Village of La Grange Public Hearing and Board of Trustees met April 8.
Here is the minutes provided by the board:
CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Board of Trustees of the Village of La Grange regular meeting and public hearing was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Village President, Thomas Livingston. On roll call, as read by Village Clerk John Burns, the following were:
PRESENT:
Trustees Gale, Holder, Kotynek, Kuchler and McCarty, with President Livingston presiding.
ABSENT:
Trustee Arnett
OTHERS:
Village Manager Andrianna Peterson
Village Attorney Mark Burkland
Public Works Director Ryan Gillingham
Community Development Director Charity Jones
Finance Director Lou Cipparrone
Police Chief Kurt Bluder
Fire Chief Don Gay
President Livingston asked Village Clerk John Burns to lead the audience in reciting the pledge of allegiance.
2. PUBLIC HEARING - FY 2019-20 Operating and Capital Improvements Budget
President Livingston explained the budget development process and indicated that notice of this Public Hearing had been posted and published according to State Statute. Copies of the proposed budget document have been available for inspection at the Village Hall, the La Grange Public Library and posted on the Village website. President Livingston noted that the Village Budget is a living document and resident input is welcome throughout the year.
Finance Director Cipparrone reported that current revenues continue to meet with the current operating costs of the Village. No changes to the budget figures have been made since the preliminary budget was presented.
Public Works Director Gillingham reported that a busy construction season is planned in 2019. Work includes replacing the water main on Ashland and Blackstone as well as resurfacing the streets. Brewster Avenue water main will also be replaced and the road resurfaced. Two Village parking lots are scheduled to be rebuilt with grant funds received from the Metropolitan
Water Reclamation District. The Illinois Department of Transportation will also be resurfacing La Grange Road.
Resident Tim Sheldon expressed appreciation to the Village for addressing his concerns raised at previous meetings.
President Livingston stated that the Village receives 12% of the property bill, which provides Police, Fire and Public Works services.
Trustee McCarty commended staff on their work to ensure that the Village receives the best value for their tax dollar.
At 7:45 p.m. with no additional oral or written comments provided, President Livingston closed the public hearing and noted that final action will be taken on Monday, April 22, 2019. The regular Village Board meeting was convened, with the same Village Officials as the Public Hearing in attendance.
3. PRESIDENT'S REPORT
A. Appointment - Laurie Braun, Environmental Quality Commission
President Livingston reported on the recommended appointment of Laurie Braun to the Environmental Quality Commission. President Livingston stated that Ms. Braun has been an active part of the La Grange community with previous accomplishments such as serving on the Library Board.
A motion was made by Trustee McCarty and seconded by Trustee Kotynek to approve the appointment. Approved by a voice vote.
President Livingston announced that earlier this evening the Liquor Commission met to consider a liquor license for two new restaurants in La Grange. Blackberry Market at 36 S. La Grange Road and Milkstop at 700 W. Burlington Avenue. Both restaurants anticipate opening within the next few months and will be excellent additions to our already vibrant restaurant scene. He encouraged everyone to shop and dine in La Grange.
President Livingston announced that House Bill 345 was passed statewide increasing the smoking age to 21. He also noted that April is alcohol awareness month and thanked the Coalition for a Drug Free Lyons Township for their efforts.
President Livingston announced that La Grange was featured in the March, 2019 issue of Chicago Magazine as having one of the five most charming downtowns in the Chicago area. La Grange is also prominently featured in the April, 2019 issue of West Suburban Living Magazine as our many of our stores and restaurants. The Village appreciate the accolades and hard work of our businesses and business association to create a premier downtown environment.
President Livingston announced that he attended the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce meeting recently with Village Manager Andrianna Peterson and Community Development Director Charity Jones. President Livingston also stated that he attended the Metro Mayors
Caucus lunch where he discussed issues facing area municipalities such as pension reforns and regional storm water concerns.
President Livingston congratulated Community Development Director Charity Jones as the recipient of the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce's Regional 30 Under 40 recognition. The initiative identifies 30 individuals in the area who are making a significant impact on our region.
President Livingston congratulated those who ran for Village Trustee and stated that the Oaths of Office would be presented at the May 13 Village Board meeting.
