A set of state bills called the BUILD Act is garnering a variety of opinions about whether it’s a reasonable way to increase affordable housing in Illinois — especially amid concerns that portions of the proposal could decrease local control.
Since its introduction in March, the BUILD Act has drawn support from some housing advocacy groups and Democratic lawmakers, while also attracting criticism from some mayors and municipal organizations.
More smaller housing or ‘no say’?
Housing advocates say a community-by-community approach has failed for decades to produce enough affordable housing, so a statewide solution is needed.
“If the BUILD Act proposals were to go forward — not immediately, but over time — there would be a greater supply of smaller, more affordable single-family homes, two-flats, three-flats and other types of smaller housing,” said Bob Palmer, policy director for Housing Action Illinois…