Evanston City Council Meeting 5-11-2026

The Evanston City Council meeting held on May 11, 2026, involved extensive discussions primarily focused on the city's strategic housing plan and related amendments. The council reviewed and voted on numerous amendments addressing affordable housing, zoning policies, renter protections, displacement tracking, and housing production targets. Several amendments were adopted with modifications, including provisions for dormitory-style non-collegiate housing, preservation of affordable housing units, and enhanced data tracking for displacement and housing stability. The council also approved resolutions related to contract awards for city projects such as the James Park renovations, business district landscaping, and transportation engineering services. Additionally, an ordinance was introduced and passed to prevent algorithmic rent fixing in the rental housing market. Other agenda items included the sale of city-owned properties and approval of an animal hospital special use permit. The meeting featured public comments on housing affordability and community concerns, and concluded with the postponement of an executive session to a later date.