4/9/19Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
Page 1
DES PLAINES PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING
APRIL 9, 2019
MINUTES
The Des Plaines Planning and Zoning Board Meeting held its regularly-scheduled meeting on Tuesday,
April 9, 2019, at 7 p.m. in Room 101 of the Des Plaines Civic Center.
ZONING BOARD
Chairman Szabo called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. and read this evening’s case. Roll call was
established.
PRESENT: Bader, Fowler, Hofherr, Schell, Szabo
ABSENT: Catalano & Saletnik
ALSO PRESENT: Jonathan Stytz, Planner/Community & Economic Development
Patrick Ainsworth, Coord., Devel. Mgr./Community & Economic Development
Gale Cerabona/Recording Secretary
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Board Member Hofherr, seconded by Board Member Bader, to approve the
minutes of March 26, 2019, with revisions on Page 3.c. and 9.c. to read as “any other hours”.
AYES: Hofherr, Bader, Fowler, Schell, Szabo
NAYES: None
***MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY***
PUBLIC HEARING NEW BUSINESS
Coordinator Ainsworth requested to open the public hearing, and advised the Petitioner for Item #1 is
requesting to continue this matter to April 23, 2019.
1. Address: 1065 Lee Street Case 19-007-CU
The petitioner is requesting a Conditional Use Permit Amendment to Ordinance Z-16-01
under Section 12-7-3(K) of the 1998 Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended, for the
existing Motor Vehicle Sales and Auto Service Repair use in the C-3 General Commercial
District allow for the sale of six (6) more automobiles on site for a total of ten (10) vehicles.
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
Page 2
PIN: 09-20-214-002-0000
Petitioner: Louis Capozzoli, 1484 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Owner: MD and SD, LLC, 15 N. Waverly Place, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
A motion was made by Board Member Hofherr, seconded by Board Member Fowler, to open the
public hearing and move this case to the April 23, 2019, PZB Meeting.
AYES: Hofherr, Fowler, Bader, Schell, Szabo
NAYES: None
***MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY***
Coordinator Ainsworth addressed the audience stating this item is continued to the April 23,
2019, PZB Meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no Public Comment.
2. Address: 915 Lee Street Case 19-014-CU-MAP-V
The petitioner is requesting three items: i) an amendment to the Official Des Plaines Zoning
Map, as amended, to reclassify the property from the C-3 General Commercial District to the
R-4 Central Core Residential District; ii) a Conditional Use to operate a Congregate Housing
establishment and iii) variations.
PINs: 09-20-204-001-0000; 09-20-204-007-0000
Petitioner: Tom Leontios, 717 Sheridan Road, Highwood, IL 60040
Owner: Emergency Nurses Association, 915 Lee Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Chairman Szabo swore in Tom Leontios, Plum Creek Development, 717 Sheridan Road, Highwood,
IL 60040 who distributed a brochure to the Board & Staff. He mentioned he owns and operates
supportive and assisted-living communities in the area. Mr. Leontios offered a PowerPoint
presentation:
• Introduction (the current Plum Creek property in Rolling Meadows, built in 2006, was
described as well as the upcoming community in Highwood); has longevity with
employees; is family-owned
• Site Plan (retain existing building)
o 6-story wing for residents
o Courtyard
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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o Parking; met zoning requirements
o Elevations were shown
o Floor plans were illustrated (studios, one-bedroom independent units)
Mr. Leontios thanked Staff. He stated he is proud of the care and services they provide. The senior
market wishes to live near their loved ones.
Chairman Szabo asked if the Board has questions.
Board Member Fowler asked:
• if these units are subsidized by the government. Mr. Leontios advised – no.
• at Plum Creek, is the resident’s rent subsidized. Mr. Leontios advised – no, residents are
income-qualified.
• what the rent range is. Mr. Leontios advised -- $3800 including meals
• if other communities are in Markham and Rolling Meadows. Mr. Leontios stated – some
are income-qualified (though Markham is not).
• about parking. Coordinator Ainsworth expounded and stated requirements are met.
Most residents would not drive; there is a shuttle/van. Mr. Leontios noted there are 36
staff for 100 people in Rolling Meadows, but the staffing is staggered. Coordinator
Ainsworth reminded that on-site staff at this community is managing the parking. Mr.
Leontios stated there would be employee parking, visitor parking, etc.
• how many residents at Plum Creek have vehicles. Mr. Leontios stated – approximately 6
out of 106.
Board Member Schell asked/stated:
• how many paramedic visits there are daily. Mr. Leontios advised – 2-4 per week
• there is a concern there will be a lot of paramedic calls; this is a niche industry.
Coordinator Ainsworth explained past petitioner requests. He stated Des Plaines has an
older population.
• This is shocking if Des Plaines is housing people over 62; niche market. Coordinator
Ainsworth further explained the market study as shown in the recently adopted
Comprehensive Plan indicates there is a need. Mr. Leontios noted this is not a niche
market. There is everything in Des Plaines to accommodate seniors, especially the
existing residents who want to stay in Des Plaines, but may need a little care.
Board Member Fowler asked:
• how you accommodate residents when needs increase. Mr. Leontios stated – an
evaluation process is conducted regularly; compliance is key. Some illnesses cannot be
accommodated.
• how long the length of stay is. Mr. Leontios stated – 38 months for residents who are
socially active and may need some services.
Board Member Schell asked how many nurses are on duty. Mr. Leontios advised:
• 1 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
Page 4
• 1 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday
• CNAs are more plentiful
Board Member Fowler asked/stated:
• how couples are accommodated. Mr. Leontios advised – meals are $1,500 extra for the
other spouse
• she is still concerned about parking, as 62 to 65-year olds still drive. Mr. Leontios stated
– in reality, the average age is 74-78
Chairman Szabo asked if the Board has further questions.
Board Member Hofherr asked/identified:
• about Fire Department requirements. Mr. Leontios stated – there have been discussions,
and the policies are in line. Coordinator Ainsworth stated, like other developments, the
Fire Department has reviewed this project for any potential concerns.
