01/14/2014Case #13 -067 -CU 650 Graceland/1351 Webford
Case #13 -070 -CU 410 Northwest Highway
Case #13 -069 -CU 1255 Lee Street
January 14, 2014
Page 1
'CITY OF ��
Or -
DES
DES PLAINES)
ILLINOIS
DES PLAINES ZONING BOARD MEETING
JANUARY 14, 2014
MINUTES
The Des Plaines Zoning Board Meeting held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at 7:30
P.M., in Room 102, City Council Chambers, of the Des Plaines Civic Center.
ZONING BOARD
PRESENT: Seegers, Szabo, Saletnik, Porada, Hofhen, Schell
ABSENT Catalano
ALSO PRESENT Scott Mangum, AICP, Senior Planner, Department of Community & Economic
Development
George Sakas, AICP, Director of Community & Economic Development
Lauren Griffin, Administrative Assistant of Community & Economic Development
Chainnan Seegers called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m. Roll call was conducted. Chairman Seegers stated there
are three cases on the agenda. The cases were read before the Zoning Board of Appeals.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
A motion was made by Board Member Porada, seconded by Board Member Hofherr, to approve the meeting
mimrtes of December 10, 2013, with revisions that will be brought forth at the next Zoning Board of Appeals
Meeting for review. Board Member Saletnik commented that when minutes are taken out of context is can
become dangerous.
AYES: Porada, Hofherr, Saletnik, Schell, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: Seegers
***MOTION CARRIED***
NEW BUSINESS
1. Address: 650 Graceland/1351 Webford Case Number: 13 -067 -CU
Petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use permit under Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 City of Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended: to establish a Domestic Pet Service (Dog Grooming) in the C-3 District.
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PIN: 09-17-417-019-0000
Petitioner: Jennifer Haney, 1224 Wayne Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Owner: Bill Mandas, 837 Partridge Drive, Palatine, IL 60067
Chairman Seegers swore in the Petitioner Jennifer Haney, 1224 Wayne Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018 and
Attorney Daniel Dowd, 701 Lee Street, Des Plaines, IL 60018.
Mr. Dowd introduced himself as the Attorney representing the Petitioner. Mr. Dowd explained the space is
approximately 650 square feet on the ground level of an existing building, currently located next to the
pawn shop. Mr. Dowd explained the proposed hours of operation are Monday through Saturday by
appointment only 8:00 A.M — 4:00 P.M. Parking is adequate with eight spaces on the location, public
municipal parking across the street and street parking near the subject property. The Petitioner and Staff are
in agreement with the standards placed in the Staff Report.
Ms. Haney introduced herself and has been in the Dog Grooming business for over 35 years. The nature of
the business will be by appointment only which will not have a negative effect on traffic or parking on the
premises. The doors will always be locked on the building and after service the customer will be called to
come and pick up the dog.
Chairman Seegers asked:
• Which entrance would be used for the space. Ms. Haney responded the front entrance will be used,
which will be locked at all times.
Board Member Hofherr asked Petitioner:
• What improvements will be done to the space, and are there current tenants upstairs. Ms. Haney
explained the extent of work would be new flooring, new tile, painting, new lighting, and a new
professional awning would be installed on her portion on the building. There are tenants upstairs
and they have met and talked.
Board Member Hofherr mentioned to Staff that the No Parking sign in front of the space needs to be
replaced.
Board Member Porada asked:
• Is the Petitioner going to board animals. Ms. Haney responded no boarding will occur. The
schedule will be by appointment only. She does have a release form if dogs need medical
treatment they will be taken to the veterinarian.
• How many appointments a day. Ms. Haney doesn't imagine more than 7 appointments a day by
herself, if additional staff member is hired maybe can take 15-16 dogs a day. The latest
appointment would be 12-12:30 P.M.
Chairman Seegers asked the Board if there were any further questions. There were none.
Chairman Seegers asked Mr. Mangum to summarize the staff report.
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Issue: The petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use Permit under Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended, to establish a Domestic Pet Service (Dog Grooming) in the C-3 Zoning
District.
Analysis/Proposed Use: Vacant tenant space within multi -tenant mixed use building
Petitioner Jennifer Haney, 1224 Wayne Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Owner Bill Mandas, 837 Partridge Drive, Palatine, IL 60067
PIN 09-17-417-019-0000
Plan of Operation
Operate a domestic pet service that offers dog grooming services Monday
through Friday from the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday by
appointment only.
