Council Minutes 01-05-2026MINUTES 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,
JANUARY 5, 2026
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 7:01 PM in the Eleanor Rohrbach Memorial Council
Chambers, Des Plaines Civic Center on Monday, December 15, 2025.
ROLL CALL Roll call indicated the following Aldermen present: Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, and Charewicz. Alderman Smith was absent. A quorum was present.
PRAYER AND The prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America were
PLEDGE offered by Mayor Goczkowski.
PUBLIC COMMENT No announcements at this time
MAYORAL Mayor Goczkowski shared his excitement that 2026 will be a significant year for
ANNOUNCEMENTS development, including the construction of a new firehouse and the development of new
businesses in downtown Des Plaines, while continuing to pay down city debt. In addition,
city calendars have been mailed to residents, and those who haven't received one, can get
one at city hall.
ALDERMAN Alderman Sayad thanked the Public Works Department for their efforts over the past several
ANNOUNCEMENTS months and stated that he is looking forward to a productive 2026.
Alderman Merlin wished everyone a happy start to their 2026.
Alderman Walsten thanked the Public Works Department for addressing issues in his ward.
Alderman Charewicz announced that the 8th Ward meeting will be held on February 3rd.
He also noted that on January 22, Charcoal Delights will host a Chamber of Commerce
fundraiser.
CITY CLERK No announcements at this time
ANNOUNCEMENTS
MANAGER'S City Manager Wisniewski stated that, due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 19, City
REPORT Hall will be closed and trash pickup will be delayed.
COUNSEL
No announcements at this time
REPORT
CONSENT
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Merlin, to Establish the Consent Agenda. Upon voice vote,
AGENDA
the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
APPROVING FIRST
RENEWAL
AGREEMENT WITH
CLAUSS BROTHERS
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-1-26
APPROVING TASK
ORDER #4 FOR
TRIMBLE UNITY
ASSET
MANAGEMENT
WITH RITTER GIS
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-2-26
APPROVING
MASTER
CONTRACT WITH
CITY ESCAPE
GARDEN & DESIGN
LLC.
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-3-26
Page 2 of 12 1 /5/2026
Moved by Oskerka seconded by Walsten, to Approve the Consent Agenda. Upon roll call,
the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-1-26, APPROVING A
FIRST RENEWAL OF AN AGREEMENT FOR NUISANCE ABATEMENT AND
GRASS CUTTING SERVICES WITH CLAUSS BROTHERS, INC. Motion declared
carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-2-26, APPROVING
TASK ORDER #4 IN THE AMOUNT OF $240,000 FOR TRIMBLE UNITY ASSET
MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES WITH RITTER GIS, LIVONIA,
MICHIGAN. Source of Funding — General Fund/Professional Services & R&M Software.
Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-3-26, APPROVING
MASTER CONTRACT WITH CITY ESCAPE GARDEN & DESIGN LLC, CHICAGO,
IL, IN THE NOT -TO -EXCEED AMOUNT OF $30,000. Budgeted Funds: Miscellaneous
Contractual Services. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent
Agenda.
APPROVING Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-4-26, APPROVING
PURCHASE OF THE PURCHASE OF MORBARK CHIPPER THROUGH SOURCEWELL CONTRACT
MORBARK # 031721 — MBI FROM ALEXANDER EQUIPMENT, LISLE, ILLINOIS IN THE
CHIPPER FROM AMOUNT OF $124,413.75. Budgeted Finds: Equipment Replacement Fund. Motion
ALEXANDER declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
EQUIPMENT.
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-4-26
APPROVING Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-6-26, APPROVING
PURCHASE OF FIRE THE PURCHASE OF FIRE DEPARTMENT UNIFORMS FROM ON TIME
DEPARTMENT EMBROIDERY, IN. Budgeted Funds — Fire Department/Uniforms. Motion declared carried
UNIFORMS FROM as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Page 3 of 12 1 /5/2026
ON TIME
EMBROIDERY
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-6-26
APPROVING THE Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-7-26, APPROVING
PROCUREMENT OF AND RATIFYING THE PROCUREMENT OF FIRE DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONAL
FIRE DEPARTMENT ASSESSMENT AND TESTING FROM INDUSTRIAL ORGNIZATIONAL
PROMOTIONAL SOLUTIONS. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
ASSESSMENT AND
TESTING
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-7-26
APPROVING THE Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-8-26, APPROVING
PROCUREMENT OF THE PURCHASE OF A 2027 FREIGHTLINER CHASSIS THROUGH STATE OF
FIRE DEPARTMENT ILLINOIS CMS CONTRACT #24-416CMS-BOSS4-P-75584 FROM TRANSCHICAGO
PROMOTIONAL TRUCK GROUP, ELMHURST, ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $109,276.00. Budgeted
ASSESSMENT AND Funds — Equipment Replacement Fund. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously,
TESTING under Consent Agenda.