• if the Fire Department will be overwhelmed. Coordinator Ainsworth will pass comments
along to Fire Department staff
• about the water and sanitation impact. Mr. Leontios advised – there have been no
concerns. Coordinator Ainsworth stated that this application was reviewed by
Engineering for the past two months, and there are no issues for capacity. Some
developments (like Compasspoint) increase water lines to help the entire system.
• additional water obtained from other communities.
• about traffic impact - Mr. Leontios stated – there will be no more than what the
Emergency Nurses’ staff used
• about storage areas. Mr. Leontios stated – there aren’t any
• what the actual size of one-bedrooms is. Mr. Leontios advised – 10x15 (including
kitchenette and bathroom); meets code – unit sizes are around 500 square feet
• if units have bathtubs. Mr. Leontios stated – there would be one or two (on site).
Coordinator Ainsworth stated showers have bench seats. Mr. Leontios stated seniors take
showers as they may not be able to rise from a tub.
• regarding a concierge shuttle service, is this based on other communities that you own?
Mr. Leontios advised – yes
• if there will be a charge (for shuttle service). Mr. Leontios advised – no
Board Member Fowler asked:
• if petitioner will not offer subsidies to residents. Mr. Leontios advised – no
• why build in Des Plaines? Mr. Leontios stated – the Des Plaines market supports a private-
model
Chairman Szabo asked:
• if the shuttle takes residents to doctor appointments. Mr. Leontios advised – yes
• how many vans there will be. Mr. Leontios advised – two
• if there is a schedule for shopping trips. Mr. Leontios advised – yes
• if Plum Creek is the branding for all communities. Mr. Leontios advised – yes
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
Page 5
It was asked if Highwood is a Plum Creek community also. Mr. Leontios advised – yes
Chairman Szabo asked Staff to provide the Staff Report which Coordinator Ainsworth did:
Issue: The petitioner is requesting the following items: i) a Map Amendment under Section 12-3-
7; ii.) two Variances under Section 12-3-6(H); and iii) a Conditional Use under Section 12-7-3(F)(3)
of the 1998 Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended, to rezone the property from C-3 to R-4
and to operate a Congregate Housing Use in the R-4 zoning district.
Analysis:
Address: 915 Lee Street
Owners: Jim Fetty, Emergency Nurses Association, 930 E. Woodfield Road,
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Petitioner: Tom Leontios, 707 Sheridan Avenue, Highwood, IL 60045
Case Number: 19-014-CU-MAP
Real Estate Index Number: 09-20-204-001-0000
Ward: #2, Alderman John Robinson
Existing Zoning: C-3 General Commercial
Existing Land Use: Vacant (office building)
Surrounding Zoning: North: C-5 General Business
South: R-4 Central Core Residential
East: R-4 Central Core Residential
West: C-3 General Commercial / R-4 Central Core Residential
Surrounding Land Use: North: Commercial
South: Multi-family housing
East: Multi-family housing
West: Commercial / Multi-family housing
Street Classification: Lee Street is an arterial street, Thacker Street is a collector street,
and Ashland Avenue is a local road.
Comprehensive Plan: The Comprehensive Plan designates the site as Commercial.
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
Page 6
Project Description: The petitioner, Mr. Tom Leontios, is requesting a Map
Amendment to rezone the property from C-3 to R-4, two Major
Variations, and a Conditional Use to operate a Congregate
Housing Use at 915 Lee Street. This property contains a two-
story, 23,800 square foot building with a surface parking lot
containing 82 off-street parking spaces. The petitioner proposes
to transform the vacant building into a “hotel-style” retirement
community as the end use is a senior independent living facility.
The request includes retaining and renovating the existing two-
story building and constructing a six-story addition off of the
northeast corner of the existing building. The existing building
will contain offices, a dining lounge, various recreation space, and
communal amenities for residents while the new addition will
consist of 100 independent retirement units including 52 one-
bedroom units and 48 studio/efficiency units. The one-bedroom
units will be 502 square-feet and the studio/efficiency units will
be 454 square feet. Each unit will contain a private bathroom and
kitchenette with a sink, cabinets, microwave, and mini-
refrigerator. Meals will be provided to residents in a restaurant-
style dining room and the facility will include a bistro and ice
cream parlor for resident use. A variety of services will be offered
to the residents including a spa and wellness center; indoor pool
and fitness center; resident activities; clubs and group outings;
beauty/barber shop; arts and crafts; music; and education
seminars and lectures. A nurse will be available at scheduled
times to conduct medical evaluations for residents.
Additionally, the parking provided on-site meets the amount of
parking required by the Zoning Ordinance. The proposed land use
will require 50 off-street parking spaces for Congregate Housing
Centers and 50 off-street spaces are currently provided including
two (2) handicap spaces. Residents will have designated parking
spaces in the parking area; Staff is recommending that a max of
25 parking spaces be designated for resident parking. The
residents will have access to a concierge shuttle service as a
transportation option since many residents do not drive.
The applicant is requesting two (2) variances given the existing
conditions of the property and dimension conflicts between the
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
Page 7
geometric parking area and the required curb and gutter setback:
i) relief from Section 12-7-2(J) requiring a 12-foot front yard
setback and ii) relief from 12-9-6(D) requiring all curb and gutter
sections to be setback at least 3.5-feet from the property line.
Amendment Findings: Map Amendment requests are subject to the standards set forth in Section
12-3-7(E) of the 1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended. In reviewing these
standards, staff has the following comments:
A. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the
comprehensive plan, as adopted and amended from time to time by the city council:
Comment: The Comprehensive Plan strives to provide a range of housing options, especially
multi-unit residences, which would provide convenient access to shopping centers, civic uses,
and open space. The subject property is located along the Lee Street Corridor situated in close
proximity to downtown Des Plaines which provides residents with easy and convenient access
to downtown amenities.
B. The proposed amendment is compatible with current conditions and the overall
character of existing development in the immediate vicinity of the subject property:
Comment: The subject property is surrounded by a mix of commercial and multi-unit
residentially-zoned properties. However, the properties directly east, west, and south of the
subject property are zoned R-4 Residential Core which are compatible with the proposed map
amendment for the subject property.
