SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Municipal League (IML) issued the following statement regarding the preservation of local authority and community input in housing and development policy discussions: “We thank the members of the General Assembly for working collaboratively with local officials throughout the legislative session on important housing development issues affecting communities across Illinois. Municipal leaders share the goal of expanding housing opportunities and improving affordability for residents in every region of the state. Illinois communities vary widely in their housing needs, infrastructure capacity, population density and long-term planning priorities. Local leaders are best positioned to make decisions that reflect those unique circumstances. This is why IML introduced the Reducing Expenses and Advancing Local (REAL) Housing Act proposal, designed to lower housing costs, provide property tax relief and maintain decision making at the local level. IML looks forward to continuing conversations with the General Assembly, the Governor’s Office and stakeholders on policies that can meaningfully improve housing affordability and expand development opportunities while maintaining local decision-making authority. We remain committed to working in partnership on practical, results-driven solutions that reduce barriers to housing development and support strong communities across Illinois,” said IML Chief Executive Officer Brad Cole. IML’s municipal housing authority resource page is available at iml.org/REALhousing. ABOUT THE ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE The Illinois Municipal League is the statewide association representing municipalities throughout Illinois. Founded in 1913, IML has worked continuously for the benefit of all 1,294 cities, villages and towns in Illinois to provide a formal voice on matters involving common interests. The League is managed under the general direction of Chief Executive Officer Brad Cole, former Mayor of the City of Carbondale. | 