Existing Use Vacant tenant space in mixed-use building with pawn shop and two upper story
residential units
Surrounding Land Use
North: Commercial (Newspaper)
East: Commercial
South: Place of Worship
West: Single-family Residential
Existing Zoning C-3, General Commercial
Surrounding Zoning
North: C-3, General Commercial
East: C-5, Central Business
South: R-4, Central Core Residential
West: C-3, General Commercial
Street Classification The adjacent section of Graceland Avenue is listed as an arterial street in the
Comprehensive Plan.
Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan recommends a Community Commercial
use for the site.
Happy Dog Grooming Spa has requested a Conditional Use Permit to operate a Domestic Pet Service that
offers dog grooming services from the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, with
additional appointments available on Saturdays. Accessory retail sales of pet related products are planned
for the future. The applicant is the sole proprietor and would not have any additional employees on site.
Domestic Pet Services require a Conditional Use Permit in the C-3 zoning district.
The approximately 650 square -foot first floor, currently vacant, tenant space is located within a two-story
multiple -tenant mixed-use building at 650 Graceland Avenue. The existing commercial tenant is a pawn
shop, while two residential units are located on the second floor. The commercial site is composed of two
parcels with a total area of approximately 6,720 square feet. The site has approximately 8 parking spaces
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and is serviced by one curb -cut off of Graceland Avenue. The adjacent single-family residential lot to the
west is under the same ownership.
The petitioner has requested a waiver of the traffic study. Due to the nature of this request, staff has agreed
to waive the traffic study. The proposed operation anticipates a limited number of customers per day.
Conditional Use Findings: As required by Section 3.4-5 (Standards for Conditional Uses) of the Zoning
Ordinance, the proposed development is reviewed below:
A. The proposed Conditional Use is in fact a Conditional Use established within the specific Zoning
district involved:
Comment A Domestic Pet Service is a Conditional Use in the C-3, General Commercial Zoning District,
as specified in Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended.
B. The proposed Conditional Use is in accordance with the objectives of the City's Comprehensive
Plan:
Comment: The 2007 Comprehensive Plan recommends Community Commercial for this site. A Domestic
Pet Service is a Conditional Use in the C-3 Zoning District.
C. The proposed Conditional Use is designed, constructed, operated and maintained to be
harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general
vicinity:
Comment: The proposed Domestic Pet Service would be located within an existing structure. Other than
window replacement, no additional exterior changes are proposed at this time.
D. The proposed Conditional Use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses:
Comment: None of the functions of the Domestic Pet Service are anticipated to be hazardous or disturbing
to the surrounding neighborhood.
E. The proposed Conditional Use is to be served adequately by essential public facilities and services,
such as highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and
sewer, and schools; or, agencies responsible for establishing the Conditional Use shall provide
adequately any such services:
Comment: After reviewing the petitioner's plans, the proposed Conditional Use would be served
adequately by essential public facilities and it would not overburden existing public services.
F. The proposed Conditional Use does not create excessive additional requirements at public expense
for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic well-being of the entire
comm unity:
Comment: The proposed Conditional Use would appear to have adequate public facilities; it would not
create a burden on public facilities nor would it be a detriment to the economic well being of the
community.
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G. The proposed Conditional Use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials,
equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke fumes, glare or odors:
Comment: Based on the information submitted the proposed Domestic Pet Service is not anticipated to
create an amount of additional traffic and parking which cannot be accommodated by the existing street
network.
H. The proposed Conditional Use provides vehicular access to the property designed so that it does
not create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares:
Comment: The proposed project would utilize existing access to parking from Graceland Avenue. Based on
the information provided, staff does not find any evidence for significant interference with traffic patterns.
I. The proposed Conditional Use does not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of natural, scenic,
or historic features of major importance:
Comment: The proposed plan would not add impervious surface, nor cause the destruction, loss, or damage
of any natural, scenic or historic features of major importance.
J. The proposed Conditional Use complies with all additional regulations in the Zoning Ordinance
specific to the Conditional Use requested:
Comment: Domestic Pet Services are subject to the following specific criteria under section 7.3-6-C-1 of
the Zoning Ordinance:
b. Outdoor kennels are not allowed.
c. Outdoor runs are allowed.
The petitioner has not indicated that there will be any outdoor operations. As proposed, the Domestic Pet
Service appears to conform to all other zoning regulations.
Recommendation: The Community Development Department recommends approval of the Conditional
Use Permit request for the establishment of a Domestic Pet Service, based on review of the information
presented by the applicant and the findings made above, as specified in Section 3.4-5 (Standards for
Conditional Uses) of the City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance.
