Council Minutes 06-03-24MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS HELD IN THE ELEANOR ROHRBACH
MEMORIAL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, DES PLAINES CIVIC CENTER, MONDAY,
JUNE 3, 2024
CALL TO The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Des Plaines, Illinois, was called to
ORDER order by Mayor Goczkowski at 6:00 p.m. in the Eleanor Rohrbach Memorial Council
Chambers, Des Plaines Civic Center on Monday, June 3, 2024.
ROLL CALL Roll call indicated the following Aldermen present: Lysakowski, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz. Alderman Moylan (6:01 pm) A quorum was present.
CLOSED SESSION Moved by Smith, seconded by Walsten, to convene into Closed Session under the following
sections of the Open Meetings Act — Pending Litigation and Probable and Imminent
Litigation. Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared unanimously carried.
The City Council recessed at 6:01 p.m.
The City Council reconvened at 7:00 p.m.
Roll call indicated the following Alderman present: Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz. A quorum was present.
Also present were: City Manager Wisniewski, Acting Director of Finance Podbial, Director of Public Works and
Engineering Oakley, Director of Community and Economic Development Rogers, Fire Chief Matzl, Police Chief
Anderson, and General Counsel Friedman.
PRAYER AND The prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America were
PLEDGE offered by Alderman Smith.
PROCLAMATION Deputy Clerk Fast read a proclamation by Mayor Goczkowski declaring June Pride Month.
SWEARING -IN Mayor Goczkowski administered the Oaths of Office to Matthew Matzl, Fire Chief; Joseph
Ciraulo, Deputy Chief, Michael Rioch, Battalion Chief, Danel Garhan, Lieutenant; Robert
Chapman, Firefighter/Paramedic/Engineer; Dylan Lersch, Firefighter/Paramedic, and Ryan
Schelin, Firefighter/Paramedic.
Fire Chief Matzl thanked the City Council for the opportunity to serve as Fire Chief and
expressed appreciation for the staff and community.
ALDERMAN Alderman Sayad thanked the staff for the valuable information they provided at the 4' ward
ANNOUNCEMENTS meeting on May 23. He also thanked the individuals responsible for the Memorial Day
program and thanked the men and women for serving in the military.
Alderman Walsten announced that there will be a 6' ward meeting on June 20, Leisure
Center at 7:00 p.m.and expressed gratitude for all those in the military.
Alderman Smith stated the Whalen family will be having a fundraiser on June 5th at Zanies
Rosemont; the tickets are $20 along with a two -item purchase. She also states there will be
an upcoming 7th ward meeting at the Frisbie Center on Tuesday, June 1 Ith at 7:00 p.m.
Page 2 of 17 6/03/2024
Alderman Charewicz announced the 8' ward meeting will be held on June 4, Friendship
Conservatory at 7:00 pm. June 6-9 is West Fest at Maine West High School. Also, on
June 15 volunteers will meet at Izaak Walton League at 10:00 am to clean-up along the
Des Plaines River.
Alderman Oskerka congratulated the Fire Department personnel that was sworn in.
MAYORAL Mayor Goczkowski reminded everyone that the Taste of Des Plaines is June 14 and June 15
ANNOUNCEMENTS and beginning this year will be cashless.
MANAGER'S City Manager Wisniewski expressed her gratitude to the Fire Department personnel.
REPORT
CONSENT AGENDA Moved by Sayad, seconded by Brookman, to Establish the Consent Agenda. Upon voice
vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve the Consent Agenda. Upon roll call,
the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Minutes were approved; Ordinance M-9-24 was approved; Resolutions R-109-24, R-110-
24, R-111-24, R-112-24 were adopted.
AWARD BID/ Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-109-24, A
HAMMER RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH HAMMER CONSTRUCTION,
CONSTRUCTION LLC FOR MAINTENANCE REPAIRS ON CITY -OWNED PARKING STRUCTURES.
Consent Agenda Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-109-24
RELEASE CERTAIN
MINUTES AND
RECORDINGS
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-110-24
APPROVE
ADDENDUM TO
INTERGOVMNTAL
AGMT IL STATE
TOLL & ELK GROVE
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-110-24, A
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE RELEASE OF CERTAIN MINUTES OF CERTAIN
CLOSED MEETINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND AUTHORIZING THE
DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN VERBATIM RECORDINGS. Motion declared carried as
approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-111-24, A
RESOLUTION APPROVING A FIRST ADDENDUM TO THE
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH THE ILLINOIS STATE TOLL
HIGHWAY AUTHORITY AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH THE
VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE IN CONNECTION WITH THE ELGIN O'HARE
Consent Agenda
Page 3 of 17 6/03/2024
WESTERN ACCESS PROJECT. Motion declared carried as approved. unanimously under
Resolution Consent Agenda.
R-111-24
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Resolution R-112-24, A
PURCHASE OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF SERVERS FROM IT SAVVY, LLC.
SERVERSAT SAVVY, Motion declared carried as approved. unanimously under Consent Agenda.
LLC
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-112-24
SECOND Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve Second Reading Ordinance M-9-24,
READING/AMEND AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 7-3-9 OF THE CITY CODE REGARDING
CITY CODE RESIDENTIAL PARKING AND RESTRICTED RESIDENT PARKING DISTRICTS.
Consent Agenda Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Ordinance
M-9-24
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve the Minutes of the City Council
MINUTES meeting of May 20, 2024, as published. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously
Consent Agenda under Consent Agenda.
