HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1988MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
January 11, 1988
Room 2403 -- 7:30 P.K.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, R. Warshaw, J. Korshak, J. Bleveans
and J. Rudy
Ald. Absent: L. Morton
Staff Present: R. Carlson, C. Powers, B. Ahlberg and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Rudy
Minutes of December 21, 1987.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of December 21, 1987
as submitted. Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
Memo re Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning & Development Committee Joint
Meeting.
The Committee discussed alternative meeting dates for the joint meeting since
the original date of February 1 needs to be rescheduled due to the City
Council budget hearing. The Committee suggested as alternative dates for the
joint meeting Monday, February 15 or Monday, February 29, 1988. Staff
Indicated that the Zoning Board of Appeals members would be contacted
regarding those dates.
ZBA Public Notice for January 19, 1987.
Ald. Warshaw suggested that the public notice be placed on a letter size sheet
of paper to allow for ease of reading and handling.
October -December Monthly Rehab Report.
The Committee received a three month rehab report.
OLD BUSINESS
Docket 256-118-87. Ordinance 111-0-87. Amending Building, Zoning and Related
Fees.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
proposed amendment regarding sworn contractor's statements. Staff explained
that this matter would not be discussed at the City Council meeting of January
11, 1988, but would be introduced with other amendments to numerous building
codes at the January 25, 1988 meeting. The additional amendments are being
held until January 25, 1988 so that the thirty (30) day waiting period is not
disrupted for the current amendments that were original introduced in November
1987. Committee voted 5-0 to approve the amended Ordinance 111-0-87.
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P & D Minutes
January 11, 1988
Housing Rehabilitation & Property Maintenance and Building & Zoning
Departments Inspection Procedures.
Chairman Rudy stated that since this information was requested by Ald. Morton
absent) this matter would be held over to the January 25,1988 meeting. Ald.
Brady requested that staff forward copies of the reports to the Housing
Commission members for their information.
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 3-1A-88. Request from Northwestern University (owner) and Nordon
Investments Corporation re Plat of Consolidation for 1727-35 Benson Avenue.
Mr. Martin Norkett was present and explained that the plat of consolidation
was necessary to allow for proper building permits to be issued. Kr. Norkett
explained that his development (southeast corner of Benson and Clark) would be
a man's clothing store. Norkett further stated that the structure basically
was in good condition but had a very poor roof which he would be repairing.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of the subject plat of consolidation. Committee voted
5-0 to approve.
Docket 4-I,A-88. ZAC 87-1. Zoning Amendments re Transitional Housin&.
Ald. Warshaw stated that her reading of the ZAC transcript finds that this was
one of the worst that she had encountered. She felt that ZAC was not prepared
or informed to allow for discussion of the transitional housing topic. She
suggested that ways be developed to better prepare ZAC for complex topics such
as this. She objected to a statement in the transcript where it was felt that
transitional housing property would automatically be removed from the tax
rolls. She stated that this would not necessarily be the case. Ald. Brady
stated that she seconded Ald. Warshaw comments. She stated that she believes
that a lack of understanding of exactly what transitional housing consists of
led to this transcript. Ald. Brady stated that she would like the P A D
Committee to consider amending the recommendation to allow, as a special use
In all zoning districts, transitional housing. She stated that to do so may
require referring the issue of licensing to the Human Services Committee which
was similar to the residential care provisions. She felt that the
transitional housing issue would be easier to address than was the residential
care (group home) issue. Ald. Warshaw stated that the Committee should also
consider allowing transitional Housing as a special use in Industrial and
Commercial Districts. At this point the Committee had a lengthy discussion
regarding the definition of family and how that applied to transitional
housing. Bob Ahlberg, Zoning Planner, was present and explained various
options set forth in the zoning ordinance regarding definition of family.
Ald. Brady stated that she felt that transitional housing would consist of
possibly two (2) to three (3) families that share a home similar to congregate
living facilities.
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P & D Minutes
January 11, 1988
Ahlberg discussed with the Committee the ZAC report dated November 5, 1987 in
which four (4) concepts were explained on pages 3 and 4 of said report. Ald.
Warshaw stated that she concurs with and understands concepts 1, 2 and 3.
Chairman Rudy informed the Committee that he was contacted by Ms. Laura Baren
of the YWCA and was informed that her organization was in the process of
developing a transitional housing project that would meet the current zoning
requirements. Ahlberg explained that the Committee basically had two
alternatives: (1) to create a new term, "transitional housing," in the zoning
ordinance and (2) to continue to authorize concepts 1, 2 and 3 and create a
new concept 4 in the zoning text. Ald. Brady stated that in her opinion a
true" transitional housing project probably would not meet concepts 1, 2 and
3. The Committee discussed how the Cradle would be classified' Ahlberg
stated that it could be possible that if the Cradle complied with the zoning
ordinance and rooming house requirements that it would fall under concept 3.
The Committee discussed possibly allowing for rezoning for transitional
housing in lieu of a text amendment. Ahlberg cautioned the Committee about
rezoning which could be challenged as "spot zoning."
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded to direct staff to develop proper
wording to allow a text amendment to implement the new concept number 4 as
explained in the aforementioned November 5, 1987 ZAC recommendation. The
Committee considered whether numerical limitations should be placed on various
types of transitional housing in the various districts. The Committee
recommended that the staff's draft require that transitional housing be a
special use in all districts and that the issue of number of occupants will be
discussed after the Committee reviews the draft.
Staff was directed to bring this matter back before the P b D Committee when
proposed wording was developed.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Committee is January 25, 1988.
Staff:
obert T. Rud
70(2/4)
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The next regular meeting of the P & D
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
January 25, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, R. Warshaw, J. Korshak, J. Bleveans,
L. Horton and J. Rudy
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, C. Powers, B. Ahlberg and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Rudy
Minutes of January 11, 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning 6 Development Committee meeting of January 11, 1988 as
submitted. Committee voted 4-0 to approve the minutes (Aldermen Rudy and
Horton absent).
Docket 14-lB-88, Plat of Consolidation re 2502 Princeton.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of the plat of consolidation for property located at
2502 Princeton (northwest corner of Princeton and Harrison). Committee voted
4-0 to recommend to City Council approval of the plat of consolidation
Aldermen Rudy and Horton absent).
Housing Rehabilitation & Property Maintenance and Building & Zoning
Departments Inspection Procedures.
Rudd provided a brief explanation of the procedures for inspection of building
projects between the Housing Rehab and Building & Zoning Departments.
Catherine Powers, Director of Housing Rehabilitation and Property Maintenance,
explained to the Committee the procedure for approving field changes with
respect to rehabilitation projects. Powers explained that any work outside of
the scope of rehabilitation guidelines must receive prior approval of the City
before it can be undertaken. Ald. Brady noted that the current rehab
guidelines allow homeowners to choose their own contractors and she finds that
in most cases homeowners elect to do so rather than have the City select
contractors for them. Ald. Horton questioned if staff could explain
situations when rehab clients have alleged that work was not done properly or
not completed per their expectations. Staff explained tQ the Cormittee that
in many situations all needed repairs are not undertaken in a rehab project
since the guidelines limit the amount of money available to the applicant and
also the applicant's ability to repay further limits the funds utilized.
Staff also explained to the Committee that once a project is completed the
owner signs -off and accepts the work. Experience has shown that over several
years, in many instances, some applicants have not provided proper
maintenance, thus leading to deterioration of previous rehab work. Ald.
Morton questioned whether the City provided maintenance t.aining programs for
rehab clients? Staff indicated that the City currently does not have such a
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P & D Minutes
January 25, 1988
program. Ald. Horton suggested that the City contact Neighbors At Work to
inquire as to whether that agency can develop a training program for rehab
clients to teach them proper maintenance procedures. Staff indicated that
they would be in touch with Neighbors At Work to follow up on this suggestion.
Docket 4-1A-88, ZAC 87-1. Zoning Amendments re Transitional Housing.
Ald, Bleveans stated that he would support the proposed zoning amendments if
transitional housing projects would be viewed as special uses. Ald. Korshak
stated that his initial reaction was that there was evidence in the transcript
that some members of ZAC were uninformed regarding the issue. However, he
stated further review finds that staff memorandums in July and August, 1986
introduced -nd explained the concept of "transitional housing." Ald. Korshak
questioned whether the P & D Committee should establish a joint meeting with
ZAC similar to the upcoming meeting with ZBA to discuss various issues? Ald.
Warshaw stated that a joint meeting might be helpful since that would allow a
more constructive forum to discuss different points of view between P & D and
ZAC rather than having to react to the ZAC transcript in the course of a P & D
Committee meeting. Aid. Brady stated that she sees in the ZAC transcript the
traditional, philosophical point of view that is often reflected. She stated
that she doesn't necessary have a problem with the joint meeting.
Chairman Rudy suggested that the Committee consider the problem that ZAC
wrestled with regarding transitional housing with respect to allowing such a
use in R-1 zoned residential districts. Ald. Brady reviewed the transcript
dated August 6, 1987 (page 53) in which Bob Ahlberg, Zoning Planner, provided
a description to ZAC by comparing the parallel process of review for group
homes. In that transcript Ahlberg also explained the relationship between R-1
Districts and the proposed uses. Ald. Brady stated that she favors a maximum
occupancy of eight (8) in the lower "R " Districts. Ald. Warshaw questioned
whether special uses could be conditioned by the size of the building? Ald.
Warshaw also stated that she was concerned about making zoning requirements so
prohibitive that the City would not receive any transitional housing
proposals. She further stated that since the City proposes a special use
process and a licensing procedure that there appears to be no need for a
specific number limiting occupants to be set forth in the ordinance. She
stated that this could be determined during the zoning and licensing
hearings. Ald. Horton expressed a concern that not -for -profit agencies could
be developing transitional housing. She felt that it is possible that such
agencies may be viewed in a more favorable light than a private concern and
receive special consideration even through the special use process. Ald.
Morton also expressed concern with monitoring such a proposal as a
transitional housing project. Ald. Brady explained to the Committee that
occupancy of a transitional housing project would most likely be a young woman
with one (1) or two (2) children who have not had the opportunity to structure
their lives in a productive manner. Ald. Brady stated that it is expected
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P & D Minutes
January 25. 1988
that residents of transitional housing would remain in the home for three (3)
to six (6) months. Ald. Horton questioned whether battered women would be
eligible for transitional housing? Ald. Brady stated that it was possible,
but that transitional housing would be more inclined to be occupied by a lower
income population with problems different from a battered woman's situation.
Ald. Morton questioned whether a transitional housing program could be viewed
as another welfare program? Ald. Brady reminded the Committee that the City
would not be supporting the transitional housing project and that it would be
operated by an outside agency. Chairman Rudy stated that at this time the
City was only proposing guidelines to allow transitional housing in the zoning
ordinance and with licensing regulations. Ald. Warshaw stated that the intent
of transitional housing was to provide help to allow possible welfare
recipients to establish a stable family situation with the end goal that of
being removed from welfare. Ald. Horton questioned whether transitional
housing could be limited to only City of Evanston residents? Chairman Rudy
reminded the Committee that the issue at hand was only that of zoning and some
of these other issues would be addressed through licensing if the Committee
proceeded in that manner. Ald. Brady stated that the licensing requirements
would probably state a preference for City of Evanston residents, but that
would be determined later. Ald. Horton expressed concern with possible City
expenses for various subsidized programs. Ald. Horton stated that she felt
that this could be an additional expense for the City somewhere in the future
and was concerned that the City appears to be losing its upward mobile
population since that segment may view the City as being a welfare City on the
northshore. She questioned whether there is a better way to handle
perspective residents of transitional housing?
