Mayors Caucus Calls for a Comprehensive Task Force on New Housing Plan
CHICAGO (Feb. 24, 2026) — Governor JB Pritzker unveiled the State’s Building Up Illinois Developments (BUILD) Plan, a comprehensive statewide initiative designed to increase housing availability and affordability across the state. The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus believes it is vitally important that a Housing Task Force be established to address the concerns of local governments prior to the passage of any new housing legislation.
The BUILD Plan proposes updates to zoning standards, minimum lot sizes, and residential density allowances, along with the legalization of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The initiative also addresses development processes by adjusting parking requirements, streamlining inspections, and creating a statewide formula for impact fees. Additionally, the plan includes significant capital investments in housing and municipal infrastructure to support sustainable communities.
“From the numerous Mayors Caucus Housing Studies we have done throughout the region, we recognize the importance of addressing housing affordability and supply challenges in communities throughout the metropolitan region and across the state,” said Katrina Thompson, Chair of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Housing and Community Development Committee and Mayor of the Village of Broadview. “The Caucus also welcomes the proposed capital investments in housing and infrastructure, which play a critical role in supporting thriving communities.”
“We urge for the continuing role of local governments in land use planning,” said Neil James, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. “Our member communities as well as those throughout the state vary widely in geography, population density, infrastructure capacity, and housing demand, and that is why it is crucial that we preserve local control, because our local leaders are best positioned to craft solutions tailored to their residents’ needs.”
John Noak, Chair of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and Mayor of the Village of Romeoville, added: “We appreciate the Governor’s focus on housing and the importance of increasing supply across Illinois. As discussions move forward, we look forward to collaborating with the administration to ensure statewide policy goals are implemented in ways that respect the diversity of our communities while supporting locally driven planning decisions.”
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus looks forward to reviewing the full legislative language and working closely with the Governor’s Office and members of the General Assembly to advance policies that expand housing options, promote affordability, and strengthen local planning authority.
About the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus is a membership organization of 275 cities, towns, and villages working collaboratively to strengthen northeastern Illinois communities through cooperative action, advocacy, and policy leadership.