4. MANAGER'S REPORT
Manager Peterson announced that IDOT plans to resurface La Grange Road from 31st Street to Joliet Road beginning April 8, 2019. The project scope will consist of milling and resurfacing the existing pavement, intermittent sidewalk, curb and gutter replacement, and drainage structure repairs as required. The contractor for the work is K-5 Contractors of Westmont, Illinois. Construction is expected to occur throughout the summer with an anticipated completion date of September, 2019 depending on weather.
Generally the contractor will be working between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. In order to construct the project, La Grange Road will be limited to one lane in each direction during various periods of the project. The significance of these lane restrictions is that we anticipate substantial traffic congestion along this roadway and surrounding area especially during the early morning and evening commutes. We recommend that motorists select alternative routes to avoid the anticipated congestion along the roadway.
Parking on La Grange Road will be limited during some stages of the work. Specifically no parking notices will be posted in advance for activities such as grinding and resurfacing that require access to the parking areas. We anticipate that street parking will be available in the evenings along La Grange Road. It is recommended that visitors and delivery companies be notified of the impending construction. Throughout the project the La Grange Police Department will be monitoring local roadways for violators of local traffic laws such as truck traffic on local roadways. The public is asked to please drive cautiously through the work zone and be aware of equipment and workers, and as always the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
Manager Peterson also announced that in partnership with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), the Village will be reconstructing several parking lots in the Central Business District with permeable pavers. The parking lots included in the project are Parking Lot 8 (Madison and Harris Avenues) and the surface parking lot on Harris Avenue (adjacent to the parking structure.) In addition to improving the driving surface, this project is an environmental initiative to reduce the discharge of storm water to the Village's sewer system. We anticipate that the parking lot improvements will occur during the summer. Both projects will be coordinated with the downtown signature events this summer to reduce impacts as much as possible. We will provide periodic updates on construction operations, changes to traffic detours and progress through notifications on the Village's website.
Manager Peterson announced that the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, in conjunction with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the Brookfield Zoo, will host a household hazardous waste collection day on Saturday, April 13th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the North Parking lot at the Brookfield Zoo located at 8400 W. 31st, Brookfield IL. The Zoo will also be hosting Party for the Planet which will include electronics recycling, textile recycling and paper shredding. A number of other family activities are also planned. For more details please visit the Village's website or Brookfield Zoo website.
Manager Peterson announced that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is coordinating a national effort to collect unwanted, unused, and expired medications on Saturday, April 27, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The La Grange Police Department will serve as a regional drop off facility and the public may bring accumulated, unwanted, expired, and unused prescription drugs for safe destruction to the Police Department located at 304 W. Burlington Avenue. A list of acceptable and unacceptable items is available on the Village's website.
Manager Peterson announced that the Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) is offering compost for no charge to residents, non-profit organizations, and governmental agencies within Cook County. The MWRD's compost, called EQ Compost, is produced by blending biosolids, woodchips, grass clippings, and leaves. Residents of Cook County, municipalities, park districts, golf courses, schools, and non-profit organizations can order bulk compost directly or have their landscaping contractor pick it up at the two EQ Compost distribution centers. Free delivery is available for orders of 10 cubic yards or more. For more information please visit the MWRD's website or the Village website.
Manager Peterson announced that Village offices will be closed on Friday, April 19. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, April 22 beginning at 8:30 a.m. As always a full complement of public safety personnel will be available in the event of an emergency.
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS None (unrelated to Item 7B).
6. CONSENT AGENDA AND VOTE
A. Ordinance – Creating an Additional Class A-2 Liquor License, Mak's House La Grange, LLC d/b/a Mak's House
B. Professional Services Agreement Extension - Municipal Engineering Services
C. Professional Services Agreement - a5 Inc.
D. Resolution - IDOT Permit for Work on State Right-of-Way
E. Award of Contract - FY2019-2020 & FY2021-2021 Tree Removal Program
F. Ordinance – Disposal of Surplus Property - Fire Department
G. Resolution - Request to Close La Grange Road - Pet Parade
H. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Special Meeting, Saturday, March 9, 2019
I. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Monday, March 11, 2019
J. Consolidated Voucher 190325
K. Consolidated Voucher 190408
A motion was made by Trustee Holder and seconded by Trustee McCarty to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
Approved by a roll call vote:
Ayes: Trustees Gale, Holder, Kotynek, Kuchler, and McCarty
Nays; None
Absent: Trustee Arnett.
