#United States #Elmhurst #Local Control #BUILD Act #DuPage Mayors

DuPage County Leaders Advocate for Local Control Over Housing and Development

On May 15, 2026, leaders from the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference (DMMC) gathered to address pressing concerns regarding the proposed Building Up Illinois Developments (BUILD) Act, championed by Governor JB Pritzker. The essence of their argument centered around a call for local control in housing policies that directly affect their communities.

In a recent poll conducted by DMMC, an overwhelming 70% of participants expressed the belief that zoning and land-use decisions should remain at the local level. This sentiment reflects a deep-seated concern about maintaining community identity and infrastructure needs amid an evolving residential landscape. Over half of the respondents reported contentment with current growth rates, prioritizing affordability, taxes, and the overall cost of living over density increases.

DMMC President and Roselle Mayor David Pileski articulated the residents' wishes succinctly: "Residents overwhelmingly want individual communities to retain authority over planning and zoning decisions that impact neighborhoods, infrastructure, and quality of life." His statement underscores the prevalent view that local oversight is pivotal in safeguarding community interests.

Moreover, Libertyville Mayor Donna Johnson highlighted the potential pitfalls of the BUILD Act, arguing that housing policy must aim to enhance local inventory rather than compromise it through state-imposed zoning preemptions. Similarly, Palos Hills Mayor Gerald Bennett pointed out the essential role local governments play in infrastructure maintenance, emphasizing that such responsibilities are inextricable from developmental decision-making.

The leaders were keen to remind state lawmakers that the impacts of statewide mandates could appear straightforward on paper; however, the reality is complicated and reliant on local governance. This factor amplifies the need for collaboration between local officials and state representatives to form responsible growth strategies that reflect community needs and desires.

The conference also highlighted the significant achievements of DuPage County in housing development, noting that over 6,100 multi-family units have been constructed since 2020, with many more currently in development. The collaborative initiatives already underway showcase a proactive approach to addressing housing demands without compromising community character, aligning with the poll findings which emphasize a preference for balanced growth.

Wheaton Mayor and DMMC Vice President Phil Suess conveyed an important message advocating for responsible growth, one that involves strategic long-term planning. He stated, "Today is about ensuring growth happens responsibly, with long-term planning that keeps our communities sustainable for future generations."

Furthermore, Carpentersville Mayor John Skillman echoed the sentiments of his peers, stating, "Communities need flexibility to address housing challenges in ways that reflect local infrastructure and taxpayer priorities." His input reiterated the collaborative spirit necessary for formulating effective housing policies tailored to local contexts.

Throughout the meeting, leaders emphasized the importance of respecting municipal planning authority while also advocating for the necessary resources and infrastructure funding that supportive housing requires. The discussions culminated in a unified call to action, urging state lawmakers to adopt a collaborative stance on housing solutions that prioritize local oversight.

As these municipal leaders continue to engage with state representatives, they express their commitment to finding a harmonious balance between legislative initiatives and local demands for responsible growth. The emphasis remains clear: when it comes to housing, listening to residents' voices and preserving the essence of local communities is paramount. By fostering collaboration that aligns with these values, both local and state authorities can work towards building housing solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved.

In conclusion, the ongoing dialogues between DuPage County leaders and state lawmakers highlight a dedicated effort to maintain community integrity while addressing the pressing needs for housing development. It is this balance that will ensure sustainable growth not just for today, but well into the future.