Bob Ahlberg explained to the Committee the proposed limitations of occupants
based on the square footage and other restrictions on living area contained in
the BOCA Existing Structures Code, Ald. Brady stated that she was willing to
limit transitional housing projects to no more than two ??) within the City.
Ald. Brady moved that staff draft an ordinance to allow no more than two (2)
transitional housing facilities, as currently defined, be allowed in the City
of Evanston at one time. Ald. Warshaw seconded the motion.
Ald. Korshak questioned whether neighboring towns have been involved with
group homes as indepth as the City of Evanston? He further questioned whether
the agencies operating transitional housing will have a difficult time
relocating residents within a three (3) to six (6) month time frame.? He felt
that it was possible that there would be no alternative laving arrangement and
that residents of transitional housing may stay longer than the three (3) to
six (6) month period. Ald. Korshak suggested that during the licensing
process that consideration be given requiring the agency operating a
transitional housing project to relocate residents within a specific time
period. Upon the call of the question the Committee voted 5-1 to direct staff
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P & D Minutes
January 25, 1988
to draft the aforementioned ordinance. Voting Aye: Aldermen Brady, Bleveans,
Korshak, Warshaw and Rudy. Voting May: Ald. Horton.
Ald. Bleveans requested an updated list of ZAC references. Ald. Brady
requested that staff develop a memo explaining the definition of family as
discussed at the January 11, 1988 P & D meeting. Ald. Warshaw requested that
staff also provide a clarification of her reference to ZAC regarding an
amendment to the definition of family.
Ad.7 ournmen t
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is February 8, 1988.
Staff:
Robert T. Rudd
70(2/5)
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DRAFT,10T APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
February 8, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: J. Bleveans, S. Brady, L. Horton, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: J. Korshak
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, G. Yant, B. Ahlberg and Reed Carlson
Presiding Official: J. Rudy
Minutes of January 25. 1968.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of January 25, 1988 as
submitted. Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes (Aldermen Korshak
absent).
Staff Report re Site Plan Review Committee Opinion Survey Results.
A staff report indicating an approximate 10% return from an anonymous opinion
survey sent to all persons appearing before the Site Plan Review Committee was
discussed. Ald. Brady suggested that the opinion survey be discontinued due
to the fact that all respondents indicated a satisfactory experience with the
Committee and that the low percentage return may indicate satisfaction with
the system. Ald. Warshaw questioned the process used in the mailing and the
return of the opinion survey, and that respondents who had a negative
experience may have been reluctant to return the survey form. Carlson replied
that the survey form was sent out in a completely anonymous manner with
returns being to the Building & Zoning Department. Ald. Bleveans suggested
that the opinion survey be handled on a yearly one time mailing basis for all
those who have appeared before the Committee in the past year. Ald. Warshaw
endorsed the yearly mailing suggestion and commented that the extended time
frame may prompt additional responses. Ald. Bleveans moved that staff be
instructed to continue the opinion survey with a single mailing at the end of
each year, and a subsequent report on the results to the P & D Committee. The
motion was seconded by Ald. Warshaw. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the
motion (Ald. Korshak absent).
Revised List of Pending References to ZAC.
A staff memo dated January 26, 1988 was reviewed by the Committee. Ald. Brad% -
inquired as to the reference regarding the 800 block of Chicago Avenue.
Ahlberg replied that ZAC voted to refer this matter to the Zoning Commission
for inclusion in the comprehensive zoning, amendment as part of a forthcoming
report on the Commercial Districts. He further noted that ZAC will be
requesting that two of the three remaining be referred to the Zoning
Commission. Ald. Brady commented that such referral to the Zoning Commission
is in accordance with the proposed comprehensive zoning amendment. No action
was required by the Committee.
P g D Minutes
February 8, 1988
Occupancy of Dwelling Unit Regulations - Summary Memorandum.
A staff memo dated February 2, 1988 was reviewed by the Committee. There was
no formal action required by the Committee.
Clarification of Ald. Warshaw's Reference re Occupancy of Dwelling Units.
A staff memo dated February 2, 1988 regarding a reference to the Zoning
Amendment Committee to amend the zoning ordinance to permit two type A
families to occupy single-family dwellings was reviewed. The Committee
discussed the intent of this ordinance would be to limit authorizing two
unmarried people and their respective children to reside in a single-family
detached or single-family attached home. Ald. Warshaw suggested that there
could possibly be another level of definition of family that being type D, to
allow two adults and their children to reside together in a single dwelling
unit. She further noted that any authorization for this type of housing
should be worded so as not to cause undue alarm. Ald. Horton moved to
eliminate this item as a reference to ZAC and instead referred it to the
Zoning Commission for review in conjunction with the comprehensive revision to
the zoning ordinance. The motion was seconded by Ald. Bleveans. The
Committee voted 5-0 to approve the motion.
ZBA 87-29-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2600 Orrington Avenue.
A copy of the report of the final decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals
granting a variation for construction of a second story addition was received
by the Committee without comment.
ZBA 87-30-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 3247 Park Place.
A copy of the ZBA report granting a variation for construction of a one story
addition on the above noted property was received without comment.
ZBA 87-31-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 2408 Hartzell Street.
A copy of the ZBA report on the final decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals
for construction of a one story addition at the above noted property was
received without comment.
Minor Changes for 1100 Forest - Planned unit Development (PUD).
A memo from the City Manager dated February 2, 1988 outlining several minor
changes approved for the 1100 Forest planned unit development was discussed.
Ald. Brady commented on the meeting scheduled with the homeowners and that
said owners may be sending a report to the Committee regarding various change:
made or contemplated to be made by individual owners. Ald. Warshaw commented
that owners purchasing in the planned unit development project should receivr
information on the obligations of their purchase as they relate to control
over the exterior features of their individual buildings. Sommers -Pant
replied that this is now in the process of being done and has been delayed du.
to the fact that certain owners identity Was not revealed to the City until
December, 1987. No formal action was required by the Committee.
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p & D minutes
February 8, 1988
Docket 4-1A-88. Ordinance 6-0-88 . Zoning Amendments re Transitional Housinf,
and Proposed Reference to Create Licensing Requirements.
The proposed Ordinance 6-0-88 and a staff memo dated February 4, 1988 were
discussed by the Committee. The staff memorandum suggested reference to the
Human Services Committee to develop licensing requirements for transitional
housing prior to introduction and adoption of said zoning ordinance
amendments. Ald. Brady commented that it is probably preferable to develop
licensing regulations prior to adoption of the zoning amendments, as
recommended by staff. Ald. Warshaw suggested that the zoning ordinance
amendments should be forwarded to the Human Services Committee for
consideration of licensing regulations along with a memo explaining the
concerns of the Committee regarding the ordinance. Ald. Morton expressed
reservations regarding the number of homes that could be established under the
ordinance and regulations. Ald. Brady explained that it was the intent to
allow a minimal number of said homes (only two). Szymanski stated that
prescribing a specific maximum number of homes in either the zoning or
licensing ordinance maybe difficult. She suggested as an alternative
consideration of a minimum distance requirement that could serve the same
limiting purpose. She stated further the distance regulations such as
contained in the group and residential care ordinance and regulations would be
defensible. Ald. Brady noted that of all the population groups that the City
has tried to serve in the housing area that this type of housing seems to be
the least controversial and that the special use process would be a wise
control. Ahlberg noted that the opepation by a non-profit entity has been
deleted from the definition and that the previous references to alcohol or
narcotic use have been replaced with substance abuse. He also noted that the
public need section in the special use conditions would be a controlling
factor. Ald. Bleveans moved to accept the staff report and refer Ordinance
6-0-88 to the Human Services Committee for drafting of license regulations.
Motion was seconded by Ald. Warshaw. The Committee voted 4-0 to approve the
motion (Ald. Horton absent).
Docket 27-2A-88. Ordinance 4-0-88. Amending. Building, Zoning and Related Fees
Ordinance 111-0-87.
Ordinance 4-0-8B and a staff memo was reviewed by the Committee. The staff
memorandum explained that this amendment to the existint ordinance would
require submission of a sworn contractor's statement for any construction
project in excess of $100,000. projects with a cost of less than $100,000
could upon request of the Director of Building & Zoning be required to submit
a sworn statement. Ald. Warshaw moved to approve introduction of Ordinance
4-0-88, the motion was seconded by Ald. Bleveans. The Committee voted 4-0 to
approve the motion (Ald. Horton absent).
Docket 28-2A-88, Ordinance 5-0-88, Amending BOCA National Building Code.
Ordinance 5-0-88 and a staff memo were reviewed by the Committee. Ald.
Bleveans stated his feeling that tenants should have a choice of which type of
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P & D Minutes
February 8, 1988
locks to install in their doors and that the double cylinder key dead bolt in
his opinion offer greater security. Ald. Brady endorsed the concept of no
double cylinder dead bolt locks in single entry apartments as a way to lessen
the hazard of fire. Ald. Brady moved to approve introduction of Ordinance
5-0-88, the motion was seconded by Ald. Warshaw. The Committee voted three
ayes and one nay (Ald. Bleveans) to approve introduction of said ordinance
Ald. Morton absent).
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is February 22, 1988.
Staff: aa_/n-
Reed Carlson
70(215)
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DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
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DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
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Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
ZBA Members Present:
Staff Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Special Joint Meeting
Planning & Development Committee
and
Zoning Board of Appeals
February 29, 1988
7:30 P.M. - Room 2403
J. Bleveans, S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
None
W. Whitney, R. Claessens, R. Carey, S. Peters,
R. Molumby and V. Fields
D. Rasmussen, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
J. Rudy
1Q
Minutes of Planning & Development Committee of February 24. 1988.
Ald. Bleveans requested that the minutes reflect that he was briefly in
attendance at the subject meeting though he did not vote on the items on the
agenda.
Ald. Brady stated that with respect to page 4 of the subject minutes, Docket
36-28-88, the Committee vote should be 114-1" (Ald. Korshak voting nay) rather
than the 5-0 as indicated. Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the
Committee approve the minutes of the Planning & Development Committee as
amended. Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
Communications
The Committee received a memorandum indicating that the new chair of the P & D
Committee would be Ald. Warshaw beginning March 7, 1988.
Joint Meeting - P A D Committee and ZBA.
Chairman Rudy reviewed briefly with the Committee a list of agenda items on a
memorandum dated February 25, 1988. After introduction of all members of ZBA
and the P & D Committee. the group reviewed item #1 on the agenda which
addressed the "operating procedures of each group and any perceived problems
one group has with the other group's procedures". Ald. Bleveans began by
stating that it was his opinion that a joint meeting is not an attempt to have
P & D members influence ZBA decision making. He stated that he felt that the
joint meeting provided an opportunity to exchange information and to educate
each group on the other's concerns and procedures. Bill Whitney, ZBA
Chairman, stated that sometimes a lack of sensitivity is expressed between
both bodies to the cases reviewed by the two groups. He stated that it is his
feeling that a joint meeting will allow for an exchange of ideas, concerns and
provide a better understanding of each groups processes. Ald. Horton
questioned an earlier request at the P & D Committee to have in written form
Minutes - Special Joint Meeting
P & D Committee and ZBA
February 29, 1987
the Zoning Board's hearing procedures to allow audience members to know in
advance how the meeting will be conducted. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director
of Zoning, stated that an outline of procedures is available at each hearing
for all members of the audience to review. Rasmussen stated that he would
forward a copy of the procedures to the P & D Committee. Ald. Brady stated
that she was pleased with the recently adopted procedure to have audience
members sign in and indicate whether they are for or against a proposal.
