McHenry Times

City of Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission met May 15.

Here is the minutes provided by the commission:

The meeting was called to order by Chairman Hayden at 7:30 p.m. On roll call, members Esposito, Goss, Greenman, Jouron, Philpot, Skluzacek, and Hayden were present.

Elizabeth Maxwell, City Planner, and Katie Cowlin, Assistant City Planner, were present from Staff.

Mr. Hayden asked those in attendance to rise to say the Pledge of Allegiance. He led those in attendance in the Pledge.

Mr. Hayden stated that this meeting was being televised now, as well as, recorded for future playback on the City’s cable station. He added to please use the sign in sheets in the rear of the Chambers and he will call the names from the list for anyone who wishes to speak.

APPROVE MINUTES OF THE MAY 1, 2019 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING

Mr. Jouron moved to approve the minutes from the May 1, 2019 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting as presented. Mr. Skluzacek seconded the motion. On roll call, all members present voted aye. Motion passed.

2019-69 Ace Hardware – 435 S Main St – PUBLIC HEARING

Final Planned Unit Development Amendment for the expansion of the outside storage and sales area.

Mr. Hayden stated that the sign had been posted. He said the surrounding property owners were notified and the Certificate of Publication was in the file. Mr. Hayden waived the reading of the legal notice without objection.

Adam Ziegler was present to represent the petition. Mr. Ziegler said he is the co-owner of a nine-store chain based in Elgin. He is requesting approval for additional outside storage for goods. They bulk up in the spring with mulch, rock, etc. and in the winter they bulk up on salt. He said they had received two approvals previously for their outside storage. Mr. Ziegler said they are asking to use a portion of the northern parking lot. Staff is suggestion to move the new storage area to the west so 4 spaces would remain available. He said they are also requesting a wooden fence to screen the area. They would like to have a 2-sided fenced area so the trucks can maneuver easier. They would also like an 8 foot tall fence since more products come on pallets and the stacks are taller than 6 feet.

Mr. Hayden asked if the petitioner had any concerns with conditions listed in the staff report. Mr. Ziegler said they would like everything that was previously approved to remain and they would prefer a 2-sided fence for the ease of truck traffic.

There was no one in the public who wished to comment on this request. The public portion was closed at this time.

Mr. Goss said he has no problems with an 8-foot fence and feels it is appropriate in that location. He also does not have an issue with the request for a 2-sided fence. He supports the petition.

Mr. Skluzacek said he has no problem with the request. There are still plenty of parking in the area. Mr. Ziegler said there are a lot of spaces still available.

Mr. Jouron said he is ok with an 8-foot fence.

Mr. Greenman said he likes what they are doing. His only comment would be that when the area is not being used for storage, that the spaces be available for parking. He also reminded the petitioner that “stuff” collects in those areas and asked that they monitor it. Mr. Greenman said it is great that they are doing so well in Crystal Lake and glad they are here.

Mr. Philpot agreed with Mr. Greenman’s comments.

Mr. Esposito said he agrees with the comments that were previously made. He asked about the storage on the side of the building. Mr. Ziegler said it is storage for the overstock and they fill from that area.

Mr. Hayden asked about the donation bins that have recently appeared. Mr. Ziegler said he understands they need to have a masonry structure around them, which he will not do. He will contact the company and have them removed.

Mr. Goss moved to approve the Final Planned Unit Development Amendment for expansion of the outside storage and sales area with an 8-foot tall 2-sided fence for Ace Hardware at 435 S. Main Street with the following conditions:

1. Approved plans, reflecting staff and advisory board recommendations, as approved by the City Council:

A. Application (Ziegler’s Ace, received 04/19/19)

B. Site Plan (Ziegler’s Ace, undated, received 04/19/19)

C. Fence detail (Ziegler’s Ace, undated, received 04/19/19)

2. The overall planned unit development approval and all subsequent amendments are still in effect unless modified by this ordinance.

3. Shift the outside storage area over to the west into the striped area, which would leave 4 available parking spaces on the east end of the parking row.

4. The petitioner must address all of the review comments and requirements of the Community Development, Fire Rescue, Police, and Public Works Departments.

Mr. Philpot seconded the motion. On roll call, all members voted aye. Motion passed.

REPORT FROM PLANNING

Ms. Cowlin discussed the items that were reviewed by the City Council and what will be on the agenda for the June 5, 2019 meeting.

COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION

Mr. Goss asked about the age restricted subdivision on Ridgefield & 14. Ms. Cowlin said the owners are still working on the plans.

There were no other comments from the Commissioners. The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

https://ecode360.com/documents/CR2206/public/493758479.pdf