7. CURRENT BUSINESS
A. Special Event - La Grange Business Association Carnival
President Livingston asked Trustee Kotynek to introduce the item. Trustee Kotynek stated that The La Grange Business Association has requested approval of their annual carnival which is scheduled to commence on May 31, 2019.
As part of the approval process, the Village Board will need to formally approve the temporary closure of Harris Avenue from La Grange Road to Ashland Avenue; waive restrictions which prohibit the consumption of alcohol on the public way; waive restrictions for the outdoor display and sale of goods and services in the C-1 Zoning District; and approve carnival rides as temporary uses. Separately, the Liquor Commissioner will consider granting permission to the LGBA to sell alcohol during this special event and could impose any additional restrictions deemed appropriate.
A motion was made by Trustee Kotynek and seconded by Trustee Holder to approve the Special Event - La Grange Business Association Carnival.
Approved by a roll call vote:
Ayes: Trustees Gale, Holder, Kotynek, Kuchler, and McCarty
Nays; None
Absent: Trustee Arnett.
B. Consideration of an Application by DTLG Investments, LLC - Presentation Jackson Square
Antique Mall and Law Office Properties – 112 E. Burlington Avenue
President Livingston asked Trustee Holder to introduce the item. Trustee Holder stated that DTLG Investments, LLC (the "Applicant”) is the owner of the property at 112 E. Burlington
Ave. and contract purchaser of the property at 5 6th Ave. (together the "Subject Property") and is seeking approvals to allow a residential planned development the Applicant calls La Grange Condominiums. The proposed development includes a five story building; 50 dwelling units on floors two through five (30 two-bedroom units and 20 three bedroom units); 83 parking spaces within the first floor of the building, which is located partially below grade; a plaza that will be open to the public; a storm water management facility under the proposed building and plaza area; pedestrian improvements at 6th Ave. and Burlington Ave., streetscape improvements along Burlington, 6th, and 7th Avenues; landscaping on the Subject Property and within the rights-of-way of Burlington, 6th, and 7th Avenues.
All improvements on the Subject Property, including the landscaping, plaza, and storm water management facility are proposed to be owned and maintained by a home owners' association
("HOA”). A development agreement between the Village and Applicant will govern maintenance requirements for privately owned infrastructure.
The zoning approvals sought include (1) an amendment to Article IV, Section 4-110 of the Zoning Code to reduce the minimum required lot area per unit from 910 square feet to 740 square feet for a Planned Development in the R-8 zoning district, (2) an amendment to the Zoning Map to reclassify the Subject Property from C-1 Central Commercial to R-8 Multiple Family Residential District, (3) a Planned Development (“PD"), (4) a Special Use Permit, and (5) Site Plan approval.
On August 24, 2018, the Village hosted a pre-application meeting at which the Applicant received comments from the Village staff and selected Trustees and Plan Commissioners. The Applicant received feedback that the proposed development should be sensitive to the surrounding area and consider the architecture of the existing Jackson Square Antique Mall building.
The Applicant filed its application to the Village on October 4, 2018. Staff provided comments on the initial submission and the Applicant submitted revised plans on December 12, 2018. The application was then scheduled for Plan Commission consideration.
The Plan Commission conducted a public hearing on January 8, 2019, to review the application. The Applicant presented plans for the 50-unit residential condominium building. The proposed building included 83 parking spaces; 24 traditional parking spaces, 28 tandem parking stalls (total of 56 parking spaces), and three guest parking spaces. The garage parking was proposed to be accessed via a secure garage door located along 7th Ave. The storm water management facilities were proposed to be located underneath the building. A plaza was incorporated at 6th Ave. and Burlington Ave. and was intended to be open to the public, but owned and maintained by an HOA. The Applicant was also proposing a pedestrian improvement (bump out) at 6th and Burlington Avenues.
