2020.11.10 PZ&B Meeting Packet Community & Economic Development
1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
P: 847.391.5392 | W: desplaines.org Planning and Zoning Board Agenda November 10, 2020 Room 102 – 7:00 P.M.
Call to Order:
Roll Call:
Approval of Minutes: October 13, 2020
Public Comment: For matters that are not on the Agenda
Public Hearing:
If you would like to participate in any public hearing on this agenda but do not feel comfortable
attending the meeting in-person, please send your comments to publiccomments@desplaines.org
by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. Please limit your comments to 400 words or less. All
emails received will be acknowledged at the hearing. Individuals with no access to email may
leave a message with the City Clerk’s Office at 847-391-5311.
Old Business:
New Business:
1. Address: 1495 Howard Avenue Case Number: 20-040-TA-MAP-CU The petitioner is requesting Text Amendments to the following sections of the 1998 Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended for: (a) to add “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” to Table 5 under Section 12-7-4(G) in the Zoning Ordinance as a conditional use in the M-2 district with a footnote allowing the maximum height of the structure to exceed 100-feet and the minimum setback from property lines to be less than 50-feet as required for similar structures in the M-2 district pursuant to City Council approval; (b) add new section 12-8-14 with specific language regarding antenna support structure ownership, type of use, height, and operations in Section 12-8 of the Zoning Ordinance; and (c) add a new definition for “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” in Section 12-13-3 of the Zoning Ordinance. The petitioner is also requesting a Map Amendment under Section 12-3-7 to rezone the existing property from R-1, Single Family Residential to M-2, General Manufacturing; a Conditional Use under Section 12-8-14 to allow the installation of a Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure at the existing electrical substation on the subject property; and approval of any other such variations, waivers, and zoning relief as may be necessary.
PINs: 09-29-401-002-0000
Petitioner: Commonwealth Edison Company, c/o One South Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60603
Owner: Commonwealth Edison Company, Three Lincoln Centre, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Adjournment: Next Agenda – November 24, 2020 City of Des Plaines, in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities, who require certain accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in the meeting(s) or have questions about the meeting(s) or facilities, contact the ADA Coordinator at 847-391-5486 to allow the City to make reasonable accommodations for these persons. The public hearing may be continued to a further date, time and place without publication of a further published notice such as this notice.
Case 20-033-460 Good Ave Tentative Plat of Subdivision
October 13, 2020
Page 1
DES PLAINES PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING
October 13, 2020
MINUTES
The Des Plaines Planning and Zoning Board Meeting held its regularly-scheduled meeting on Tuesday,
October 13, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in Room 101 of the Des Plaines Civic Center.
ZONING BOARD
Chairman Szabo called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and read this evening’s cases. Roll call was
established.
PRESENT: Bader, Catalano, Hofherr, Saletnik, Szabo, Veremis
ABSENT: Fowler
ALSO PRESENT: Jonathan Stytz, Planner/Community & Economic Development
Wendy Bednarz/Recording Secretary
A quorum was present.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no Public Comment.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Board Member Hofherr, seconded by Board Member Catalano, to approve the
minutes of September 22, 2020, as presented.
AYES: Bader, Catalano, Hofherr, Saletnik, Szabo, Veremis
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY***
Case 20-033-460 Good Ave Tentative Plat of Subdivision
October 13, 2020
Page 2
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
1. Address: 460 Good Avenue Case Number: 20-033-TSUB
The petitioner is requesting a Tentative Plat of Subdivision under 13-2 of the Subdivision Regulations to
subdivide the existing lot into two lots at 460 Good Avenue, and approval of any other such variations,
waivers, and zoning relief as may be necessary.
PINs: 09-15-300-009-0000
Petitioner: Samee Baig, 10051 Potter Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Owner: Mirza Baig, 10051 Potter Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Chairman Szabo swore in Mirza Baig, representing the Petitioner. Mr. Baig explained the he is requesting
a plat of subdivision, with the current lot split into two lots. Mr. M. Baig will build a house on the front
lot, while his brother will build a house on the back lot.
Chairman Szabo asked if the Board had any questions, the following questions were asked:
Chairman Szabo asked the Petitioner if a sign was posted on the property. Mr. Baig stated that a sign
was posted and he has not received any inquiries by neighbors. Mr. Baig mentioned that some cars were
parked on the lot, but he will make an effort to have those removed.
Chairman Szabo asked if there are any plans for the houses on the subdivided lots. Mr. Baig stated that
he is working with the Building Department for a permit and architectural plans, the permit is awaiting
some minor revisions.
Member Saletnik inquired about the type of homes that were being built. Mr. Baig replied that the both
homes will have a similar layout and structure with four bedrooms and four and a half baths and three
car garages. Home 1 will be approximately 3,738 square feet with a stone façade and Home 2 will be
approximately 3,435 with a brick façade. Member Saletnik asked that drawings be included in the packet
when going before the Board for the final plat of subdivision.
Chairman Szabo asked that the Staff Report be entered into record. Planner Stytz provided a summary
of the following report:
Issue: The petitioner is requesting a Tentative Plat of Subdivision under Section 13-2 of the Des Plaines
Subdivision Regulations to subdivide one existing lot into two lots of record in the R-1 zoning district at
460 Good Avenue.
Analysis:
Address: 460 Good Avenue
Owner: Mirza Baig, 10051 Potter Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Petitioner: Samee Baig, 10051 Potter Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Case Number: 20-033-TSUB
Case 20-033-460 Good Ave Tentative Plat of Subdivision
October 13, 2020
Page 3
Real Estate Index Number: 09-15-300-009-0000
Ward: #1, Alderman Mark A. Lysakowski
Existing Zoning: R-1, Single Family Residential District
Existing Land Use: Vacant Lot
Surrounding Zoning: North: R-1, Single Family Residential District
South: R-1, Single Family Residential District
East: R-1, Single Family Residential District
West: R-1, Single Family Residential District
Surrounding Land Use: North: Single Family Residence
South: Single Family Residence
East: Single Family Residence
West: Single Family Residence
Street Classification: Good Avenue and Edward Court are local roads.
Comprehensive Plan: The Comprehensive Plan designates the site as Single Family Residential.