Zoning Board of Appeals Procedure: Under Section 3.4-4-C of the Zoning Ordinance (Conditional Uses)
the Zoning Board of Appeals has the authority to recommend that the City Council approve, approve
subject to conditions, or deny the above-mentioned Conditional Use Permit for a Domestic Pet Service the
C-3 zoning district. The City Council has the final authority on the project.
Chairman Seegers asked the Board if there were any further questions. Chairman Seegers asked if anyone
in the audience was in favor of this application. One person raised a hand. Chairman Seegers asked if
anyone in the audience was against this application. There were none.
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A motion was made by Board Member Hotherr, seconded by Board Member Szabo, to recommend
that the City Council approve this Conditional Use.
AYES: Hofherr, Szabo, Saletnik , Schell, Porada, Seegers
NAYES: None
* * *MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY* * *
2. Address: 410 Northwest Highway Case Number 13 -070 -CU
The petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use Perm it under Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended, to expand an existing Auto repair establishment in the C-3 Zoning District.
PINs: 09-07-417-001-0000, 09-07-417-002-0000, 09-07-417-003-0000, 09-07-417-026-0000, 09-07-417-
027-0000
Petitioner: Matthew Merkel, True Tech Automotive, 410 Northwest Highway, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Owner: George Zervos, 410 Northwest Highway, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Chairman Seegers swore in Petitioner Matthew Merkel, 410 Northwest Highway, Des Plaines, IL, 60016,
Owner George Zervos, 410 Northwest Highway, Des Plaines, IL 60016 and Architect Thomas Budzik, 211
Maple Lane, Prospect Heights, IL 60070.
Mr. Budzik explained the request is for a 1,500 square foot addition to the existing building. The addition
would allow for three additional service bays. Mr. Merkel will add some landscaping and include parking
lot renovations. The purpose of the addition is the turn over cars at a quicker pace. This would allow for
fewer cars on the exterior of the building and parking in the lot. All parties agreeable of the Staff report
with the exception of a few conditions. Mr. Zervos would propose not to close the curb -cut; he would like
to keep that open for future developments that could occur on the property. The Petitioner would like to
amend the Saturday hours to 8 A.M — 4 P.M. Lastly, there are existing light poles on the property and
would like to keep the existing, but, would modify to please Staff.
Chairman Seegers asked:
• Would the business stay open during the renovation. Mr. Budzik responded the necessary
provisions would be taken to keep the business open during construction.
Board Member Hofherr asked Petitioner:
• With regards to the exterior of the building, when the addition is constructed, will the front and
side be updated. Mr. Budzik responded absolutely, that is part of the project.
Board Member Porada asked the Petitioner:
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• On the East side of the building there was a canopy, is someone else using the property. Mr.
Merkel responded that canopy was removed, and Mr. Zervos was allowing another business to
use outside storage, however, True Tech Automotive is now taking over that property.
• What is the East wall setback, and how much is the addition recessed from the South wall of the
existing structure. Mr. Budzik responded the East wall setback is 5 feet, and the addition is
recessed from the South wall by 2 feet.
• From the Site Plan is looks as though landscaping or grass will be installed East of the existing
building and North of the addition. Mr. Budzik stated that area is paved. The Petitioner does not
have any intentions of storing anything on that area.
• Where is the tire storage and dumpster location. Mr. Merkel responded there is a patio on the
Northwest corner which is proposed to be closed off. Do not like to keep too many tires on the
premises. The dumpster is located to the South and it is not a large dumpster, it doesn't take up a
lot of space. Board Member Porada stated the placement of the dumpster could be in a better area,
maybe to the East of the existing structure and North of the proposed addition.
• Questioned Staff why they are not showing a screening for the dumpster. Mr. Mangum explained
the revised Site Plan should show dumpster screening.
• What type of auto repairs occur onsite. Mr. Merkel explained they do general repairs; the
addition would help because all work could be done inside the property. Currently, have three
bays and by adding additional three bays work would get done much quicker.
• Any occasions that a customer cannot pay for repairs and offer to sell the car. The owner Mr.
Zervos responded he does have a license to sell vehicles on the property. The business license
gets renewed every year and has been there 10-12 years.
• The Engineering Department is requesting the curb cut be closed. Mr. Budzik responded the
IDOT permitting process is lengthy. Do not feel that it should be a requirement based on the
request for an addition. If there is any future development on the site it should be done at that
time. If it affects the drainage of the property it could be quite expensive. Mr. Mangum explained
it is a State roadway and it is best practice of transportation to reduce curb cuts.
Board Member Saletnik stated that he remembered the prior case, however, uses may change and
do need to check if that license is still valid. There should be a record of the case from years past.