C. The proposed amendment is appropriate considering the adequacy of public facilities
and services available to this subject property:
Comment: There are adequate public facilities to enable the property to be rezoned to the R-4
Central Core Residential District.
D. The proposed amendment will have an adverse effect on the value of properties
throughout the jurisdiction:
Comment: The proposal would improve the existing appearance and potentially the value of
the property. The redevelopment of this property from a vacant office use to a multi-unit
residence use will increase housing options in the downtown area as well as assist in the
promotion of major commercial corridors such as Lee Street, Graceland Avenue, and
downtown Des Plaines.
E. The proposed amendment reflects responsible standards for development and growth:
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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Comment: The proposal strives to meet and exceed the responsible standards required for
development and growth. The redevelopment project will help provide “age-in-place” living
options to Des Plaines residents as well as responsibly redevelop an under-utilized property.
Conditional Use Findings: Conditional Use requests are subject to the standards set forth in
Section 12-3-4(E) of the 1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended. In reviewing
these standards, staff has the following comments:
A. The proposed Conditional Use is in fact a Conditional Use established within the specific
Zoning district involved:
Comment: Congregate Housing is a Conditional Use, as specified in Section 12-7-2(I) of the 1998
City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended, for properties in the R-4 Central Core
Residential District.
B. The proposed Conditional Use is in accordance with the objectives of the City’s
Comprehensive Plan:
Comment: The proposed use of the property is Congregate Housing. The Future Land Use Map
found in the Comprehensive Plan designates this site as Commercial. This type of land use typically
includes general commercial spaces with a variety of business sizes. Congregate Housing is a
conditional use in both the C-3 General Commercial and R-4 Central Core Residential Districts, but
would be better suited for the R-4 Central Core Residential District. The petitioner plans to
renovate the existing two-story building while also adding a six-story addition to the east, both of
which would provide additional high density multi-unit housing in close proximity to the
downtown area. Moreover, the proposed development will add more age-in-place housing
options for residents.
C. The proposed Conditional Use is designed, constructed, operated and maintained to be
harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the
general vicinity:
Comment: The petitioner proposes to renovate the existing building and construct the addition
utilizing comparable designs to the surrounding development. The existing building design will be
altered from the current office appearance to reflect the appearance and functionality of a
Congregate Housing use. The proposed site design will be harmonious with the surrounding multi-
unit residential development in the area.
D. The proposed Conditional Use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses:
Comment: The petitioner proposes to redevelop the existing office building into a “hotel-style”
retirement community building and provide a variety of services to its residents. The Conditional
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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Use for Congregate Housing will be comparable to the surrounding multi-unit residential buildings
and thus will not be hazardous or distributing to existing neighboring uses.
E. The proposed Conditional Use is to be served adequately by essential public facilities and
services, such as highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse
disposal, water and sewer, and schools; or, agencies responsible for establishing the
Conditional Use shall provide adequately any such services:
Comment: The existing office building has been adequately served by essential public facilities
and services. The proposed use will also be adequately served by essential public facilities and
services.
F. The proposed Conditional Use does not create excessive additional requirements at public
expense for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic well-
being of the entire community:
Comment: The proposed Congregate Housing Conditional Use will not create excessive additional
requirements at the public expense as the petitioner plans to use the existing building and
property for all proposed operations. The proposed Conditional Use will not be detrimental to
the economic well-being of the community but rather increase the housing base in this area for
senior housing.
G. The proposed Conditional Use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials,
equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons,
property, or the general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise,
smoke fumes, glare or odors:
Comment: The proposed Congregate Housing Conditional Use operations will be conducted
within the building with the exception of the outdoor seating area located along Lee Street on the
west side of the building. A concierge shuttle service will be available to residents which will
consolidate trip generation and reduce parking demand. In any respect, it is determined that there
will not be any detriment to the public or to adjoining properties.
H. The proposed Conditional Use provides vehicular access to the property designed so that
it does not create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares:
Comment: The proposed Congregate Housing Conditional Use will continue to provide adequate
vehicular access to the site as the existing office use. The proposed parking area will be accessed
via Thacker Street on the north elevation and Ashland Avenue on the south elevation similar to
the existing use. The proposed Conditional Use will not interfere with traffic on surrounding public
thoroughfares.
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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I. The proposed Conditional Use does not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of
natural, scenic, or historic features of major importance:
Comment: The proposed Congregate Housing Conditional Use will not cause the destruction, loss,
or damage of any natural, scenic or historic features of major importance. The building and site
were already developed and the petitioner is only proposing redevelopment of existing non-
permeable surfaces and structures. A future building expansion will result in a new Conditional
Use Application and require another public hearing.
J. The proposed Conditional Use complies with all additional regulations in the Zoning
Ordinance specific to the Conditional Use requested:
Comment: The proposed Congregate Housing Conditional Use meets all other requirements of
the Zoning Ordinance for the R-4 Central Core Residential District. However, the petitioner is
requesting two variations beyond the Conditional Use Permit.
Variation Findings: Variations are subject to the standards set forth in Section 12-3-6(H) of the
1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended. In reviewing these standards, staff has
the following comments:
A. Hardship: No variation shall be granted pursuant to this subsection H unless the applicant
shall establish that carrying out the strict letter of the provisions of this title would create a
particular hardship or a practical difficulty:
Comment: The two variations requested by the petitioner are based out of necessity and would
create an unnecessary hardship for the petitioner to comply with. The existing two-story building
does not meet the front yard setback requirement but the new addition would comply with all
zoning requirements. The site plan was designed to maximize the parking area to meet the parking
requirements for the Congregate Housing Use. However, there is a direct dimension conflict
between the geometric regulations for the parking area and the required curb and gutter setback
from the property line. Therefore, the petitioner is unable to meet the required separation
between the curb and gutter and the side lot line without the creation of a particular hardship.