Project Description: __ The petitioner Samee Baig, on behalf of Mirza Baig, is requesting a
Tentative Plat of Subdivision for the existing vacant property at 460 Good
Avenue. The subject property is 25,961-square feet (0.600 acres) in size
and is comprised of one undeveloped lot, which spans between Good
Avenue on the east side to Edward Court on the west side, as shown in
the Plat of Survey.
The petitioner proposes to subdivide the existing lot into two lots of
record, one accessed from Good Avenue and one accessed from Edward
Court, and construct a new single-family home on both lots as detailed in
the Project Narrative. Both of the new lots will be the same in area, width,
and depth in accordance with the R-1, Single Family Residential bulk
regulations at 90.00-feet wide and 144.86-feet deep with a total area of
13,020-square feet. Lot 1 is the western lot that will be accessed from
Edward Court and Lot 2 is the eastern lot that will be accessed from Good
Avenue as shown on the Tentative Plat of Subdivision.
Case 20-033-460 Good Ave Tentative Plat of Subdivision
October 13, 2020
Page 4
Tentative Plat of Subdivision Report
Name of Subdivision: Baig Estates Subdivision
Address: 460 Good Avenue
Request: Approval of Tentative Plat of Subdivision
Total Acreage of Subdivision: 0.600 acres
Lot Descriptions and Construction Plans:
The petitioner’s Tentative Plat of Subdivision shows the existing 25,961-square foot property being split
into two lots. The western and eastern lots will both have 13,020-square feet in area, 90.00-feet in
width, and 144.86-feet in depth. The Tentative Plat of Subdivision shows a 5-foot public utility easement
and drainage easement at the rear and a five-foot public utility easement and drainage easement on the
sides for both lots. However, the western lot off Edward Court has a 10-foot public utility and drainage
easement in the front of the lot. Note that the Preliminary Engineering Drawings are conceptual and
have not been approved by staff. All engineering comments will be addressed in the Final Engineering
Plans at time of the Final Plat of Subdivision.
Compliance with the Comprehensive Plan
There are several parts of the 2019 Des Plaines Comprehensive Plan that align with the proposed
project. Those portions are follows:
• Under Overarching Principles:
o The Comprehensive Plan seeks to promote a wider range of housing options and to
encourage the reinvestment and preservation of established Des Plaines neighborhoods
through the addition of new housing to fit diverse needs. The proposal seeks to reinvest
in this vacant lot to promote additional residential development in the area that aligns
with the character of the surrounding established neighborhood.
• Under Future Land Use Map:
o The property is marked for Single-Family Residential land uses. These areas are
designated for detached single-family residences to maintain and improve housing
options for residents. The proposed use will transform an existing vacant lot and provide
additional single-family housing options for the community as a whole.
While the aforementioned bullet points are only a small portion of the Comprehensive Plan, there is a
large emphasis on maintaining detached single-family zoning areas and promoting the expansion of these
developments to increase housing options for residents. The petitioner is proposing to take a 0.600-acre
vacant parcel and add two new single-family residences for the community.
Recommendation: I recommend approval of the Tentative Plat of Subdivision pursuant to 13-2 of the Des
Plaines Subdivision Regulations to subdivide one existing lot into two lots of record in the R-1 zoning
district at 460 Good Avenue.
Planning and Zoning Board Procedure: Under Section 13-2-7 (Approval of Tentative Plat By Planning and
Zoning Board) of the Subdivision Ordinance, the Planning and Zoning Board has the authority to approve,
Case 20-033-460 Good Ave Tentative Plat of Subdivision
October 13, 2020
Page 5
approve subject to conditions, or deny the above-mentioned Tentative Plat of Subdivision request for the
property at 460 Good Avenue.
A motion was made by Board Member Hofherr, seconded by Board Member Catalano to approve as
presented.
AYES: Bader, Catalano, Hofherr, Saletnik, Veremis and Szabo
NAYES: None
***MOTION CARRIES ***
Case 20-033-460 Good Ave Tentative Plat of Subdivision
October 13, 2020
Page 6
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting is scheduled for October 27, 2020.
Chairman Szabo adjourned the meeting by voice vote at 7:10 p.m.
Sincerely,
Wendy Bednarz, Recording Secretary
cc: City Officials, Aldermen, Zoning Board of Appeals, Petitioners
COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
1420 Miner Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016
P: 847.391.5380
desplaines.org
Date: October 23, 2020
To: Planning and Zoning Board
From: Jonathan Stytz, Planner
CC: Michael McMahon, Community and Economic Development Director
Subject: Consideration of Text Amendments, Map Amendment, and Conditional Use for the proposed
construction of a 104-foot tall Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure at 1495 Howard
Avenue. Case #20-040-TA-MAP-CU (6th Ward)
Issue: The petitioner is requesting Text Amendments to the following sections of the 1998 Des Plaines
Zoning Ordinance, as amended for: (a) to add “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” to Table 5
under Section 12-7-4(G) in the Zoning Ordinance as a conditional use in the M-2 district with a footnote
allowing the maximum height of the structure to exceed 100-feet and the minimum setback from property
lines to be less than 50-feet as required for similar structures in the M-2 district pursuant to City Council
approval; (b) add new section 12-8-14 with specific language regarding antenna support structure ownership,
type of use, height, and operations in Section 12-8 of the Zoning Ordinance; and (c) add a new definition for
“Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” in Section 12-13-3 of the Zoning Ordinance. (d) The petitioner
is also requesting a Map Amendment under Section 12-3-7 to rezone the existing property from R-1, Single
Family Residential to M-2, General Manufacturing; (e) a Conditional Use under Section 12-7-4 to allow the
installation of a Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure at the existing electrical substation on the subject
property; and (f) approval of any other such variations, waivers, and zoning relief as may be necessary.
Analysis:
Owner: Commonwealth Edison Company, c/o Scott Saef, Sidley Austin, LLP, One
South Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60603
Petitioner: Commonwealth Edison Company, c/o Mark Primm, Three Lincoln Centre,
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Case Number: 20-040-TA-MAP-CU
Real Estate Index
Numbers: 09-29-401-002-0000
MEMORANDUM
Page 1 of 27
Ward: #6, Alderman Malcolm Chester
Existing Zoning: R-1, Single Family Residential District
Existing Land Use: ComEd Substation
Surrounding Zoning: North: R-1, Single-Family Residential District
South: R-1, Single-Family Residential District
East: R-1, Single-Family Residential District
West: Railroad; C-3, General Commercial District
Surrounding Land Use North: Single Family Residences
South: Arndt Park
East: Arndt Park
West: Metra Line; Mobil Gas Station; Safeguard Self Storage
Street Classification Howard Avenue is classified as a local street.