APPROVE Moved by Brookman, seconded by Sayad, to Approve the Closed Minutes of the City
MINUTES Council meeting of May 20, 2024, as published. Motion declared carried as approved
Consent Agenda unanimously under Consent Agenda.
NEW BUSINESS
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION — Alderman Sayad, Chair
WARRANT Alderman Sayad presented the Warrant Register.
REGISTER
Resolution Alderman Sayad stated that as of March 31, 2024, the estimated general fund balance was
R-108-24 $26,529,613.00.
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Smith, to Approve the Warrant Register of June 3, 2024, in
the Amount of $7,143,186.62 and Approve Resolution R-114-24.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT — Alderman Moylan, Chair
CONSIDER Director of Community & Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum dated
APPROVING CU, May 23, 2024.
MAJOR AND
STANDARD Vasile Haures (1387 Prospect Ave. LLC), 1980 Pine Street, Des Plaines, IL 60018 is
VARIATION FOR requesting the following: (i) conditional use for a trade contractor use; (ii) standard variation
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1387 PROSPECT to reduce the required front yard; and (iii) a major variation to allow the loading space to
AVENUE face a public way (alley).
The property is currently undeveloped and is located at the southwest corner of the Prospect
Avenue and Chestnut Street intersection. In 2022, a zoning map amendment was
approved to change the zoning of this property from C-1, Neighborhood Shopping to
C-3, General Commercial. A multitenant office building was contemplated when the
property was re -zoned. Since 2022, this property was sold to the petitioner. Historic aerials
and city records do not indicate any structure has existed on this property in known history.
The area surrounding the property is generally commercial and townhouses. However, the
property immediately adjacent to the subject project, 1383 Prospect Avenue, is a single-
family house re -zoned from C-1, Neighborhood Commercial to R-1, Single Family
Residential in 2016. The presence of an adjacent single family residential property creates
additional requirements in terms of the required front yard and requires a landscape and
fence buffer between the properties.
The petitioner, Vasile Haures, is proposing to construct a one-story commercial building for
a trade contractor use. The building will include two tenant spaces. The east half will include
a showroom, office, and fabrication/storage area for a hardwood flooring business. The other
tenant space will be occupied by a similar business, to be determined by the petitioner at a
later date; note all proposed and future tenants will be required to follow the same conditions,
should the proposed ordinance be approved.
Trade Contractor Use
A business classified as a "trade contractor" is defined in the zoning ordinance
as,
"A building or portion thereof where building and construction trade services are
provided to the public. "Trade contractor" shall include, but will not be limited to,
contractor offices, including landscaper's showrooms, construction supplies and
storage including plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and building equipment,
materials, sales, and other uses similar in nature and impact." (Section 12-13-3).
Refer to the Petitioner's Letter of Intent for business operation information. The petitioner
describes their business as a hardwood flooring company. Customers will be able to access
the showroom by appointment only. Other services performed onsite will be deliveries and
pickups of materials and limited fabrication work (e.g. custom cutting of hardwood planks).
Activities would mostly include performing installation and finishing pre -made materials
offsite at customer locations. The business currently includes two employees and four
subcontractors.
Storage of materials must occur indoors, except as permitted by Section 12-7-F.5.d. Trade
contractor businesses in the C-3 district can display materials outside of the building,
although they cannot be displayed within any required yards. With the current site plan, there
are few locations on the property where outdoor display would be possible. The petitioner
has not indicated any intent to display materials outdoors; if interest is proposed in the future
to display materials, all requirements of Section 12-7-3.F.5.d would need to be followed,
limiting the location, height and types of material displayed.
Proposed Building and Front Yard Variation
The proposed building on the site will be 4,512 square feet in size and one story, 17 feet 9
inches in height. Two overhead doors are located adjacent to the alley, with a loading zone
present in front of each door. Although the petitioner at this time only intends to have one
Page 5 of 17 6/03/2024
use in this space, the building could be separated into two separate spaces; any future
businesses in this location would need to meet requirements of the C-3 zoning district. An
accessible parking space is also provided at the rear of the building. Landscaping and fencing
are noted on the site plan to meet landscape buffer requirements pursuant to Section
12-10-9.
In the C-3 zoning district, the required front yard is required to match the required setback
of any adjacent residential district, or 5 feet if it is not adjacent to residential. This property
is adjacent to an R-1 zoned property on the west side, thus requiring a 25-foot front yard
setback. A standard variation to reduce the required front yard is requested to allow the
building to be setback 5 feet instead of 25 feet from the property line. This distance of the
building from the property line is consistent with the other commercial properties on this
block.
The current building design does not meet Section 12-3-11 — Building Design Standards.
The proposed materials meet requirements, with brick and metal proposed on the fagade.
However, for street -facing elevations (north and east facades) a minimum of 50%
transparency from 2 feet to 9 feet above the sidewalk is required for this type of use. The
petitioner may request a minor variation, reviewed administratively by zoning staff, to vary
from this requirement.
Off -Street Parking
The trade contractor use does not require a specific amount of off-street parking per Section
12-9-7. Because trade contractor is a conditional use within the C-3 Zoning District, a
specific amount or location of off-street parking can be a condition of approval. On -street
parking is available on Prospect Avenue and on the west side of Chestnut Street.
One accessible parking space is noted on the site plan adjacent to the loading spaces and four
standard parking spaces (two tandem spaces) are provided inside the building, accessible
through the loading zone and overhead doors. The zoning ordinance does not permit tandem
spaces for any required offstreet parking spaces, stating that all spaces must open directly to
an aisle or driveway. However, because the trade contractor use does not require offstreet
parking spaces, it only must be designed to provide "appropriate means
of vehicular access to street or alley" (Section 12-9-9).
