“I believe livable communities must be developed with special care and attention to all residents’ needs. My approach to community development empowers every 3rd Ward resident to shape the character of their own neighborhoods."
— Melissa Wynne
Cultivating Evanston as a Livable City has been the focus of my tenure on the Council. Here’s how I will continue to lead the way:
Rebuild Evanston: Investing in local, small businesses and entrepreneurs is the springboard for a robust economic recovery in Evanston, starting with relocating City government buildings downtown in order to push consumer traffic to local restaurants and shops. In addition, we need a new recovery fund that will support workforce development, innovative entrepreneurship, and minority businesses.
Affordable Evanston: My vision for a Livable City also includes a family-focused affordable housing strategy that leverages underutilized properties for family-sized housing, and zoning that permits rental of accessory dwelling units to provide extra income for homeowners so they can also afford to stay in Evanston... because everyone should have a place to call home.
Safe Evanston: Evanstonians are demanding community policing that keeps us safe, while honoring the dignity of every resident. And I couldn't agree more. My Livable City vision advocates for balanced policing strategies, including the City’s Alternative 911 Response and Alternative to Arrest Initiatives that avert police-community confrontations while keeping Evanston youth out of the criminal justice system.
Walkable Evanston: We need a more pedestrian-friendly streetscape – not only in affluent communities, but throughout Evanston – that supports walkable communities where local amenities are abundantly accessible. That’s why I leveraged funds from the Main-Chicago TIF to pay for new sidewalks and street lighting and facilitated the opening of local small businesses such as Sketchbook Brewing, Few Spirits, Union/Space, Frio Gelato, Homestead Meats among others.
Climate Resilient Evanston: Lastly, a healthy, clean environment is critical to livability. I’m committed to preserving and protecting our beaches and parks, while increasing our waste diversion, reducing our building energy use and achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2030. We must also expand the City’s Residential Rehab program, which provides funds to low-income residents to repair, retrofit and weatherize their homes for climate resiliency.
We can only achieve a Livable City of Evanston by working together. I strongly believe civil, empathic communication among Evanston neighbors and government leaders builds trust across communities, supports constructive action at City Council meetings and empowers vulnerable residents to voice their truth. In all my work for Evanston, I remain deeply committed to these principles – listening and engaging thoughtfully, respectfully and transparently with all of our residents, and representing the 3rd Ward with the highest level of integrity and fidelity to our shared values.