Chairman Whitney reviewid briefly with the Committee his opening remarks for
each Zoning Board meeting which details the procedures to be followed that
night. Ald. Morton questioned whether the Zoning Board noticed any difference
since an explanation sheet of the hearing process has been provided? Peters
indicated that there appears to be no difference but also noted that since the
use of the explanation sheet the ZBA has not had any hearings of a
controversial nature. Ald. Brady discussed with the group the P & D
Committee's Rules of Procedure. She asked that copies of the Rules and
Procedure be forwarded to the ZBA for their review. Ald. Warshaw stated that
the P & D Committee oftentimes has a different duty than ZBA, i.e. a political
role. She stated that the P & D Committee deals not only with zoning issues
but also the politics of the issues. Ald. Warshaw felt that the P & D
Committee needed to deal with the effect of a request on the constituents and
not just the letter of the law. Chairman Whitney indicated that ZBA members
will often receive calls as do P & D Committee members. He stated that in
cases when he received a call he informs the caller that he cannot discuss the
case if it has not been heard. Ald. Brady questioned whether the ZBA has
adequate information in the P & D Committee's minutes to understand the P & D
Committee's reasoning, particularly when the P & D Committee overturns a ZBA
recommendation? Chairman Whitney stated that most times enough information is
provided. Ald. Bleveans questioned how the ZBA Rules of Procedure are
changed? Rasmussen indicated that ZBA can change their procedures and that
changes can be initiated by staff, subject to approval by the ZBA. Ald.
Korshak questioned ZBA members as to whether steps have been taken to control
the length of a meeting and also the time allowed to hear lengthy cases?
Whitney indicated that as Chairman he attempts to obtain from the applicant an
estimate as to how long a case will run. Whitney also stated that attempts
are made to control the number of cases on each docket in order to hear and
complete as many cases as possible in one meeting. Peters indicated that it
is often difficult to predict the length of case. Claessens indicated that he
would like to see the ZBA try to do more in controlling the length of hearing
for complex cases and that ZBA may do so by determining the number of
witnesses and the expected length of testimony. Molumby stated that it is
difficult to predict how well some petitioners are prepared. He stated that
sometimes it is necessary to draw out of the petitioner the information
requested and to lead the petitioner in addressing the variation standards
that must be met. Ald. Korshak suggested that the Chairman should not try to
limit unprepared petitioners and give them as much aid as possible. Ald.
Horton questioned what ZBA does with petitioners who are without legal
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Minutes - Special Joint Meeting
P & D Committee and ZBA
February 29. 1987
representation? Rasmussen explained that standards are reviewed with the
applicant and it is often recommended that new applicants attend a ZBA hearing
prior to their own hearing so that they fully understand the procedures and
how the hearing is conducted. Peters stated that whether a case is large or
small the standards do not change. and that the applicants must attempt to
address the specific standards. Ald. Brady suggested that applicants be
supplied some sample transcripts pertaining to similar applications for their
review. Ald. Horton observed that she prefers the current formality of the
ZBA procedures and structure versus her own experience with the ZBA several
years ago, which was very informal. Chairman Whitney stated that he tries to
be formal and provide structure, but not to be imposing or intimidating.
The Committee reviewed agenda item #2 which questioned "how should variation
standards be applied until comprehensive amendments to the Zoning Ordinance
are adopted?" The P & D Committee briefly reviewed the reasons for not
adopting previously suggested variation standards by both the ZAC and ZBA. It
was felt at the time that the zoning consultant and Zoning Commission could
better comprehensively review the standards and all of the issues involved and
provide a better set of rules. Both groups acknowledge that to do so accepts
that variation standards may not be changed for two (2) years. Ald. Warshaw
questioned whether it was possible to discuss with the ZBA any clarification
of standards now so that both groups feel more comfortable in the interim?
Peters stated that he doesn't have a problem with the P & D Committee delaying
the decision until the comprehensive amendment is made but believes that the P
D Committee is satisfied with the current standards and the way they are
applied, at least until a new ordinance is developed. Peters stressed that
the ZBA tries to apply the standards in a realistic manner even though it is
oftentimes difficult due to the applicant's preparation or the wording of the
standards. The P & D Committee explained that their review of the variation
standards found that the recommendations on cases to be realistic and provide
obvious and needed relief but could be construed to open up Pandora's Box when
viewed in another light. Therefore, it was recommended to have the zoning
experts and Zoning Commission address the matter. Ald. Korshak reviewed the
Inadequacy of the current standards, particularly related to the issue of
desire to make a profit". Ald. Korshak stated that he feels the variation
standards should be addressed and that use variations should be eliminated
from the Zoning Ordinance. Chairman Rudy stated that in his opinion bulk
variations sometime are more unsettling and difficult to visualize but can be
a much larger problem than a use variation. Fields questioned whether the
zoning consultant would meet with ZBA? Ald. Brady indicated that the zoning
consultant is scheduled for a number of meetings and that a ZBA member
Peters) is on the Zoning Commission to pass on the concerns of the ZBA.
Ald. Rudy questioned whether all the ZBA members voted the same way on most
cases? Chairman Whitney indicated that in many cases the votes are unanimous,
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Minutes - Special Joint Meeting
P & D Committee and ZBA
February 29, 1987
but that is not necessarily true in all cases. Chairman Whitney stated the
ZBA always tries to be true to the standards in making a decision and also be
fair to the applicants. Claessens indicated that the cases that cause the
greatest problems are those of "use elimination" (Gordon's Drug, Yesterday's
Restaurant, 319 Dempster). Ald. Brady indicated that the P & D Committee has
the same problems when addressing the "use elimination" cases. Ald. Warshaw
indicated that many times the neighborhood testified and supported a retention
though the P & D Committee does not simply make their decision based on
neighborhood support. She stated that the P & D Committee looks for the
end -purpose of the legislation in making their decision.
The Committee discussed item #3, which addressed "clarification of when
comments made by a board member during the deliberations of the board on a
case are considered testimony". This issue came to light recently when a
variation for 1414 Pitner was sent back to ZBA at the direction of the P & D
Committee and the request of the applicant's attorney who alleged that she did
not have an opportunity to rebut comments made in deliberation by the ZBA
chairman. Ald. Brady stated that she feels that ZBA members can and should
bring out in deliberations some of their own knowledge and understanding of
the case. She questioned whether legally there was a problem with this.
Peters stated that the question is whether a ZBA member can talk about what he
has seen or reviewed. Peters stated that situations can arise Where a ZBA
member and the applicant may be looking at the same thing but view it
differently. Molumby stated that the discussion among the ZBA members during
deliberation is probably the most important aspect in determining a case.
Carey stated that the standards are not difficult to address when putting on a
case. He stated that the 1414 Pitner was a procedural glitch that may never
happen again and had not happened prior to that point. Ald. Korshak
questioned whether discussion by ZBA members should be based on evidence
presented during the hearing and at what point can ZBA member's, during
deliberation, not bring in their own personal observation? The Committee
reviewed with the Board various ways to control comments made by Board members
during deliberation and at the same time allow a free -flow of communication so
that the decision making process was not hampered. Ald. Warshaw stated that
she believes that the ZBA members should have the opportunity to express
opinions, and she concurred with Carey that the issue has only arisen once and
may be only a fluke. Chairman Whitney stated that he always tries not to
impose his thoughts and feelings in an attempt to influence other ZBA
members. He stated that he does not make any comments regarding his opinion
until a motion is made. He explained his need to express his observations and
concerns on an issue and is greatly concerned if he is limited in making
personal comments during deliberation. Whitney stated that discussion among
ZBA members must be open and as free as possible. He questioned what is
determined to be evidence, observation, or opinion? Peters noted that to
allow rebuttal of any comments made by ZBA members during deliberation could
create an endless hearing process. Whitney noted that his comments on the
1414 Pitner Avenue case were only made after no one on ZBA seemed willing to
make a motion with respect to the case.
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Minutes - Special Joint Meeting
P & D Committee and ZBA
February 29, 1987
The Committee then discussed item #4, which addressed "the right to
cross-examination of witnesses at ZBA hearing". The ZBA reviewed with the
Committee a legal opinion rendered by Ellen Szymanski, Assistant Corporation
Counsel, which stated that cross-examination of witnesses should be permitted
by the audience. The group agreed that cross-examination cannot be limited to
only attorneys, but is open to all property owners within 250 feet if the
cross-examination is relevant and not redundant. The group reviewed the pros
and cons of such a process and how it may lengthen significantly controversial
zoning board hearings (i.e. St. Francis Helipad). Ald. Morton emphasized that
at both the ZBA and the P & D Committee the main goal should be to seek the
truth in the process. Chairman Rudy emphasized that for both bodies it is
also necessary to arrive at a decision in a just fashion.
The Committee reviewed the issue of "referrals back to ZBA by City Council."
Ald. Brady observed that only two (2) cases have been sent back to ZBA in
recent years (Taco Bell, 1414 Pitner). Ald. Brady emphasized that the P & D
Committee's Rules prohibit that committee from hearing new evidence. Chairman
Whitney requested that when cases are returned to ZBA that the specific reason
be expressed so that the rehearing will be limited to only that issue and not
reopening the entire. case. Ald. Bleveans recommended that a staff memo
accompany any referral back to ZBA with explicit wording as to reasoning for
the request for rehearing.
In the same vein, the groups discussed the transmittal of P & D Committee
reasoning when that Committee reverses a ZBA recommendation. Ald. Bleveans
suggested that as in a referral, the staff provide detailed reasoning to the
ZBA as to the P & D Committee thinking in reversing a decision. Both groups
discussed the merits of providing greater detailed P & D minutes to elaborate
on the reversal decision. Peters stated that it is his experience in working
with various municipalities that Corporation Counsel would not prefer such
detail in the minutes regarding a reversal since a case may be litigated.
Peters recommended that staff convey in a different form the P & D Committee's
reasoning. Chairman Whitney stated that he feels that it is important that
ZBA know the reasons why the P & D Committee overturns a recommendation.
Whitney stated that he finds the joint meetings extremely helpful and would
recommend that the meetings be held annually. Ald. Bleveans expressed
agreement and both groups agreed to meet annually.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
Committee will be March 14, 1988.
Staff:
ItoertT. Rdd
J 2
Dave Rasmussen
70(7/11)
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The next regular meeting of the P & D
DRAFT, 11OT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
21anning and Development Committee
February 22, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.K.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
Aid. Absent: J. Bleveans
Staff Present: C. Powers, D. Carter, B. Ahiberg D. Rasmussen,
R. Carlson, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Rudy
Minutes of February 8. 1988.
Aid. Korshak moved and Aid. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of February 8, 1988 as
submitted. Committee voted 4-0 to approve the minutes (Aid. Horton absent).
Docket 193-9A-87. Ordinance 99-0-87. ZBA 86-41-V(R), re Variations for 319
Dempster Street.