B. Unique Physical Condition: The subject lot is exceptional as compared to other lots subject
to the same provision by reason of a unique physical condition, including presence of an
existing use, structure, or sign, whether conforming or nonconforming; irregular or
substandard shape or size; exceptional topographical features; or other extraordinary
physical conditions peculiar to and inherent in the subject lot that amount to more than a
mere inconvenience to the owner and that relate to or arise out of the lot rather than the
personal situation of the current owner of the lot:
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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Comment: The physical conditions of the existing site and current development contributes a
particular hardship to the petitioner. The site fronts three separate streets and is accessed by two
curb-cuts on the north and south portions of the property. The existing size and irregular-shape
of the property limits the petitioner from meeting all setback requirements with the existing
structure and proposed development.
C. Not Self-Created: The aforesaid unique physical condition is not the result of any action or
inaction of the owner or its predecessors in title and existed at the time of the enactment
of the provisions from which a variance is sought or was created by natural forces or was
the result of governmental action, other than the adoption of this title:
Comment: The owner did not create the unique physical conditions on the property but is looking
to improve the property through the redevelopment proposal. The existing two-story building
was present on site at the time of enactment of the provisions for which the variances are been
sought. The issuance of these variances would allow the petitioner to improve the existing
development on the site and provide additional housing options for the area while complying with
all other requirements.
D. Denied Substantial Rights: The carrying out of the strict letter of the provision from which
a variance is sought would deprive the owner of the subject lot of substantial rights
commonly enjoyed by owners of other lots subject to the same provision:
Comment: Carrying out the strict letter of the provision would prevent the petitioner from
improving the existing property through a redevelopment proposal. The existing property
configuration contains unique characteristics that add particular hardships to the petitioner to
comply with all applicable zoning requirements. The petitioner has worked with Staff and revised
plans accordingly to meet or exceed all other requirements.
E. Not Merely Special Privilege: The alleged hardship or difficulty is neither merely the inability
of the owner or occupant to enjoy some special privilege or additional right not available to
owners or occupants of other lots subject to the same provision, nor merely the inability of
the owner to make more money from the use of the subject lot:
Comment: The granting of these two variations would not allow the petitioner to enjoy any special
privilege, additional rights, or increased monetary gain. However, it would allow the petitioner to
redevelop the property into a retirement community and provide more aging-in-place housing.
F. Title And Plan Purposes: The variation would not result in a use or development of the
subject lot that would be not in harmony with the general and specific purposes for which
this title and the provision from which a variation is sought were enacted or the general
purpose and intent of the comprehensive plan:
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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Comment: The variations would not result in any development that would not be harmonious
with surrounding development or oppose the purposes of this title or the Comprehensive Plan.
The petitioner is proposing to renovate and design the site to match surrounding residential
development and make improvements as necessary to address any existing concerns. The
Comprehensive Plan looks to promote development and redevelopment in Des Plaines, especially
along major corridors and throughout the downtown area. This proposal would help satisfy that
goal and promote additional development/redevelopment in the area.
G. No Other Remedy: There is no means other than the requested variation by which the
alleged hardship or difficulty can be avoided or remedied to a degree sufficient to permit a
reasonable use of the subject lot:
Comment: The existing hardships cannot be remedied by the petitioner without the approval of
the requested variations. The location of the existing two-story building does not meet the front
yard setback requirement and cannot be avoided. The proposed parking area was repositioned
to accommodate the number of parking spaces required but does not meet proper curb and
gutter setback requirements due to geometric constraints. Consequently, both variations cannot
be avoided to permit the proposed use of the subject lot.
H. Minimum Required: The requested variation is the minimum measure of relief necessary to
alleviate the alleged hardship or difficulty presented by the strict application of this title:
Comment: The requested variations would provide the minimum amount of relief to the
petitioner to alleviate the existing hardships on the site as the proposal meets all other
requirements.
Recommendation: I recommend approval of a Map Amendment, two Variances, and a
Conditional Use to rezone the property from C-3 to R-4 and to operate a Congregate Housing Use
in the R-4 zoning district based on a review of the information presented by the applicant and the
findings made above, as specified in Section 12-3-4(E) (Standards for Conditional Uses), Section
12-3-7(E) (Standards for Amendments), and Section 12-3-6(H) (Standards for Variations) of the
City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, subject to the following conditions:
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
Case #19-014-LSA 915 Lee Street – Zoning MAP Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit, Setback Variations
Case 19-019-TA Citywide – Text Amendments
April 9, 2019
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Conditions of Approval:
1. The inner lanes of Ashland Avenue, Lee Street, and Thacker Street shall be milled
and resurfaced for the length of each property line abutting the respective
roadways.
2. A Photometric Plan shall be provided at time of building permit to comply with
Zoning Ordinance Code Section 12-12-10.
3. A Landscape Plan shall be provided at time of building permit and evergreen
shrubs shall be added along the entire length of the parking lot that faces Ashland
Avenue.
4. The parking lot shall be improved with curb and gutter as well as catch basins.
5. No more than 50% of the off-street parking spaces shall be reserved for residents.
Planning and Zoning Board Procedure: Under Section 12-3-4(D) (Procedure for Review and
Decision for Conditional Uses), Section 12-3-6(F) (Procedure for Review and Decision for
Standard Variations), Section 12-3-6(G) (Procedure for Review and Decision for Major
Variations), and Section 12-3-7(D) (Procedure for Review and Decision for Amendments) of the
Zoning Ordinance, the Planning and Zoning Board has the authority to recommend that the City
Council approve, approve subject to conditions, or deny the above-mentioned requests for a
Congregate Housing use for the property at 915 Lee Street. The City Council has final authority
on the proposal.
Chairman Szabo asked if anyone in the audience is in favor or opposed to this petition. The
following were sworn in:
• Ken Kutella 900 Center Street
Mr. Kutella stated he faces west, and advised there is no additional parking. When ENA
was open, they took 80% of parking. Where will staff park? Coordinator Ainsworth
stated – ENA moved out in July – ENA will not be reoccupying this building. The existing
office building will be dining space, social areas,reception, etc.
• Gary Clark 900 Lee Street (lived there for 15 years)
Mr. Clark advised he has been a resident for 15 years and is a member of the
association board. Regarding traffic and food deliveries, how will they be managed? Mr.
Leontios advised – they are weekly.
