Cut The Tape Recommendation #58: Launch working group to determine how to improve internal coordination on ARO processes from intake through lease-up 

Author(s): Diana Beltran, City Planner V & Samantha Geni, DOH Intern 
Organization: Department of Housing (DOH)  

Why We’re Sharing This 

As we approach the one-year mark of the Cut the Tape initiative, we want to share the progress we’ve made in streamlining the City’s housing and development processes. Thanks to the dedication of City staff and community partners, many of the initiative’s recommendations have been implemented or are well underway. 

This blog series celebrates those successes, shares challenges, and recognizes the collective effort to expand affordable housing and strengthen Chicago’s commercial corridors. 

 Improving Access to Affordable Housing 

Chicago’s Affordable Requirements Ordinance (ARO) plays a crucial role in linking affordable housing creation to market-rate development. Since its inception in 2007, the ARO has generated over 2,000 affordable units, and with the 2021 amendment and a new state property tax incentive program, that number is expected to rise significantly. 

As the program grows, transparency and accessibility are key to ensuring that developers, property managers, and renters can navigate the process effectively. To support this, the Department of Housing (DOH) launched a new ARO program website to simplify processes and improve public access to information. 

What We’ve Achieved So Far 

The Challenge: 

Before this effort, the ARO website was difficult to navigate, relied on outdated language, and lacked a clear structure, making it hard for developers, property managers, and residents to find the information they needed. 

The Solution: 

In January 2025, DOH launched a redesigned ARO website with a user-friendly structure, clearer guidance, and new tools to improve accessibility. The website is now organized into audience-specific sections to help different stakeholders easily find relevant resources. 

For Prospective Renters 

Finding an ARO unit has historically been challenging. To improve this process, DOH introduced: 

• An interactive online map showing available ARO rental units, complete with property details, contact information, and income eligibility requirements. 

• A user-friendly application guide, outlining key steps: 

1. Explore the ARO map to locate properties. 
2. Understand the factors used to determine income eligibility 
3. Contact property managers to confirm availability. 
4. Submit an application and required documents.  

 For Prospective Homeowners 

For those looking to purchase an ARO home, the website now provides: 

• An overview of the Chicago Housing Trust (CHT), which manages owner-occupied ARO units. 
• Clear income eligibility guidelines and links to resources, including property maps, to help buyers navigate the application process. 

For Developers 

Instead of simply summarizing the ARO, the new website provides a step-by-step guide to the administrative process, ensuring developers understand key requirements: 

• Affordable Housing Profile (AHP): Required for project approval before advancing through the City’s entitlement process. 

• Inclusionary Housing Agreement (IHA): Must be drafted and recorded before receiving full building permits. 

To promote compliance, the site also directs developers to Chapter 2-44-085 (the 2021 ARO). 

For Property Managers and Leasing Agents 

Property managers play a crucial role in ensuring ARO units remain affordable and accessible. The website now includes: 

• Centralized resources on ARO Rules and the Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing & Tenant Screening Plan (MTSP). 

• Step-by-step guidance on leasing and compliance responsibilities, including the Annual Owner Certification (AOC) requirement during the 30-year monitoring period. 

Impact and Lessons Learned 

The redesigned ARO website is already making it easier for stakeholders to find, understand, and comply with program requirements. By offering clearer pathways for developers, property managers, and residents, we are helping to expand housing access across Chicago. 

However, improving access to affordable housing is an ongoing effort. The complexity of the housing market requires continuous updates, outreach, and coordination to ensure the program meets the needs of both applicants and housing providers. 

What’s Next? 

The ARO team is committed to keeping the website up to date and enhancing its functionality. Upcoming efforts include: 

• A new section for existing ARO tenants and homeowners to support them through their long-term commitments. 

• Expanded outreach efforts, including Housing 101 events and training sessions with City Ward offices to help constituents better understand the ARO. 

We encourage all stakeholders to participate in DOH-led events and stay engaged as we work to expand housing access and choice across Chicago. 

👉 Visit the new ARO website today and explore the resources available! 

Join the Conversation

Your voice is essential in shaping the future of housing and development in Chicago. Policymakers need to hear from those directly impacted by these changes—whether you’re a developer, advocate, or resident navigating these processes. How has this work affected you? What challenges still need to be addressed? Your insights can help drive continued reform and ensure these efforts lead to lasting, meaningful improvements. Stay informed and help us keep the momentum going. 

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