At the January 8 public hearing session, residents raised concerns related to traffic, the proposed minimum yards (lack of setbacks), and the appearance of the building from 7th Ave. The Plan Commission expressed general support for the proposed rezoning and development of the property for residential use. The Plan Commission expressed concerns related to bulk, specifically the proposed zero foot yards and proximity of the proposed balconies on the south side of the building to the adjacent building at 11 6th Ave. The Plan Commission expressed support for the proposed building design along Burlington Ave., but shared concerns about the
lack of architectural details and the amount of brickwork on other elevations. The hearing was continued to February 12 to allow the Applicant an opportunity to revise the proposed plans. At the February 12 public hearing session, the Applicant presented revised plans that increased the distance between the west property line along 6th Ave. and the exterior wall of floors 2-5 from zero feet to approximately 10 ft. The other proposed yards (setbacks) were not changed. A number of residents spoke and expressed concerns about the proposed development, particularly s related to the building setbacks and safety concerns regarding sight distances at the intersection of 6th and Burlington Avenues.
Some residents also expressed concerns related to the demolition of the existing Jackson Square Antique Mall building. Staff noted that since the Subject Property is located within the La Grange Historic District and the Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places, any redevelopment that involves approvals by state agencies will trigger a review by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The Applicant restated their position from the January 8 public hearing session that certain elements of the building would be salvaged for use within the proposed building or as a gift to the La Grange Historical Society. The Applicant also stated their intent to install informational signage in the proposed plaza describing the history of the original building. Staff has recommended that, in addition to those intentions, the Applicant should contact SHPO to coordinate any permit requirements in advance of construction.
During deliberation after the public hearing, the Plan Commission expressed general concerns regarding the amount of requested zoning relief related to bulk standards. Specifically, the Plan Commission noted the requested zoning relief for building coverage and the lack of building setbacks from the south property line. The Plan Commission articulated concerns regarding a lack of green space between the proposed development and the multi-family residential building at 11 6th Ave. The Plan Commission also expressed concerns regarding the proposed text amendment regarding allowable lot area per unit, specifically, the precedent that the proposed text amendment may establish. At the Applicant's request, the Plan Commission voted on a motion to recommend approval of the Application. The motion failed on a 2-4 vote and thus the Plan Commission's recommendation, under the Zoning Code, is to deny the Application.
Since the February 12 public hearing session the Applicant has revised its site plan and building plans. The Applicant's preferred proposal is reflective of the previously presented building design and includes a north wing along Burlington Ave. at the east end of the proposed plaza. A second concept plan presents an alternative option that eliminates the north wing and with it two dwelling units and resident common areas. Aside from the inclusion or exclusion of the north wing and resulting changes to the plaza, the two plans are the same. However, detailed plans have not been provided for the alternative concept plan. As indicated in the February 12 staff memorandum to the Plan Commission, the Applicant had not finalized all engineering details for the proposed development. As the Applicant refined the engineering plans, they discovered that the plans did not match the previously submitted architectural plans with regard to the footprint of the building. The Applicant has determined that the previously submitted architectural plans inaccurately understated the size of the building, which impacts the proposed building coverage calculations previously presented. At the January public hearing session the Applicant's architectural plans for the proposed development reflected a garage floor level that was 24,917 sf, which equates to a proposed building coverage of 68% for the Subject Property. The garage level is the controlling figure because it is the largest floor and although it is mostly below grade along 6th Ave., per the Zoning Code, building coverage includes portions of a lot covered by buildings or structures below grade. The recently submitted revised plans reflect a 29,471 square foot garage level, and therefore a proposed building coverage of 79.63%. The Zoning Modifications Table below has been updated with the current, corrected data.
The development as proposed by the Applicant does not meet some of the Zoning Code standards. As part of its application, the Applicant is requesting modifications of those standards. The Zoning Code provisions regarding planned developments allow modifications under certain circumstances. Table 1 lists the applicable Zoning Code standards and the requested modifications from those standards. The Village Board has the authority to grant the requested modifications under the planned development provisions of the Zoning Code.