Chairman Rudy provided a brief background on the request which was originally
discussed at the P 5 D Committee meeting of October 26, 1987, Aid. Brady
questioned whether the attorney for the applicant (Mr. Roselli) had an
opportunity to review the proposed ordinance and staff report, and questioned
whether he concurred with the suggestions? Mr. Roselli stated that he had
reviewed the ordinance and requested that instead of a letter of credit that
his client be allowed to provide an escrow in an amount acceptable to the City
to cover the remaining deficiencies (placing screens on the windows of the
building). Aid. Warshaw stated that she also would prefer an escrow account
rather than a letter of credit. Ald. Korshak questioned whether the applicant
agreed with the staff's suggestion of deleting condition #2 on page four which
stated that any future violations would not abrogate the granting of the
variance. Kr. Roselli stated that he opposed deleting this condition because
he feared that the variation could be construed as being only one of a
temporary nature. After a brief discussion Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady
seconded that the Committee delete condition #2 on page four of the
ordinance. Committee voted 5-0 to delete the subject section.
Ald. Warshaw questioned why the ordinance refers to the property as a hotel?
Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that was the correct
terminology as set forth in the zoning ordinance. Upon further discussion it
was agreed that the ordinance would be amended to delete the term hotel and
replace that term wherever it appeared with "rooming house". It was felt by
the Committee that the term rooming house better reflected the project.
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P & D Minutes
February 22, 1988
Upon a question from the Committee, Mr. Roselli agreed with the rewording and
confirmed that the subject rooming house would fall under the Landlord Tenant
Ordinance. Ald. Brady questioned whether Mr. Roselli agreed with the rent
restrictions as recommended earlier by the P & D Committee? She stated that
they appeared to be quite generous. Mr. Roselli confirmed his agreement with
the rent restrictions. Ald. Warshaw also stated that she was in concurrence.
Ald. Korshak suggested that a date be stated regarding the annual report on,
the rents. Staff indicated that the ordinance would be amended to include a
date. It was also recommended that the money for the escrow be in place prior
to City Council voting on the ordinance on March 14, 1988. Rasmussen informed
the Committee since their recommendation is one to overturn the Zoning Board
of Appeals recommendation that it would take a two-thirds vote of the City
Council to grant the variation request. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Korshak
seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council approval of the subject
variation. Committee voted 5-0 to approve the requested variation.
Docket 281-12A-87, ZBA 87-26-V(R) or T(E'), re Variations for 1414 Pitner
Avenue.
The attorney for the applicant, Janice Sylvestri was present and informed the
Committee that her client was unable to attend the meeting due to an injury
suffered on the job. Ms. Sylvestri informed the Committee that her client was
very much in need of the variation and requested the Committee approve the
variation. Ald. Warshaw stated that her review of the most recent ZBA hearing
finds that no evidence was brought forward to change her inclination to vote
against the variation. She stated that ZBA denied the time extension and that
the P & D Committee could not act on that matter but could only make a
recommendation to City Council on the variation request. Ald. Morton stated
that she favored the variation. She compared the 1414 Pitner issue with the
previously discussed 319 Dempster variation which was also a nonconforming
use. She stated that there is an issue of the applicant (Mr. Lytle) knowing
whether a covenant existed on the property when he purchased it. Ald. Horton
stated that she is personally familiar with the site and the neighborhood.
She stated that the current house is not large enough and needs to be
expanded. She reminded the Committee that no neighbors opposed the request
and therefore recommended that the variation be approved. She stated that the
applicant fully expected to receive the same consideration as his predecessor
who was granted a time extension in the past. Ald. Morton further stated that
the applicant needs to bring the trucks to the site and that she would be
willing to place restrictions on the variation request if granted. Ald. Brady
stated that this appeared to be a very clear-cut land use issue. She further
stated that this appeared to be a land use that is incompatible with the
neighborhood. Ald. Brady felt that even though no objectors were present, the
use was still incompatible and that the hardship was self induced since the
applicant did have an attorney when he purchased the site who informed him
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P & D Minutes
February 22, 1988
of the covenant or should have informed him of the covenant on the property.
She stated that the applicant needs to find a proper location and that she
would be willing to allow a reasonable amount of ,time for the applicant to
relocate prior to enforcement of the denial for a variation, if that was the
City Council's position. Aid. Warshaw stated that she concurs with Ald. Brady
in that the use is incompatible and questioned whether the City could delay
enforcement action to allow a reasonable time for the applicant to relocate.
Aid. Korshak reviewed with the Committee some of the legal issues involved in
the ZBA decision as discussed in the transcript by ZBA member Peters. Aid.
Korshak reminded the Committee that to overturn the ZBA recommendation, City
Council would require a two-thirds vote. Ald. Korshak further noted that
there were no objectors to the application and that possibly conditions on a
variation could alleviate some problems. Aid. Warshaw stated that she still
is troubled with the incompatible land use aspect of the of the project and
would not favor granting a variation. Ald. Morton further stated the 1414
Pitner nonconforming use request with the aforementioned 319 Dempster use
request. The Committee reviewed, with the applicant's attorney. numerous
photographs illustrating site conditions. Chairman Rudy stated that his
position is similar to that of Aldermen Warshaw and Brady in that the use is
not compatible with the neighborhood, and that he would not favor granting the
variation. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the P & D
Committee recommend to City Council denial of the variation request and stay
enforcement of the request for a 120 day period to allow time for the
applicant to relocate. Committee voted 3-2. Voting Aye: Aldermen Brady,
Rudy and Warshaw. Voting May: Aldermen Korshak and Horton.
Aid. Brady requested that the issue of sending cases back to ZBA for further
hearing and discussion be placed on the agenda for the joint meeting of ZBA
and P & D on Monday. February 29, 1988.
Review ZAC Report on Commercial Districts.
Aid. Brady questioned whether staff was looking for any action by the P & D
Committee. Bob Ahlberg, Zoning Planner, was present and stated that the ZAC
recommendation, which is based on the Plan Commission Commercial District
Report of approximately two years ago, is to send the matter to the newly
formed Zoning Commission and ask that the zoning issues in the 800 block of
Chicago Avenue be given a high priority. Ald. Brady stated that she is very
concerned with that block of Chicago Avenue since over the past few years
there have been various proposals and pressures for development. Ald. Warshaw
expressed a similar concern for a nearby area west of the tracks. She stated
that there are some areas which may be facing pressure for development and for
uses which are incompatible with the surrounding residential neighborhood.
Ald. Korshak expressed his reservations with sending the matter to the Zoning
Commission since such a process could take up to two years. He felt that
aldermen may place themselves in a difficult position if in the interim
3-
Y
P & D Minutes
February 22, 1988
undesirable proposals are made. Ald. Brady felt that though that may be true,
there are probably several areas in the City where aldermen of the rest of the
wards have similar concerns. Dick Carter, Planning Director, reminded the
Committee that they took no action two years ago 'to rezone the 800 block of
Chicago Avenue and at that time they recommended moving the matter to ZAC with
the resulting recommendation to the Zoning Commission. Chairman Rudy
questioned why the matter should not be sent back to ZAC to review possible
rezoning? Ahlberg stated that a comprehensive review can best be accomplished
through the comprehensive zoning ordinance amendment and that the Zoning
Commission is the body to review that amendment.
Ald. Morton questioned page 3, item #8 which discussed development of a
Greenbay corridor, north of Emerson. Ald. Horton questioned whether staff was
aware of any specific plan. Staff indicated that the report only proposed
zoning districts which better reflected the area and not any specific
request. The Committee discussed the pros and cons of sending the matter to
the Zoning Commission versus ZAC. Due the lateness of the hour and items on
the agenda Chairman Rudy recommended that the matter be held over to the March
14, 1988, P & D Committee meeting to allow additional discussion.
Docket'36-2B-88, Consultant Contract for Plan Review and Building Inspections.
Ald. Korshak questioned whether by entering into such a contract for a third
year there would be a sufficient number of City employed inspectors to observe
and enforce building activity underway in which proper permits were not
obtained? Ald. Korshak stated that he would oppose the inspection aspect of
the contract but would approve the plan review portion for that reason. The
Committee briefly reviewed the reasons for entering into such a concept which
was discussed approximate two years ago when it was felt that for large, more
complex projects, an outside inspection service has advantages over limited
City staff expertise. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the
Committee recommend to City Council hiring the firm of Criezis, Associates,
for plan review and building inspections. Ald. Warshaw further recommended
that the discussion of the number of City inspectors be discussed at a future
P 6 D Committee meeting. Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to City Council.
Voting Aye: Aldermen Warshaw, Brady, Horton and Rudy. Voting Nay: Ald.
Korshak.
Docket 37-2B-88, Proposed Contract for Consulting Services for New Zoning
Ordinance.
Aid. Brady stated that she is always in favor of ample citizen participation,
but would not favor the option as proposed by the consultant. She felt that
the selection of key groups would be quite controversial. Ald. Brady further
felt that the numerous meetings set forth in the base contract would supply
ample opportunity for any group or individual in the City to be heard.
Chairman Rudy stated that under the option the consultant now appears to
4-
F & D Minutes
February 22, 1988
feel the need for additional citizen participation and input. Ald. Korshak
stated that he would rather see the consultant time spent addressing the
Zoning Commission since the P & D Committee and City Council had earlier
recommended expanding the broad base of the Zoning Commission for the purpose
of gaining the input of various groups. Ald. Brady moved and Ald.'Morton
seconded that the Committee recommend to the City Council approval of the
contract, without the option, in the amount of $118.000, to Camiros, Ltd.
Ald. Warshaw also recommended that the minutes reflect the desire of the
Committee to have the consultant work as closely as possibly with the Zoning
Commission in obtaining citizen input. Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to
the City Council approval of the hiring of Camiros, Ltd.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & A
Committee is March 14. 1988. The next special meeting of the P & D Committee
is Monday, February 29, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert T. itudd
70(2/6)
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
5-
a
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
March 14, 1988
Roots 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: Hone
Staff Present: D. Carter, B. Ahlberg, L. Talkington, D. Rasmussen,
R. Carlson, E. Szymanski, G. Sommers -Pant and R. Rudd
Others Present: Phil Peters, Chairman of Plan Commission
Presiding Official: R. Warshaw
Minutes of Special Joint Meeting of Planning g Development Committee and
Zoning Board of Appeals of February 29, 1988.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the special joint meeting of the Planning & Development Committee
meeting and Zoning Board of Appeals of February 29, 1988 as submitted.
Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes (Ald. Bleveans absent).
ZBA 87-32-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 800 Dempster Street.
Chairman Warshaw expressed her interest in the significant amount of
deliberations concerning the procedure for delivery of goods as reviewed by
the Zoning Board of Appeals. Ald. Brady stated that she was surprised that
the parking variation was a final decision by the Zoning Board. Ald. Rudy
also questioned ZBA's final decision making authority on parking. Dave
Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that this decision was per
zoning ordinance regulations. Ald. Rudy recommended that the P A D Committee
and the City Council need to develop a method for addressing parking issues in
zoning cases. He stated that for the City (ZBA) to waive, in the fora of a
variation, the requirements of two (2) parking spaces provides an "economic
gift" to the applicant. Chairman Warshaw stated that she finds this case did
not have any negative effect on the neighborhood by granting the parking
variation.
January -February Monthly Rehab Report.