The conditional use process allows the flexibility to determine if the indoor tandem spaces
will provide sufficient parking and if the tandem spaces can be managed in a way that
provides appropriate means of access to the alley. If the Council requires modifications to
the parking plan or if it is determined that parking agreements should be sought to relieve
parking concerns associated with this use, a condition of approval can be added to the
ordinance.
Traffic and Loading
Access to the property will be provided by the existing 16-foot-wide alley accessed from
Chestnut Street. Traffic generated by this use would include vehicle trips associated with
employees, customers and deliveries and loading of materials. A major variation is requested
to allow for the loading zones to open onto the alley. Due to the location and size of the
property, the loading zone area opening into the alley provides access without requiring an
additional curb cut along Chestnut Street or Prospect Avenue.
The Letter of Intent provided by the petitioner (refer to attachments) states deliveries will
occur between 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. on weekdays, and larger deliveries would be scheduled
outside of peak traffic hours. Loading and unloading will occur within the building or within
the designated loading zones. Suggested conditions of approval state that any loading and
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unloading outside of the building may not occur between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00
A.M., loading and unloading cannot occur within any public ways, and
any on -street parking of vehicles related to the business must be limited to the duration of
time it takes for deliveries.
Due to the proposed use of the alley for entrance and exit for all loading, deliveries and
parking, and the poor condition of the existing pavement, a suggested condition of approval
is to complete alley improvements. The petitioner acknowledges this condition in the Letter
of Intent and states plans for the improvements will be provided at the time of building
permit.
Noise
Any business within the City must abide by Section 6-2-7 of the Municipal Code, which
includes measures to limit excessive noise and penalties for violating this ordinance. As
stated during the public hearing during the Planning and Zoning Board meeting on May 14,
2024, the petitioner's business is unlikely to produce significant noise, as most activities
involving power tools are conducted at a client's property rather than at the business itself.
Any activities of the east tenant would be required to follow the same conditions, if this
conditional use permit is approved.
The PZB held a public hearing on May 14, 2024 to consider the requests. The PZB
consolidated their determination for all requests into one motion voting 4-0, with one
member abstaining, to recommend that City Council approve the requests with the five staff
recommended conditions. The rationale for the PZB's vote is captured in the attached
Excerpt of Draft Minutes from the May 14, 2024 PZB Meeting.
Pursuant to Sections 12-3-4.D.4 and 12-3-6.G.2.c of the Zoning Ordinance, the Council has
the final authority on the Conditional Use and Major Variation. Pursuant to Section
12-2-2.C, the Council has final authority on Standard Variation requests, when connected
with relief within city council jurisdiction. The Council may approve, approve with
modifications, or deny Ordinance Z-7-24. If the City Council decides to approve these
requests, staff and the PZB recommend the following conditions:
1. Full reconstruction of the portion of alley along the rear frontage is required, with a
catch basin connected to the storm sewer in Chestnut Street. The improvements must
be demonstrated on plans prior to issuance of a building permit.
2. Prior to issuance of a building permit, replacement of existing public sidewalks
deemed unsatisfactory must be demonstrated on plans, as determined by the Director
of Public Works and Engineering or their designee.
3. A turning radii exhibit is required to be submitted prior to issuance of building
permit demonstrating acceptable turning radiuses for loading/unloading, to the
satisfaction of the Director of Public Works and Engineering or their designee.
4. Loading and unloading of materials outside of the building is prohibited between the
hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. No loading and unloading can occur within any
public ways.
5. Relocation of vehicles associated with the business to allow for deliveries shall
occupy public on -street parking only as necessary during the delivery.
Moved by Brookman, seconded by Walsten, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance Z-7-24,
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE, MAJOR VARIATION, AND
STANDARD VARIATION FOR 1387 PROSPECT AVENUE, DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS
(CASE #24-014-CU-V). Upon voice vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
MAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Page 7 of 17 6/03/2024
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Brookman to advance to second reading, seconded by Smith, to Adopt Ordinance
Z-7-24, AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE, MAJOR VARIATION,
AND STANDARD VARIATION FOR 1387 PROSPECT AVENUE, DES PLAINES,
ILLINOIS (CASE #24-014-CU-V). Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER TEXT Director of Community & Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum dated
AMENDMENT TO May 23, 2024.
ALLO CHILDCARE
CENTERS IN THE I-1 The petitioner, Brickton Montessori (Representative: Erica Lane, 8622 W. Catalpa Ave,
INSTITUTIONAL Chicago, IL 60656), is requesting text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance under 12-3-7
DISTRCT to create an allowance with a conditional use permit for childcare center uses in the I-1
district. This is related to map amendment, conditional use, and major variation requests
ORDINANCE under the same case number for a proposed private school and childcare center development
Z-8-24 at 1655 and 1695 S. Des Plaines River Road.
A childcare center, defined below, is not listed as a permitted or conditional use in the
Institutional Use Matrix in Section 12-7-5.A.6, and therefore requires a text amendment to
be added as an allowed use in the I-1 Institutional district.
CENTER, CHILDCARE: Any place other than a family home in which persons receive
childcare services during any part of a day not exceeding thirteen (13) hours in any twenty-
four (24) hour period.
Childcare centers are governed by Section 12-8-7 of the Zoning Ordinance and currently
require a conditional use permit in all districts in which they are allowed, including the R-4
Central Core Residential district, M-2 General Manufacturing district, and all commercial
districts with the exception of the C-6 Casino district where childcare centers are not allowed.