• Board Member Szabo questioned the Architect: Suggested the location of the dumpster to be
South of the existing building and use a block enclosure which would match the building. What
type of block is proposed. Mr. Budzik proposed split face block with veneer to exposed spaces.
The existing building will be painted to match the rest of the building.
Chairman Seegers asked the Board if there were any further questions. There were none.
Chairman Seegers asked Mr. Mangum to summarize the staff report.
Issue: The petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use Permit under Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended, to expand an existing Auto Service Repair establishment in the C-3 Zoning
District.
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AnalysislProposed Use: Auto Service Repair
Petitioner Matthew Merkel, True Tech Automotive, 410 Northwest Highway, Des Plaines,
IL 60016
Owner George Zervos, 410 Northwest Highway, Des Plaines, IL 60016
PINs 09-07-417-001-0000, 09-07-417-002-0000, 09-07-417-003-0000, 09-07-417-
026-0000,09-07-417-027-0000
Plan of Operation Hours of operation would be from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and
Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Four employees would be at the location.
Existing Use Auto Service Repair
Surrounding Land Use North: Single -Family Residential
East: Commercial Office
South: Cumberland Metra Station/Light Manufacturing
West: Commercial Office
Existing Zoning C-3, General Commercial
Surrounding Zoning North: R-1, Single Family Residential
East: C-3, General Commercial
South: M-1, Limited Manufacturing
West: C-3, General Commercial
Street Classification Northwest Highway and State Street are arterial roads according to the City's
Comprehensive Plan. Cornell Avenue is a local street.
Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan recommends Low -Density Mixed -Use for this area.
The applicant, Matthew Merkel of True Tech Automotive, has requested a Conditional Use Permit to
expand an Auto Service Repair use at 410 Northwest Highway. The applicant currently operates an Auto
Service Repair facility at this location, which is a conditional use within the C-3 Zoning District. The
approximately 19,000 square -foot triangularly shaped lot at the northeast corner of Northwest Highway,
State Street, and Cornell Avenue contains an approximately 2,169 square -foot concrete block auto service
repair shop with three repair bays. The site is currently accessed by two curb cuts off of Northwest
Highway and one from Cornell Avenue. The applicant has proposed to expand the use by constructing a
1,502 square foot addition to the east of the existing building that would contain three additional service
bays which would be accessed from a new overhead door on the south elevation of the addition. The
proposed location of the addition complies with setback requirements.
The applicant has proposed site improvements by adding perimeter landscaping areas with shrubs, trees,
and a 3 -foot high ornamental wrought -iron style fence around the Northwest Highway (7 -feet in width) and
State Street (4.8 -feet in width) frontages. To lessen the impact on the residences to the north of the facility
conditions of approval are recommended to limit the hours of operation, location of repair activities, and
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lighting. Staff is also recommending closing the westernmost curb cut on Northwest Highway to improve
site aesthetics, traffic circulation, and the pedestrian environment.
The proposed plan of operation includes typical hours of operation from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on
weekdays and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Four employees would be at the location.
The applicant requested a waiver of the traffic study requirement. The traffic study waiver request was
reviewed by the Engineering Division and granted with the following comments:
1. A review of the current and past aerials (typically taken on a spring weekend) shows that the parking lot is
historically well -used (2012 — 21 cars; 2011 — 18; 2009 — 16; 2006 — 22). The proposed addition can be
expected to marginally increase demand for parking on the site. If the aerials are representative, then there
may be a slight shortage of parking at times. However, there is opportunity for some short-term overflow
parking for customers along State Street if needed. Since this on -street parking is currently lightly used, it
is not fronting on residential homes, and the traffic volumes along State Street are low, it will not create an
adverse impact. Note that there is a PACE bus stop on State Street adjacent the business. The bus stop
should not be blocked with cars.
2. The preference would be for the western driveway onto NW Highway be permanently closed rather than
just temporarily closed with wheel stops. It is a transportation/safety best practice to minimize the number
of curb cuts by consolidating driveways in order to reduce conflict points. In addition, driveways are
typically best located away from an intersection. As pointed out in the applicant letter, the western
driveway is not currently in use and the two remaining driveways provide sufficient access to and from the
business. Permanently closing this driveway could also allow the introduction of some additional parking
spaces.
3. The proposed landscaping is a welcome addition to the site, not only aesthetically, but functionally since it
will provide a buffer between the sidewalk and the parking lot.
