News Updates

Lake County launches Housing Lake coalition to address regional housing challenges

Housing Lake initiative unites business, government, and community leaders in six-month push for implementable housing solutions

A groundbreaking regional coalition has launched to tackle Lake County’s housing shortage through collaborative action and data-driven solutions. The Lake County Coalition for Housing unites municipal leaders, developers, employers, and community advocates in an ambitious six-month initiative to expand housing options across all income levels.

The coalition builds on earlier commitments made by Lake County and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), with support from Schreiber Philanthropy, to prioritize housing as an economic development strategy. The initiative officially kicked off in Mundelein on Wednesday, July 23. It brings together diverse stakeholders to analyze housing data and identify concrete opportunities to increase supply throughout the region.

CMAP Executive Director, Erin Aleman, said, “CMAP is proud to partner with Lake County and Schreiber Philanthropy to advance housing solutions. Our region’s plan envisions all residents in northeastern Illinois having the ability to find a high-quality, affordable, and accessible home near jobs, transportation, and other amenities, throughout all stages of life. When we are intentional about housing solutions, it strengthens local communities and the region as a whole.”

“Housing for all income levels and stages of life is the backbone of strong, resilient and thriving communities, and it is crucial for Lake County’s economic future,” said Sandy Hart, Lake County Board Chair. “Right now, too many of our residents are struggling to find a place to call home. By working together through Housing Lake: Lake County Coalition for Housing, we will be able to confront this issue head-on, utilizing data to help us find ways to expand housing options that meet the needs of today’s individuals, families, workers and seniors.”

The housing challenge

Rising housing costs and limited inventory are pricing out our workforce, including teachers, healthcare professionals, young families, and long-time residents. When people cannot afford to live where they work, the ripple effects impact economic vitality, school enrollment, and community connections. The coalition recognizes this as not just a housing crisis, but a comprehensive community challenge requiring a coordinated response.

Coalition approach

Housing Lake will convene seven strategic sessions over six months, culminating in a county-wide Housing Summit in February 2026. The process includes:

• Assessing current housing realities and future needs across Lake County
• Identifying barriers to meeting housing needs and opportunities for progress
• Creating an implementation roadmap with clear responsibilities and timelines
• Engaging communities to build support around a shared vision for housing

Diverse stakeholder participation

The coalition brings together business leaders seeking workforce housing solutions, elected officials accountable to constituents, developers pursuing sustainable projects, and community advocates focused on equity. This multi-sector approach ensures strategies address market realities while honoring community values.

Timeline and next ateps

Following the July 23 kickoff, Housing Lake will host monthly strategic workshops through January 2026, offering both in-person and virtual participation options. The initiative will conclude with a Housing Summit on February 11, 2026, where implementable strategies will be presented to the broader community for adoption and action.

About Housing Lake

Housing Lake is a coalition task force funded by Schreiber Philanthropy and facilitated by Lake County and CMAP. The initiative will produce a comprehensive strategy addressing housing needs across all income levels and life stages. It will focus on implementable solutions that can be adopted immediately following the February 2026 summit.

For more information about Housing Lake, visit www.housinglakeco.com or contact communications@housinglakeco.com.