The petitioner has worked with staff and formally requested the proposed text amendments
to Section 12-7- 5.A.6 of the Zoning Ordinance as identified in Ordinance Z-8-24. Based on
the proposal, a childcare center use would require a conditional use permit in the I-1 district,
which is consistent with the current designations in the zoning districts above. No footnotes
or other language is proposed as part of this request.
The PZB held a public hearing on May 14, 2024, to consider the requests. The PZB
consolidated their determination for all requests into one motion voting 5-0 to recommend
that City Council approve the Text Amendment request and related Map Amendment,
Conditional Use, and Major Variation requests under Ordinance Z-9-24. The rationale for
the PZB's vote is captured in the attached minutes from the May 14, 2024 meeting.
Pursuant to Section 12-3-7.D.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Council has the final authority
on the Text Amendment request. The Council may approve, approve with modifications, or
deny Ordinance Z-8-24, which includes the requested text amendment for childcare center
uses in the I-1 district.
Moved by Moylan, seconded by Walsten, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance Z-8-24,
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE DES PLAINES ZONING
ORDINANCE REGARDING CHILDCARE CENTERS IN THE I-1 INSTITUTIONAL
DISTRICT. Upon voice vote, the vote was:
Page 8 of 17 6/03/2024
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Walsten to advance to second reading, seconded by Oskerka, to Adopt Ordinance
Z-8-24, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE DES PLAINES ZONING
ORDINANCE REGARDING CHILDCARE CENTERS IN THE I-1 INSTITUTIONAL
DISTRICT. Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER Director of Community & Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum dated
APPROVING A MAP May 23, 2024.
AMEND/C.U./MAJOR
VARIATIONS/1655 The petitioner, Brickton Montessori (Representative: Erica Lane, 8622 W. Catalpa Ave,
AND 1695 S. Chicago, IL 60656), is requesting the following under the Zoning Ordinance for the
DES PLAINES RIVER properties at 1655 and 1695 S. Des Plaines River Road: (i) Map Amendments to rezone both
ROAD properties to the I-1 district; (ii) a Conditional Use for a childcare center; (iii) Major
Variations for the location and setback of a parking lot; (iv) Major Variations for interior and
ORDINANCE perimeter parking lot landscaping; and (v) a Major Variation for landscape buffer
Z-9-24 regulations. This is related to a text amendment request under the same case number to
create an allowance with a conditional use permitfor childcare center uses in the I4 district.
While not part of the Part 1 entitlements listed above, the petitioner will also be separately
requesting a combined Tentative and Final Plat of Subdivision to consolidate the existing
two lots into one lot of record. However, the effectiveness of the Part 1 entitlements will be
contingent on the approval of the final engineering plans and Tentative and Final Plat of
Subdivision requested as the Part 2 entitlement.
The subject properties are both located along Des Plaines River Road in the City of
Des Plaines but are bounded by the Des Plaines River and the Cook County Forest Preserve
in unincorporated Cook County.
The property at 1655 S. Des Plaines River Road is currently unimproved. However, the
property at 1695 S. Des Plaines River Road is improved with a two-story, 19,000-square-
foot commercial building with a surface parking area as shown on the attached ALTA/NSPS
Land Title Survey.
Both properties abut the Des Plaines River on their eastern boundaries and, based off the
current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood hazard maps, are located
entirely within a flood hazard zone and a portion of the regulatory floodway. As such, any
proposal is required to conform with all FEMA and City of Des Plaines Flood Control
regulations prior to the construction of any improvements on either property.
Petitioner Erica Lane, on behalf of Brickton Montessori, intends to purchase the properties
at 1655 and 1695 S. Des Plaines River Road and repurpose both for a private school and
childcare center. The Brickton Montessori school has been serving the northwest Chicago
suburban communities since 1986 providing education and childcare services for children 3
months to eighth grade as specified in the attached Project Narrative. While both uses will
operate in the same building as one entity, designated areas for both the childcare center and
Page 9 of 17 6/03/2024
private school have been identified on the attached Architectural and Site Plan Set with the
childcare center use areas concentrated on the first level and the private school use spread
between the two floors. See the project narrative for additional information on both the
proposed childcare and private school uses.
Preliminary Improvements Proposed
The proposal includes both building and site improvements to accommodate the childcare
center and private school uses. While the petitioner is interested in preserving the existing
office building as much as possible, the proposed childcare and private school uses require
specific updates to the building to meet current building and fire codes. As such, the Floor
Plan details the required alterations to the building's interior, which will be reviewed further
at time of building permit to ensure compliance with all regulations.
The size, location, and setbacks of the existing office building were not subject to change
and no new building is proposed for the vacant 1655 S. Des Plaines River Road property.
Note that the site improvement plans submitted are preliminary and will be finalized during
the subdivision request stage.
Flood Control Considerations
The largest improvement proposed is the flood wall, which is necessary to comply with the
FEMA and City of Des Plaines Flood Control regulations. The petitioner has submitted the
preliminary engineering drawings and flood wall details as a reference to their solution to
address the necessary flood control considerations for the subject properties. The Public
Works and Engineering (PWE) department has reviewed the preliminary engineering
submittal provided by the petitioner (see PWE Preliminary Letter) and has noted that the
final engineering drawings and flood wall details must be prepared and stamped by a
structural and professional engineer. These engineering plans will need to be reviewed and
approved by PWE prior to the hearing of the future subdivision request.
Request Overview
The proposal requires several zoning requests under Title 12 Zoning. These requests are
necessary to correct the property zoning for the change in use, permit the childcare center
use, and receive relief from the zoning requirements noted in the referenced code sections.
