Background
As Chicagoans age, their needs for housing can change. Many homes were not built in consideration of older adults, who can be susceptible to falls and social isolation, particularly if children and family live far away. Recognizing this, many communities have turned to a novel solution: the accessory dwelling unit. Also known as the “granny flat”, the ADU helps homeowners add a second unit for their parents, children, or other company.
In 2019, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus partnered with AARP Illinois, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, Orange Splot LLC, and the Village of Bull Valley to convene Granny Flat Academy to discuss the ADU. The Academies were held in Woodstock, Evanston and Libertyville. Over 100 elected officials, commission members, municipal staff, and residents attended the training.
Granny Flat Academy training documents are available below and include:
- A powerpoint training module, which includes the presentations and visuals from the Academies and the contact information for subject matter experts.
- An educational brochure for residents that outlines regional examples of ADUs and typical considerations for communities before allowing them.
- Sample ordinance language developed by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning through its Local Technical Assistance Program.
Numerous national resources are available for communities considering enabling ADUs:
- Accessorydwellingunits.org includes national examples of completed ADUs, testimonials from homeowners, and model ordinance language for municipalities.
- AARP Livable Communities program has information on ADUs, including model Local and State Ordinance Language. AARP will publish more information in 2018.
- AARP’s Housing in a Changing America includes facts and figures about changing demographics and their relationship to housing in the United States.
Staff Contact
Ben Schnelle
Housing and Community Development Associate
bschnelle@mayorscaucus.org