Evanston City Council Approves Controversial Apartment Complex

An extended protest from a neighboring historic Black church did not prevent the approval of a new apartment complex on Emerson Street in Evanston. The City Council voted 5-1 on July 13 to allow the construction of a five-story, 30-unit building with conditions. This development is planned for 1103-1105 Emerson Street, located in the city’s 5th Ward.

PM Properties, LLC, had faced repeated delays due to concerns over height and density from Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, which is situated next to the proposed site. Ebenezer A.M.E., Evanston’s oldest Black church, has been standing for more than a century. Congregants worry that the new building could harm the church’s structural integrity and historic architecture.

Priscilla Giles, a longtime Evanston resident, expressed opposition, stating, “It is a disgrace next to a historical landmark Black church over 100 years old. This so-called affordable building is nothing any of you on the dais would want next to your home or your house of worship.”

The apartment complex will replace existing properties and include three affordable housing units priced at 40% of the area’s median income. Ald. Bobby Burns shared that this translates to around $1,100 per month for a two-bedroom unit. “Our community needs that. All they can find are two bedrooms in the $2,000s,” Burns said during the July 13 Council meeting.

Burns dispelled the misconception that the apartment project would demolish the church. He stated, “We’re not tearing any historic, anything down. A private owner is proposing a housing development on their property.” The council integrated a good neighbor agreement to address concerns, which mandates PM Properties, LLC, to collaborate with the city in finalizing building colors and materials before construction begins.

As per the agreement, developers must provide documentation on the conditions of the church structure and property before obtaining a permit. They are also required to install no amplified sound system on the rooftop deck, replace an old fence surrounding the church’s parking lot, and monitor noise levels from tenants.

Church Pastor Deborah Y. Scott voiced concerns regarding the developer’s accountability. She stated, “My church members still have concerns. They don’t feel that the city will enforce this good neighbor agreement.” The congregation has learned from experience and lacks confidence in the city’s commitment.

Despite concerns, the Emerson Street project received Council approval, contingent on adherence to the good neighbor agreement, though no construction start date was announced. Ald. Clare Kelly cast the sole dissenting vote, citing issues with the project’s mass and design, which may undermine the church’s presence.