During a recent government meeting focused on the Envision 2045 initiative, concerns were raised regarding the support for small landlords and the affordability of housing in downtown Evanston. A local landlord expressed frustration over the lack of assistance for those providing affordable housing, highlighting that many landlords are struggling to maintain their properties amid rising costs.

The landlord pointed out that despite claims from the committee and city council about prioritizing affordable housing, the reality is that new developments are not catering to low-income families or minorities. They noted that the proposed studio apartments start at $1,800, while two-bedroom units are priced at an alarming $3,410, making them inaccessible for many residents.

The speaker also emphasized the lack of diversity in discussions surrounding housing policies, stating that they often find themselves as the only Black person in the room. This raises concerns about the inclusivity of the planning process and whether the needs of minority communities are being adequately represented in the city's future housing strategies. The meeting underscored the urgent need for a more equitable approach to housing development that truly addresses the needs of all Evanston residents.