Comprehensive Plan
Designation The Comprehensive Plan designates this property as Transportation / Utilities /
Communication / Other.
Proposed Text Amendments
Project Description The petitioner is proposing several text amendments to the Des Plaines Zoning
Ordinance, which are as follows:
• Adding “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” to Table 5 under
Section 12-7-4(G) in the Zoning Ordinance as a conditional use in the M-2
district with a footnote allowing the maximum height of the structure to
exceed 100-feet and the minimum setback from property lines to be less
than 50-feet as required for similar structures in the M-2 district pursuant to
City Council approval;
• Adding new section 12-8-14 with specific language regarding antenna
support structure ownership, type of use, height, and operations in Section
12-8 of the Zoning Ordinance; and
• Adding a new definition for “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures”
in Section 12-13-3 of the Zoning Ordinance.
The items below will be elaborated on in their own respective subsections for ease of following.
Adding “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” as New Conditional Use for M-2 District
Currently, the zoning ordinance has specific regulations for antennas, radio transmitting towers for public
broadcasting, and commercial mobile radio service facilities as defined in Section 12-13-3. At this time, the
proposed 104-foot tall monopole with antennas would be classified as a commercial mobile radio service
facility and governed by the regulations in Section 12-8-5. However, the petitioner proposes to classify the
structure as a new use identified as a Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure and add it as a new conditional
use in the M-2, General Manufacturing district with a footnote that this use could exceed the maximum height
and minimum setbacks of similar structures within the M-2, General Manufacturing district pursuant to City
Council approval. The proposed text amendment would allow Public Utility – Antenna Support Structures
only in the M-2, General Manufacturing District. The proposed amendment is as follows:
Page 2 of 27
Add
12-7-4.G: Manufacturing Use Matrix: Adding “Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures” as a Conditional
Use in the M-2, General Manufacturing district.
MANUFACTURING DISTRICT USE MATRIX
M-1 M-2 M-3
Public Utility – Antenna Support Structures C7
Notes 7. Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures may exceed the maximum allowable M-2
district height and/or be located within a required M-2 district yard but only when the location
and height are approved by the City Council as part of a conditional use.
Adding New Section 12-8-14 for Specific Regulations for Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures
The petitioner’s proposed text amendments include adding a new, separate section within the zoning
ordinance to add specific regulations for the Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures. The proposed
amendments below look to differentiate Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures from similar
telecommunication and utility structures as well as limit their ownership and operation to public utility
companies regulated by the Illinois Commerce and/or the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The
proposed amendments are as follows:
Add
12-8-14: Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures: Adding New Section for Public Utilities – Antenna Support
Structures
A. General Requirements: Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures shall meet the following
requirements:
1. Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures shall be owned and operated by a public
utility regulated by the Illinois Commerce Commission and/or Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission.
2. Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures shall be considered a secondary use located
within the boundaries of an existing substation or other public utility-owned property,
which substation or property must be in existence prior to the establishment of the Public
Utilities – Antenna Support Structure.
3. Each Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure shall be of no greater height than
permitted by the Federal Aviation Authority.
B. Operational Requirements: Every Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure shall be fully
automated. No employees shall be stationed full-time at a structure site to support the structure
operation, except when completing periodic or emergency maintenance and repairs.
Adding New Definition for Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures
The last proposed text amendment includes the addition of a new definition for Public Utilities – Antenna
Support Structures in Section 12-3-3 of the Zoning Ordinance. The intention of this amendment is to fully
define Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures as a new type of structure and use within the Zoning
Ordinance. The proposed definition is below:
Page 3 of 27
Add
12-13-3: Definitions: Adding a New Definition for Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures
Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures: A freestanding structure of other than lattice-type
construction supporting antennae, which communicate exclusively with public utility transmission
and distribution equipment. Such structures may not include third party usage.
Map Amendment & Conditional Use
Project Description: The petitioner has requested a map amendment under Section 12-3-7 to rezone
the subject property from R-1, Single Family Residential to M-2, General
Manufacturing and a Conditional Use under Section 12-7-4(G) for the proposed
Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure use on the subject property based
on the proposed text amendments. The proposed Public Utilities – Antenna
Support Structure will exceed both the maximum height and minimum setback
restrictions for similar structures within the M-2, General Manufacturing
district, which will need to be approved by City Council pursuant to the
proposed text amendments.
Compliance with the Comprehensive Plan
There is a portion of the City of Des Plaines’ 2019 Comprehensive Plan that align with the proposed project.
Under the Future Land Use Map, this property is marked for Transportation / Utilities / Communication /
Other uses. The proposed Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structure will make improvements to the existing
electric substation as it will allow it to effectively communicate with other electric substations in the area and
increase performance.
Amendment Findings: Map and Text 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 improve transportation, utility, and communication services
city-wide in order to improve the quality of life for residents. The subject property contains an existing
ComEd electric substation that does not fit the scope or proposed development of the R-1 zoning district for
which it is located. While the subject property abuts single family residences to the north, the other
surrounding uses, including the Metra railroad and commercial businesses to the west and Arndt Park to the
east and south, the map amendment will not have a negative impact on neighboring properties. The rezoning
will bring the entire property under a zoning district tailored towards the existing uses present on the subject
property and that is consistent with the nearby manufacturing warehouse development. See also the
petitioner’s responses to standards for amendments.
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, manufacturing, and residentially-
zoned properties. However, the properties also directly south of the subject property are zoned M-2, General
Manufacturing, which are compatible with the proposed map amendment for the subject property. See also
the petitioner’s responses to standards for amendments.
Page 4 of 27
C. The proposed amendment is appropriate considering the adequacy of public facilities and services
available to this subject property:
Comment: There are currently adequate public facilities for the existing R-1, Single Family Residential
District zoned property to enable it to be rezoned to the M-2, General Manufacturing District. See also the
petitioner’s responses to standards for amendments.