Mr. Clark quoted an article in the Pioneer Press stating local residents can participate at
the Highwood community. Mr. Leontios advised – this community will not offer
restaurant dining to outside local residents. Coordinator Ainsworth expounded that
local residents may participate in tours, etc. Mr. Leontios stated – they may host a
Pancake Breakfast for the community, have a Grand Opening, etc.; 1-2 events yearly.
Coordinator Ainsworth stated such coordination will have to take place with valet
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parking, etc.
• Danny Rodriguez 900 Center Street (lived there for 18 years)
Mr. Rodriguez stated parking is a concern. It is packed on Sunday mornings. This will
bring congestion; too many people driving with cars. He noted other condo-unit parking
is filled also as is street parking.
Chairman Szabo asked if there are further questions. He asked if Petitioner is aware of the
Conditions. Mr. Leontios advised – he is, and there are no issues.
A motion was made by Board Member Hofherr, seconded by Board Member Schell, to deny the
request.
AYES: Hofherr, Schell
NAYES: Bader, Szabo
ABSTAIN: Fowler
***MOTION CARRIED 2-2***
Chairman Szabo stated the recommendation would be submitted to City Council.
3. Address: Citywide Text Amendment Case 19-019-TA
The City of Des Plaines is requesting Text Amendments to the following sections of the 1998
Des Plaines Zoning Code, as amended: ) Section 12-3-5.C, Planned Unit Development, to
clarify the permitted bulk regulations and minimum development standards; (ii) Section
12-7-2.J, Residential Districts Bulk Matrix, to add “Corner Side Yard”; (iii) 12-8-2, Fence
Regulations, to add a regulation where no fencing can abut another fence and to
acknowledge the corner side yard; (iv) Section 12-9-7, Off Street Parking Requirements, to
amend “Warehousing and Wholesaling”, and add “Food Processing Establishment” and
“Shopping Center” in the off-street parking requirements; (v) Section 12-9-9 to amend “Off
Street Loading Requirements); (vi) Section 12-9-10 to add a new section entitled,
“Permitted Land Bank Parking”; and (vii) Section 12-13-3, Definitions, to add definitions for
“Yard, Corner Side”, “Shopping Center”, and to amend the definitions of “Floor Area”, “Yard,
Rear” and “Yard, Front”.
PIN: Citywide
Petitioner: City of Des Plaines, 1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Owner: City of Des Plaines, 1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
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Coordinator Ainsworth stated the Zoning Code is 21 years old. He explained the Proposed Text
Amendment for:
• Planned & Mixed-Use Developments – clarifying parking requirements
• Corner Side-Yard (for Residential Districts)
Board Member Fowler asked about landscaping. Coordinator Ainsworth stated that
would be introduced in a future text amendment request.
• Fence Regulations
Chairman Szabo asked about a 6 ft. fence reducing to 3 ft. Coordinator Ainsworth
explained same.
• Off-Street Parking Requirements for manufacturing, wholesaling and distribution
Board Member Schell reminded about benefits to Des Plaines’ parking requirements.
Coordinator Ainsworth identified examples.
Board Member Fowler asked about the new shopping center parking requirement.
Coordinator Ainsworth explained that there is no shopping center parking requirement
currently in the Code. A brief discussion took place on how parking calculations are
reduced when there are certain credits
o Floor Area
o Loading Requirements
• Permitted Land Bank Parking
Chairman Szabo asked if Petitioners could ask for variations. Coordinator Ainsworth
advised – yes, and stated Des Plaines will still be restrictive for warehousing.
Chairman Szabo asked if there are any questions. Board Member Fowler asked if Coordinator
Ainsworth would provide her with information on congregate parking. Coordinator Ainsworth
stated he will do so.
The Staff Report is as follows:
Issue: The City of Des Plaines is requesting Text Amendments to the following sections of the
1998 Des Plaines Zoning Code, as amended: (i) Section 12-3-5.C, Planned Unit Development, to
clarify the permitted bulk regulations and minimum development standards; (ii) Section 12-7-2.J,
Residential Districts Bulk Matrix, to add a “Corner Side Yard” regulation; (iii) 12-8-2, Fence
Regulations, to add a regulation where no fencing can abut another fence and to acknowledge
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
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the corner side yard; (iv) Section 12-9-7, Off Street Parking Requirements, to amend
“Warehousing and Wholesaling” and “Industrial and Manufacturing Uses”, add “Food Processing
Establishment” and “Shopping Center” in the off street parking requirements; (v) Section 12-9-9
to amend “Off Street Loading Requirements; (vi) Section 12-9-10 to add a new section entitled,
“Permitted Land Bank Parking”; and (vii) Section 12-13-3, Definitions, to add definitions for
“Corner Side Yard”, “Shopping Center”, and to amend the definitions of “Floor Area” and “Yard,
Front”.
Analysis:
PIN: Citywide
Petitioner: City of Des Plaines, 1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Case Number: #19-019-TA
Project Description: The City of Des Plaines is proposing several text amendments to
the Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, which are as follows:
• Amending the Planned Unit Development – Permitted
Exceptions and Minimum Development Standards;
• Amending the Residential Bulk Regulation Matrix to add a
Corner Side Yard regulation;
• Under Fence Regulations, adding a regulation regarding
abutting fences and to account for the new corner side yard
regulation;
• Amending Off Street Parking Requirements for the following
items;
o Amend the parking regulation for “Warehousing and
Wholesaling”;
o Add “Food Processing Establishment”;
o Add “Shopping Center”;
• Amending the Off Street Loading Requirement section;
• Adding a new Permitted Land Bank Parking section; and
• Amending or Adding the following terms to the Definition
section of the Zoning Ordinance:
o “Yard, Corner Side”;
o “Yard, Front”;
o “Shopping Center”; and
o “Floor Area”.