MAP AMENDMENT
Overview
The subject properties at 1655 S. Des Plaines River Road and 1695 S. Des Plaines River
Road are currently zoned C-3 General Commercial and M-1 Limited Manufacturing
respectively, neither of which allow a private school or childcare center use. However, the
2019 Comprehensive Plan recognizes schools, libraries, community organizations, places of
worship, and other public facilities that provide similar services to Des Plaines residents as
institutional uses. As such, a proposed rezoning of both properties to the I-1 Institutional
district is consistent with the goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan based on the
uses proposed. In addition, the 1-1 district currently allows private schools as a permitted
use.
While childcare centers are currently not allowed in this district, a text amendment has been
requested to add this use to the Institutional District Use Matrix as a conditional use.
Bulk Regulations
A private school and childcare center are subject to the bulk regulations in Section 12-7-
5.A.7 of the Zoning Ordinance. Note that while site is currently comprised of two separate
properties under different ownership and zoning, a subdivision or consolidation will be
Page 10 of 17 6/03/2024
required as part of the approval for the requests described in this report. As such, the figures
identified under the Proposed column assume the consolidation of the two lots into one lot
of record. The site currently is improved with a parking area located in front of the existing
building. While this is not an issue for a lot in the M-1 district, parking lots are not permitted
in the front yard of an I-1-zoned lot. As such, the petitioner is requesting a variation from
this standard.
Site Plan Review
Pursuant to Section 12-3-7.D.2 of the Zoning Ordinance, a Site Plan Review is required for
all map amendment requests to assess how the request meets the characteristics identified in
Section 12-3-2. Note that the Site Plan may be adjusted as necessary by the petitioner to
address staff/public comments and incorporate all needs of the proposed private school and
childcare center development.
CONDITIONAL USE
Overview
Upon approval of the text amendment to Section 12-7-5.A.6 of the Zoning Ordinance, a
conditional use permit will be required for the proposed childcare center use. Section 12-3-
4 of the Zoning Ordinance governs the procedure for review of uses —or in this case two
separate principal uses —that are unique in character and require additional consideration of
the impact of those uses upon neighboring lands and upon the public need for the particular
use of the particular location(s). However, given the second principal use, private school,
also proposed for this development, the analysis below will assess how both uses will coexist
and operate on the site based on the petitioner submittals and the potential impacts of the
entire development on the community as a whole.
Floor Plan and Elevations
Brickton Montessori School operates the private school and childcare center operations as
one entity. That said, the Floor Plan in Architectural Plans designates the building areas
devoted to each of the proposed uses as well as general areas for building operations. While
there are no proposed changes in size, location, and height of the existing building, entrances
to the building will be altered and new pedestrian access stairs, ADA accessible ramps, and
emergency egress landing will be provided based on the required flood wall improvements.
The proposal does not include any changes to the exterior brick building fagade of the
existing two-story office building. However, the following exterior building improvements
are proposed:
• Replace existing windows with new windows;
• Add new egress ramp on the south elevation and new egress doors; and
• Add new elevated deck with fall protection on front (west elevation)
and side (south elevation) of the building.
Off -Street Parking
Sections 12-9-7 and 12-9-8 of the Zoning Ordinance govern the number of offstreet
standard and accessible parking spaces required based on the property
uses. Given the floor plan information above, the following are the parking
requirements for the proposed private school and childcare center uses:
Page 11 of 17
6/03/2024
Required Off -Street Parking
Required Spaces
Use
Parking Calculation
Current
Future Max
Enrollment
Enrollment
(89 students;
(144 students;
43 children)
52 children)
Private
One space for each
16 spaces
16 spaces
School —
classroom plus one space
(9 classrooms;
(9 classrooms;
Elementary
per 200 SF of area devoted
1,225 SF of
1,225 SF of
(Students)
to offices
office area)
office area)
Childcare
One space for every 15
15 spaces (43
16 spaces (52
Center
children, plus one space
children; 12
children; 12
(Children)
for every employee
staff members)
staff members)
Total Off -Street Parking Required
31(incl. two
32 (incl. two
accessible)
accessible)
Total Off -Street Parking Provided
38 (incl. two accessible)
Access and Circulation
There is currently one full access point to the subject property off Des Plaines River Road,
which will be maintained as part of this proposal. Based on the findings of the Traffic Impact
Study, the petitioner intends to add a second limited access curb cut on the northwest portion
of 1695 S. Des Plaines River Road to allow another entrance off of and exit onto northbound
Des Plaines River Road to accommodate traffic flow. The addition of the second curb cut
will require review and approval from the PWE department as this portion of Des Plaines
River Road is under the City's jurisdiction.
The existing two-way drive aisles will be maintained in the parking area to allow for more
sufficient vehicle circulation throughout the site. In addition, the proposal includes some
parking area reconfiguration to remove the northern parking space row, accommodate a
designated vehicle lane for drop-off and pick-up activities on site, and avoid adverse effects
on Des Plaines River Road. Note that the existing parking area is not setback a minimum of
3.5 feet from the property line as required in Section 12-9-6.D of the Zoning Ordinance.
While the location of this parking area will not change, the proposed alterations require the
parking area to conform with the setback requirement. Since the proposal does not include
adjustments to meet this requirement, a variation is required.
Landscaping and Screening
The existing site contains some natural vegetation (1655 S. Des Plaines River Road) and
some landscape improvements in the middle of the parking area on 1695 S. Des Plaines
River Road but does not meet the specific requirements in Section 12-10, "Landscaping and
Screening", of the Zoning Ordinance. The proposal does include new perimeter parking lot
landscaping along the south portion of the parking area as noted in the attached Landscape
Plan. However, the proposed improvements do not fully meet the interior and perimeter
parking lot landscaping requirements in Section 12-10-8, requiring major variations.