D. The proposed amendment will have an adverse effect on the value of properties throughout the
jurisdiction:
Comment: The proposal would better address the existing uses operating on the subject property and make
the subject property zoning consistent with similar M-2 zoned development in the area. This request would
also allow for additional uses to be located on site as proposed in the aforementioned text amendments for
improve functionality of the existing ComEd electrical substation. See also the petitioner’s responses to
standards for amendments.
E. The proposed amendment reflects responsible standards for development and growth:
Comment: The proposal strives to meet and exceed the responsible standards required for development and
growth as it would allow for additional uses to locate on site to further improve the operation of the existing
use on the subject property. See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for amendments.
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: The petitioner is proposing a text amendment to add Public Utilities – Antenna Support Structures
as a conditional use in Section 12-7-4(G) of the 1998 City of Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance, as amended, for
properties in the M-2, General Manufacturing District. If approved by City Council, Public Utilities – Antenna
Support Structures will be a conditional use established within the M-2 zoning district, which the petitioner
proposes to the rezone the subject property to as part of this request. See also the petitioner’s responses to
standards for conditional uses.
B. The proposed Conditional Use is in accordance with the objectives of the City’s Comprehensive Plan:
Comment: The Comprehensive Plan designates this property as Transportation / Utilities / Communication /
Other given the existing electrical substation on site. The Comprehensive Plan strives to advance
transportation, utility, and communication services city-wide in order to improve the quality of life for
residents. The proposed Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure will help ComEd upgrade existing
equipment on site with newer technology and infrastructure to improve reliability of the electrical grid. See
also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional uses.
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 property and existing building has been designed for an electrical substation use. The
petitioner proposes to add one Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure on the site to improve the operation
and efficiency of the electrical substation. New landscaping proposed along Howard Avenue will help provide
additional screening of the site from the residential development located just north of the subject property.
See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional uses.
Page 5 of 27
D. The proposed Conditional Use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses:
Comment: The existing electrical substation use located on this site and within the existing building are not
hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses. Aside from its visibility from surrounding properties,
the proposed Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure will not be hazardous or disturbing to neighboring
properties. See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional 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 current electric substation use on this site is adequately served by essential public facilities
and services. Staff does not have concerns that the electric substation with the proposed Public Utility –
Antenna Support Structure use will also be adequately served by essential public facilities and services. See
also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional uses.
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 current electric substation use does not create a burden on public facilities or become a
detriment to the economic well-being of the community. There is no anticipated burden for public facilities
or detriment to the community as a result of the Conditional Use Permit for a Public Utility – Antenna Support
Structure. See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional uses.
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 Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure use is not anticipated to create additional
traffic compared to the previous auto service repair use. See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for
conditional uses.
H. The proposed Conditional Use provides vehicular access to the property designed so that it does not
create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares:
Comment: The proposed Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure use will not create an interference with
traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares. There will be no changes to the existing two access points onto
the property from Howard Avenue utilized by the existing electrical substation. See also the petitioner’s
responses to standards for conditional uses.
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 Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure use would not cause the destruction, loss,
or damage of any natural, scenic or historic features of major importance. The building and site were already
developed for an electrical substation. The petitioner plans to add landscaping and screening to improve the
aesthetics of the property. See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional uses.
J. The proposed Conditional Use complies with all additional regulations in the Zoning Ordinance
specific to the Conditional Use requested:
Comment: With the approval of the text amendments, the use will meet the requirements of the Zoning
Ordinance for the M-2 zoning District. See also the petitioner’s responses to standards for conditional uses.
Page 6 of 27
Recommendations: Staff recommends approval of the following requests from the petitioner: (i) Text
Amendments to Sections 12-7-4, 12-8, and 12-13-3 of the Zoning Ordinance; (ii) Map Amendment under
Section 12-3-7 to rezone the property from R-1, Single Family Residential to M-2, General Manufacturing,
and (iii) Conditional Use under Section 12-7-4 to allow a Public Utility – Antenna Support Structure at 1495
Howard Avenue.
Planning and Zoning Board Procedure:
The Planning and Zoning Board may vote to recommend approval, approval with modifications, or
disapproval. The City Council has final authority over the proposed Text Amendments, Map Amendment,
and Conditional Use requests for 1495 Howard Avenue.
Attachments:
Attachment 1: Project Narrative
Attachment 2: Petitioner’s Responses to Standards
Attachment 3: Location Map
Attachment 4: Proposed Text Amendments
Attachment 5: Plat of Survey
Attachment 6: Site Plan
Attachment 7: Landscape Plan
Attachment 8: Site and Context Photos
Page 7 of 27
City of Des Plaines – Development Application Addendum
Description of approvals requested
ComEd proposes to install a 104-foot Public Utilities -- antenna support structure (called
more formally by ComEd a Smart Grid distribution automation device monitoring support
structure )(“Structure”) at its electrical substation located at 1495 Howard Avenue (the
“Substation”). Given that the Substation is currently a legal non-conforming use within the
existing R-1 zoning district and also that the Public Utilities-antenna support structure use is not
proposed as an authorized use in the R-1 zoning district, ComEd is requesting that:
(1) its Substation property be rezoned from the existing R-1 zoning district to the “M-2”
General Manufacturing District,
(2) that the Des Plaines Zoning Ordinance be amended to add a new definition of a
freestanding “Public Utilities--antenna support structure” use (of which the Structure would be
one) -- separate and apart from the existing general “Public Utilities” use -- and to allow such new
use category as a conditional use only within the M-2 zoning districts; and
(3) a conditional use be approved to allow for installation of a 100-foot Structure (which
will hold five monitoring antennae) to which will be attached a 4-foot-long lightning rod at the
top.
As a regulated public utility and given that the Structure relates to core aspects of the
electrical grid, ComEd respectfully suggests that the City’s land use authority may not apply to the
company’s implementation of the Structure at its Substation. Nonetheless, ComEd is voluntarily
submitting this request in an effort to work on its project cooperatively with the City.
