CMAP's quarterly "e-blast" newsletter for metropolitan Chicago's 284 municipalities briefly highlights local planning resources that can help communities implement livability recommendations from the GO TO 2040 comprehensive regional plan. To learn more or request printed copies of the highlighted resources, please contact Hillary Green (hgreen@cmap.illinois.gov or 312-386-8619).
Housing toolkit helps communities plan collaboratively for future needs
As the shifting economy alters people's housing preferences, many communities are struggling to understand if their housing stock can meet the needs of residents, both now and in the future. In partnership with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and the Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC), CMAP has created the Homes for a Changing Region toolkit. It offers local government officials a step-by-step guide to address key housing questions, including how to plan for population growth and housing affordability. Those interested in learning more can register for an overview webinar hosted by the project partners on Wednesday, March 18, 2015, at noon.
The multi-part toolkit starts with the Homes process guide, which includes key questions to consider before starting the process and gives an overview of tasks required to develop and write policy recommendations and a final report. A data analysis guide helps municipalities simplify the compilation and analysis of housing data. An outreach guide offers materials to help local officials employ the Homes engagement approach at workshops and outreach activities. Finally, the kit includes "Home Grown," a web-based component with case studies on a range of housing issues.
These resources were made possible by funds from the National Foreclosure Settlement, distributed by the office of the Illinois Attorney General. CMAP also uses results from its biennial Municipal Plans, Programs, and Operations Survey to create planning resources of most interest to local communities. In addition to the housing toolkit, the CMAP Local Ordinance Toolkits program has developed materials addressing form-based codes, immigrant integration, and climate adaptation.
Forum will highlight regional water supply planning and management
To build on the GO TO 2040 and Water 2050 plans, the region has an ongoing need for public discussion of regional water supply planning and management. CMAP and MPC have convened the Regional Water 2050 Forum and will host discussions throughout 2015. The next meeting is April 16, 2015, at 10:15 a.m. at CMAP offices (233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 800, Chicago). To RSVP or receive email notifications, contact Tim Loftus (tloftus@cmap.illinois.gov). The purposes of the forum are to:
- Discuss regional water supply planning and management issues.
- Provide input and guidance to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources or other agencies on water related issues.
-
Discuss Water 2050 implementation and its eventual update.
The Water 2050 plan is scheduled to be updated in 2018.