Ald. Brady questioned how the past year's expenditures compared to the prior
year. Rudd indicated that the dollar amounts far exceeded the prior year
expenditures for rehabilitation and that the goals for single
family/multi-family were exceeded in multi -family and close to being met in
single family.
P & D Committee - minutes
March 14, 1988
Docket 149-7A-87, ZBA 87-4-SU(R), Special Use for a Taco Bell Restaurant at
1900-80 Dempster Street.
The Committee received a letter withdrawing the special use request for a Taco
Bell at Dodge/Dempster shopping center.
Implementing the Comprehensive General Plan Through the Creation of a New
Zoning Ordinance.
Ald. Brady stated that she always finds helpful the comments from the Plan
Commission regarding issues such as on the new zoning ordinance. Ald. Norton
questioned how the comprehensive plan was developed and what bodies reviewed
the plan? Chairman Warshaw stated that P & D Committee reviewed page by page
the comprehensive plan and that the Plan Commission developed the plan in
conjunction with other boards and commissions and interested groups. Phil
Peters, Plan Commission Chairman, was present and confirmed that the Plan
Commission met with numerous boards and commissions in developing the
comprehensive plan. Ald. Morton questioned the notification procedure in the
comprehensive plan for rezoning properties? Ald. Brady explained that the
comprehensive plan does not provide for rezoning but is a land -use map.
Rezoning matters are reviewed by ZAC and notification procedures are set forth
in the zoning ordinance. Peters further explained that the comprehensive plan
is a land -use document and does not specify zoning changes.
Ald. Rudy questioned whether the newly formed Zoning Commission has yet
developed a schedule of meetings? Bob Ahlberg, Zoning Planner, stated that
the Zoning Commission will conduct its first meeting on Monday, March 21, 1988
and will set a schedule of meetings for the next year at that time.
Docket 193-9A-87, Ordinance 99-0-87, ZBA 85-41-V(R), re Variations for 319
Dempster Street.
The Committee received a clean copy of Ordinance 99-0-87, setting forth
variations for 319 Dempster. This matter is on the City Council agenda with a
recommendation to approve the variation request.
1100 Forest Planned Unit Development (PUD) Minor Changes.
Chairman Warshaw stressed that proper procedures must be followed in the
future by the developer regarding PUD minor changes. The Committee expressed
dismay at the developer constantly making changes and then requesting the
Preservation Commission and the P & D Committee to approve the changes after
the fact. Gwen Sommers-Yant, Preservation Coordinator, stated that the new
homeowners, the developer and the City have now been educated on the Planned
Unit Development review system and expects that there should be fewer changes
brought to the Committee. Ald. Korshak stated that he is disturbed with the
developer continually making changes and then requesting the City to sanction
those changes after the fact. Yant explained that in some instances the new
homeowners are making the changes without the approval or the knowledge of
both the City and the developer. Yant felt that all parties are now better
versed in the workings of the Planned Unit Development Ordinance.
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P & D Committee - Minutes
March 14, 1988
Docket 40-3A-88, Ordinance 11-0-88, ZBA 87-33-SU(R), re Special Use for 2126
Ashland Avenue.
Cheryl Williams, Attorney for the Jehovah Witness Church, was present and
stated that she would provide City staff with evidence of a lease regarding
the parking arrangement as requested at the hearing. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald.
Horton seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council granting a
special use for an addition to the church. Ald. Brady expressed concern at
the testimony in the transcript and the difficulty in understanding the
request. Ald. Brady applauded Scott Peters. ZBA member, for sorting out the
issues at the very end of the ZBA hearing. Committee voted 5-0 to recommend
to City Council approval of the special use (Ald. Bleveans absent).
Consider Reinstatement or Deletion of Sign Ordinance Section re Appeal of
S.R.A.B. Decisions to P & D Committee.
Ald, Korshak reviewed a letter by Ira Golan, Executive Director of the
Evanston Chamber of Commerce, which supported reinstatement of the appeal
process. Ald. Korshak stated that he was in sympathy with Golan's position
and believes there Faust be available to the applicants an appeal to elected
officials. Ald. Korshak wanted it noted that he was in no way criticizing the
Sign Review and Appeals Board which he feels has done an excellent job as
evidenced by the one (1) appeal of their decision to the P & D Committee.
Ald. Rudy cited other instances of lay -commissions that have final authority
i.e. ZBA). Ald. Rudy stated that he would support deleting the appeal
provision to the P & D Committee. Ald. Brady stated that she supports Ald.
Rudy's position and cited another example of final decisions being with the
Rehab Board of Appeal. Ald. Brady stated that she feels that there is no need
for an appeals process from a decision by a technical board such as the Sign
Review and Appeals Board, BOCA Building Code Appeals Board, etc. Ald. Morton
stated that she agrees with Ald. Korshak that an appeals process is
necessary. She stated that she represents citizens and she wants those
constituents to have the right to appeal to her. Ald. Korshak acknowledged
that applicants denied by the appeals board have the right to go to court, but
was concerned with the cost for attorney's fees if that route was selected.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council the deletion of the appeals process to the P & D Committee. Under
discussion, Ald. Rudy stated that if the aldermen are not satisfied with the
way the process is working, they have the ability to make a change. He stated
that the expertise on the Sign Review and Appeals Board has as much ability,
or more, than do members of the City Council in reviewing such matters. Ald.
Korshak expressed his concern with the applicant having the right to appeal if
they thought they were not given a fair hearing. He stated that it was his
opinion that all applicants would not appeal. Chairman Warshaw wanted the
minutes to note that the P & D Committee was very supportive of the Sign
Review and Appeals Board and was not questioning the quality of the Sign
Review and Appeals Board decisions by suggesting the appeals process be
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P & D Committee - Minutes
March 14, 198B
continued. On the call of the question the Committee voted 2-4 to delete the
appeal process. Voting Ayes: Aldermen Rudy and Brady. Voting Nays:
Aldermen Korahak, Norton, Bleveans and Warshaw. Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald.
Horton seconded that the Committee reinstate the appeals process for a twelve
12) month period. Committee voted 6-0 to direct staff to develop an
ordinance amendment providing a continuation of the appeals process for
another twelve (12) months.
Ald. Brady reviewed with the Committee a letter dated March 14, 1988 from Mr.
O'Meara from the Sign Review and Appeals Board, which provided several
suggestions to the P & D Committee. Of primary interest to the Committee was
the recommendation by the Sign Review and Appeals Board to establish an
amortization period for all non -conforming signs. The Committee reviewed
briefly the discussion that took place during the adoption of the sign
ordinance regarding this matter. Ald. Brady felt that the Sign Review and
Appeals Board offered some interesting ideas for further discussion. Staff
was directed to request the Sign Review and Appeals Board to expand in writing
their ideas and establish an agenda item in the future for discussing ideas
with the Sign Review and Appeals Board.
Docket 41-3A-88. Consider Ordinance 12-0-88. Amending 1987 BOCA National
Building Code to Clarify Language re Double Cylinder Deadbolt Locks.
Ald. Korshak questioned whether the wording in number 4, on page 2 of the
ordinance was clear to explain that dwelling units with a single means of
egress could not use a double -cylinder deadbolt lock. After a brief
discussion the Committee directed staff to review the language and if there
was a need to further clarify, to provide a clean copy of the ordinance for
the next City Council meeting. Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that
the Committee recommend to the City Council introduction of Ordinance 12-0-88,
amending the BOCA Code to allow for a double -cylinder deadbolt locks.
Committee voted 6-0.
Information Memorandum on Implementation of the Comprehensive General Plan as
It pertains to Housing.
Chairman Warshaw questioned why the Plan Commission would recommend studying
the housing issues before the 1990 census data for the City of Evanston was
available? She stated that it may be premature to conduct such a study before
the availability of the census data. Phil Peters stated that the data may not
be available for more than a year or two after it is collected in 1990. He
expressed the concern of the Plan Commission that there was a lot of motion
going an without really defining the City of Evanston's housing objectives.
Chairman Warshaw agreed with the Plan Commission comments regarding the
collection of some data by in-house staff, but felt that much information will
need to come from the census. Ald. Rudy questioned What percent of Evanston
household's are paying 30% or more of their income for housing costs? Laurel
4-
P 6 D Committee -- Minutes
March 14, 1988
Talkington, Housing Planner, stated that approximately 20% of Evanston's
households are paying 30% of more of their income for housing expenses. Ald.
Rudy questioned whether housing on the Northshore was generally higher than
other areas in metropolitan Chicago? Talkington explained that the intent in
the City of Evanston is to maintain rent levels for individuals currently
residing in the City. Ald. Rudy questioned whether the housing patterns are
different in the City of' vanston when compared with the City of Chicago?
Talkington explained that it depends what geographical areas in Evanston and
Chicago are being compared. Ald. Rudy questioned what was meant by using the
new zoning ordinance to address housing issues? Talkington explained that it
was necessary to coordinate housing concerns with the development of a new
zoning ordinance so that new regulations do not conflict with City of Evanston
housing policies. Ald. Brady provided an example of down -zoning in areas in
southeast Evanston several years ago that effectively did away with many
rooming houses. She conceded that today a more sensitive view may be provided
since down -zoning displaced a certain segment of population. Ald. Rudy asked
what the comprehensive housing plan would entail? Ald. Brady stated that the
Housing Commission is currently reviewing, at a subcommittee, the composition
of a housing plan and will be developing the parameters in the next year.
Ald. Horton questioned whether any Sth Ward residents or elected officials are
on the Housing Commission? Ald. Morton was informed that at one point Ald.
Summers was a representative to the Housing Commission. Ald. Horton expressed
concern that there was a need for representation of the westside on the
Housing Commission. Ald. Brady indicated that Rev. Michael Curry and Ald.
Dennis Drummer (2nd Ward) were currently members of the Housing Commission.
Since there was no action required on this matter, the issue was left with the
Housing Commission to continue its exploration of a Comprehensive Housing Plan
and coordination with the Zoning Commission regarding housing issues.
Docket 281-12A-87, ZBA 87-26-V(R) or T(F), re Variations for 1414 Pitner
Avenue.
Chairman Warshaw reviewed with the Committee a legal opinion, from Corporation
Counsel Herb Hill, stating that the City Council could grant a stay of
enforcement of a period not to exceed 180 days (6 months). It was the opinion
of Corporation Counsel that to grant a period longer than 6 months effectively
would grant a time extension, which the City Council did not have authority to
do. After a brief discussion, Ald. Rorshak moved and Ald. Brady seconded that
in the event the City Council recommended to deny the variation request that
the P b D Committee recommend to City Council to grant a 180 day (6 months)
stay of enforcement to allow the petitioner time to relocate the landscaping
business. Committee voted 5-0 (Ald. Bleveans absent).
5-
P & D Committee - Minutes
March 14, 1988
Review ZAC Report on Commercial Districts.
The Committee briefly reviewed the discussion at the prior meeting regarding
this matter. Ald. Brady questioned whether a moratorium could be utilized to
stop any further rezoning in certain areas along Chicago Avenue' Ald. Korshak
stated that there Would be a need to establish the appropriate scope of a
moratorium. After a brief discussion, staff was directed to provide a report
to the P b D Committee reviewing mechanisms to stop inconsistent zoning
changes. Staff indicated that such a report would be provided to the
Committee in the near future.
Adi ournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is lurch 28. 1988.