Conditional Use Findings: As required by Section 3.4-5 (Standards for Conditional Uses) of the Zoning
Ordinance, the proposed development is reviewed below:
A. The proposed Conditional Use is in fact a Conditional Use established within the specific Zoning
district involved:
Commend Auto Service Repair is a Conditional Use in C-3, General Commercial Zoning District, as
specified in Section 7.3-6.0 of the 1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended.
B. The proposed Conditional Use is in accordance with the objectives of the City's Comprehensive
Plan:
Comment: The 2007 Comprehensive Plan recommends Low -Density Mixed -Use for this area. The site is
also located within the Cumberland Transit Oriented Development study area. The Cumberland TOD plan
looked at the potential new retail development at this location. Transit agencies have also commented that
auto repair can be a complimentary use near commuter rail.
C. The proposed Conditional Use is designed, constructed, operated and maintained to be
harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general
vicinity:
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Comment: The proposed Auto Service Repair operation fronts on Northwest Highway and State Street,
arterial roads, but is located across the street from a the Cumberland Metra Station which attracts pedestrian
traffic from the residential neighborhood to the north. A 1,502 square foot addition is proposed to the rear
of the building. The proposed design appears to be harmonious with the surrounding area. Conditions of
Approval incorporate landscaping and operational requirements to lessen the impact of operations.
D. The proposed Conditional Use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses:
Comment: With proposed conditions of approval relating to landscaping, noise, lighting, and hours of
operation, none of the functions of the Auto Service Repair operation are anticipated to be hazardous or
disturbing to the surrounding neighborhood.
E. The proposed Conditional Use is to be served adequately by essential public facilities and services,
such as highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and
sewer, and schools; or, agencies responsible for establishing the Conditional Use shall provide
adequately any such services:
Comment: After reviewing the petitioner's plans, the proposed Conditional Use would be served
adequately by essential public facilities and it would not overburden existing public services.
F. The proposed Conditional Use does not create excessive additional requirements at public expense
for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic well-being of the entire
comm unity:
Comment: The proposed Conditional Use would appear to have adequate public facilities; it would not
create a burden on public facilities nor would it be a detriment to the economic well-being of the
community.
G. The proposed Conditional Use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials,
equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke fumes, glare or odors:
Comment: With proposed Conditions of Approval, the proposed Auto Service Repair operation is not
anticipated to create additional traffic, noise, or odors that could be detrimental to surrounding land uses.
H. The proposed Conditional Use provides vehicular access to the property designed so that it does
not create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares:
Comment: The proposed project would utilize the two existing curb cuts on Northwest Highway and the
existing curb but on State Street for access. However, staff has recommended that the westernmost curb cut
on Northwest Highway is closed as part of the project. Based on information provided, staff does not find
any evidence for potential interference with traffic patterns.
I. The proposed Conditional Use does not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of natural, scenic,
or historic features of major importance:
Comment: A 1,502 square foot addition is proposed to the rear of the building. The proposed design
appears to be harmonious with the surrounding area. The proposed plan would remove impervious surface,
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and it would not cause the destruction, loss, or damage of any natural, scenic or historic features of major
importance.
J. The proposed Conditional Use complies with all additional regulations in the Zoning Ordinance
specific to the Conditional Use requested:
Comment: It appears that the proposed conditional use complies with all additional regulations within the
Zoning Ordinance.
Recommendation: The Community Development Department recommends approval of the Conditional
Use Permit and variation requests for the expansion of an Auto Service Repair operation, based on review
of the information presented by the applicant and the findings made above, as specified in Section 3.4-5
(Standards for Conditional Uses) of the City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, subject to conditions of
approval:
1. Prior to issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant submit revised Site and Landscape Plans
including closure of the westernmost curb cut on Northwest Highway and extension of perimeter
landscaped area to the satisfaction of the Director of Community and Economic Development.
2. Prior to issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall complete site improvements as
indicated on the Site and Landscape Plans.
3. Hours of operation shall be limited to: Monday -Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to
2:00 p.m.
4. All repair of vehicles shall occur inside the building.
5. Prior to the issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall submit a photometric plan that limits
the maximum amount of horizontal foot-candles to not more than 0.1 foot-candles at the single-family
residential property line and limits the maximum amount of horizontal foot-candles on commercial
properties to not more than 2.0 foot-candles at the commercial property line.
6. All landscaping materials shall be maintained in good condition so as to present a healthy and orderly
appearance, and plant material not in this condition shall be replaced when necessary and shall be kept free
of refuse and debris.
7. All parking areas shall be surfaced and striped to meet all applicable Building Code hard surface
requirements.