Project Narrative
A. Structure's role in and contribution to ComEd's Distribution Automation Network
The planned Structure at ComEd’s Substation is part of the company’s wide-ranging
implementation of its multi-year “smart grid” initiative. The smart grid initiative includes an
upgrading of the existing electrical distribution communication system with newer technology
and infrastructure. The Structure will be a key aspect of that infrastructure and technological
upgrade. Key resulting community benefits will be improved reliability of the electric grid
(through the reduction of electrical outages and the duration of outages), and increased voltage
efficiencies along each distribution line, resulting in smoother electric grid operations.
ComEd’s new technology and infrastructure involves the creation of a ComEd-only
radiofrequency network in which sensors and monitoring devices being installed within
distribution circuits and/or on distribution poles communicate in real time with antennae support
facilities like the Structure. The sensors and devices control and monitor equipment within the
distribution lines such as line reclosures, cap banks and switches which are important for
reliability and “voltage optimization” -- meaning, promotion as much as possible of a steady
voltage through a particular distribution circuit (given that voltage on a distribution line tends to
become less strong as the distance on the line increases from a particular substation). The
Attachment 1 Page 8 of 27
Structure will only communicate with ComEd's electrical devices/equipment on the electrical
grid system. It will not be used for any commercial communication services (e.g., 5G or any
other cellular telephone technologies).
The benefit of the new wireless technology can be explained with reference to a lightning
strike and its impact on a distribution line. With “legacy” technology, a lightning strike to a
distribution line would likely cause removal of a larger portion of a distribution circuit -- and the
customers served by such circuit -- until ComEd crews could determine the precise location of
the strike and re-route power around the affected area. By contrast, once the newer wireless
technology is deployed in a particular area, the sensors in the distribution circuit -- including at
the top of a distribution pole -- would communicate the fault to receiving antennae on the
Structure, which directly links to IT infrastructure tied into ComEd's centralized command and
control center. The precise area of the fault is known and crews can be dispatched efficiently to
the precise location. Further, the proposed Structure’s antennae can direct receiving equipment
on the distribution lines how to switch power around the fault.
The efficacy of the new technology depends on clear, clean wireless communication and
strong security given the criticality of the electrical grid to the nation's infrastructure system.
Existing electrical substations have been selected for locations of the support structures since
they offer necessary security, along with the indispensable link to the company's high-speed
existing IT backbone network. The necessary IT equipment accompanying the Structure will be
housed in an existing substation control building, so no new equipment enclosure is required,
thereby minimizing any external “footprint” resulting from the upgraded technology. And
electrical substations are already locations which contain pre-existing taller electrical
infrastructure (and/or community expectations for such taller infrastructure), mitigating visual
concerns.
The request for a change in zoning, text amendment and conditional use approval
(covering the 100-foot Structure and its 4-foot-tall lightning rod) is related to the need for five
receiving and transmitting antennae on the Structure (each antenna mount is a very thin two
inches in diameter, just under 5 feet long and installed only 3 feet from the Structure) to support
the approximately 210 monitoring and sensing devices to be installed in Des Plains-area
distribution circuits over the next two years.
Below is a computerized graphic which shows an existing “gap” in the ComEd
distribution automation device monitoring network. The locations with “flags” (red) indicate
existing communication structures and the proposed structure on Howard Avenue is assigned an
orange flag.
Attachment 1 Page 9 of 27
The red-colored dots in particular are existing sensors and monitoring devices in the Des
Plaines area operating on ComEd's radiofrequency network. These devices are communicating
wirelessly in particular to antennae located at ComEd's larger Rand Road substations in Des
Plaines located south of Golf Road and north of Northwest Highway. The antennae on this
structure are over capacity and do not provide optimum radiofrequency coverage, particularly for
those portions of the City located south and west, closer to O'Hare Airport. This condition will
only be aggravated as the additional approximately 210 devices are installed within Des Plaines-
area distribution circuits over the next two years. The graphic above dramatically illustrates the
important role in the network that will be carried out by the proposed Structure on Howard
Avenue.
The five antennae proposed for the Structure are needed for proper radiofrequency
capacity, since a reduced number of antennae on the Structure installed at lower heights would
result in an overburdened and less effective wireless communication system (resulting in
numerous “dropped” or “blocked” calls to use cellular telephone analogies) or “garbled”
communications related to foliage interference. For proper system functioning, the lowest
antenna should be installed at a minimum height of 35 feet to avoid foliage blockage. Each
additional antenna must be installed a minimum of 15 feet away vertically to avoid technological
interference. It is this required minimum spacing and the need for five antennae for effective
network functioning which forms the basis for the Structure's 100-foot height. A reduced number
of antennae are not enough to allow for seamless functioning of the Des Plains-area wireless
technology imbedded in (or to be imbedded in) the distribution circuits and on distribution poles.
Attachment 1 Page 10 of 27
ComEd is careful and judicious in its selection of locations for new support structures. To
the greatest extent feasible, ComEd installs its antennae on ComEd existing taller structures
(other than transmission towers where such installation is not feasible), such as taller rooftops or
existing taller microwave towers. This has been the case at the Rand Road substation in Des
Plaines at which ComEd was able to co-locate the antennae for its Distribution Automation
network on an existing taller structure already used for communications purposes. New
structures are placed at substations which have physical space within the existing footprint (so
that a physical expansion of the outer substation footprint can be avoided), space within an
existing substation control building (so that development of a new equipment enclosure is
obviated) and a secure link to the ComEd IT backbone. The Substation meets all of these criteria.
B. Depiction of similar existing Structures
Similar 104-foot Smart Grid Distribution Automation Device Monitoring support
structures can be found at ComEd's Willow Springs substation and its substation in Pleasant
Hills (near West Chicago).
Willow Springs
The Willow Springs substation carries the common address of 8600 Willow Spring Road in
Willow Springs, but it is actually located on the south side of an industrial access road (leading
to Valvoline's Willow Springs facility) across the street from a Speedway gas station and just
south of the Tri-State Fire Protection District station which is situated at 8259 Willow Springs
Road in Willow Springs.
A picture of the structure as located at the Willow Springs substation is set forth below. A
location aerial photo is also provided.