Staff: /'10
Robert T: Rudd
70(2/7)
6-
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED.
H IT 1 11 i I i i .. i i i i 111 1 i 1 P
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
March 28, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
S. Brady, J. Bleveans and R. Warshaw
J. Rorshak, L. Morton and J. Rudy
B. Ahlberg, D. Rasmussen, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Dr. Thomas Stafford
R. Warshaw
Minutes of March 14. 1988.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of March 14, 1988.
Committee voted 3-0 to approve the minutes.
ZBA Public Notice for April 19, 1988.
Committee received the ZBA public notice for April 19, 1988.
ZAC Report on Commercial District and "Mechanism" to Prevent incompatible
Development.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee accept the
staff report and refer the commercial districts report to the Zoning
Commission. Ald. Brady also recommended that the Committee adopt the staff
recommendation contained on page 3 of the report, which recommends (1)
referring the Plan Commission report and ZAC comments to the Zoning
Commission, (2) rely upon existing regulations to control against
inappropriate development throughout the City as well as in the 800 block of
Chicago until the comprehensive revision process is completed and (3) consider
asking the Zoning Commission and consultant to consider at what point, if any,
a city -Wide moratorium on rezoning may be appropriate. The Committee voted
3-0 to refer the report and recommendations to the Zoning Commission.
Docket 53-3B-88, Consider Plat of Consolidation for Jehovah Witness
Congregation at 2126-28 Ashland Avenue.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council approval of a plat of consolidation for the Jehovah Witness
Congregation at 2126-28 Ashland Avenue. Committee voted 3-0 to recommend
approval.
P & D Minutes
March 28, 1988
Docket 55-3B-88, Ordinance 21-0-88, Extending the Right to Appeal Decisions of
the Sign Review and Appeals Board to the P & D Committee for a One (1) Year
Period.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council introduction of Ordinance 21-0-88, reinstating for a one (1) year
period the appeals of decision of the Sign Review and Appeals Board to the P &
D Committee. Committee voted 3-0 to recommend to City Council introduction of
the subject ordinance.
Docket 54-38-88, Ordinance 19-0-88, ZBA 88-2-SU(R), re Special Use for 1501
Central Street (Dvche Stadium and McGaw Hall).
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of the special use request for the 1988 North American
Maccabi Youth Games to hold an opening ceremony in Dyche Stadium and two
championship basketball games and a closing ceremony in McGaw Hall. Chairman
Warshaw questioned whether there would be any cost to the City in the form of
police and traffic control? Jim Perry, an attorney for Northwestern
University, stated that there would be no cost to the City of Evanston. Jeff
Colby. Maccabi Games organizer, stated that any cost incurred by the City
would be paid to the City by the organizer. Ald. Brady questioned whether any
extra effort should be made to notify the neighborhood of this event? Ald.
Bleveans stated that he doesn't think this would be necessary since the
Intensity of the use will be comparable to a football game or possibly less.
Chairman Warshaw questioned the appropriateness of ZBA member Fields voting on
a matter dealing with Northwestern University since Ms. Fields is a graduate
student at Northwestern University. Chairman Warshaw questioned whether the
Ethics Board has ruled on this matter? Ald. Brady stated that she does not
have a problem with Ms. Fields voting on this matter. Ald. Bleveans stated
that he disagrees with Ald. Warshaw's position and believes that Ms. Fields
has been appropriate in voting. Staff was requested to investigate whether
the Ethics Board has ruled on this matter and report back to the Committee.
Committee voted 3-0 to recommend to City Council introduction of Ordinance
19-0-88, approving a special use for the Maccabi Games.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Tuesday April 12, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: A; 'GAG//
Robert T. Rudd
70(2/3)
2-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
April 12, 1988
Room 2403 - 8:45 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: R. Rudd
Others Present: Dr. Thomas Stafford
Presiding Official.: R. Warshaw
Minutes of March 28, 1988.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the minutes
of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of March 28, 1988. Committee
voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
ZBA 88-1-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1021 Hull Terrace.
The Committee received the final variation decision without comment.
ZBA 88-3-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1726 Ashland Avenue.
Ald. Rudy questioned why the City permitted the owner of 1726 Ashland to
Obtained a building permit to replace a roof on the property when it was
subject to elimination. Rudy noted that the ZBA records indicate that the
owner spent approximately $3000 in repairing the roof before he realized he
may have to tear the building down. Rudd confirmed that a building permit was
required for the roof and stated that in most cases zoning analyses are not
conducted for roofing permits since they are not necessary and can cause a
lengthy time delay in issuing a roofing permit. Ald. Brady questioned whether
buildings that are subject to elimination could be so indicated on the
titles? Rudd stated that was possible and that Ald. Korshak, had made the
same recommendation that buildings subject to elimination be identified as so
on the title. Rudd informed the Committee that most of the buildings subject
to elimination by the current zoning ordinance have been addressed and only a
few are remaining. If the new zoning ordinance will create additional
elimination cases, a requirement for recording should be part of the ordinance.
Ald. Warshaw asked if ZBA members could provide more rationale for their
decisions in the transcript of the ZBA hearing? Chairman Warshaw suggested
that the ZBA be contacted and requested to give summaries of their rationale
for the record.
P & D Minutes
April 12, 1988
Ald. Brady questioned why the ZBA was final authority on the 1726 Ashland
case? She understood that since there was a setback and use issue that City
Council would be the final authority. The Committee requested a memo from
staff explaining the final decision making rules of the ZBA. Rudd indicated
that a memo would be supplied to the committee at the next meeting.
ZBA 88-4-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2522 Ashland.
Ald. Brady requested that staff send the issues involved with floor area ratio
and livable space in this case to the zoning consultant. Ald. Brady felt that
this was a matter that should be addressed in the new zoning ordinance.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is April 25, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert r. Rudd
70(2/3)
2-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
April 25, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J.-Bleveans J. Korsbak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: R. Carlson, G. Sommers-Yant and R. Rudd
Others Present: Dr. Thomas Stafford, Mary McWilliams, Steve Knutson
and Phil Peters
Presiding Official: R. Warshaw
Minutes of April 12, 1988.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of April 12, 1988.
Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
ZBA Public Notice for May 17, 1988.
The Committee received the public notice without comment.
1100 Forest - Planned Unit Development (PUD) Minor Changes.
The Committee discussed at length additional minor changes to the Planned Unit
Development at 1100 Forest. Ald. Korshak questioned whether the developer
started without a permit? Ald. Warshaw asked how the Committee felt the City
could address the continued abuses by Mr. Chou of the City's ordinances. She
felt that his arrogance was unacceptable. Ald. Korshak questioned what
sanctions the City could take against Mr. Chou to impress upon him the need to
follow the standards set by the City? Ald. Bleveans suggested that the City
invite Mr. Chou to the next meeting to review the problems on the subject
PUD. Ald. Brady stated that she was at a meeting with residents at 1100
Forest approximately one week ago. She stated that the result of the meeting
was that the new homeowners were dissatisfied with the City of Evanston and
expressed admiration for Mr. Chou. She questioned whether it would be prudent
to invite Mr. Chou to a P & D Committee meeting. She stated that at the
aforementioned meeting with homeowners she took issue with the developer on
many of the points that he made. Ald. Korshak stated that he understood that
when dealing with government oftentimes the fault is assumed to lie with the
City of Evanston. He felt that this was not necessarily an accurate belief.
Ald. Korshak stated that he is very concerned that Chou deliberately ignores
City of Evanston ordinances. He suggested that the Com=ittee invite Chou to a
P & D Committee meeting to discuss the problems he is having at 1100 Forest.
rl 11- . A I 11 1 r n ^ -Ir I ^i 11,
P 6 D Minutes '
r
April 25, 1988
In response to a question from Ald. Korshak, Rudd explained that the City has
the ability to initiate action to revoke or suspend a general contractor
license and/or place a stop work order on a project where continued abuses are
taking place. Ald. Morton stated that she would like to see a list of the
violations. Ald. Bleveans suggested that the Committee invite Chou to come -in
to discuss the general concerns of working under the PUD Ordinance. Ald. Rudy
suggested that the Committee might also consider educating the homeowners and
try to examine with the homeowners the PUD process. Ald. Brady stated that
she was concerned with bringing Chou before the Committee. She stated that a
number of the questions are in gray areas with regards to responsibilities
under the PUD Ordinance. Ald. Korshak stated that the issue is whether Chou
makes a change before or after the request is made. He stated that Chou needs
to be reminded that there is a specific procedure for handling changes to a
PUD. Ald. Morton questioned what the practice has been in the past? Gwen
Sommers-Yant, Preservation Coordinator, stated that prior to the start of the
PUD at 1100 Forest, written procedures were supplied Mr. Chou at a meeting
with the City Manager. Yant stated that claims of delays in reviewing changes
by the developer are unjustified. Yant further stated that the Preservation
Commission has made timely decisions and has been available for requests.
Yant recommended that the Committee not call -in Mr. Chou since in her opinion
he doesn't response to admonition. She felt that a meeting with Chou may be
counter-productivo. Ald. Morton suggested that a letter be sent to Mr. Chou
expressing the concerns made at the P & D Committee meeting. Ald. Brady
stated that she would be willing to contact the developer and convey the
seriousness of the situation. Mary McWilliams, Chairman of the Preservation
Commission, was present and stated that it is the impression of the homeowners
that the City forced the PUD on Mr. Chou and thus caused the problem. It was
the consensus of the Committee to have a letter forwarded to Mr. Chou
expressing the concerns that the developer is not following the procedures set
forth in the PUD and if abuses continue, actions will be undertaken by the
City to end such activities.
Chairmanship Memorandum
The Committee received the chairmanship memo indicating that Ald. Bleveans
would be the chairman of the P & D Committee starting with the first meeting
in May.
Staff Report re Clarification of When ZBA is a RecomaendinA Body to the City
Council on Variations.
The Committee received a staff memo clarifying when the ZBA is a recommending
body to the City Council on variations.
2-
P & D Minutes
April 25, 1988
Docket 81-4B-88. Plat of Consolidation for 1941-61 Dempster and 1318-26 Dodge.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee approve the
plat of consolidation for the property near the intersection of Dempster and
Dodge. Chairman Warshaw noted that Ald. Drummer has indicated his approval of
the consolidation. Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council approval
of the plat of consolidation.
Triennial Review of Building Code Board of Appeals.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee recommend the
retention of the Building Code Board of Appeals. Ald. Rudy questioned whether
the P & D Committee or another current body could act as the board of
appeals' Reed Carlson. Director of Building & Zoning, stated that there are
technical requirements for members of the Building Code Board of Appeals.
Committee voted 6-0 to retain the Building Code Board of Appeals.
Public Place Names Committee.
Ald. Korshak stated that the report is concise but foresees endless
disagreements because the language is broad and indefinite. The Committee
reviewed a report dated April 7, 1988 from Phil Peters, Chairman. of the
Public Place Names Committee. The report recommended that "significant
contribution requires exercise of judgment in each case, and the contribution
Is to include, but not be limited to, contributions and or achievements which
are generally known to and remembered by a major portion of the community, or
whose efforts contributed to the development or acquisition of the site to be
named".
