Supporters propose Chicago SRO conversions stop

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago City Council will be asked to put a moratorium on SRO conversions because there is concern there is not enough housing for low-income residents.

Aldermen and community activists spoke about the proposal before Wednesday's council meeting.

It would ban the redevelopment of single-room occupancy and residential hotels for six months.

Supporters say affordable housing is disappearing as developers convert properties into more upscale housing.

Alderman Walter Burnett says his cousin, like many others, depend on SROs.

"If it wasn't for this type of housing they would not have anywhere else to stay. They'd be in our parks, they'd be on our streets, they'd be in the back of our houses. And we don't want those folks to be homeless," he said.

One supporter says that since 2008, 25 SROs have closed in Chicago.