Zoning Board of Appeals Procedure: Under Section 3.4-4-C of the Zoning Ordinance (Conditional Uses)
the Zoning Board of Appeals has the authority to recommend that the City Council approve, approve
subject to conditions, or deny the above-mentioned Conditional Use Permit for the expansion of an Auto
Service Repair operation in the C-3 zoning district. The City Council has the final authority on the project.
Chairman Seegers asked the Board if there were any further questions. Chairman Seegers asked if anyone
in the audience was in favor of this application. Three people in the audience raised a hand. Chairman
Seegers asked if anyone in the audience was against this application. Ms. Melinda Asher with the scientific
building to the East questioned the addition and if they took into consideration the natural gas line. Mr.
Budzik responded they are staying away from the natural gas line and were aware of it.
A motion was made by Board Member Szabo, seconded by Board Member Saletnik, to recommend
that the City Council approve this Conditional Use with Conditions. The following Conditions were
included in the Motion:
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1. Prior to issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant submit revised Site and Landscape Plans
including a temporary closure of the westernmost curb cut on Northwest Highway and extension of
perimeter landscaped area to the satisfaction of the Director of Community and Economic
Development.
2. Prior to issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall complete site improvements as
indicated on the Site and Landscape Plans.
3. Hours of operation shall be limited to: Monday -Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m.
to 4:00 p.m.
4. All repair of vehicles shall occur inside the building.
5. Prior to the issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall submit a photometric plan that
limits the maximum amount of horizontal foot-candles to not more than 0.1 foot-candles at the single-
family residential property line and limits the maximum amount of horizontal foot-candles on
commercial properties to not more than 2.0 foot-candles at the commercial property line.
6. All landscaping materials shall be maintained in good condition so as to present a healthy and orderly
appearance, and plant material not in this condition shall be replaced when necessary and shall be kept
free of refuse and debris. Will work with City Staff to place trash enclosure in a suitable location.
7. All parking areas shall be surfaced and striped to meet all applicable Building Code hard surface
requirements.
AYES: Hofherr, Szabo, Saletnik, Seegers
NAYES: Porada, Schell
***MOTION CARRIED***
3. Address: 1255 Lee Street Case Number 13 -069 -CU
The petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use Permit under Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended, to operate a Motor Vehicle Sales establishment in the C-3 Zoning District.
PIN: 09-20-400-012-0000
Petitioner: Auto Superstore, Inc., 70 Oak Drive #125, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Owner: North Shore Community Bank and Trust, Successor in merger to Diamond Bank, 2241
Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625
Chairman Seegers swore in Petitioner Alex Lashiker, 70 Oak Drive #125, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 and
Barry Collins Attorney representing Auto Superstore, 733 Lee Street #210, Des Plaines, IL 60016.
Mr. Collins summarized the application regarding the operation of a motor vehicle repair and auto sales
shop. In 2007, this property was approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals and City Council as a retail and
car sales facility. This property hasn't been in operation for over a year. The property is approximately one
acre and no residential properties are immediately affected by this type of business. Mr. Lashiker is willing
to accommodate Staff recommendations and would like to beautify the property.
Chairman Seegers asked Petitioner:
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• How many vehicles intended for sale on the property. Mr. Collins responded that there are
approximately 96 parking spaces on the property. Approximately 10-12 cars will be parking in the
front facing Lee Street and 70-80 will be parked in the rear of the property.
• Where is parking for buyers and employees. Mr. Collins responded clients will park on the
Southside of the property and along the building facing West. Employees will park back against
the fence to the East.
Board Member Saletnik asked:
• What type of vehicles will be sold, and what is the percentage of repairs on premise. Mr. Lashiker
responded he has operated a similar dealership for five years. They will sell newer cars that they
purchase at dealer auctions, models no later than seven years old. The service performed on site is
more routine maintenance to get cars ready to sell. Any body work or major repairs will go to
professional body shop in Des Plaines.
Board Member Szabo questioned Petitioner:
• Will there be a show room now, or in the future. Mr. Lashiker responded that there will not be a
show room, only office space. Mr. Lashiker doesn't foresee a show room in the future. The space
is designed for offices, and do not plan to expand.
Chairman Seegers asked the Board if there were any further questions. There were none.
Chairman Seegers asked Mr. Mangum to summarize the staff report.
Issue: The petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use Permit under Section 7.3-6-C of the 1998 Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended, to operate a Motor Vehicle Sales establishment in the C-3 Zoning District.