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-8-26
APPROVING Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-9-26, APPROVING
AGREEMENT WITH CHANGE ORDER #2 TO A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH B&F
B&F CONSTRUCTION CODE SERVICES, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT -TO -EXCEED
CONSTRUCTION $25,000 FOR THE TERM MARCH 1, 2025 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2025. Motion
CODE SERVICES declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-9-26
APPROVING
Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Walsten to Approve Resolution R-10-26, APPROVING
PURCHASE OF TWO
THE PURCHASE OF TWO 2026 FORD E-TRANSIT CARGO VANS THROUGH SPC
2026 FORD E-
CONTRACT #207 FROM CURRIE MOTORS COMMERCIAL CENTER, FRANKFORT,
TRANSIT CARGO
ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $124,236.00. Upon roll call, the vote was:
VANS
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Consent Agenda
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
Resolution
R-10-26
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
AWARDING BID Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-11-26, AWARDING
FOR THE THE BID FOR THE DEMOLITION OF 1032-1062 LEE STREET TO ALBRECHT
DEMOLITION OF ENTERPRISES, DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $97,825.00. Budgeted
1032-1062 LEE Funds — TIF 8/Miscellaneous Contractual Services. Motion declared carried as approved
STREET unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Page 4 of 12 1 /5/2026
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-11-26
APPROVING MAST Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-12-26, APPROVING
CONTRACT A MASTER CONTRACT AGREEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT -RISK
AGREEMENT WITH SERVICES, ATTACHMENT A FOR PRE -CONSTRUCTION PHASE IN THE AMOUNT
NICHOLAS AND OF $15,000 AND TERMS OF ATTACHMENT B WITH NICHOLAS AND
ASSOCIATES ASSOCIATES, MOUNT PROSPECT, ILLINOIS. Budgeted Funds — Facilities
Consent Agenda Replacement. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-12-26
APPROVING Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Merlin to Advance to Second Reading and Adopt,
SERVICES Resolution R-13-25, APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
AGREEMENT WITH WATER RATE AND FEE STUDY CONSULTING WITH BAXTER WOODMAN
BAXTER CONSULTING ENGINEERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $48,942. Upon roll call, the vote was:
WOODMAN AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
CONSULTING Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
ENGINEERS NAYS: 0 - None
Consent Agenda
ABSENT: I- Smith
Resolution Motion declared carried.
R-13-26
APPROVING TASK Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-15-26, APPROVING
ORDER #9 WITH TASK ORDER #9 WITH JOHN NERI CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC ADDISON,
JOHN NERI ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $26,116.18. Source of Funding — Water Fund. Motion
CONSTRUCTION declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-15-26
APPROVING TASK Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-16-26, APPROVING
ORDER #10 WITH TASK ORDER #10 WITH JOHN NERI CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC ADDISON,
JOHN NERI ILLINOIS IN THE AMOUNT OF $200,000. Source of Funding — Water Fund. Motion
CONSTRUCTION declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-16-26
APPROVING TASK Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-17-26, APPROVING
ORDER FOR TASK ORDER #5 FOR PARKING STUDY WITH GEWALT HAMILTON
PARKING STUDY ASSOCIATES INC IN THE AMOUNT OF $52,250. Source of Funding — Capital Fund.
WITH GEWALT Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
HAMILTON ASSOC
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-17-26
Page 5 of 12 1 /5/2026
APPROVING Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-19-26, APPROVING
CHANGE ORDER CHANGE ORDER #1 FOR 2025 STREET IMPROVEMENTS WITH BUILDERS
FOR 2025 STREET PAVING LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF $22,201.50. Source of Funding — Capital Fund.
IMPROVEMENTS Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
WITH BUILDERS
PAVING LLC
Consent Agenda
Resolution
R-19-26
SECOND READING — Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Second Reading Ordinance M-30-
ORDINANCE M-30-25 25, AUTHORIZING THE DONATION OF SPECIFIED SURPLUS ITEMS FROM CITY -
Consent Agenda OWNED PROPERTY 1032-1062 LEE STREET TO ST. MARY'S GARDEN MINISTRY.
Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under Consent Agenda.
APPROVAL OF Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve the City Council minutes of the
MINUTES December 15, 2025 meeting. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously under
Consent Agenda.
APPROVING Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Walsten, to Approve Resolution R-20-26, APPROVING
AGREEMENT WITH A COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE AMERICAN
AFSCME FEDERATIONOF STATE, COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME)
Consent Agenda THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2028. Motion declared carried as approved unanimously
under Consent Agenda.
Resolution
R-20-26
NEW BUSINESS
WARRANT
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION — Alderman Sayad, Chair
REGISTER
Alderman Sayad presented the Warrant Register.
Resolution
R-21-26
Moved by Sayad, seconded by Walsten to Approve the Warrant Register of January 5, 2026,
in the Amount of $7,582,526.65 and Approve Resolution R-21-26. Upon roll call, the vote
was:
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT — Alderman Moylan, Chair
CONSIDERATION
Director of Community and Economic Development Jeff Rogers reviewed a memorandum
OF AN ORDINANCE
dated December 24, 2025.
APPROVING TEXT
AMENDMENTS TO
Staff requests City Council consideration of a recommendation from the Planning & Zoning
CITY CODE, C-7
Board for approval of text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance related to references,
HIGH DENSITY
requirements, and Commercial Use Matrix regulations for the C-7 High Density Campus
CAMPUS DISTRICT
District, and text amendments to the sign regulations for Electronic Message Billboards
Page 6 of 12 1 /5/2026
Ordinance (EMB) in the C-7 High Density Campus District.
