Milwaukee Council discusses zoning changes to support diverse housing options

The Milwaukee Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting on April 15, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for diverse housing options in the city, as officials grappled with skyrocketing rental prices. Alderman Coggs passionately addressed the issue, stating, "The rent is astronomical. It is unacceptable." She emphasized that while homeownership is the American dream, many residents, including seniors and young professionals, require more affordable housing alternatives, such as multiplexes and townhomes.

The committee discussed the "Growing MKE" initiative, which aims to expand housing options. However, the proposal to include multiplexes was recently rejected, prompting concerns about the city's ability to meet the growing demand for affordable housing. Alderman McEllis supported the initiative, highlighting that increasing the housing supply—regardless of affordability—would benefit the community.

A significant point of contention arose regarding the proposed zoning changes for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The committee is considering amendments that would allow for internal, attached, and detached ADUs, which could provide lower-cost housing options. However, concerns were raised about potential abuses of the system, particularly regarding investor-owned properties. To mitigate these risks, the proposal includes a requirement that only owner-occupants can apply for ADUs.

The discussion also touched on the challenges of meeting building codes for new units, particularly for existing structures. The committee acknowledged that while the intent is to create more affordable housing, the complexities of zoning and building regulations could hinder progress.

As the meeting concluded, the committee voted 4-1 in favor of advancing the proposed zoning changes, signaling a step forward in addressing Milwaukee's housing crisis. The anticipated outcomes include increased housing diversity and potential financial assistance for developers to ensure affordability. The committee's actions reflect a growing recognition of the need for innovative housing solutions in the face of rising costs and community demand.