Attachment 1 Page 11 of 27
The structure is located to the rear of the substation control building. Note that if one visits the
Willow Springs substation, one will see a cellular telephone facility outside the boundaries of the
substation but adjacent to it. Know that, as noted earlier, neither ComEd's Structure at the
Howard Avenue substation nor any portion of the Howard Avenue substation property will be
used for personal wireless service (5G or otherwise) or any other commercial communications
function other than the Structure and other ComEd-only grid-related monitoring and functioning
communications.
Pleasant Hills
The Pleasant Hills substation is located on the east side of Pleasant Hill Road just south of the
Great Western Trail and St. Charles Road and a short distance south of North Avenue. The
substation is north of Geneva Road, north of the Village of Winfield and south of the Village of
Carol Stream. (The address assigned to the substation for property tax purposes is 1N701
Pleasant Hill Road, Winfield. Our experience is that this address does not show up on common
mapping applications such as Google Maps. The street address of the business to the north is
26W115 St. Charles Road in Carol Stream to provide a Google-friendly geographic reference
point.)
Attachment 1 Page 12 of 27
A picture of the structure as located at the Pleasant Hill substation is set forth below as is a
location aerial photo.
The structure in the Pleasant Hills substation is located on the north side of the substation just
west of the substation control building. Like in Willow Springs, there is a cellular telephone
Attachment 1 Page 13 of 27
facility outside of the substation itself. Again, by contrast, a cellular telephone facility does not
exist at ComEd's Howard Avenue substation and is not proposed whatsoever.
C. Technical, regulatory and permitting information
The antennas proposed for use on the Structure will operate in the frequency range of
902-928 MHz with a center frequency of 915 MHz. These frequencies are a small part of the
designated industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) radio bands. The FCC opened these ISM
frequency bands for wireless communications in 1985. Parties using this frequency range in the
manner of ComEd are not generally required to obtain use, structure or antenna licenses from the
FCC (and are not so required in ComEd's specific situation), but must comply with FCC
regulations (47 CFR Part 15) on how the frequencies are used, including the maximum output
power of the antennas on the Structure. The output power of the ComEd antennas will be
extremely low, at 1 Watt or less. Further, the antennas will only operate intermittently and will
not continuously transmit. By observing these two key operating criteria, along with compliance
with all of the other applicable federal regulations, ComEd's Structure will operate in a manner
protective of public health and safety, in that radiofrequency emissions are highly attenuated.
Other wireless devices operate in the frequency range of 902-928 MHz, with a center
frequency of 915 MHz -- most notably, ComEd's smart meters. The Structure will not being used
for smart meter functions. Although certain household wireless equipment operates at 915 MHz,
most notably certain cordless phones, baby monitors, and wireless home security systems, most
household wireless equipment now operates within the 2.4-GHz frequency band.
Like any system which chooses to operate with the ISM radio bands, ComEd's Smart
Grid Distribution Automation Device Monitoring System must tolerate the potential for
occasional interference from other wireless devices in use. At the same time, ComEd has
engineered its system to minimize any potential interference through incorporation of specific
technical features such as signal encryption and security which, like the smart meter system
using the same frequency range, have a now-proven record of safe, effective, reliable operation
without material impact to existing household wireless devices. In addition to these specific
technical features, in accordance with FCC regulations and as a technique to ensure minimal
interference, the electronic equipment used in the Distribution Automation Device Monitoring
System utilize a protocol called “frequency hopping” within subchannels spread evenly across
the frequency range of 902-928 MHz. Such “frequency hopping” allows for efficient use of the
full range of the allowable spectrum while minimizing interference risk.
The FCC is not required to review the specific siting of the proposed Structure. Instead,
parties such as ComEd may use the frequency range involved in the antennas on the Structure
without a specific license granted by the FCC so that as compliance with the detailed ISM radio
band regulations (47 CFR Part 15) is maintained. In addition, in terms of compliance with the
federal National Environmental Policy Act (to which the FCC is subject), the FCC has delegated
to each applicant the responsibility of determining whether a proposed structure is “categorically
excluded” from environmental review under NEPA when there is minimal or no impact on the
environment, or whether an Environmental Assessment needs to be prepared.
Attachment 1 Page 14 of 27
FCC rules categorically exclude all actions -- including ComEd's proposed Structure --
from detailed environmental review unless such a structure: (a) is located in a wilderness area or
wildlife preserve; (b) might affect threatened or endangered species or their habitat; (c) might
affect properties included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places
or Indian religious or cultural sites; (d) will be located in a floodplain; (e) involve construction
involving significant changes in surface features, such as effects on wetlands, water, ground
disturbances, deforestations, etc.; (f) structures of over 450 feet potentially affecting migratory
birds; or (g) structures involving high-intensity lighting in a residential area or those which
would cause RF radiation in excess of FCC-established limits.
ComEd, through its consultant team, determined that the placement of the Structure
within an existing developed substation will have none of these impacts and therefore that the
proposed Structure is appropriately categorically excluded from NEPA review.
The proposed Structure will not be required to have a beacon and/or designated paint (the
closest runway at O'Hare Airport, oriented east-west, is situated just over 1 mile to the south.
This is because ComEd received a determination from the FAA as of September 14, 2020 that its
Structure will not be a hazard to air navigation and thus no lighting or special markings are
required. ComEd's Structure will not be illuminated in any way or painted any special color.
ComEd will be applying for a building permit from the City of Des Plaines. No
additional known governmental permits are necessary. ComEd will secure any additional
necessary permits which may be identified during the building permit process.
D. Site Plan and Renderings
As can be noted on the attached Site Plan, the proposed Structure will be situated within
the Substation approximately 8 feet east of the existing substation control building and
approximately 20 feet south of the control building's northern line. The Structure will be setback
24 feet from the eastern property line and 32 feet from the nearest point on the northern property
line. The Structure will be set back approximately 110 feet from the nearest property line zoned
and used for dwelling purposes, more than its overall height.
The proposed Structure has been carefully placed within the Substation so as to maintain
the required close distance to the substation control building in which the electronic equipment
will be housed so as to minimize signal degradation while also avoiding impacts to either
existing substation electrical equipment or areas set aside for future equipment expansion (so that
the Substation continues to maintain adequate space to serve growth in the area’s electrical
demand without the need for additional and new property acquisition for construction of an
entirely new and different substation).