Z-1-26
The purpose of the City's zoning ordinance is to regulate and control the use and
development of land within the City of Des Plaines. The City's zoning ordinance is codified
as Title 12 of the City Code of Des Plaines. Section 12-6-1 of the Code establishes the City's
various zoning districts including Residence Districts (R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4), Commercial
Districts (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, C-6, and C-7), Manufacturing Districts (M-1, M-2, and
M-3), and Special Districts (I-1 and MH-1). The City's C-7 high density campus district was
established in May 2015 via Ordinance Z-11-15.
Currently, across the City only six parcels currently have a zoning designation of C-7 high
density campus district. All six parcels are contiguous, located at 2200, 2250, 2300, 2350,
2360, and 2400 E. Devon Ave. and comprise the O'Hare Lake Office Park. In the future,
additional properties could be designated C-7 high density campus district if a map
amendment (rezoning) petition was pursued and approved. The six existing C-7 District
parcels are improved with three existing multi -story office buildings, surface parking lots,
and a regional stormwater retention system commonly known as Peterson Lake
Potential redevelopment of portions of all of the O'Hare Lake Office Park has been
contemplated in the past. The City's 2019 Comprehensive Plan identified the area for
consideration for future land uses comprised of "Lower Density Urban Mix with
Residential," a mixed -use land use differentiated from the "Higher Density Urban Mix with
Residential" land use applied to the C-5 central business district designated for Downtown
Des Plaines. Subsequent to the COVID-19 pandemic and sharp decreases in demand for the
quantity and size of business office occupancies, owners of properties improved with
existing Class B and Class C offices have been contemplating potential alternate land uses
and development plans for these properties.
This text amendment is being considered separately but pursued concurrently with
development entitlements for a proposed Costco Business Center upon portions of three of
the existing C-7 District parcels at 2200 and 2400 E. Devon Avenue.
Alderman Walsten stated that he does not believe this is the correct location for the proposed
development.
Alderman Merlin clarified that this proposal is intended to define C-7 zoning in the city, and
is not a vote to approve the development.
Residents of 3173 Peterson Drive expressed opposition to the gas station being located at
this site.
Resident Matthew Jentel stated that he opposed the proposal
Moved by Moylan, seconded by Sayad to Approve Ordinance Z-1-26, A
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING TEXT AMENDMENTS TO
THE CITY CODE, TITLE 12 ZONING, REGARDING THE C-7 HIGH DENSITY
CAMPUS DISTRICT. Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 6 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Charewicz
NAYS: 1 - Walsten
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
Page 7 of 12 1 /5/2026
APPROVING
Director of Community and Economic Development Jeff Rogers reviewed a memorandum
MAJOR ZONING
dated December 29, 2025.
VARIATION FOR
COSTCO BUSINESS
The petitioner requests the following items: (i) a Preliminary Planned Unit Development
CENTER AT 2200-
with exceptions for quantity of parking stalls; (ii) Conditional Uses; (iii) Tentative Plat of
2400 EAST DEVON
Subdivision; (iv) Major and Standard Variations for building design, site access, off-street
AVENUE
parking and loading, site lighting, fence design, landscaping, screening, and other variations
Ordinance
as may be necessary; (v) a Localized Alternative Sign Regulation; and (vi) any other
Z-2-26
waivers, and zoning relief as may be necessary.
The petitioner, Costco Wholesale Corporation, proposes the development of a new retail
commercial building to be comprised of approximately 137,327 square feet upon a new lot
of record comprised of approximately 14.29 acres and a new traffic signal in E. Devon
Avenue right-of-way at the southwest corner of the property. A proposed fuel center would
be located at the west end of the site and would include a small enclosure for control
equipment, a warming shelter for employees, and twelve fueling islands accommodating
simultaneous refueling of up to 24 vehicles with additional queuing space for more than 30
additional vehicles.
The development site includes a portion of the existing stormwater retention pond
commonly known as Peterson Lake which will be modified in accordance with required
local and outside agency permits over the next few months to provide a pad for a portion of
the proposed parking lot. This petition relates to the proposed redevelopment of the parcels
at the south end of the existing O'Hare Lake Office Park only.
Alderman Moylan thanked the petitioner for choosing to invest in the City of Des Plaines.
Alderman Walsten asked why the gas station was placed close to neighboring properties and
suggested it be moved further south on the site.
The petitioner stated that this was the best location on the property to allow fuel trucks to
navigate the area. Additionally, the gas station was placed there to mitigate nuisances from
the Costco Business Center and was designed in a manner consistent with how members are
accustomed.
Alderman Walsten expressed concern that this property could lower residential home values.
The petitioner stated that, according to their analysis, this is not the case.
Alderman Merlin asked about the hours of operation. The petitioner stated that they are
typical for other Costco businesses, with the gas station open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Alderman Charewicz asked how this location will compare to the Randhurst Costco. The
petitioner stated that this location is focused on serving businesses that purchase in bulk.
When asked about deliveries, the petitioner said that approximately 20% of their business
involves delivery.
Alderman Moylan thanked Costco for addressing the residents and inquired about the
shading of lights. The petitioner stated that the east and west sides of the development will
have 24/7 lighting for safety, as it is a mixed -use property. Lighting intensity is reduced, but
due to early morning traffic on the west side, the lights there have lower brightness.
Alderman Moylan also noted that this is already a busy location. He expressed support for
the project, stating that it will bring higher -paying jobs, sales, and fuel taxes to the city. He
emphasized that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks and will help keep the City of
Page 8 of 12 1 /5/2026
Des Plaines moving forward.Alderman asked if the petitioner would consider a proposal
without the gas station. The petitioner responded that they would not.