The subject property abuts the Cook County Forest Preserve district to its south, which is a
residentially zoned lot and requires conformance with the Landscape Buffer requirements in
Section 12-10-9. An I-1-zoned property abutting a residential district or use must provide a
minimum five -foot -wide landscape buffer containing shade trees planted every 30 feet, a
solid eight -foot -tall fence, and turf or other ground cover along 100 percent of the property
Page 12 of 17
6/03/2024
boundaries that abuts the residential district.
new landscaping along this property line,
necessitating a major variation.
While the landscape plan does provide some
it does not fully satisfy this requirement,
Business Operations
The Project Narrative describes how the private school and childcare center uses will operate
on site. Both uses will operate from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weeks days (with before and after
care on each weekday from 7-8 a.m. and 3-6 p.m.) and will be closed on weekends with the
exception of occasional open houses throughout the year. The petitioner employs staggered
drop-off and pick-up times in order to manage traffic flows and circulation on site during
hours of operation for both uses as noted in the Traffic Impact Study.
MAJOR VARIATIONS
The proposal includes several variation requests related to the parking lot structure and
multiple landscape requirements. The petitioner has provided a description of the hardships
on the existing site and the necessity of the variation requests in the Petitioner's Responses
to Standards. The City Council shall review each variation request and make a final
determination based on its findings.
The PZB held a public hearing on May 14, 2024 to consider the requests. The PZB
consolidated their determination for all requests into one motion voting 5-0 to recommend
that City Council approve the requests with the three staff recommended conditions. The
rationale for the PZB's vote is captured in the minutes from the May 14, 2024 PZB Meeting.
Pursuant to Sections 12-3-4.D.4, 12-3-6.G.2.c, and 12-3-7.D.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, the
Council has the final authority on the Map Amendment, Conditional Use, and Major
Variation requests. The Council may approve, approve with modifications, or deny
Ordinance Z-9-24, which includes the requested entitlements for the proposed private school
and childcare center development. If the City Council decides to approve these requests, staff
and the PZB recommend the following conditions.
1. All proposed improvements and modifications shall be in full compliance with all
applicable codes and ordinances. Drawings may have to be modified to comply with
current codes and ordinances.
2. The petitioner shall submit a request to consolidate the subject properties in
conformance with Title 13, "Subdivision Regulations" of the Municipal Code. The
zoning entitlements will not be effective until the approval and recording of the
consolidation plat for the subject properties.
3. The appropriate plans related to flood control improvements to the subject properties
shall comply with the FEMA and Title 14, "Flood Control", requirements. All flood
control improvements shall be approved by both FEMA and the PWE department
and be installed on site prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Moved by Walsten, seconded by Lysakowski, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance
Z-9-24, AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A MAP AMENDMENT, CONDITIONAL USE
AND MAJOR VARIATIONS FOR 1655 AND 1695 S. DES PLAINES RIVER ROAD,
DES PLAINES, IL (CASE# 24-016-MAP-CU-V). Upon voice vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Page 13 of 17 6/03/2024
Moved by Walsten to advance to second reading, seconded by Oskerka, to Adopt Ordinance
Z-9-24, AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A MAP AMENDMENT, CONDITIONAL USE
AND MAJOR VARIATIONS FOR 1655 AND 1695 S. DES PLAINES RIVER ROAD,
DES PLAINES, IL (CASE# 24-016-MAP-CU-V). Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
CONSIDER
Director of Community & Economic Development Rogers reviewed a memorandum dated
AMENDING
June 3, 2024.
EXISTING C.U.TO
ALLOW MOTOR
The petitioner, Urszula Topolewicz, 2020 Berry Lane, Des Plaines, IL 60018, is requesting
VEHICLE SALES AND
the following items: (i.) a Conditional Use amendment under Section 12-7-3(K) of the City
A TRADE
of Des Plaines Municipal Code to allow a trade contractor use with outdoor display and
CONTRACTOR
storage; and (ii.) a conditional use for a motor vehicle sales use within existing tenant spaces
USE/1628 RAND
in an existing multi -tenant building upon the subject property in the C-3 General Commercial
ROAD
zoning district.
ORDINANCE The subject property was annexed into the City in 1965. A conditional use was approved in
Z-10-24 2021 via Ordinance Z-36-21 to permit a trade contractor use at this address. A subsequent
amendment to the conditional use was approved in 2022 via Ordinance Z-26-22 and a zoning
variation for signage was approved via Ordinance Z-27-22. The applicant has been working
with the City to resolve several outstanding issues associated with the expiration of the 2022
conditional use ordinance as well as several minor code violations. This application is part
of the resolution.
Conditional Use Amendment
The petitioner, Urszula Topolewicz, requests Conditional Use Permits to amend an existing
trade contractor use and operate a proposed motor vehicle sales use in adjacent tenant spaces
both at 1628 Rand Road. In accordance with the proposed motor vehicles sales use, the
applicant would perform vehicle maintenance and detailing of vehicles offered for sale.
The case was published for consideration by the Planning & Zoning Board (PZB) at their
regular meeting on January 23, 2024 but was continued to February 23, 2024 at which time
the public hearing was opened. The PZB provided requests for improved accuracy among
the exhibits provided and requested the applicant address several concerns relating to
proposed operations and site plan design. The PZB subsequently continued the case to
several subsequent meetings until April 23, 2024 at which time a quorum was not achieved.