The report further recommended that there not be a program initiated to place
markers other than within the scope of past practices because it would be very
difficult to limit the number of markers. Ald. Bleveans stated that he is not
troubled with the kind of standards established for naming public places. He
equated the standards with many zoning standards. Ald. Brady questioned how
many requests the Public Place Names Committee has reviewed? Chairman Peters
stated that the committee reviews one or two a year. Ald. Brady stated that
it was her opinion it was beat not to make standards too specific and that she
would prefer to keep them more general. Ald. Brady further stated that she
concurs with the recommendation not to issue place markers. Ald. Morton
questioned what the procedure was for the Avenue of the Righteous? Chairman
Peters stated that the placement of markers, such as for the Avenue of the
Righteous, has not heretofore been in the purvue of the Public Place Names
Committee. Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee
accept and endorse the report of the Public Place Names Committee dated April
7, 1988. Committee voted 6-0 to approve the report.
3-
P & D Minutes
April 25, 1988
r .
The Committee discussed the process for memorials such as markers for City of
Evanston's employees that have died in the line -of -duty. A1d. Horton
questioned whether markers have been placed by trees in the Ladd Arboretum for
deceased firemen or policemen? Don Wirth, Director of Parks. Recreation and
Forestry, was present and stated to the Committee that a process is already in
place for memorializing a person. He stated that any citizen or aldermen
could make a request. The Committee concluded by requesting staff to prepare
a report summarizing the current process for placing memorials for City of
Evanston employees and also to detail the associated costs.
Ad9ournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m. Next regular meeting of the P S D
Committee is May 9, 1988.
start:
R bert T. Rudd
70(2/5))
4-
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
May 9, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.K.
Aid. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Aid. Absent: None
Staff Present: D. Rasmussen and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Bleveans
Minutes of April 25. 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Aid. Korshak seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of April 25, 1988.
Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
Docket 85-5A-88. ZBA 88-5--V(R) re Variations for 1218 Sherman Avenue.
Chairman Bleveans stated that a request by Committee member Korshak has been
made to hold -over the variations for 1218 Sherman Avenue, since the applicant
is i11 and unable to attend. Chairman Bleveans stated that the Committee may
want to briefly discuss the case if time permits at the end of this meeting,
but not to deliberate or take a vote.
Dog Litter Ordinance.
Aid. Korshak questioned where this reference originated? The Committee
discussed the reference which was proposed at A P & W by Aid. Rainey. Aid.
Warshaw stated that she felt that the ordinance may belong in the P & D
Committee since it does deal with parks. Aid. Warshaw also felt that the City
may have a dog litter problem. but it is primarily because the current
ordinances are not enforced. She felt that the problem may be cured by a
stricter enforcement of laws presently on the books. Ald. Brady suggested
that the Committee send the reference back to A P & W with a recommendation
that the leash and pooper-scooper ordinances be reviewed to see if they can be
better enforced.
Ald. Horton stated that her review of documents provided to the Committee
finds that current laws would address the issue raised by Aid. Rainey. Aid.
Horton also stressed that the City should undertake a new dog census. She
stated that there was a need to get a collar on the dog population in
Evanston. She also felt that the publicity regarding the need to license dogs
will help bring about a zensitivity to the dog problems in parks. Aid.
r
P & D Minutes
May 9, 1988
Warshaw agreed with Ald. Brady in that she felt A P & W was the proper
committee to monitor and discuss the enforcement of current ordinances.
Chairman Bleveans stated that he was cynical about the City drafting
legislation to control this matter. He stated that it was difficult to modify
the human behavior of a majority of the population with respect to cleaning up
after their dogs. Ald. Brady questioned whether a program could be developed
to educate and train citizens to issue citations regarding provisions of the
current ordinances to people found to be in violation? Chairman Bleveans
highlighted difficulties with empowering non -sworn police officers to issue
citations. Ald. Warshaw concurred that it is difficult to legislate
civility. She stated that she would like to see more police effort to enforce
the current laws. Chairman Bleveans suggested that the matter be sent to the
Police Services Committee to discuss wich the police chief the current
ordinances. The P & D Committee recommended that the Police Services
Committee bring the results of the discussion with the police chief back to
P & D for further review of the reference. Ald. Morton stressed that public
awareness of the issue would help solve the problem in addition to conducting
a dog census.
It was the consensus of the Committee to refer the matter to Police Services
Committee for further discussion at the June 2, 1988 meeting of the Police
Services Committee and also to invite Ald. Rainey to that meeting to discuss
the issue.
Docket 83-5A-88: Plat of Resubdivision re 3420-22 Park Place.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of the plat of resubdivision. Ald. Rudy questioned whether
with the resubdivision would the two lots have appropriate set -backs and be
buildable? Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, was present and
stated that the lots would appear to be buildable with setbacks provided in
the zoning ordinance. Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval of the
resubdivision.
Docket 84-SA-88, Ordinance 28-0-88. ZBA 88-6-SU(R) re Special use for 2118
Jackson Avenue.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of Ordinance 28-0-88, granting a special use for a child
care institution serving a maximum of thirty-three children. Ald. Morton
questioned the difference between a day care facility and a child care
institution? James Murray, attorney for the applicant, stated that a day care
facility is limited to eight (8) or less children, while a day care
institution is limited to a maximum of thirty-three (33). The Committee voted
6-0 to recommend to City Council approval of the special use.
2-
P & D Minutes
May 9, 1988
Ald. Rudy's Reference re Comprehensive Planning Process.
Ald. Rudy explained that several years ago the City talked about developing a
library prior to any proposal for the Church/Chicago project and the Research
Park. He stated that there hasn't been sufficient comprehensive planning to
address issues that would allow for a coordination of projects such as the
three (3) mentioned above. Ald. Rudy stated that he discussed with the City
Manager the lack of comprehensive planning and was informed that current City
staff planners are allocated to various projects such as Preservation and
Community Development Block Grant activities. The City does not have on staff
a full time comprehensive planner. Ald. Brady stated that she concurs with
Ald. Rudy and sees this issue as primarily a budgetary problem. She stated
that it is her belief that the City needs to beef -up its comprehensive
planning efforts. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee
refer this reference to the Plan Commission for further discussion of the
City's role in comprehensive planning.
Docket 85-5A-88, ZBA 88-5-V(R) re Variations for 1218 Sherman Avenue.
Ald. Rudy questioned whether the issue was one of a non -conforming building?
Rasmussen stated that the issue was one of a "non -conforming residential
building". Ald. Korshak stated that it was a matter of record that the
building was subject to elimination. However, once the property was purchased
the current owner found that he may not have understood the full ramifications
of attempting to obtain zoning relief. Chairman Bleveans highlighted that
according to the transcript the current owner factored -in the non -conforming
depreciation in the purchase price. Ald. Korshak stated that it is possible
that the current owner may now have some new evidence that was not brought out
at the hearing before the ZBA addressing substantial problems related to
construction. The Committee reviewed briefly with Ald. Horton the zoning
history of parcels such as the one being discussed in addition to past cases
Lytle) that the P 6 D has wrestled with regarding non -conforming status.
staff informed the Committee that a review of the non -conforming and
elimination provisions of the current zoning ordinance will be reviewed by the
zoning consultant in the process of developing a new zoning ordinance.
Ald. Rudy stated that it was his opinion that the City changes
over a period of time and land uses that were once compatible can become
incompatible with new uses. He stated that the City needs policies to address
the deterioration associated with certain incompatibility of uses. Ald.
Korshak stated that deterioration and incompatibility of uses is not always
clearly delineated. Ald. Rudy stated that what happens in one ward can effect
another ward when setting zoning precedent. Ald. Brady stated that it is
possible to have some incompatibility among uses and still have a livable
neighborhood; it all depends on the particular neighborhood. Ald. Rudy agreed
3-
it
q0
P & D Minutes
May 9, 1988
that there are degrees of incompatibility of land uses. Ald. Brady stated
that with respect to 1218 Sherman that little discussion was given to the
extreme cost for repair of exterior and interior remodeling to the subject
property. It appears that it would be an extraordinary cost to rehabilitate
this structure. Ald Rudy stated that the City must deal justly with everyone
and to do so everyone must be treated the same way. Ald. Horton disagreed
with the City's policy with elimination.
At the request of the applicant the Committee agreed to hold this matter over
to the P & D Committee meeting of May 23, 1988.
Ald. Horton questioned the procedure for placing some ZBA items on the City
Council "yellow" agenda. Of particular concern was the scheduling of the 1218
Sherman case on the agenda for "decision" and not for "introduction". Staff
explained that "introduction" items were matters requiring an ordinance and
since the 1218 Sherman case was a recommended denial, and no ordinance
required, there was no need to have an "introduction" period.
Ald. Morton requested that her previous reference to the Rules Committee,
regarding City Council agenda items, be expanded to include the review of the
procedures for placing ZBA cases on the agenda and to provide written
procedures for such actions. It was the consensus of the P & D Committee to
forward this reference to the Rules Committee.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee will be May 23, 1988.
ff /,/
Staff: /yid
Robert 2. Rudd
70(2/5)
4-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
May 23, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
S. Brady, J. Bleveans. J. Korshak, L. Morton. J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
None
D. Wirth, 0. Sommers -Pant, C. Brenniman, D. Rasmussen
and R. Rudd
Dr. T. Stafford
J. Bleveans
Minutes of Mav 9. 1988.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & development Committee meeting of May 9, 1988.
Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes (Ald. Brady absent).
Tree Dedication Policies - Ladd Arboretum.
The Committee received a memo dated May 11, 1988 from Don Wirth, Director of
Parks, Recreation and Forestry setting forth the current tree dedication
policies in the Memorial Section at the Ladd Arboretum. The Committee voted
5-0 to accept the memorandum (Ald. Brady absent).
1100 Forest - Planned Unit Developmant (PUD) Minor Changes and Correspondence
to Mr. Chou.
Ald. Korshak questioned whether this was another change request after action
had already taken place? Staff responded that was correct. Ald. Brady
questioned what would happened if the homeowner decided to erect a screen
porch around the subject patios? Staff indicated that the applicant would
need to apply to the Zoning Board of Appeals with a $2,000.00 filing fee.
Also, it was uncertain whether an approval would be granted. Gwen
Summers-Yant, Preservation Coordinator, stated that the owners were aware of
the ZBA procedure. Chairman Bleveans questioned what options the City would
have to cause removal of the patios if approval of the minor change were not
granted' Staff indicated that the City could cause the physical removal of
the patios by the owners and/or developer. Ald. Rudy suggested that the
Committee consider writing the State Licensing Department for architects
Department of Licensing and Registration) about the problems that have
resulted in working with Mr. Chou. Ald. Brady stated that with respect to
causing removal of the patios, the request is for a minor change and has
already been administratively approved by the City Manager. Ald. Brady
reviewed with the Committee a letter to be forwarded to Kr. Chou, via
certified mail, verbally reprimanding him for past transgressions. The
Committee also recommended that, with some minor amendment to the text of the
letter, copies be forwarded to all of the homeowners at the PUD. Ald. Rudy
also suggested that the ,letter contain a mention of the City's intent to
inform the State Licensing Board of Architects. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant
P & D Minutes
May 23, 1988
Director of Zoning, was present and informed the Committee that recently a
violation letter has been sent to Mr. Chou regarding illegally installed air
conditioning units. Ald. Rudy questioned whether saving the main coach house
and the fence has been worth what the City has gone through with Mr. Chou on
this project?
