Fair Housing Matters to Kane County

Kane County is home to a growing population of more than 530,000 people, and like the greater Chicago metropolitan area, our residents represent tremendous racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. Kane County values that diversity, and is committed to fostering a housing market that is open and accessible to everyone. This webpage is designed to provide general information about fair housing and the efforts that have taken place locally to evaluate and affirmatively further fair housing in Kane County. It also connects you to resources and agencies that can help you learn more about your rights under the law.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, "Fundamentally, fair housing means that every person can live free. This means that our communities are open and welcoming, free from housing discrimination and hostility. But this also means that each one of us, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability, has access to neighborhoods of opportunity, where our children can attend quality schools, our environment allows us to be healthy, and economic opportunities and self-sufficiency can grow. Our commitment to fair housing is a living commitment, one that reflects the needs of America today and prepares us for a future of true integration."

In 2012, Kane County, working in collaboration with the Cities of Aurora and Elgin, examined local fair housing matters. The resulting "Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice" provides a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities that face our area. It discusses ways we can reduce or eliminate discrimination associated with the sale and rental of housing, as well as in the lending and insurance markets. Review the    "Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice".

If you have any questions, or need help connecting to the appropriate agency, please feel free to contact us at ocr@countyofkane.org.