Development News for Brookfield, Illinois

Commission Approves Variation for Garage Replacement on Non-Conforming Lot

The Planning and Zoning Commission considered a request for variations regarding building coverage and green space requirements for replacing a non-conforming one-car garage with a two-car garage at 363306 Sunnyside Avenue. The existing garage is old and in disrepair. The variation sought is to increase the minimum building coverage from 35% to 40.5% and reduce the minimum required green space from 40% to 35.3%. The commission recommended approval of the variation, noting the substandard lot size and the benefit of removing a car from street parking. The case will proceed to the village board on June 8th.

Commission Recommends Approval for Cannabis Dispensary with Conditions

The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a Special Use Permit application for a cannabis dispensary at 9500 Ogden Avenue. The applicant, Tanya Griffin of Water and Trees, aims to redevelop the existing, dilapidated building into a modern dispensary. The proposal includes raising the roof, creating a new facade, and improving the parking lot, with 18 parking spaces planned. Concerns were raised by commissioners and the public regarding the building's exterior appearance, particularly the east elevation facing Dubois Avenue, traffic patterns, and the potential impact on the neighborhood. The petitioner committed to working with the village on architectural improvements, including adding glass to the Dubois Avenue facade. The commission recommended approval of the Special Use Permit with several conditions, including specific operating hours, ownership change requirements, a six-month timeline for commencement, substantial compliance with submitted plans, and exterior facade improvements. The case will proceed to the village board on June 8th.

Parking Variation Request for Apartment Building Continued for Further Review

The Planning and Zoning Commission discussed a request for variations to allow stacked parking spaces and an increase in nonconformity of a structure at 8905 Planefield Avenue. The property is a 4-unit apartment building with 6 parking spaces, requiring 8. The petitioner requested two additional parking spaces, approximately 14x16 ft each, to meet code. Concerns were raised about the definition of stacked parking and the accuracy of the building's unit count, with evidence suggesting a potential fifth unit in the basement being marketed. The commission noted that variations for parking space dimensions are not permitted by code. Due to these concerns, a motion was made to continue the case to the next meeting on June 25th for further investigation and discussion with staff.