Mayor Goczkowski acknowledged that two emails had been sent in advance from residents,
and will be included in the minutes once they are available.
A resident of 1940 Timothy Lane stated that a better location for the development would be
on the northeast side of the property. He asked who will own Peterson Lake and where the
runoff water from the property will go. Director Rogers responded that approximately 20%
of the pond will be filled and that the current proposal complies with all MWRD conditions.
Residents of 3105 Patton Drive stated that the proposal conflicts with the city's
comprehensive plan and questioned the number of zoning variations required. While
acknowledging potential benefits to the city, they emphasized the negative impact on
neighbors' quality of life and asked the City Council to reconsider or deny the project.
Alderman Oskerka asked Director Rogers when the city is due for its next comprehensive
plan. Director Rogers stated that the last plan was adopted in 2019 and that RFPs for the
next plan will be submitted in 2028-2029. He also noted that the office space market is
currently experiencing challenges due to an oversupply of office buildings. Alderman
Oskerka suggested revisiting the comprehensive plan, and Director Rogers responded that
the city can adopt regional plans as part of that process.
Moved by Moylan, seconded by Merlin to Approve Ordinance Z-2-26, A
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE FOR A
PRELIMINARY PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD), CONDITIONAL USE FOR.
A LOCALIZED ALTERNATIVE SIGN REGULATION (LASR), TENTATIVE PLAT OF
SUBDIVISION (TPLAT), AND MAJOR ZONING VARIATIONS FOR COSTCO
BUSINESS CENTER AT 2200-2400 EAST DEVON AVENUE. Upon voice call, the vote
was:
AYES: 6 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Charewicz
NAYS: I - Walsten
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
RENEWAL OF A
Director of Community and Economic Development Jeff Rogers reviewed a memorandum
COOK COUNTY
dated December 24, 2025.
CLASS 6B REAL
ESTATE TAX
The applicant, KTR Illinois LLC represented by Mark Rogers, Liston & Tsantilis, is
INCENTIVE FOR
requesting the City support for their application to Cook County for a 12-year extension of
KTR ILLINOIS
an existing Class 6b Real Estate Tax Incentive for the property at 200 E Oakton St.
Resolution
R-246-25
The subject property is comprised of an 80,480 square -foot industrial facility sited on a 6.6-
acre lot and has been occupied by MCI Sales and Service, Inc. (dba Motor Coach Industries)
for the entirety of the original incentive term.
In 2013, the Des Plaines City Council approved Resolution R-5-13 supporting the approval
of a Cook County Class 6b Real Estate Tax Incentive for KTR Illinois LLC.
Cook County's Class 6b Classification reduces the property tax assessment for the property
where the new investment is proposed from the typical 25% of market value to 10% for a
10-year period. In the 11 th year of the incentive, the assessment will go up to 15% of market
Page 9 of 12 1 /5/2026
value, and in the 12th & final year of the incentive the assessment will go to 20% of market
value before returning to 25% of market value after expiration of the incentive.
The incentive approved in 2013 and is concluding its 12th year of 12 of the original
incentive's term. After approval, MCI reinvested approximately $537,941 in several
renovations and improvements to the property. Furthermore, the applicant also re -invested
$150,000 in permanent improvements to maintain the facility over this time.
KTR Illinois LLC is requesting the City's support and consent to an extension of the Class
6b incentive. The applicant proposes to invest approximately $933,874 in new physical
improvements to the property reflected on the building permit value, which exceeds the
City's minimum investment requirement for approval of a Class 6b extension per City
Council policy. KTR Illinois LLC is currently in negotiations with MCI for a potential 10-
year lease extension which is contingent upon receiving the tax incentive renewal.
If the incentive is approved, the new facility is expected to have a projected market value of
approximately $5,210,987 once improvements are completed. If the incentive is denied, the
applicant may not be able to successfully renew a lease with MCI and the property will
become vacant.
In terms of property tax generation, the applicant provided projected revenues associated
with extension as noted on Attachment 1, the granting of the extension would result in
approximately $2,500 of additional tax revenue over the term of the extension than would
be collected if the extension were to be denied and the property became vacant. To counter
this reduced revenue, the applicant proposes the following: MCI has a number of high-level
skilled positions each offering an annual salary of $60,000 or greater. Currently, MCI's
average salary for existing positions is $76,000 and a 3.5% salary increase has been budgeted
for 2026.
Alderman Oskerka stated that he supports the project.
Moved by Oskerka, seconded by Sayad to Approve Resolution R-246-25, A
CONSIDERATION OF A RENEWAL OF A COOK COUNTY CLASS 6B REAL,
ESTATE TAX INCENTIVE FOR KTR ILLINOISM LLC, 200 EAST OAKTON STREET.
Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
APPROVING FINAL Director of Community and Economic Development Jeff Rogers reviewed a memorandum
PLAT OF dated December 24, 2025.
SUBDIVISION
SECTION 13-2-8 TO The petitioner requests a Final Plat of -Subdivision to split two lots into four lots of record
SPLIT TWO LOTS and Standard Variations for lot width for each of the four proposed lots of record.
