Evanston City Council Approves Controversial Apartment Complex Amid Opposition

The protest from Ebenezer A.M.E. Church did not stop the City Council from approving a five-story, 30-unit apartment complex on Emerson Street. The council voted 5-1 on July 13 to approve the project, located at 1103-1105 Emerson Street, with certain conditions.

The developer, PM Properties, LLC, had encountered delays due to concerns from the church about the building’s height and density. Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, the oldest Black church in Evanston, worried that the new building would affect its structural integrity and historic architecture. Priscilla Giles, a resident, expressed her opposition by stating, “It is a disgrace next to a historical landmark Black church over 100 years old.”

The planned apartment building will provide three affordable units at 40% of the area’s median income, approximately $1,100 monthly rent for a two-bedroom unit. Alderman Bobby Burns defended the project, emphasizing the community’s need for affordable housing. He also clarified that the church would not be torn down as part of the development.

Efforts to address concerns included a ‘good neighbor agreement,’ which requires PM Properties to collaborate with the city on building colors and materials before receiving a construction permit. The developer must also assess the church’s structural condition and replace certain property features. Restrictions on rooftop sound systems and construction of a new privacy fence are part of the agreement.

Demolition will not proceed unless all conditions are met, Burns stressed.

Pastor Deborah Y. Scott, representing the church, voiced ongoing concerns about the city’s commitment to enforcing these agreements. She noted a lack of communication from the council about protecting historic properties. Her church members remain distrustful of the city’s enforcement capabilities.

Despite these issues, the council moved forward with the project, pending compliance with the good neighbor agreement. Alderman Clare Kelly voted against the project, citing concerns about the building’s design and its impact on the church and neighborhood heritage.