The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended that the village board adopt the 2026 affordable housing plan with several specific edits to clarify infrastructure and finance language and to state a commitment to preserve existing affordable housing.
Commissioners discussed that only a small percentage of the village is currently served by a water district/system and debated whether to include a specific percentage. Participants suggested phrasing that describes "a small percentage" rather than locking in a number that could need future updates. The commission agreed to change the term "portion" to "percentage" for clarity and to consider adding context about single-digit service coverage without inserting a fixed figure.
On preservation language, members proposed a concise statement that the village will maintain and preserve existing affordable housing using the tools at its disposal. Several commissioners said that language would address statutory requirements without implying the village currently has a large inventory of affordable units.
The commission also reviewed strategies to mitigate constraints identified in the plan (water, sewer, funding). Members agreed to broaden the plan's language to say the village will consider establishment of districts or other financial tools (including TIFs, grants or other mechanisms) to finance future water and sewer extensions or infrastructure needs for development, rather than naming a single development or tool.
Commissioners selected option B from the draft (a minimum 5% measure referenced in the document) as the preferred affordability approach for the plan. After wordsmithing edits and the broader finance language, the commission voted by roll call to forward the revised plan to the village board for consideration.
Staff said the village board packet will include the staff report, draft ordinances and draft minutes summarizing tonight's discussion so board members who do not attend will have the context. The commission noted the board calendar and possible early-March scheduling for final consideration.