungalow Association’s “Schemes” for rear additions, second floor dormers, second floor additions, etc. Based on common housing types, a similar Plan Book could be drafted to create “pre-approved modification guidelines” so that homeowners whose homes exist in these categories could have expedited approvals, saving time and money. 625484