The proposed Structure should have limited impact on surrounding property. Dense
foliage separates the Substation from residential homes to the north, thereby providing effective
existing screening. Further, the homes along Deane Street and Illinois Street, the closest rights-
of-way with homes on them, are generally oriented east and west, further mitigating any changes
to the existing view corridors of these homes as a result of the proposed Structure. There is one
home along Howard Street across the street from the Substation, but to the west of the substation
Attachment 1 Page 15 of 27
control building. The base of the Structure, in that it will be placed to the east of the substation
control building, is by design screened by the control building and should not at all be visible
from this residence.
To the west of the proposed Structure are a variety of taller existing electrical
transmission and distribution poles, a tall communications tower and the Village's water tower.
To the east is Arndt Park, a public park. To the south is an elevated sledding hill with its own
elevated light poles as well as various commercial and industrial properties.
The Structure will face the park, but will be set back a significant distance from the
nearest area used for structured recreation and, therefore, as noted in the attached renderings, will
blend in with the numerous taller electrical and other vertical structures (not to mention the
vertical quality of the sledding hill) when viewed from the first base line of the closest ballfield.
ComEd has not proposed any new ground-level screening in conjunction with its
Structure plans. A primary reason is that virtually no new additional ground-level improvements
are proposed (for example, there is no equipment enclosure or new fencing needed, as might be
the case with a typical commercial mobile radio service facility). In addition, there is relatively
limited space between the eastern property line of the Substation and the existing fence.
Installation of plantings in this area poses security concerns for ComEd since the visibility of
potential substation intruders could be limited. It is for this reason that ComEd’s current security
protocols mandate a minimum 10-foot distance whenever possible between any plantings and the
exterior fence of a substation, a challenge for the property lines closest to the proposed Structure
location.
Attached to this application are various renderings of the proposed Structure providing a
sense of how the Structure will blend into existing views from surrounding areas.
Attachment 1 Page 16 of 27
Standards for Map and Text Amendments
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.
As part of the Future Land Use Map, the City’s Comprehensive Plan designates the
subject property for utility and communication uses (see Figure 2.1). A rezoning from R-
1 to M-2 is consistent with this aspect of the Comprehensive Plan in that it will allow the
Substation to become a conforming use in the M-2 district as opposed to the non-
conforming use that it is today under its R-1 map designation. The proposed map
amendment is also supported by the City’s Strategic Plan for 2022, “Roadmap to the
Future.” As discussed in Goal 2, Strategy 3, Action 5, rezoning the subject property to the
M-2 district ensures proper zoning district patterns for compatible uses, again in that the
existing use could be property assigned a conforming status. As discussed below, the
existing use of the subject property and the zoning patters of surrounding properties
support rezoning the subject property to “M-2.” Further, implementation in the Zoning
Ordinance of a new definition for "Public Utilities--antenna support structures" and
requiring conditional use approval for such facilities (coupled with specific limitations
clearly distinguishing the core public utility functions of such structures from similarly
looking structures serving commercial purposes) allows such facilities to remain
authorized uses within the M-2 zoning district while requiring a public hearing (with
public notice) and application of the conditional use standards to any proposed structure
of this type. This is actually more restrictive than the requirements applicable to similarly
looking commercial mobile radio service facilities which are permitted as of right up to
100 feet in height in the M-2 district so long as such structures as secondary uses on a
particular piece of property.
2.Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with current conditions and the overall
character of existing development in the immediate vicinity of the subject property.
The subject property is an electrical substation of a regulated public utility. Rezoning the
subject property to “M-2” is compatible with current conditions because, in addition to
bringing zoning conformity to the existing Public Utilities use, zoning districts in the
immediate vicinity of the subject property (most notably to the south and west) include
“M-2” and “C-3” General Commercial. Public utilities are a permitted use in both “M-2”
and “C-3” zoning districts. Rezoning the subject property to “M-2” aligns the property
with its existing use as well as the character and zoning of properties in its immediate
vicinity.
3.Whether the proposed amendment is appropriate considering the adequacy of public facilities
and services available to this subject property.
As discussed, the existing and proposed continued use of the subject property is as an
electrical substation of a regulated public utility. Rezoning the subject property to make
the existing use conforming will not alter the need for public facilities or services
available to the subject property. Implementation of the requested text amendment to
create an authorized Public Utilities-antenna support structure use actually improves the
Attachment 2 Page 17 of 27
adequacy of public facilities since it will allow for new and improved methods of
boosting the reliability and functioning of the electrical grid with minimal external
community impacts.
4. Whether the proposed amendment will have an adverse effect on the value of properties
throughout the jurisdiction.
The proposed map and text amendments will not have an adverse effect on the value of
properties. This is because the existing use of the subject property as an electrical
substation with existing taller masts and other electrical equipment will not change as a
result of the rezoning and granting of the conditional use for the Structure. The Structure
will be placed as far away from residential properties as feasible while still allowing for
future electrical capacity to be added within the Substation. The Structure will be noise-
less and unlit and, because of the existing substation control building, will not need to be
accompanied by any additional fencing or equipment enclosure. The essential nature and
functioning of the Substation will remain unchanged once the Structure is implemented.
5. Whether the proposed amendment reflects responsible standards for development and growth.
The proposed map and text amendments are related to ComEd’s unique needs for 24-
hour, 7-day per week secure, clear and stable electrical grid monitoring as a regulated
public utility, providing the community (particularly its southern and western regions)
with continued reliable and stable electric energy. As the City grows and changes, so, too,
should the state-of-the-art electrical infrastructure utilized to support such development.
Attachment 2 Page 18 of 27
Standards for Conditional Uses
1. The proposed conditional use is in fact a conditional use established within the specific zoning
district involved.
Freestanding "Public Utilities--antenna support structures" of non-lattice construction are
(as a result of the text amendments requested as part of the subject application package) a
conditional use in the “M-2” zoning district.
2. The proposed conditional use is in accordance with the objectives of the city's comprehensive
plan and this title.
The City’s Comprehensive Plan designates the subject property for utility and
communication uses as part of plan’s Future Land Use Map (see Figure 2.1). A Public
Utility--antenna support structure is fully consistent with the designated land use for the
substation parcel in the Comprehensive Plan and the Structure will advance both
objectives, offering an efficient and low-impact, low-power use of radiofrequency to help
improve grid reliability, minimize outages and stabilize distribution line voltage flows.