INTO FOUR LOTS
AT 2234 WEBSTER The proposal includes splitting two lots into four lots of record as illustrated in the attached
LN AND 2247 final plat of the Webster/Westview subdivision. While the proposed depth for each lot meets
WESTVIEW DR the minimum lot depth requirement in section 13-2-5.R of the Subdivision Regulations, the
Ordinance proposed width of each lot (50 feet) does not meet the minimum lot width requirement for
Z-3-26 interior lots in the R-1 Single Family Residential district (55 feet), requiring a standard
variation for each of the four proposed lots.
Page 10 of 12 1 /5/2026
The proposed 50-foot-wide lots in the subdivision do not meet the minimum 55-foot-lot-
width requirement for interior lots in the R-1 Single Family Residential district, requiring a
variation for each proposed subdivided lot. The proposed lot widths equate to a 10 percent
reduction in the required lot width, which requires a standard variation pursuant to Section
12-3-6.13 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Alderman Merlin noted that, as a resident of the community, he sees this development as
consistent with other projects and expressed his support for the proposal.
Moved by Merlin, seconded by Walsten to Approve Ordinance Z-3-26, A
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A FINAL PLAT OF
SUBDIVISION FROM SECTION 13-2-8 OF THE SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS TO
SPLIT TWO LOTS INTO FOUR LOTS WITH VARIATIONS FOR LOT WIDTH AT
2234 WEBSTER LANE AND 2247 WESTVIEW DRIVE. Upon voice call, the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Merlin, seconded by Sayad to Advance to Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance
Z-3-26, APPROVING A CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A.
FINAL PLAT OF SUBDIVISION FROM SECTION 13-2-8 OF THE SUBDIVISION
REGULATIONS TO SPLIT TWO LOTS INTO FOUR LOTS WITH VARIATIONS FOR
LOT WIDTH AT 2234 WEBSTER LANE AND 2247 WESTVIEW DRIVE. Upon voice
call, the vote was:
AYES: 7 - Chlebek, Moylan, Oskerka, Sayad,
Merlin, Walsten, Charewicz
NAYS: 0 - None
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
APPROVING
Director of Community and Economic Development Jeff Rogers reviewed a memorandum
WAIVERS FROM
dated December 29, 2025.
TITLE 13,
REQUIRING
The petitioner, EFN Des Plaines Property, LLC ("Developer"), represented by Bernard
CONNECTION TO
Citron, Thompson Coburn LLP, requests consideration of an Ordinance approving waivers
CITY WATER
from the requirements of the City Code to allow a proposed multi -family development
MAINS AND
comprised of approximately 202 apartments and 18 townhomes to connect to private water
SEWERS AT 9661 W
mains and sanitary sewers located adjacent to their property owned by Aqua Illinois.
GOLF ROAD
Ordinance
Title 13, Subdivision Regulations, Chapter 3 Design Improvements, of the City Code
M-1-26
includes requirements applicable to development of property throughout the City. Section
13-3-2 of the Code requires connection of any new development to City utilities including
but not limited to water and sanitary sewer. In instances where such City utilities do not abut
a development site, the Code requires that the developer extend all necessary City utilities
to and across the development site to the edge of the development at the developer's cost to
facilitate additional future connections and looping of watermain (as required by the Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency) to ensure service from multiple directions in the event
of a watermain break or periodic maintenance.
The petitioner noted that the city ordinance allows for the requested waiver and that there is
no city water line at the site, requiring service through a private company. Extending water
Page 11 of 12 1 /5/2026
and sewer lines to the property would be costly, estimated at $2.5 million, and no other
properties would connect to it. The petitioner also acknowledged that they would need to
return for city approval before proceeding with the development.
Alderman Walsten made a motion to approve M-1-26, which failed for lack of a second.
The petitioner noted that it will take approximately three years to secure the necessary
easements.
Alderman Moylan expressed interest in the development and asked whether the developer
intends to retain the property afterward. The developer stated that they plan to keep it as an
investment.
The developer stated that the project will include 220 townhouse units, priced at
approximately $150 per square foot.
Alderman Moylan asked whether it is fair that this represents less than 2% of the total
development cost. The petitioner responded that it is not and that the amount is significant.
Alderman Oskerka noted that regardless of the vote, the petitioner stated they will need to
return to discuss next steps and are unsure whether they will proceed with the development.
The petitioner noted that several of their buildings are served by Aqua Illinois and they have
never experienced any issues.
The Mayor asked whether these costs would be passed on to consumers. The petitioner noted
that the properties will be rentals and that they will bear all associated costs.
Alderman Charewicz clarified that Aqua Illinois has been a significant issue in the City of
Des Plaines. He explained that the city's efforts are intended to protect Des Plaines' future
in case the property transitions from rentals to an HOA. He emphasized that the city prefers
cost -sharing for the property rather than granting a full waiver.
Moved by Charewicz, seconded by Sayad to deny Ordinance M-1-26, A
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING WAIVERS FROM TITLE 13M
SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS, REQUIRING CONNECTION TO CITY WATER.
MAINS AND SANITARY SEWER FOR EFN DES PLAINES PROPERTY, LLC AT 9661
WEST GOLF ROAD. Upon roll call, the vote was:
AYES: 5 - Chlebek, Moylan, Sayad,
Merlin, Charewicz
NAYS: 2 - Oskerka, Walsten
ABSENT: 1 - Smith
Motion declared carried.
