Edgewater Residents and Businesses File Lawsuit Against City Over Broadway Rezoning
Residents and business owners in Edgewater have launched a lawsuit against the city, contesting a recent rezoning decision affecting Broadway. This action follows the City Council’s approval of the rezoning in October, which allowed for higher-density development along a key stretch of the corridor.
Lawsuit Overview
The group known as Edgewater Residents for Responsible Development filed their lawsuit on Monday. They claim this rezoning violates their due process rights and the established city and state rezoning regulations.
- The lawsuit argues that property owners near the rezoned area were not properly notified of the changes.
- The city allegedly failed to inform property owners within 250 feet of the affected area, which includes adjacent cross streets.
- Residents state that they were denied a chance to voice their concerns at a public hearing before the rezoning was decided.
Details of the Rezoning
The rezoning, labeled as “upzoning,” covers Broadway from Devon Avenue to Montrose Avenue. The intention was to foster increased housing opportunities in a district near public transportation, amidst rising real estate prices and community concerns over gentrification.
City Council Support
Key supporters of the plan included local alderpeople Angela Clay (46th), Matt Martin (47th), and Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth (48th). The changes were approved by a vote of 15-2 by the zoning committee and later passed by the full City Council.
Community Response
The rezoning has sparked intense debate among residents. Some neighbors actively opposed the changes, launching campaigns, hiring legal representation, and placing billboards in the community. Supporters, on the other hand, engaged in digital activism, seeking to highlight the potential benefits of increased housing and economic support for local businesses.
Concerns Raised by Plaintiffs
Opponents to the rezoning fear it may drastically alter the character of the neighborhood and harm long-standing local businesses and affordable housing options. Patricia Sharkey, president of the Edgewater Residents for Responsible Development, expressed concern about the impact on historic buildings and small businesses.
Next Steps
The city’s Department of Law has yet to respond to the lawsuit, which is scheduled for a hearing in Cook County Circuit Court on March 13. A spokesperson for the department stated that they cannot comment on ongoing litigation.
Changes to Zoning Regulations
| Zoning Type | Allowed Developments | Height Limit |
|---|---|---|
| C1-5 | Bars, liquor stores, salons | 80 feet (5-7 stories) |
| B3-5 | Housing above retail | Variable |
| B3-3 | Housing with community input | Variable |
This ongoing situation reflects the complexities and divisions within the Edgewater community as development pressures mount against a backdrop of deep-rooted neighborhood identity and affordable housing challenges.
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