The case was renoticed for a public hearing on May 14, 2024. The PZB considered the
applicant's revised plans and materials during the public hearing and recommended approval
by a 5-0 vote of the applicant's request with several conditions.
Pursuant to Sections 12-3-4.D.4 and 12-3-7.D.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, the City Council
may vote to approve, approve with modifications, or deny the request. The Council has final
authority over the conditional use. Draft ordinance, Z-10-24, would approve an amendment
to the Conditional Use. Should the City Council vote to approve the request, the PZB
recommends the following conditions be included.
1. The petitioner shall implement all site improvements shown on the proposed
undated site plan and any amendments required by the Planning & Zoning Board.
2. The applicant shall provide plans and specifications for review and secure permits
for all site work governed by city codes and ordinances (pavement, exterior
doors/window systems, mechanical/electrical/plumbing/structural, civil
Page 14 of 17 6/03/2024
engineering, etc.). All proposed improvements and modifications shall be in full
compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances.
3. No materials shall be stored outside of the extents of the proposed privacy fence
enclosure.
4. All outdoor storage and/or displays shall be permissible only in full compliance with
the requirements of Title 14 of the Municipal Code including raising of stored
materials above the base flood elevation (BFE).
5. Display and storage of vehicles or materials shall be permissible in designated areas
on private property only and shall not be permissible within required drive aisles or
customer parking stalls, or within the public right-of-way. All motor vehicles stored
on the site must be operable and stored on a dust -free, hard surface.
6. The applicant shall coordinate with the City regarding the assignment of unique unit
addresses for the two tenant spaces comprising the existing building upon the
property.
7. No more than sixteen (16) motor vehicles may be displayed for sale on the Subject
Property at one time. Through signs, striping, or combination, these sixteen (16)
spaces should be identified and reserved. Adding additional motor vehicle sales
spaces would require an amendment to the Conditional Use Permits. Sufficient
parking spaces to meet the minimum off-street parking requirements for the
Proposed Uses must be provided on the Subject Property at all times.
8. Deliveries of vehicles by flatbed truck shall be scheduled during business hours and
area within the extents of the storage area shall be maintained free from obstructions
to facilitate three-point turnarounds for trucks so that no reversing into Rand Road
will occur.
The representative for 1628 Rand answered questions from Aldermen.
Moved by Lysakowski, seconded by Walsten, to Approve First Reading of Ordinance
Z-10-24, AN ORDINANCE GRANTING AN AMENDMENT TO AN EXISTING
CONDISITONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW MOTOR VEHICLE SALES AND A
TRADE CONTRACTOR USE LOCATED AT 1628 RAND ROAD, DES PLAINES, IL.
Upon voice vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
PUBLIC WORKS — Alderman Charewicz, Chair
DISCUSSION OF Assistant Director of Public Works and Engineering Timothy Watkins explained both the
LEAD SERVICE LINE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
REPLACEMENT (IEPA) have mandated that all community water supplies submit a final Lead Line
PLAN Replacement Plan by April 15, 2027. Additionally, in connection with the plan, both
agencies have mandated that community water supplies must start replacing lead/galvanized
service lines regardless of who owns the water service line.
Additionally, since 2022, water systems were no longer permitted to replace only the right-
of-way portion of lead/galvanized service lines in connection with water main replacement
work and services affected by water main breaks. Rather, the entire lead/service line must
be replaced from the water main to the water meter. The IEPA places this responsibility on
the water system, regardless of ownership. Accordingly, the City has paid for these full
lead/galvanized service line replacements.
Page 15 of 17 6/03/2024
However, City Code Section 9-1-3.M, Water Service Line Maintenance, states "The
property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance, repair and replacement of the water
service line from the buffalo box or shutoff valve, including the connection thereto, up to the
structure serviced by that water line. The city shall be responsible for the maintenance, repair
and replacement of the water service line from the buffalo box or shutoff valve to the point
of connection to the city water main." Based on the current ordinance, property owners
would be responsible for replacing their portion of the water service line (b-box to water
meter).
Based on the results survey conducted by the Northwest Municipal Conference many
surrounding municipalities have some type of cost sharing program with the property
owners, while a few communities cover the entire cost.
The City is also required to notify all affected property owners with lead/galvanized water
service lines, and service lines where the material is unknown, by September 30, 2024 with
the following information:
"The notice must include a statement that the person's service line is lead, galvanized or
suspected lead, an explanation of the health effects of lead that meets the requirements of
paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of 40 CFR 141.85, steps persons at the service connection can take to
reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, information about opportunities to replace
lead/galvanized service lines as well as programs that provide financing solutions to assist
property owners with replacement of their portion of a lead service line, and a statement
that the water system is required to replace its portion of a lead service line when the
property owner notifies them they are replacing their portion of the lead service line. "
Based on the number of known lead/galvanized service lines 1,363 and the number of
unknown service lines 4,916, Des Plaines would have to replace up to a total of 6,279 over
20 years. The current average cost to replace a water service line is $21,500. The total project
cost at today's rate is $134,998,500. If the City were to pay for the entire project, the annual
cost would be $6,749,925. This does not include annual increases in labor, equipment, and
materials.
The Public Works and Engineering Department is requesting that the City Council adopt one
of the following options to include in the required letter notification to affected property
owners in order for the City to maintain compliance with the IEPA.
1. Approve a resolution at a future meeting that requires property owners that have
lead/galvanized water service lines to pay their fair share of the customer owned
portion of the service line. This could include payment plan options and default
remedies for the City.