ADJOURNMENT Moved by Walsten, seconded by Sayad, to adjourn the meeting. Upon voice vote, motion
declared carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:08 PM.
From: Kelly Burns >
Sent: Monday, January 5, 2026 1:52 PM
To: Andrew Goczkowski <agoczkowski@desplainesil gov>; Margaret Chlebek
<mchlebekCcbdesplainesil gov>; Colt Moylan <cmoylan desplainesil gov>; Sean Oskerka
<soskerka(@desplainesil gov>; Dick Sayad <dsayad(@desplainesil gov>; Thomas A. Merlin
<tmerlin(@desplainesil gov>; Mark Walsten <mwalstenCabdesplainesil gov>; Patricia Smith
< smith@desplainesil gov>; Mike Charewicz<mcharewiczCabdesplainesil.gov>; City
Manager Office<CityManagerOfficeCo)desplainesil gov>
Subject: Opposition to Costco Fueling Center
To the Mayor, City Council Members, and Community & Economic Development
Department:
Please enter this email into the public record for the upcoming hearing and City Council
consideration of the proposed Costco Business Center and fuel station at 2200 & 2400 E.
Devon Avenue, including the Preliminary PUD, LASR, subdivision, and related variations.
am a resident at 3105 Patton Dr. and our home is directly west of the proposed site. I am
writing to oppose this project in its current form.
1. Too Intense for a Residential Edge
Our house is only about 73 feet from the Costco site, and our neighborhood is made up of
single-family homes. The proposal places:
A 24-pump gas station at the west end of the site, closest to our homes;
A large wholesale warehouse operation with many trucks coming and going; and
• Truck loading and truck parking facing Devon.
This is far more intense and auto -oriented than what should be located immediately next to
long-established single-family houses.
2. Serious Health and Quality -of -Life Concerns
We are a family with children; and one child and adult in the home suffer from asthma.
We have three bedrooms that look directly over the proposed site, with no real way to
screen the view or the impacts at that height. A gas station's large canopy, pumps, and
signage would clash with a typical residential landscape, creating an eyesore that detracts
from neighborhood beauty.
I am very concerned about:
Exhaust and fuel fumes from 24 gas pumps, constant car and truck traffic, and
idling vehicles so close to our backyard;
Noise from trucks, loading docks, and vehicles early in the morning and at night;
Bright lighting from the gas canopies and parking lot shining toward our bedrooms.
Peer -reviewed studies have found that even modest -sized gas stations are associated with
elevated benzene emissions, increased cancer risk, more asthma and respiratory
problems, child health impacts, and risks of vapor leaks and groundwater contamination in
surrounding areas. Here, we are talking about a very large, high -turnover gas station and
truck operation only about 73 feet from homes with children and individuals with asthma.
That is deeply concerning to me as a parent and caregiver. And the most concerning part is
that there have been multiple studies that have proven the link between childhood
cancer and residential proximity to gas stations (see attached links). Studies have
shown that children living less than 50 meters from a station had elevated leukemia
risk over those who did not. The proposed gas station would only be 73 feet from where our
children live and play - less than half the distance in the studies showing elevated risks.
A Canadian Petroleum Industry study found average benzene concentrations of 146 ppb
(summer) and 461 ppb (winter) at the property borders of gas stations. A second study
Looked at outdoor and indoor concentrations of benzene of houses located 98 and up to
328 feet from the property line of gas stations. Those researchers found median
outdoor benzene concentrations of 3.1 ppb and 1.9 ppb in houses within 60 to 164 feet and
between 196 and 328 feet of gas stations. Troublingly, median indoor concentrations at
these homes were higher, hitting 4.1 and 5.2 ppb.
For a family with asthma and young children, this is not a safe or healthy environment to
place directly on our back fence line.
Residential proximity to petrol stations and risk of childhood leukemia - PMC
DoH Multi -page Tem 1p ate
Children Living Near Oil And Gas Wells Face Higher Risk of Rare Leukemia, Studies Show
GIS-based assessment of cancer risk due to benzene in Tehran ambient air - PubMed
Acute childhood leukaemia and residence next to petrol stations and automotive repair
garages: the ESCALE study (SFCE) - PubMed
Risk of leukemia as a result of community e�xosure to gasoline vapors: A follow-up study _
ScienceDirect
Environmental Epidemiology
Impact of Land Use Decisions on Indoor Environmental Quality —Gas Stations & Local
Town Zoning I Healthy Indoors
Gas Stations Vent Far More Toxic Fumes Than Previously Thought I Columbia University
Mailman School of Public Health
Risk Assessment on Benzene Exposure among Gasoline Station Workers - PMC
3. Declines in Nearby Residential Property Values
Studies have consistently shown that gas stations negatively affect property values for
homes in the immediate area. In a 2022 article entitled The Gas Station Effect, the author
described a review of 430,000 property sales in the Dallas -Fort Worth area. The researcher
found that "Homes within 800 feet of a gas station (0.15 miles) appreciated only 11.9%
during two years of ownership, compared to 20-22% for homes further away, over the same
two years." gasstation - Community & Environmental Defense Services
The Impacts of Gasoline Stations on Residerty Values: A Case Studer in
Xuanchen _,,China
4. Not Consistent with the City's Plan
The City's Comprehensive Plan calls this area "Low Density Urban Mix with Residential:' A
huge wholesale store, 24-pump gas station, and truck operation on one lot is not "low
density". It functions like a major commercial/truck facility, not the mixed,
moderate -intensity area the Plan describes.