Updating the Regulations on Planned Unit Developments
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Regarding Planned Unit Developments in Zoning Ordinance Section 12-3-5, there are
inconsistencies between 12-3-5.A.C and 12-3-5-1 as both code sections refer to Planned Unit
Development (PUD) types and they do not contain the same regulation for minimum parking. The
intent of a PUD is to allow for zoning flexibility given when a project is proposing to add a variety
of uses, the site is challenged by physical constraints and/or the proposed project is serving as a
transition between varying uses. Staff is recommending to have consistency with the parking
portions and use the existing text from 12-3-5-1.E.1.b as the parking regulation to use when
eliminating this code conflict. The proposed text amendment is as follows:
12-3-5-C: PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENTS:
Add/Amend:
C. Permitted Bulk Exceptions and Minimum Development Standards:
4. Parking Requirements: The individual uses permitted within the planned unit
development shall adhere to the parking requirements provided for in other
sections of this title for the particular use or uses proposed. In no case shall
the required parking be less than seventy five percent (75%) of the base
parking requirement of the uses as required collectively.
12-3-5-1: MIXED USE DEVELOPMENTS:
E. Parking Requirements (Mixed Use Developments):
1. General Requirements: The parking requirements for mixed-use developments
shall be determined on a case by case basis analyzing the parking demand for
each use and how sharing the parking spaces shall be used to ensure that times
of maximum usage will not overlap. The following evaluation criteria shall
apply:
a. Section 12-9-7, "Off Street Parking Requirements", of this title.
b. In no case shall the required parking be less than seventy five percent
(75%) of the base parking requirement of the uses as required
collectively, or the base parking requirement of the most parking
intensive use, whichever is greater. (Ord. Z-24-06, 8-7-2006)
Staff is also proposing to eliminate the phrase “or the base parking requirement of the most
parking intensive use, whichever is greater” to eliminate confusion on future parking calculations.
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Adding Corner Side Yards to Residential Districts and to Definition Section
In September, 2018, City Staff, PZB, and City Council updated the Zoning Ordinance to remove
the three code conflicts regarding corner lots for single family lots. As a result, only one front
yard setback is applied to one side of a single-family dwelling unit located on a corner lot –
the setback for the other side of the property abutting a public right-of-way is a five-foot side
yard setback. This text amendment request is proposing to create a brand-new setback called
a “corner side yard” setback that will only be applied for corner lots and the portion of the
property that is abutting a public right-of-way and is not the defined front yard. The proposed
corner side yard setback is 10 feet.
However, in instances where corner lots widths are rather narrow, there is built in flexibility
to reduce the 10-foot setback down to five feet in order to accommodate a 30-foot wide
house (see the note section text below). The goal of introducing this new type of side yard
setback is to ensure visual clearance for the abutting intersection. Every surrounding
community contains either two front yards or a corner side yard regulation assigned to corner
lots to ensure that a dwelling unit or other structure does not impede with the visual
clearance. The proposed text amendment is as follows:
12-7-2-J. Residential Bulk Matrix:
Add/Amend:
TABLE 2
RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS BULK MATRIX
Bulk Controls R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4
Minimum front yard 25 ft. 25 ft. 25 ft. 12 ft.
Minimum corner side yard 10 ft.2 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
Notes:
2. Where a lot is defined as a corner lot, the required front yard and corner side
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yard shall be observed, provided, however, that the minimum corner side yard
may be reduced to allow for a buildable width of 30 feet for single family
detached dwelling unit in the R-1 district. In no instance shall the minimum
corner side yard setback be reduced to less than five feet. No accessory building
or roofed structure shall encroach into the required front yard and corner side
yard setback, provided, however, structures and building lawfully established
prior to May 6, 2019 that do not meet the front yard or corner side yard setbacks
shall be considered legal non-conforming and may remain and be maintained
per section 5-6 of this title.
12-13-1 DEFINITIONS:
Add/Amend:
YARD, CORNER SIDE: A yard which adjoins a public right-of-way and is not the designated
front yard. A corner side yard setback assignment shall extend along the length of such
assigned lot line from the front yard setback back to the rear lot line. Note, corner side
yards are strictly for corner lots that are located within the R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4 zoning
districts.
YARD, FRONT: A yard extending along the full length of the front lot line between the
assigned side/corner side lot lines. On corner lots, the front lot line shall be the shorter of
the two (2) lot lines separating the property from the streets
A diagram showing the proposed corner side yard is provided below:
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This diagram is not to scale.
Amending Fence Regulations
Community and Economic Development staff have been experiencing a series of issues over
the years with regards to fencing on one lot abutting another existing fence. If one abutting
fence is not maintained, then it may impact the other fencing which leads to property
maintenance issues. There are other communities that do not allow back-to-back fencing for
the same reason of prior consistent property maintenance issue. The amendment below
proposes adding language to aid in this property maintenance concern.
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
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Additionally, the proposed fence regulation amendment section is introducing the corner side
yard concept with regards to the placement of six-foot tall fences. The proposed amendment
will still allow a four-foot open design fence in the front and corner side yards, but a six-foot
tall fence will have to comply with a new 10-foot sight triangle to maintain sight visibility for
pedestrians, motorists and surrounding properties.
More importantly, there are numerous lot properties that contain six-foot tall fences around
the side, corner side and rear portions of the subject lot and the six-foot tall fence
immediately abuts the driveway of a neighboring property. This presents a challenge to the
abutting property owner when backing out of their subject driveway and trying to properly
view oncoming traffic, pedestrians and bicyclists. See the diagram below the proposed
amendment for a visual aid (see Attachment #2 for more visual aids). Note, six-foot tall fences
are not permitted within the existing front yard setback, staff is not proposing to amend that
specific regulation.
The proposed text amendments are as follows:
12-8-2: FENCE REGULATIONS
Add/Amend:
A. Height Requirement:
1. The maximum height of a fence for a nonresidential use shall be eight feet
(8'). (Ord. Z-8-98, 9-21-1998)
2. The maximum height of a fence for a residential use shall be four feet (4')
when located in front yards and corner side yards and six feet (6') when
located in rear yard, and side yards, corner side yard, or within the buildable
area of the lot. When a six-foot tall fence is located in any rear yard, side or
corner side yard, there shall be no portion of such fence located within any
10 foot sight triangle when abutting any alley, driveway or street. Lots
having double frontage, one of which abuts an arterial street, may erect a
fence of six feet (6') along the frontage, which abuts the arterial street. Lots
that abut the railroad right of way may erect an eight foot (8') tall fence along
the side that abuts the railroad right of way. In instances when a fence is not
located on a property line, all portions of the subject lot shall be properly
maintained. New fencing shall be located at least five feet away from a
parallel fence.