2. Approve a resolution at a future meeting that requires property owners that have
lead/galvanized water service lines to pay 50% of the cost of the customer owned
portion of the service line and the City would pay for the other 50% of the cost. This
could include payment plan options and default remedies for the City.
3. Approve a resolution at a future meeting stating that the City would pay for the entire
cost of the customer owned portion of the service line.
It should be noted that if a property owner refuses to participate in the replacement program,
they will be required to sign a waiver to that effect and their lead/galvanized water service
line will not be replaced. Also, Options 1 and 2 will require additional administrative staff
to manage any payment programs. Further, the annual project budget would still be $6.7
million as the City will have to cover the upfront cost of the project.
City Manager Wisniewski recommended that if there is consideration from the City Council
to cover the cost of the replacement, during the budget process gaming tax revenue will be
allocated toward this project. Another option is to seek State and Federal funds.
Page 16 of 17 6/03/2024
Alderman Brookman suggested that the city cover the cost of the replacement and possibly
enact a specific fund.
Mayor Goczkowski announced that while grant funds are available the amount is
comparatively low compared to the cost to each community.
The consensus of the aldermen was to direct staff to create a plan where the project will
be funded 100% by the city.
This item will be brought back to the City Council.
LEGAL & LICENSING — Alderman Brookman, Chair
RECONSIDER
The City Council heard testimony and discussed the proposed ordinance at their regular
ORDINANCE M-8-24/
meetings on April 1, 2024, and April 15, 2024. At the conclusion of public comment and
AMENDMENTS TO
consideration during their regular meeting on April 15, 2024, the City Council approved
TITLE 5 OF THE
Ordinance M-8-24 as amended by a 6-1 vote. The City Council's amendment to the draft
CITY CODE TO
ordinance struck the proposed prohibition of kratom and instead limited the new
PROHIBIT THE SALE
prohibition to only the sale of illicit THC products, and maintaining kratom as a product
OF ILLICIT THC
that could be legally sold throughout the city.
PRODUCTS
There has been a proliferation of retail stores in the City and surrounding communities
offering unregulated and untested products derived from industrial hemp as well as a separate
botanical ingredient called Kratom. These products are touted as alternatives to cannabis that
produce similar intoxicating effects, but are not regulated, inspected, or taxed in the same
manner as legal cannabis.
CONSIDER
AMENDING CITY
CODE TO ADDRESS
TECHNICAL ISSUES
RAISED BY IDOR
Although there have been various legislative proposals at both the state and federal levels,
there is no general prohibition on production or sale of these unregulated THC products,
although many municipalities have recently imposed local bans on these products. City staff
has observed a number of retail businesses throughout the city offering these products, as
well as products derived from kratom, a botanical substance from Southeast Asia. Some of
these businesses appear similar to licensed cannabis dispensaries and consumer confusion is
likely. City staff has determined that the sale of unregulated THC products and kratom in the
City is not beneficial to the City or its residents. These products are not tested for pesticides
or other adulterating substances, are not measured for potency, and are not subject to the
state and local taxes imposed on legal cannabis. The sale of these products does not benefit
the health, safety or welfare of the City's residents or the City as a whole.
Moved by Alderman Sayad, to amend ordinance M-8-24 to reinsert all of the provisions
regarding kratom and the sale of kratom in the city will be prohibited, seconded by Smith to
amend Title 5 of the City Code to prohibit the sale of "Illicit THC Products" and/or kratom.
Upon roll call vote, the vote was:
AYES: 6 - Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad, Brookman, Smith,
Charewicz;
DAYS: 2 - Lysakowski, Walsten
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) has requested amendments to the City of
Des Plaines Code of Ordinances to better align local regulations with State of Illinois
requirements relating to the collection of a Municipal Cannabis Retailer's Occupation Tax.
Page 17 of 17 6/03/2024
The Illinois General Assembly adopted the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, Public Act
ORDINANCE 101-0027 (the "Act"), which legalized the possession, use, cultivation, transportation, and
M-10-24 sale of recreational cannabis beginning January 1, 2020. The Act also authorized
municipalities to enact a municipal tax on the retail sale of cannabis for recreational purposes
to persons over the age of 21. In December 2019, the City of Des Plaines City Council
adopted Ordinance Z-31-19 establishing regulations relating to the operation of recreational
cannabis dispensaries. In January 2020, the City Council adopted Ordinance M-52-19
establishing a three percent (3.0%) tax on gross receipts of all sales of cannabis by cannabis
retailers within the City of Des Plaines.
At this time, potential revenues from a municipal sales tax upon cannabis sales cannot be
estimated since there are presently no cannabis business establishments within the City of
Des Plaines.
Moved by Alderman Walsten, seconded by Alderman Sayad to approve first reading of
ordinance M-10-24, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13 OF TITLE 15 THE
CITY CODE REGARDING THE CITY'S MUNICIPAL CANNABIS RETAILER'S
OCCUPATION TAX. Upon voice vote, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brockman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
[MAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Alderman Brockman, seconded by Alderman Sayad to advance to second reading
and adopt ordinance M-10-24, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13 OF TITLE
15 THE CITY CODE REGARDING THE CITY'S MUNICIPAL CANNABIS
RETAILER'S OCCUPATION TAX. Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 8 - Lysakowski, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Brookman, Walsten, Smith, Charewicz;
MAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
Motion declared carried.
ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.
At
Laura Fast — DEPUTY CITY CLERK
APPROVED BY ME THIS 17th
DAY OF June . 2024
Andrew Goczkowski, MAYOR