The revised plans reflect a larger setback from the south property line, on the western half of the Subject Property. The parking garage level (which is mostly below grade on the west half of the site and above grade on the east half) has been revised to maintain a minimum 6.4 ft. setback from the south property line. The garage level previously had no setback from the property line. Related to the garage level changes, the Applicant removed some of the building elements that previously extended beyond the principal plane of the building's south elevation near the south property line. Previously, the Applicant proposed terraces/patios on the southwest side of the building and 5.75 ft. to 6.75 ft. tall privacy walls surrounding them, located at the property line. The revised plans include planters situated 6.8 ft. from the south property line on the southwest side of the building. These planters are approximately two and a half feet tall near the southwest corner of the building and increase gradually to approximately four and a half feet tall near the midpoint of the building. Further, the Applicant moved the southwest stairwell into the building (previously the stairs were located on the property line) and recessed the ground level (2nd floor) patio/terrace on the southwest side of the building. The Applicant also recessed the southeast stairwell into the building; the remaining features on the southeast side of the building are unchanged from prior submittals.
Above the garage level, building floors two through five maintain a minimum setback from the south property line of at least 10 ft. and up to 16 ft. at the southeast side of the Subject Property. The proposed balconies of floors two through five located immediately adjacent to 11 6th Ave. have been recessed into the building. Previously, these balconies were approximately nine feet from the building at 11 6th Ave. All portions of floors two through five of the proposed building that are situated immediately north of 11 6th Ave. now maintain at least a 15 ft. between the buildings.
The alternative concept plan that eliminates the north wing of the building would create a 15.9 ft. setback from the north property line (along Burlington Ave.). The Applicant would still be seeking a proposed modification from the required 17 ft. corner side yard of just over a foot.
The R-8 District limits building coverage to 40% and lot coverage to 60%. The Applicant's proposed development reflects a building coverage of 79.63% and lot coverage of 82.83%. The proposed building coverage is calculated based on the size of the garage level, because it is the largest floor of the building and the Zoning Code defines building coverage to include all portions of a lot covered by buildings or structures at, below, or above grade. Precise figures are not available yet from the Applicant; however, the Applicant estimates the percentage of the lot covered by only those building floors fully above grade (floors two through five) is approximately 65-66%.
The alternative concept plan that includes removal of the north wing of the building would eliminate two dwelling units and resident common areas and result in a lower building and lot coverage. Precise figures are not available yet from the Applicant; however, the Applicant estimates that the alternative concept plan may result in a proposed building coverage of 74% and a proposed lot coverage of 79%.
The Applicant's original proposal includes 50 dwelling units, resulting in 740 square feet of lot area per unit. The Applicant's alternative concept plan includes 48 dwelling units, resulting in a lot area per unit of 771 square feet. Both are below the minimum 910 square feet allowed by the Zoning Code.
Based on the size of the Subject Property, to fully comply with the Zoning Code requirements for lot area per unit, the development could include up to 40 dwelling units.
In the R-8 District, the Zoning Code requires 1,300 square feet of lot area per unit for "by right” development and authorizes the Village Board to reduce that standards to 910 square feet of lot area per unit for PDs in the R-8 district. The Applicant's proposed text amendment would authorize a higher density development (roughly 18.7% more units based on 740 square feet of lot area per unit) than is currently possible even as a PD.
The Applicant has revised the language of their proposed text amendment since the February 12 public hearing session. The revised language narrows the request to allow the reduced lot area per unit of 740 square feet (or 771 square feet if the alternative concept plan is selected) only for R-8 PDs that include below-grade structured parking in quantities sufficient to meet Zoning Code minimum parking requirements.
Staff recommends an alternative approach to the text amendment if the Village Board wishes to narrow the proposed text amendment. Instead of basing the standard on the circumstances related to a particular building, staff suggests that a geographic boundary is a potential appropriate measure on which to base a change. The La Grange Comprehensive Plan designates the area within a quarter mile of the Metra stations as the “BNSF Corridor.” One of the Comprehensive Plan's key recommendations for this area is that future development be transit supportive by encouraging higher housing densities. The Comprehensive Plan notes that high density residential in the BNSF Corridor is characterized by multifamily dwellings in a condominium format (buildings with shared lobbies and centralized parking facilities) with structures that are four to five stories. Staff recommends that if the Village Board wishes to allow higher density developments in R-8 PDs, the text amendment be written to apply in the area within and adjacent to the BNSF Corridor.
