More Multifamily Housing In Western Springs?

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – Those who live in houses are not always welcoming of the addition of nearby apartments and condos, known as multifamily housing.

In Western Springs, the Village Board is poised to approve a condo development in downtown and townhomes on Ogden Avenue.

At this week's board meeting, Trustee Heidi Rudolph said she was a big supporter of both projects. But she asked what percentage of the town was planned for multifamily housing.

Martin Scott, the village's community development director, said much of the town is built out. So the addition of condos and apartments has been "surgical along the way," he said.

He said the village could come up with a percentage. He also said the village needed to update its long-term plan for development.

"It's a good point that you bring up," Scott said. "There are little pockets that could be redeveloped, but there is not much of it."

Rudolph reiterated her support for the proposed housing.

"I think they are terrific additions to the community," she said. "I'm trying to think about the entire community and the percentage for multifamily housing developments."

The board is expected to vote on the proposed projects at a later meeting.

Last year, Darien aldermen approved a controversial apartment complex in a split vote. That was after an emotional public hearing. Some residents submitted written comments that were deemed derogatory toward renters.