5. Too Many Waivers from the Rules
This project depends on many exceptions to the City's usual standards, including:
Less open space on the Costco lot than normally required;
Drive aisles with fewer lanes than the C-7 code calls for;
Loading docks facing Devon;
Reduced landscaping and screening requirements.
If the use only fits by waiving so many rules, that suggests the use is simply too intense for
this location.
For these reasons, I respectfully ask the City Council to deny the Costco Business Center
and fuel station at 2200-2400 E. Devon and the related zoning changes. Its approval would
be at the expense of nearby homeowners, financially and with risks to our family's health.
At a minimum, please do not allow a 24-pump fuel center and major truck operation
immediately next to our family homes.
Thank you for considering my comments and for including them in the public record.
Sincerely,
Kelly Burns
From: MrMj7183 >
Sent: Friday, January 2, 2026 2:56 PM
To: Andrew Goczkowski <agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov>; Margaret Chlebek
<mchlebek(adesplainesil.gov>; Colt Moylan <cmoylan desplainesil.gov>; Sean Oskerka
<soskerkaC&desplainesil.gov>; Dick Sayad <dsayad(@desplainesil.gov>; Thomas A. Merlin
<tmerlin(@desplainesil.gov>; Mark Walsten <mwalstenC@desplainesil.gov>; Patricia Smith
<psmithC@desplainesil.gov>; Mike Charewicz <mcharewiczCa>desplainesil gov>; City
Manager Office<CityManagerOffice(cbdesplainesil.gov>
Cc: me >
Subject: Public Record Comment —Opposition to Costco Business Center & Fuel Center at
2200-2400 E. Devon Ave
To the Mayor, City Council Members, and Community & Economic Development
Department:
Please enter this email into the public record for the upcoming hearing and City Council
consideration of the proposed Costco Business Center and fuel center at 2200 & 2400 E.
Devon Avenue, including the associated Preliminary PUD, Localized Alternative Sign
Regulation (LASR), Tentative Plat of Subdivision, major variations, and related C-7 text
amendments.
My name is Matthew Jentel and I reside at 3105 Patton Drive, directly west of the proposed
site. Our backyard is approximately 73 feet from the proposed Costco property line. We
have children in the home and an adult with asthma, and three bedrooms will. look directly
over the site with no meaningful screening at second -story height. I respectfully request
that the City Council deny the Costco Business Center and fuel proposal and the enabling
text/variation package as currently drafted.
Below are the key reasons this proposal is not appropriate for this location.
1) Conflict with the Comprehensive Plan's Designation for This Site
The staff memo acknowledges:
"The Comprehensive Plan's future land use designation for the property is `Low Density
Urban Mix with Residential."'
The City's 2019 Comprehensive Plan maps the O'Hare Lake area as "Lower Density Urban
Mix with Residential," intended to support a mixed environment of residential and
commercial uses at moderate intensity, and not at the "Higher Density Urban Mix" level
reserved for Downtown.
In contrast, the current proposal and accompanying C-7 changes would:
Place a 137,000-square-foot wholesale/retail operation and a 24-position fuel
center on a single 14.29-acre consolidated lot with no residential component;
Orient the site primarily around high -volume auto fueling, semi -truck loading,
and truck parking; and
Use campus -wide averaging (via a proposed C-7 text amendment) so the
existing stormwater lake can satisfy open -space requirements, allowing the active Costco
Lot to be more intensely paved than would otherwise be permitted.
This is not "Lower Density Urban Mix with Residential" in any meaningful sense. It is a
single, highly intensive commercial operation. Council can reasonably find that the
proposal materially conflicts with the Comprehensive Plan's intended character for this
site.
2) Too Much Intensity at a Residential Edge
Staff describes the surrounding area as commercial uses to the north/east/south, and
single-family detached residences to the west. My home is one of those residences. The
western edge of this site directly abuts an established single-family neighborhood —exactly
the type of interface where the City's planning documents and zoning standards emphasize
compatibility, buffering, and stepped -down intensity.
Instead, the proposal would:
Place a high -throughput fuel center with 12 fueling islands (24 vehicles at a
time) plus substantial queuing at the west end of the site, closest to homes on Patton and
nearby streets;
Introduce extensive and frequent truck activity adjacent to homes, including
early/late operations; and
Concentrate loading and truck functions along Devon, including five loading
bays facing Devon and 25 at -grade truck bays along the front lot line behind a tall fence.
Rather than transitioning intensity away from the residential edge, the design concentrates
the most impactful operations nearest to homes and relies primarily on fencing to resolve
the conflict. That is inconsistent with the City's stated goals of protecting and enhancing
established neighborhoods.
3) The Project "Works" Only Through a Large Stack of Exceptions and Waivers
This project relies on an unusually large set of concurrent exceptions and variations,
including:
333 sq ft;
Parking exception (PUD): reducing required parking from 1 per 250 sq ft to 1 per
Drive aisle capacity (C-7 standard 12-7-3.J.6.d): where the code calls for private
circulation drives with two lanes in each direction, only one lane per direction is proposed
for a high -intensity warehouse + fuel operation;
Open space reduction: the Costco lot itself provides only —13% open space,
meeting the 20% minimum only through a combination of:
a lot -specific variation; and
a text amendment allowing open space to be counted across contiguous C-7
Lots (relying on Peterson Lake);
Landscaping/screening waivers: including parkway trees along Devon,
foundation landscaping, rooftop mechanical screening, and other buffering measures; and
Loading orientation allowances: including loading bays facing Devon and
extensive at -grade truck bays along the front lot line.