If the minimum lot area per unit is reduced, the development still would be subject to the many other PD standards and Village oversight as provided in the Zoning Code, including the intended purposes and goals of PDs.
The Applicant has revised the landscaping plans to incorporate some of the comments from the Village's consulting landscape architect. The plans were not submitted far enough in advance of the Board meeting for the Village's consulting landscape architect to review the plans. The revised landscaping plans incorporate streetscape elements along Burlington Avenue from 6th to 7th Avenues. As discussed with staff, these elements are to match the downtown commercial streetscape and include features such as decorative paver sidewalks, landscaping, trash cans, raised landscaping planters, benches, new street lighting, and parkway trees ithin appropriate planting areas. Staff and the Applicant have also discussed plans for compensating amenities in the form of additional streetscape improvements east of the Subject Property if the development is approved.
The Applicant has submitted engineering plans for the preferred plan to incorporate some of the comments from the Village's consulting engineer. A detailed review of the plans is ongoing.
The Applicant has not yet provided a plat of resubdivision to the Village for review, which will be necessary to consolidate the two existing lots comprising the Subject Property. Once submitted, the Plan Commission will review the plat of resubdivision prior to approval by the Village Board
Chapter 152 of the La Grange Municipal Code regulates subdivisions/resubdivisions and final plats. Section 152.16(8) requires that every plat dedicate the equivalent of at least one acre of land for each 75 building sites or family living units. The Applicant is proposing a 50 unit building and therefore is required to provide 0.66 areas of public land to the Village. Per the Municipal Code if the required land dedication is less than an acre, the requirement can be waived by the Village Board. For the recent Mason Pointe development, the Village accepted a fee in lieu of land to meet the code requirement.
The Applicant has provided additional materials to demonstrate the sizes of existing yards for the Jackson Square Antique Mall building and the law offices building. The current Jackson Square Antique Mall building has zero front yards along portions of Burlington Ave., the south (rear) property line, and directly adjacent to 120 E. Burlington Ave. The existing law offices building is setback roughly 22 ft. from the building at 11 6th Ave.
Although the Applicant is proposing to rezone the Subject Property to R-8, the Applicant has also provided an illustrative exhibit to demonstrate what could be constructed on the Subject Property "as of right" under the current C-1 Central Commercial District standards. The Zoning Code does not have minimum required yards for the C-1 District. Buildings in the C-1 District are limited in height to three stories or 45 ft., whichever is less. The floor area ratio is limited to three, meaning that if 100% of the lot is covered, the maximum height of the building would be three stories. The Applicant's exhibit illustrates a three-story building (each floor is 15 ft.) for a total height of 45 ft. with zero foot yards, which could be constructed on the site if it remained zoned C-1.
Vince Mancini from the development team introduced the proposed development and provided an overview.
President Livingston thanked him and stated that the Village appreciates their investment and strives to balance progress with the concerns of current residents. President Livingston stated that there would not be a vote on this item at the meeting. The two options going forward were to table the item, or to send it back to the Plan Commission for further review.
Trustee Gale inquired as to the distribution of residential versus commercial properties in the BNSF corridor and other residential units in the BNSF corridor. Community Development Director Jones responded that commercial properties do outweigh the amount of residential properties in the corridor area. Some examples of residential properties include 14 S. Ashland, Uptown and 1 N. Beacon.
Trustee Gale inquired as to storm water and parking concerns that this new development may raise. Public Works Director Gillingham responded that the storm water change would be a significant improvement and would include a concrete vault below the property.
Trustee McCarty inquired as to the possibility of creating commercial on the first floor of the development in order to promote a pedestrian feel and maximize the use of the space. Ms. Jones responded that parking would not be required for commercial, but would be for residential. Three stories would be the maximum height that could be built "as-of-right" under the current zoning. Mr. Mancini stated that they did not intend to increase the height of the development.