Analysis/Proposed Use: Motor Vehicle Sales, in addition to accessory Auto Service Repair and Auto
Body Repair
Petitioner: Auto Superstore, Inc., 70 Oak Drive #125, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Owner:
North Shore Community Bank and Trust, Successor in merger to Diamond
Bank, 2241 Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625
PIN: 09-20-400-012-0000
Plan of Operation: Operate a motor vehicles sales business with approximately 10-18 employees
per shift Monday -Friday: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Existing Use: Vacant — Previously Motor Vehicle Sales and Auto Service Repair
Surrounding Land Use:
North: Commercial (Hotel)
East: Canadian National Railroad/Single-Family Residential
South: Commercial (Restaurant)
West: Commercial (Restaurants)
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Existing Zoning:
Surrounding Zoning:
Street Classification:
Comprehensive Plan:
C-3, General Commercial
North: C-3, General Commercial
East: R-1, Single Family Residential
South: C-3, General Commercial
West: C-3, General Commercial
Lee Street is an arterial street according to the 2007 Comprehensive Plan and is
under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Transportation.
The Plan recommends a Community Commercial use for this site.
The petitioner, Alex Lashiker of Auto Superstore, Inc., has applied for a Conditional Use Permit for motor
vehicles sales and accessory auto repair, which falls under the zoning definition of motor vehicle sales. A
Conditional Use Permit for a motor vehicle sales operation at 1255 Lee Street was approved by the City
Council in 2007 (Z-28-07). A new Conditional Use Permit is required because the use has been abandoned
for more than one year.
The 42,780 square foot (0.982 acres) site has approximately 89 -feet of frontage and is located on the east
side of Lee Street, approximately 275 -feet south of the intersection of Algonquin Road and Lee Street. The
site is accessed by one curb cut off of Lee Street (US 12/45) and improved with a one-story masonry
building and parking areas. The business would operate six days per week with an anticipated maximum of
10-18 employees. In addition to auto sales of pre -owned vehicles, the operator would provide auto repair of
vehicles owned by the dealership and warranty repairs from customers. The applicant has proposed site
improvements including paving the rear of the site and adding a 7 -foot wide landscaping area with shrubs
and a 3 -foot high ornamental wrought -iron style fence along the Lee Street frontage.
The zoning and current land use to the east of the subject property is single-family residential. An existing
6 -foot high privacy fence and railroad right of way separate the land uses, however, the fence is in need of
replacement or repair. Conditions of approval are recommended to address the condition of the fence, limit
hours of operation, location of repair activities, and lighting levels.
The petitioner has requested a waiver of the traffic study. Based on the similarity of proposed operations to
the previous use at this site, the traffic study waiver request was reviewed by the Engineering Division and
granted with the following comments:
1. The landscaping along the Lee Street frontage should be maintained at a height of no more than 2'
above the adjacent sidewalk height, in order to maintain sight lines for vehicles exiting the parking
lot.
2. The existing sidewalk in this area is substandard at only 5' wide. When adjacent to curb,
particularly along a busy arterial like Lee Street, sidewalk should be at least 7' wide.
3. Per modern best practice, a pedestrian access point is recommended. It seems that the driveway
and the south side parking could be shifted north 5' feet in order to accommodate a designated
pedestrian access path to the building entrance. By the nature of the business (and by the nature of
any parking lot) individuals will be walking around the parking lot. However, the designated
pedestrian access allows pedestrians to steer clear of the business driveway where there is the
greatest potential for conflict.
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Conditional Use Findings: As required by Section 3.4-5 (Standards for Conditional Uses) of the Zoning
Ordinance, the proposed development is reviewed below:
A. The proposed conditional use is in fact a conditional use established within the specific Zoning
district involved:
Commend Motor Vehicles Sales is a conditional use in C-3, General Commercial Zoning District, as
specified in Section 7.3 of the 1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended.
B. The proposed conditional use is in accordance with the objectives of the City's Comprehensive
Plan;
Comment: The 2007 Comprehensive Plan recommends a Community Commercial use for this site.
C. The proposed conditional use is designed, constructed, operated and maintained to be harmonious
and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity;
Comment: The proposed Motor Vehicle Sales operation fronts on Lee Street, an arterial road that currently
has an auto -oriented character. Conditions of Approval incorporate landscaping and operational
requirements to lessen the impact of operations.
D. The proposed conditional use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses;
Comment: With proposed conditions of approval relating to landscaping, lighting, and hours of operation,
none of the functions of the Motor Vehicle Sales operation are anticipated to be hazardous or disturbing to
the surrounding neighborhood.
E. The proposed conditional use is to be served adequately by essential public facilities and services,
such as highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and
sewer, and schools; or, agencies responsible for establishing the conditional use shall provide
adequately any such services;
Comment: After reviewing the petitioner's plans, the proposed conditional use would be served adequately
by essential public facilities and would not overburden existing public services.
