Healthy Buildings Accountability Board Working Meeting 6-12-2026

The City of Evanston Healthy Buildings Accountability Board held a working meeting on June 12, 2026, focusing primarily on defining criteria for equity prioritized buildings (EPBs) under the city's healthy buildings ordinance. The discussion centered on establishing thresholds for affordability, such as whether 35% or 50% of units in a building should be affordable to qualify as an EPB, with reference to HUD rent limits and Cook County's affordable housing special assessment program. The board debated methods for verifying affordability, including rent rolls and lease documentation, and considered the challenges of identifying eligible buildings through data sources like Co-Star and public records. They also discussed the distinction between equity prioritized buildings and alternative compliance plans, emphasizing that designation as an EPB would provide additional assistance rather than exemptions. The group explored the complexities of including condominiums in the program and the potential for a top-down designation approach versus an opt-in application process. No formal votes were recorded, but the board agreed to propose a two-tier system for outreach and assistance based on affordability levels and to continue refining criteria and outreach strategies in future meetings.