Trustee Kuchler thanked the developers for considering La Grange. He noted that while the development has a lot to offer La Grange, he is concerned about pushing the relief farther than other developments. He also questioned how the plaza will be identified as being public.
Matthew Kline representing 11 S. 6th Avenue commented that while the project is generally beneficial, he believes that the building is too large and is close to the lot line of a 100 year old building to the south. He stated that the plan is requesting large deviations from the code and suggested that the project would be more appealing if the building was set back further from 6th Avenue. He said that the residents of 11 S. 6th are seeking as much space as possible between their building and the proposed building. He also expressed concerns about tandem parking counting as two spaces instead of one. While there are many positives to the project, he does not believe there is enough benefits to justify the variances the developer is requesting.
Resident Matt Larson of 15 S. 6th Avenue commented that while he supports projects like this, he believes that the proposed building is too large and suggests setbacks on the south side be increased.
La Grange Business Association (LGBA) Director Nancy Cummings read a statement from the LGBA stating their support for the development as it would increase residents in the downtown who will walk, shop and dine at La Grange businesses.
Realtor Joan Smothers, from the development team, commented that residents in the proposed condo building would likely be using Metra to commute down into the city, so tandem parking should not be a concern. It is a project that adds residents but would likely not place a strain on the local school districts.
Resident Heather Cavanaugh of 400 E. Maple expressed her support of the development.
Trustee Gale stated that he likes the project and supports it overall, however he believes that the size remains a factor and that he supports the Plan Commission taking another look at the changes made by the applicant.
Trustee Kuchler inquired further in regards to the tandem parking. Ms. Jones responded that the zoning code does not recognize tandem parking as an option. Trustee Kuchler stated that if tandem parking is counted as one spot then it would not meet the zoning requirement. He did not believe that the Village has had a proposal for tandem parking in the past. He noted that he did not consider the public plaza as counting towards the subdivision code requirements for public land dedication. He stated that he was in favor of the Plan Commission reviewing the proposal again. He believes that removing the annex may be one way to get closer to reducing the size concerns.
Trustee Holder recommended that the item be referred back to the Plan Commission as changes have been made. He believes that the building complements the downtown and is beautifully designed. He believes that the annex should remain as it provides more character. He noted that the Planned Development allows the Village Board to bridge gaps between the strategic plan, comprehensive plan and zoning code.
Trustee McCarty noted that La Grange is an evolving Village not stuck in time. He supports much of what has been said, particularly that the Planned Development process allows the
Village Board to tailor standards to the unique characteristics of individual sites. He is comfortable with the height and further residential development in the BNSF corridor and feels the development is generally appropriate for the market. He shares the concern regarding the tandem parking as he is not aware of any other zoning code that would count tandem parking as more than one space but noted that a lesser amount of parking may be appropriate for the proposed development. He noted that the setback on 6th Avenue is something to look at as it is still out in front of the adjacent property to the south. He noted that the annex adds more than takes away, and that two units will not make much of a difference. He believes that the amenities for the building are important. He agreed to refer the matter back to the Plan Commission.
Trustee Kotynek commented that he liked the design of the building and believes it is an upgrade to what is currently at the location. He noted the struggle with setbacks, density and tandem parking. He agreed that the matter should be referred to the Plan Commission.
President Livingston stated that the consensus of the Village Board was to send the item back to the Plan Commission for further review. He commented that directionally, the feedback regarding the project is positive. The applicant has heard concerns regarding size and density as well as mixed feedback regarding the annex. He asked that the Plan Commission consider the matter with deliberate speed. A potential special meeting in May could be an option depending on progress.
A motion was made by Trustee Holder and seconded by Trustee McCarty to refer the Applicant's proposed development, as revised, back to the Plan Commission for a public hearing regarding the elements of the development discussed by the Board of Trustees. Approved by a voice vote.
8. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
9. TRUSTEE COMMENTS
Trustee Gale thanked everyone for their participation.
Trustee Holder thanked residents for their comments on the Budget and he thanked staff for their revisions in response.
10. CLOSED SESSION
None.
11. ADJOURNMENT
At 9:45 p.m. Trustee Holder made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Trustee McCarty. Approved by a voice vote.
https://www.villageoflagrange.com/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2210
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