Will Chicago Legalize ‘Granny Flats?’ Plus, CPS Layoffs Mount
City Council has been debating whether to broadly expand accessory dwelling units, such as attic and basement units, granny flats, and coach houses. Supporters argue it can increase the affordable housing stock, while opponents believe it could reshape neighborhoods. Alders were unable to compromise and the ordinance stalled this week. We are discussing the ongoing debate with the Tribune’s Jake Sheridan and Chalkbeat Chicago’s Reema Amin. Plus, we are examining the latest round of CPS layoffs, the push to further regulate homeschooling in Illinois, and the retirement of a Chicago radio icon.
Good News: Tacos y Tamales, Humboldt Arboreal Society (DJs), Chicago Zine Fest
Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.
Follow us @citycastchicago
You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246
Learn more about the sponsors of this July 18 episode:
- Top Marks Prep – Receive 15% off when you use the link
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Become a member of City Cast Chicago.
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Your Guide to July 2026 in Chicago
As summer really takes off, the food fests, fireworks shows, and WNBA All Star Weekend have us really excited for July. Here’s your guide...
Extreme Heat, Indiana Fireworks, and 'The Bear' Finale
Extreme heat warnings, corn sweat, and potential thunderstorms could make this the most volatile weather week of the summer so far. Execu...
Seriously, More Parking Meter Drama? Plus, More Mayoral Candidates
Chicago’s infamous parking meters are up for sale. In a City Council committee meeting last week, alders got more insight into the mayor’...
How Quantum Is Already Changing the South Side. Plus, Heat Wave Approaching
Earlier this month, Advocate Health Care broke ground on a new hospital at the south end of the forthcoming 440-acre Quantum Shore Campus...
FCC Comes For ABC Chicago, The Bear is Back, and Get Free Coffee
The Federal Communications Commission has ABC 7 Chicago and other local stations in its crosshairs as the FCC has ordered an accelerated...
How Much To Run For Mayor? Plus, Elise Malary Plaza and City Hall Art Missing
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who has been floated as a potential candidate for mayor, recently received $255,000 from a local un...
Schools' Fundraising, Chicago’s Plan for 78, and ‘Ferris Bueller’s’ Turns 40
Principals, local school councils, and parent groups are getting increasingly creative with their fundraising. In 2025, Chicago schools s...
City Will Buy Greyhound Terminal, Chicago's 'Friendship Recession,' and We Want 4 a.m. Tacos!
Last week, the City Council voted to purchase the downtown Greyhound bus terminal. We discuss the details and what’s next for the critica...
So Everyone's Running For Mayor. Plus, How To Do Pride Fest!
We’ve got more mayoral candidates ahead of February’s primary after former Ald. George Cardenas (12th) officially launched his campaign....
Is Chicago Really Over Ye? Plus, Best Summer Museum Exhibits
A week before the Bears season kicks off, Soldier Field will be home to one of Chicago’s most controversial sons, Kanye West. The Bully t...