G. Fences that directly abut existing fences are prohibited.
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Diagram showing fence locations with proposed site triangle addition as proposed
in Section 12-8-2-A.2.
Amending Certain Off Street Parking and Loading Requirements
CED staff is introducing amendments to the off street parking and loading requirements as some
of the regulations do not reflect modern land use patterns and there are existing land uses within
the City that do not contain off street parking assignments. The following text amendments are
as follows:
12-9-7: OFF STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS:
Amend:
Industrial and manufacturing uses: 1 space for every 1,000 1,500 square feet of gross floor
area
Warehousing and wholesaling 1 space for every 1,000 1,500 square feet of gross floor
area
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
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Staff is proposing to reduce the required number of parking spaces for industrial, manufacturing,
warehousing and wholesaling operations as these portions of industrial buildings are largely
dedicated for large machinery placement, storage, distribution and warehousing. Additionally, a
comparison of other nearby industrialized town shows that the proposed amendment is in-line
with modern parking trends.
Municipality Type of Land Use Parking Requirement
Franklin Park Manufacturing 2 spaces per every 3 employees
Franklin Park Distribution
1 space for 2,500 sf or 2.5 spaces per
loading dock whichever is greater
Elk Grove Village Industrial and warehousing
1 space per 2 employees plus one
space for every company vehicle
Bensenville Warehousing and wholesaling
.5 spaces per 1,000 sf or 1 per
employee, whichever is greater
While other municipalities review parking requirements based on employee count, CED staff is
recommending to maintain a gross floor area approach for our zoning regulation as companies
that move in and out of a space can fluctuate with employee requirements which is rather difficult
to enforce off street parking. Note, the portion of industrial buildings dedicated to office space
will still remain unchanged at 4 spaces per 1,000 square feet.
12-9-7: OFF STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS:
Add:
Food Processing Establishment
2 spaces for every 1,000 square feet of dedicated food
preparation and office areas
The proposed text above is an addition to the off street parking matrix as “Food Process
Establishment”. This is an existing land use found in the Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance and it does
not have an associated off street parking assignment. As such, the proposed regulation is specific
to the type of floor areas dedicated to food processing/catering businesses.
Another land use that does not have an assigned off street parking requirement is shopping
centers. While office uses, retail establishments and service establishments contain a parking
requirement of 4 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area, there are other uses such as
day care facilities, restaurants and schools that may also be found in shopping centers which do
not contain the same off street parking requirement. As such, staff is introducing a parking
requirement specific to shopping centers to assist with enforcing parking requirements for such
type of development. Additionally, a definition for shopping center is also proposed to help with
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interpretation and enforcement of the zoning regulation. The proposed amendments are as
follows:
12-9-7: OFF STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS:
Add:
Shopping Centers 3 spaces for every 1,000 square feet of gross floor area
12-13-1 DEFINITIONS:
Add/Amend:
SHOPPING CENTER: A development in which at least three commercial units are constructed
with individual entrances and share improvements such as common walls and a common off
street parking lot.
The next proposed amendment further clarifies how off street parking is calculated. There is an
existing statement in the definition section of the Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance that exempts
certain parts of a building as they are accessory in function. However, staff is proposing to further
enhance this sentence as it leaving out other accessory building functions such as mechanical
rooms, stairwells, hallways and elevators. The proposed amendment is as follows:
12-13-1 DEFINITIONS:
Amend:
FLOOR AREA: The sum of the gross horizontal areas of the several floors of the building, or
portion thereof, devoted to such use, including accessory storage areas located within selling
or working space such as counters, racks, or closets, and any basement floor area devoted to
retailing activities, to the production or processing of goods, or to business or professional
offices.
"Floor area" for purposes of measurement for off street parking spaces shall not include: floor
area devoted primarily to storage areas, food preparation areas, and bathrooms, mechanical
rooms, hallways, stairwells and elevators. Food preparation areas shall not be exempt from
food processing establishment uses. No more than 10% of the entire combined floor area
may be reduced for rooms devoted primarily to storage areas.
The next proposed text amendment deals with off street loading requirements for buildings
in manufacturing districts. As currently written, a 100,001 square foot building would need
four (4) loading zones that measures 15’ X 35’ for each loading zone space – this results in
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2,100 square feet of land area dedicated to loading zones. Additionally, this requirement is
separate from drive in doors and loading docks that are typically associated with industrial
building construction. The text amendment below proposes to reduce the number of loading
spaces. The new-found land area savings could be dedicated to open space, off street parking
spaces or circulation for future industrial buildings.
12-9-9: OFF STREET LOADING REQUIREMENTS:
Amend
B.
Manufacturing Districts: Where any building is erected, reconstructed or
converted for a use permitted in the M-1, M-2 or M-3 manufacturing districts,
the loading space requirements shall be as follows:
Building Size Spaces Required
0 - 10,000 100,000 sq. ft. 1 loading space
10,001 - 35,000 100,001 – 200,000 sq.
ft.
2 loading spaces
35,001 - 70,000 200,001 – 300,000 sq.
ft.
3 loading spaces
70,001 - 100,000 sq. ft. 4 loading spaces
Each additional 100,000 sq. ft. in
excess of the first 300,000 sq. ft.
1 loading space
The final text amendment regarding Chapter 9 of the Zoning Ordinance is to introduce a
brand-new code section, Section 12-9-10 – Permitted Land Bank Parking. This is a concept
where a new industrial or commercial development can construct more green space in-lieu
of building a certain amount of required off street parking. There are assurances that the
required parking may have to be constructed in the future and that the land dedicated to
parking is left open as green space. The proposed text is as follows:
12-9-10: PERMITTED LAND BANK PARKING:
A. A portion of required off street parking spaces may be land banked in-lieu of
constructing the subject parking spaces for buildings established after May 6,
2019 in attempt to promote open and greenspace and subject to the following
conditions and requirements.
