Council approves participation in IHDA Lincoln Community Revitalization Plan; members warned it will require volunteer labor

The City of Lincoln council on Feb. 17 approved an agreement with the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to participate in the Lincoln Community Revitalization Plan. Council discussion emphasized that the IHDA process includes a housing-stock survey and will require meaningful community involvement.

Alderman O'Donoghue, who said she had met with project staff, warned the project will need strong community support and that the housing-stock survey is a boots-on-the-ground effort that involves walking streets and cataloging housing conditions. "...it's literally gonna be a housing stock of all of the homes in Lincoln, and it's done by foot," she said, noting the exercise can prompt pushback from residents who may question inspectors on sidewalks.

Councilors asked whether staff time or overtime would be required; presenters said the service is largely community-based with minimal department head time required and that a committee of volunteers (the presenter suggested at least 10 members) will be needed to guide and carry out the assessment. Members also discussed phasing the project and starting with a smaller portion if volunteer participation is a concern.

Vote: Alderman Bateman moved to approve participation; Alderman O'Donohue seconded. Roll call showed eight Yes votes and the agreement was approved.