F. The proposed conditional use does not create excessive additional requirements at public expense
for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic well-being of the entire
community;
Comment: The proposed conditional use would appear to have adequate public facilities; it would not
create a burden on public facilities nor would it be a detriment to the economic well-being of the
community.
G. The proposed conditional use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials,
equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke fumes, glare or odors;
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Comment: With proposed Conditions of Approval, the proposed Motor Vehicle Sales operation is not
anticipated to create additional traffic, noise, or odors that could be detrimental to surrounding land uses.
H. The proposed conditional use provides vehicular access to the property designed so that it does
not create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares;
Comment: The proposed project is not anticipated to generate a significant increase in traffic from the
levels experienced by the previous operator, and thus will not negatively affect current traffic conditions.
I. The proposed conditional use does not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of natural, scenic,
or historic features of major importance;
Comment: The proposed Motor Vehicle Sales operation would be located within an existing commercial
building. The proposed plan would not cause the destruction, loss, or damage of any natural, scenic or
historic features of major importance.
J. The proposed conditional use complies with all additional regulations in the Zoning Ordinance
specific to the conditional use requested;
Comment: It appears that the proposed conditional use complies with all additional regulations within the
Zoning Ordinance.
Recommendation: The Community Development Department recommends approval of the conditional
use permit request for a Motor Vehicle Sales operation, based on review of the information presented by
the applicant and the findings made above, as specified in Section 3.4-5 (Standards for Conditional Uses)
of the City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, subject to the following Conditions of Approval:
1. Prior to issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall submit
revised Site and Landscape Plans including shifting the driveway 5 -feet to the
north and incorporating a pedestrian walkway from the public sidewalk to the
building at the south edge of the site, widening the perimeter landscape area
along Lee Street to a minimum of 9 -feet, planting of two, 2.5 -inch caliper shade
trees within the front perimeter landscape area and construction/repair of a 6 -
foot high wood fence around the perimeter of the site from the front building
line of hotel on the adjacent property to the north to the rear building line of the
building on the subject property to the satisfaction of the Director of Community
and Economic Development.
2. Prior to issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall complete site
improvements as indicated on the revised Site and Landscape Plans.
3. All landscaping materials shall be maintained in good condition so as to present
a healthy and orderly appearance, and plant material not in this condition shall
be replaced when necessary and shall be kept free of refuse and debris. The
landscaping along the Lee Street frontage should be maintained at a height of no
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more than 2' above the adjacent sidewalk height, in order to maintain sight lines
for vehicles exiting the parking lot.
4. Hours of operation are limited to: Monday -Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
5. All repair of vehicles shall occur inside the building.
6. All parking areas shall be surfaced and striped to meet all applicable Building
Code hard surface requirements.
7. Prior to the issuance of the Conditional Use Permit, the applicant shall submit a
photometric plan that limits the maximum amount of horizontal foot-candles on
residential properties to not more than 0.1 foot-candles at the single-family
residential property line and limits the maximum amount of horizontal foot-
candles on commercial properties to not more than 2.0 foot-candles at the
commercial property line.
8. No long-term parking or storage of commercial vehicles shall be allowed.
Zoning Board of Appeals Procedure: Under Section 3.4-4-C of the Zoning Ordinance (Conditional Uses)
the Zoning Board of Appeals has the authority to recommend that the City Council approve, approve
subject to conditions, or disapprove the above-mentioned conditional use permit for a Motor Vehicle Sales
operation in the C-3 zoning district. The City Council has the final authority on the project.
Chairman Seegers asked the Board if there were any further questions. Chairman Seegers asked if anyone
in the audience was in favor of this application. Chairman Seegers asked if anyone in the audience was
against this application. Mr. Ron Whintich 1286 Lee Street, Des Plaines, IL 60018, questioned the
Petitioner if he was going to expand into the vacant lot next to the Restaurant. Mr. Lashiker responded not
at this time.
A motion was made by Board Member Saletnik, seconded by Board Member Hofherr, to
recommend that the City Council approve this Conditional Use with Conditions.
AYES: Porada, Hofherr, Saletnik, Schell, Szabo, Seegers
NAYES: None
***MOTION CARRIED UNANMIOUSLY* * *
OLD BUSINESS There was no Old Business.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:16 p.m. by unanimous voice vote.
Sincerely,
Lauren Griffin
Community & Economic Development
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cc: City Officials, Aldermen, Zoning Board of Appeals, Petitioners