Taken together, these are not minor adjustments. They fundamentally change how a C-7
site is expected to function and relate to its surroundings. If so many basic standards must
be relaxed, that is strong evidence the underlying use and intensity are not a good fit for this
location, especially next to single-family homes.
4) Traffic Analysis Focuses on Intersection Operations, Not Residential Compatibility
The KLOA traffic memo focuses on signal spacing, queue lengths, and intersection level of
service along Devon. Those metrics are relevant, but they do not address:
the quality -of -life impacts on residents immediately west of the site who will
live with constant fuel -center queues and truck circulation;
whether placing a very large warehouse + high -throughput fuel station is
compatible at this neighborhood edge under the City's own planning standards; or
the broader safety and livability impacts of turning the residential edge into the
queuing and fueling side of the site.
Intersection performance is not a substitute for evaluating long-term compatibility and
livability.
5) C-7 Text Amendments Create Broader Citywide Risk
The C-7 text amendments being advanced alongside this PUD would:
Expand permitted uses to include high -intensity auto -oriented uses such as
auto filling stations and wholesale goods establishments; and
Allow up to four billboards, including electronic message board billboards,
along 1-294.
These changes are being driven heavily by this redevelopment, but they would apply
broadly to any C-7 site citywide. Once adopted, it will be difficult to resist similar high -
intensity auto and truck uses and sign requests elsewhere.
Council should consider whether it is prudent to use a single redevelopment to justify
permanent district -wide deregulation of auto -oriented uses and billboards.
6) Direct Impacts on Health, Air Quality, Noise, Light, and Home Value
Beyond plans and codes, the impacts on adjacent residents are concrete.
Our home is approximately 73 feet from the proposed site line. We have children and an
adult with asthma. Three bedrooms will look directly over the site without meaningful
screening at second -story height.
Placing a 24-pump high -turnover fuel center and a major truck operation this close to
existing homes raises serious concerns about:
Air quality and health:
A household with asthma and children would be living next to daily vehicle exhaust, fuel
vapors from constant refueling, and idling delivery vehicles only about 73 feet away.
Benzene is a known human carcinogen and a key component of gasoline, and peer -
reviewed research and public -health literature consistently recognize that gas stations are
localized sources of benzene and other VOCs. Epidemiologic studies have reported
increased childhood leukemia risks associated with very close residential proximity to
gas/petrol stations (commonly within —50 meters), and monitoring studies have shown
higher BTEX concentrations in nearby outdoor and indoor air. While no single study can
predict outcomes for one neighborhood, the literature consistently supports a
precautionary approach —especially when a high -throughput fuel facility is proposed at
extremely close distance to homes.
Noise and operations:
Truck docks, on -site truck parking, refuse service, and fuel -center queuing will create
ongoing noise early and late, immediately adjacent to bedrooms and outdoor areas.
Light and nighttime environment:
Fuel canopy lighting, truck yard lighting, and extensive paving will significantly change
nighttime conditions. A fence may block ground -level views, but it does not mitigate
second -story bedroom windows overlooking the operation.
Property value and neighborhood desirability:
It is reasonable to be concerned that converting our view and environment from an
office/pond setting to a fuel and truck -oriented operation will negatively affect desirability
and values of nearby single-family homes.
These direct impacts are not meaningfully addressed in the staff reports or traffic studies,
which focus on zoning mechanics and intersection performance rather than residential
compatibility and long-term livability.
7) Requested Council Action
For all of these reasons, I respectfully ask the City Council to:
1. Deny the requested PreliminaryPUD, LASR, major variations, and related
approvals for the Costco Business Center and fuel station at 2200 & 2400 E. Devon Avenue
in their current form; and
2. Decline to adopt C-7 text amendments that:
make high -volume auto filling stations a by -right use near existing single-family
neighborhoods;
allow individual lots to operate far below the 20% open space standard by
relying solely on shared campus -wide accounting; and
authorize up to four billboards in the C-7 district.
At a minimum, if Council decides to proceed, I urge you to:
eliminate or substantially downsize and relocate the fuel center away from the
residential edge;
require full compliance with the 20% open space requirement on the Costco
lot itself (not only across contiguous lots);
maintain standard requirements for drive aisle capacity, foundation
Landscaping, rooftop screening, and loading orientation along Devon; and
separate any Costco site approvals from broader C-7 billboard and sign
deregulation.
The City's 2019 Comprehensive Plan emphasizes preserving and enhancing established
neighborhoods, improving corridor appearance with better screening and landscaping, and
using reinvestment to upgrade older sites —not degrade adjacent residential areas.
Concentrating a fuel and truck operation roughly 73 feet from existing homes while waiving
many buffering and design standards moves in the opposite direction of that intent.
Thank you for your time and for entering these comments into the public record.
Respectfully,
Matthew Jentel
3105 Patton Drive
Page 12 of 12
APPROVED BY ME THIS 20th
DAY OF Jan 26
Andrew Goczkowski, MAYOR
1 /5/2026
4l
Dinik ronakowski — CITY CLERK