Additionally, the nature of the Structure’s design (tall, unlit thin vertical mast) is
essentially the same as structures allowed (or already located) on the subject property as
well as structures similarly allowed (or already located) on nearby properties.
3. The proposed conditional use is designed, constructed, operated, and maintained so as to be
harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the
general vicinity.
The Substation and various properties in the general vicinity already contain numerous
taller structures and equipment, such as metal and wooden utility poles, commercial
mobile radio service facilities, a tall water tower, light standards at the top of a taller
sledding hill and antennas installed on a variety of such existing taller structures. Many
properties in the general vicinity of the subject property (particularly to its south and
west) are zoned “M-2” or “C-3.” The “M-2” district already allows as of right
freestanding commercial radio facilities of up to 100 feet in height so long as such
facilities are a secondary principal use. The Structure will be compatible with similar
structures in the general vicinity. Its gray color will match the existing Substation
electrical equipment. It will be unlit and all associated electronics equipment will be
housed inside an existing building, minimizing any new external facilities within the
Substation.
4. The proposed conditional use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses.
The proposed Structure will not be hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring uses
because it will function as an integral, but unmanned and unlit part of the Substation, just
like any other piece of taller electrical infrastructure. In addition, the Substation and
various nearby properties, particularly south and west, currently contain numerous
structures of similar size and form. Other than the Structure, no additional adjustments to
the Substation are proposed, thus minimizing any external effects. While there are
residential homes to the north of the Substation, these homes primarily face east and west
Attachment 2 Page 19 of 27
and thus will have limited, if any, views of the Structure. One home on Howard Avenue
faces south, in the vicinity of the subject property. However, views of the Structure from
this home will be mitigated by the east and north facades of the substation control
building (given that the Structure will be east of the control building). Existing dense
foliage provides screening of the Substation and its associated structures from points to
the north in the residential subdivision. Finally, the very low (1 Watt or less) output
power of the ComEd antennas coupled with their only-intermittent operation (along with
compliance with all of the other applicable federal regulations) will allow ComEd's
Structure to operate in a manner protective of public health and safety in that
radiofrequency emissions are highly attenuated.
5. 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 the persons or agencies responsible for the
establishment of the proposed conditional use shall provide adequately any such services.
Installation of the Structure at the Substation will not increase the need for the Substation
to be served by any new essential public facilities or services.
6. The proposed conditional use does not create excessive additional requirements at public
expense for public facilities and services and not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the
community.
The proposed Structure will not create any additional requirements at public expense for
public facilities or services. To the contrary, the Structure's function will be to effectively
pinpoint and minimize outages, allowing for power re-routing and restoration as quickly
as possible and in as surgical a manner as possible. The Structure will also help even out
the flow of electricity through the distribution lines. Both Structure functions will
promote reliability of the electric grid, thereby boosting the City's economic welfare and
public services.
7. 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.
The Structure will not be detrimental to any persons, property, or to the general welfare.
The Structure will be unmanned, silent in its operation and unlit. The Structure will
consist of a silver-grey steel pole, similar to numerous existing support structures on and
nearby the subject property and in this way will blend into the existing look and function
of the Substation.
8. The proposed conditional use provides vehicular access to the property designed that does not
create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares.
The Structure will not obstruct vehicular access to the Substation nor, in that it will be
generally unmanned, will it interfere with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares.
Attachment 2 Page 20 of 27
9. The proposed conditional use does not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of a natural,
scenic, or historic feature of major importance.
The Substation and nearby properties currently contain numerous taller structures such as
poles, masts and light standards of comparable height and form. The addition of the
Structure will not destroy, diminish, or damage any natural, scenic, or historic feature of
major importance.
10. The proposed conditional use complies with all additional regulations in this title specific to
the conditional use requested.
The proposed conditional use will comply with all regulations outlined in the Zoning
Ordinance (assuming the proposed text amendments included in this application are
adopted by the City Council immediately prior to the requested conditional use approval).
Attachment 2 Page 21 of 27
Attachment 3 Page 22 of 27
Proposed Text Amendments
1.Add “Public Utilities -- antenna support structures” to Table 5 in Section 12-7-4 as a
Conditional Use in the M-2 zoning district, with a footnote indicating that such uses may
exceed the allowable M-2 height and/or be situated within an otherwise required M-2 yard
only when such adjustments are approved by the City Council as part of a conditional use.
Uses M-1 M-2 M-3
Public Utilities --
antenna support
structures
C 7
7 Public Utilities--antenna support structures may exceed the allowable maximum M-2 height
and/or be located within a required M-2 yard but only when the location and height are
approved by the City Council as part of a conditional use.
2.Add the following to Section 12-8 as a new Section 12-8-14:
12-8-14: Public Utilities -- antenna support structures
1. General Requirements: Public Utilities -- antenna support structures shall meet the
following requirements:
a. Public Utilities -- antenna support structures shall be owned and operated by a
public utility regulated by the Illinois Commerce Commission and/or the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission;
b. Public Utilities -- antenna support structures shall be considered a secondary
use located within the boundaries of an existing substation or other public utility-owned
property which substation or property must be in existence prior to the establishment of the
Public Utilities -- antenna support structure.
c. Each Public Utilities -- antenna support structure shall be of no greater height
than permitted by the federal aviation authority.
2. Operational requirement: Every Public Utilities -- antenna support structure shall be
fully automated. No employees shall be stationed full-time at a structure site to support the
structure operation, except when completing periodic or emergency maintenance and repairs.
3.Add a definition of "Public Utilities -- antenna support structures" to Section 12-13-3 as
follows:
PUBLIC UTILITIES -- ANTENNA SUPPORT STRUCTURES: A freestanding structure of
other than lattice-type construction supporting antennae which communicate exclusively with
public utility transmission and distribution equipment. Such structures may not include third-
party usage.
Attachment 4 Page 23 of 27
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Page 26 of 27
1495 Howard Ave – Public Notice
1495 Howard Ave – Looking Southeast at Property
1495 Howard Ave – Looking Southeast at Front of Site
1495 Howard Ave – Looking Southwest at Side Yard
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