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1. Properties zoned C-2, C-3, C-4, M-1 and M-2 are eligible for permitted
land bank parking.
2. Commercially Zoned Assembly Uses and Restaurants are not eligible for
permitted land bank parking.
3. A maximum of 25% of the total required off street parking spaces can
be land banked in-lieu of constructing the subject parking spaces.
4. The zoning administrator and city council reserve the right to require
the subject property owner to construct a portion of all of the land
banked parking spaces at any time.
5. A parking plan which shall be provided at the time of the request and
shall contain the following information:
a. The locations of the land bank parking spaces. The land bank
parking spaces shall be in full compliance with the parking
regulations of this chapter.
b. An off street parking calculation table shall be provided
showing the total number of required spaces and the proposed
number of parking spaces to be land banked.
c. The parking plan shall show the interim use of the land banked
area.
d. A statement shall be added to the parking plan that the Des
Plaines Zoning Administrator and the Des Plaines City Council
reserve the right to require the current property owner to
construct a portion or all of the land bank parking spaces at any
time.
6. No permanent buildings or roofed structures shall be improved on the
portion of the subject building that is dedicated for the land banked
parking.
7. A legal agreement shall be approved by the city attorney which will
ensure that the land banked parking spaces shall be effectively
maintained as open green space until such time the land bank spaces
are constructed. The approved agreement shall also be recorded by the
property owners with the county recorder's office.
8. A fee of $75.00 per space land banked shall be charged to the applicant
when applying for a lank bank parking request.
Standards for Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment:
To analyze this text amendment request, the standards for amendments contained in Section 12-
3-7.E of the Zoning Ordinance are used. Following is a discussion of those standards.
1. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of
the comprehensive plan, as adopted and amended from time to time by the city council;
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The new 2019 Comprehensive Plan generally discusses the modernization of code to match
emerging land use trends, but still respect existing land uses. The Comprehensive Plan also
specifically discusses updating development standards to assist with handling stormwater,
which is partially being accomplished through the new land bank parking option. The
overarching goal of this text amendment application is to clarify, enhance and modernize the
21-year-old Zoning Ordinance. In general, the aforementioned text amendments assist with
enhancing business opportunities while protecting nearby properties from potential hazards,
clarify specific code sections to eliminate code conflicts and update certain sections of the code
to match emerging land use trends.
2. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with current conditions and the overall
character of existing development;
The proposed text amendments help to modernize the Zoning Ordinance and ensure the
proposed amendments are compatible with the overall character of existing development. The
updates to the single-family lots, parking, and fencing are all in an attempt to maintain
compatibility with current conditions, but to also introduce land use concepts to increase safety
and comfort. The various definition additions will assist with enforcing the Zoning Ordinance
and maintain the overall character of existing development.
3. Whether the proposed amendment is appropriate considering the adequacy of public
facilities and services available to this subject property;
All proposed amendments are not anticipated to impact public facilities and available services.
4. Whether the proposed amendment will have an adverse effect on the value of properties
throughout the jurisdiction; and
All proposed amendments will not have an adverse effect on property values throughout the
City. There are several mechanisms to control any potential impacts such as assigning land
uses as conditional uses, adding screening and buffering requirements as well as providing
detailed definitions to assist with enforcement control of potential hazards.
5. Whether the proposed amendment reflects responsible standards for development and
growth.
The proposed text amendment to clarify the variation section to ensure that use variations are
not requested will ensure responsible growth. Amending the Zoning Ordinance to eliminate
any code conflicts with PUDs with help with consistency of regulation administration, adding
corner side yards to single family residential lots will assist with maintaining visual clearance
Case #19-007-CU 1065 Lee Street – Conditional Use Permit
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and assist with safety, amending the fencing regulations will help reduce property maintenance
issues as well as increase safety by appropriately placing privacy fencing, amending the various
parking regulations ensures that the uses will be adequately parked, but also assist with
increasing open space and finally, adding and amending certain definitions will assist with
adequately enforcing the Zoning Ordinance.
Recommendation: The Community and Economic Development Department recommends
approval of the proposed text amendments to the 1998 Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as
amended: (i) Section 12-3-5.C, Planned Unit Development, to clarify the permitted bulk
regulations and minimum development standards; (ii) Section 12-7-2.J, Residential Districts Bulk
Matrix, to add a “Corner Side Yard” regulation; (iii) 12-8-2, Fence Regulations, to add a regulation
where no fencing can abut another fence and to acknowledge the corner side yard; (iv) Section
12-9-7, Off Street Parking Requirements, to amend “Warehousing and Wholesaling” and
“Industrial and Manufacturing Uses”, add “Food Processing Establishment” and “Shopping
Center” in the off street parking requirements; (v) Section 12-9-9 to amend “Off Street Loading
Requirements; (vi) Section 12-9-10 to add a new section entitled, “Permitted Land Bank Parking”;
and (vii) Section 12-13-3, Definitions, to add definitions for “Corner Side Yard”, “Shopping Center”,
and to amend the definitions of “Floor Area” and “Yard, Front”.
Planning & Zoning Board Procedure: Pursuant to Sections 12-3-7.D.3 of the Zoning Ordinance,
the Planning and Zoning Board may vote to recommend approval, approval with modifications,
or disapproval. The City Council has final authority over the Text Amendments.
A motion was made by Board Member Fowler, seconded by Board Member Hofherr, to recommend
approval to City Council of the Proposed Text Amendment changes.
AYES: Fowler, Hofherr, Bader, Schell, Szabo
NAYES: None
***MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY***
Chairman Szabo advised a recommendation for approval would be submitted to City Council.
Coordinator Ainsworth noted this may be an agenda item at the May 20, 2019 City Council meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The next PZB meeting is scheduled for April 23, 2019.
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A motion was made by Board Member Fowler, seconded by Board Member Schell, to adjourn the
meeting at 8:30 p.m.
AYES: Fowler, Schell Bader, Hofherr, Szabo
NAYES: None
***MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY***
Sincerely,
Gale Cerabona, Recording Secretary
cc: City Officials, Aldermen, Planning and Zoning Board, Petitioners