Ald. Brady stated that she felt that most neighbors were generally pleased
with the outcome of the project. Ald. Morton questioned the procedure for
minor changes? Yant stated that requests are sent to the City Manager,
preferably before the changes occur. Ald. Brady stated that there are some
flaws in the PUD process and not all of the fault is with the developer. Yant
stated that the City uses nationwide historic preservation standards,
procedures and documentation and that Mr. Chou is aware of these since he has
utilized this process on an earlier structure in Evanston.
It was the consensus of the Committee that, after revisions to the letter by
Chairman Bleveans, the letter in final form be forwarded certified mail to
both Mr. Chou and all of the homeowners at the 1100 Forest PUD.
Docket 85-5A-88. ZBA 88-5-V(R) re Variations for 1218 Sherman Avenue.
Chairman Bleveans reviewed with the Committee the Rules of Procedure regarding
ZBA cases (i.e. Winfield Rule). The Committee reviewed a letter from the
applicant, Mr. Brock, dated May 18, 1988 (copy attached). Ald. Korshak
requested that the Committee allow Mr. Brock to make a presentation to the
Committee. Mr. Brock reviewed with the Committee the aforementioned Kay 18,
1988 letter in which he stated his intent to clarify points misunderstood by
the ZBA during the hearing process.
In response to several statement in the aforementioned letter, Rasmussen
provided clarification to the Committee. Rasmussen presented the following
comments on the written statement which had been presented to the Committee by
Mr. g Mrs. Brock, dated May 18, 1988. He stated that item 2A of the statement
was a paraphrase of the letter of September 9, 1986, and the wording of the
second sentence of paragraph 2 of his letter read "if the building is altered,
remodeled or converted, it must be brought into compliance with all the
requirements of the district in which it is located;" with respect to the
second paragraph of item 2A he noted that this matter was brought out at the
hearing before the Zoning Board; with respect to item 2B, he stated that in
his conversations he did not use the wording that it was a viable alternative
use but said instead that it was interesting in that it was proposing to
deconvert the two family dwelling in the front to a single family dwelling and
install that unit in the rear building; he went on to note that of all the
staff of Building & Zoning he was most careful to advise potential applicants
that they must prove they met the standards for variation; with respect to
items 3B and C, he noted that in conversations with Mr. Brock subsequent to
the Zoning Board hearing, he was advised that these were items that were known
at the time of the hearing but which were not presented; with respect to item
2-
P & D Minutes
May 23, 1988
5, he stated that the allegation of a miscalculation of lot area may or may
not be correct since it had not been rechecked, but under either of the lot
area figures provided the lot still did not provide the 1n,000 square feet
that would be required under the zoning ordinance. In response to questions
from the Committee Rasmussen stated; the 931 Sherman Avenue and the 1131
Sherman Avenue addresses contained in Mr. & Mrs. Brock's statement were
existing by virtue variations granted and that with respect to the rest of the
properties noted in, the last page of this statement no variations had been
granted by the Board of City Council and that currently he was unsure of the
zoning status of these properties; that at the hearing one of the Board
members had raised questions with respect to the removal of an addition to the
rear building and that Mr. Brock had been represented by counsel at the
hearing.
Ald. Korshak questioned whether there was anyway to resolve this matter? He
asked if modification to the rear building could bring about an equitable
solution? Brock reviewed with the Committee building plans for the site.
Brock stated that he was trying to adapt, within reason, the building to
satisfy the City. He stated that the exterior of the rear building would be
all fixed -up" (tuckpointed, new windows). Ald. Brady stated that she is
concerned with the aesthetics of the rear building. She stated that the U:ty
should be concerned with the exterior appearance. Ald. Rudy stated that he
was concerned with the fact that the City should deal with the zoning issue.
Ald. Rudy felt that the applicant was on notice and had in hand a letter
setting forth the elimination provisions and that the applicant did not accept
that fact. Ald. Warshaw questioned what information the P 6 D Committee now
had in hand, would allow it to refer the case back to ZBA?
Chairman Bleveans questioned why the applicant didn't follow through on
exploring the restriction on the property since he was on notice? Ald. Morton
stated that she is troubled with the term in the zoning ordinance "two family
dwellings". Ald. Brady stated that she doesn't think that the P b D Committee
should send this matter back to ZBA. Ald. Brady suggested that the applicant
and architect attempt to bring the building more into conformity with the
district. Ald. Korshak stated that all attempts should be made to provide a
more sensitive treatment to the rear building.
It was the consensus of the Committee that after the applicant and his
architect met with staff that the matter be brought back to the P & D
Committee.
Ad_i ournmen t
The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee will be ,tune 13, 1988.
Staff: .G
Ro ert T. Ruddy
70(2/4)
3-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
or
May 18, 1988
TO: Members of the Planning and Development Committee
City of Evanston, Illinois
SUBJECT: ZBA 88-5-V(R) 1218 Sherman Avenue
We request reconsideration of a Zoning Board of Appeals
recommendation regarding the demolition of the rear building
at 1218 Sherman Avenue based on the following facts:
1. During the ZBA hearing, the Board thought that the
cost of demolishing the back building was factored
into the purchase price of the property. In fact,
our first offer in May 1987 for $75,000 was the only
one which did factor this in.
In August 1987, we offered $96,000 for the property,
following three months of investigation regarding the
property. (See *2 below). We also were looking at other
properties within the school district at this time.
The final purchase price agreed on was $100,000.
2. Based on our research, we thought that our proposal of
deconverting the front house to single family and
converting the rear building to single family was in
compliance with R3 residential (2-family residential
classification).
Specifics illustrating this point:
a. Letter from Mr. David Rasmussen dated 9/9/86 (only
noted exception to the purchase contract) to
previous owner, Mr. Michael Ward Jr., lard
Manufacturing Company, stating that "the non-
conforming building . . . is subject to elimination
on September 25, 1987. . .or to alter, remodel or
convert said building to a use permitted in the
district".
We felt that converting the property from its
current manufacturing use to two single-family homes
was in compliance with the R3 zoning designation,
and anew that there were several examples of homes
with rear coach houses in the district. (See Page 3
for list of addresses).
Why would Evanston single out this one for
demolition?
b. We presented our plan to Mr. Rasmussen to demolish a
1600 square foot metal building and to convert
both the two -flat and the 2-story brick building
to single family homes. Se indicated that it was
a viable alternative use of the property, but would
have to be approved by the ZBA.
c. There was no mention made of the fact that R3
two-family designation meant two families in
the same structure. We did not learn this until
after the purchase of the property.
d. The real estate listing sheet for the property
advertised the brick building as a 2-story coach
house.
3. The demolition of the rear building will cause us a
financial as well as family hardship.
a. Under our proposed plan, our monthly housing
cost would be 25% of gross income; with the
added demolition cost for the rear building
and loss of the 2nd residence, that cost rises
to 38% or $6300 more annually.
This cost would force us to relocate to more
affordable housing, necessitating the withdrawal
of our son from the Lincoln School district,
b. Because of the length of the property, an additional
electrical pole will have to be erected to bring
electricity to the front house if the back building
is demolished.
c. Because of the length of the property, either
a heating mechanism for the waste system pump
station (currently located in the rear building)
must be provided, or a new sewage system constructed
to the sewer at Sherman Avenue instead of to the
alley sewer line.
4. There was erroneous testimony from the neighbor to
the south who objected to our proposal on the basis
of invasion of privacy. Contrary to what he stated,
the existing coach house and rear buildings in the
area already have windows looking into his yard.
5. The Staff Report to the ZBA members incorrectly
calculated the total lot size (approximate) as 7163
square feet rather than the correct 8120 square feet.
This miscalculation created an opinion that the property
would be too crowded.
SUBMITTED BY : David and Kathryn Brock 41 -64171,
Examples of addresses with rear buildings:
931 Sherman Single family house with music studio in rear
brick building.
1113 Sherman Single family house with business in back.
1119 Sherman Two -flat with brick building in rear.
1132 Sherman Two -flat with boarded up two-story brick
building in rear.
1136 Sherman Single-family with two- or three -flat
in two-story brick building in rear.
1210 Sherman Single-family home with single family two-
story brick building in rear.
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
June 13, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.R.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: B. Ahlberg, G. Sommers -Pant, C. Powers, D. Rasmussen,
E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Bleveans
Minutes of May 23. 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of May 23, 1988.
Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 88-11-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 2316 Park Place.
The Committee received the final decision from the Zoning Board of Appeals
without comment.
ZBA 88-12-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1017 Central Street.
The Committee received the final decision from the Zoning Board of Appeals
without comment.
March -April and May Quarterly Rehab Report.
The Committee received the March -April and May Quarterly Rehab Report without
comment.
Docket 106-6A-88. Plat of Consolidation re 1919 Dempster Street.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council approval of the request from McDonald's Corporation for a
plat of consolidation for the property at 1919 Dempster. Committee voted 6-0
to recommend approval of the plat of consolidation.
Docket 107-6A-88, Ordinance 40-0-88. ZBA 88-9-SU(R), re Special Use for 825
Church Street.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of a special use for a type 2 restaurant at 825 Church
Street. Ald. Brady expressed concerned at the request from the applicant to
suspend the rules to allow introduction and passage of the special use
ordinance at the June 13, 1988 meeting. She felt that the Committee should
act cautiously, particularly since the restaurant was a type 2. Staff
confirmed that the request from the applicant was due to the need to order
equipment and to be issued a building permit. The Committee voted 6-0 to
recommend to City Council introduction of Ordinance 40-0-88 for special use
r
P & D Minutes
June 13, 1988
for 825 Church Street. Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the
Committee recommend to City Council to deny the request for suspension of the
rules. Ald. Rudy stated that he was not sure that anything would be gained by
holding the matter up for an additional two weeks. He stated that he was
inclined to grant the request for suspension of the rules. Ald. Korshak felt
that to suspend the rules should only be done in an extraordinary situation.
He further expressed concerns about items such as litter when dealing with a
restaurant in the downtown area. He reminded the Committee that the City
acted cautiously with the McDonald's and the same standards should be applied
here. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council not to suspend the
rules and to allow the matter to be introduced only at the June 13, 1988 City
Council meeting.
Docket 108-6A-88, Ordinance 41-0-88, ZAC 88-1 re Rezoning of 2734 Central
Street.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council rezoning of a parcel of property from a B1 Business District to
an R6 General Residence District. Ald. Korshak questioned what other uses
could be placed on the property if rezoned to R6? Staff indicated that the
uses would be limited to multi -family or less intense uses than are currently
allowed in the B1 District. Staff confirmed that rooming houses and shelters
would require a special use. Ald. Rudy stated that his review of the zoning
map finds that the requested rezoning would bring the property more into
conformity with the surrounding zoning. Ald. Morton questioned what was done
to notify the neighboring community about the zoning change? Ahlberg stated
that State Statutes require advertising with a fifteen (15) to thirty (30) day
notice, but that the City goes further by posting the property with a sign
indicating a zoning hearing, in addition too sending public notices to
property owners surrounding the site. Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to
City Council introduction of Ordinance 41-0-88 to rezone the property at 2734
Central Street From B1 to R6.
Docket 109-6A-88, ZBA 88-10-V(R), re Variations for 500 Sherman Avenue.
The applicant requested that the Committee continue this matter since he only
received a copy of the transcript from his attorney on this date (June 13,
1988). It was the consensus of the Committee to continue this matter to the
June 27, 1988 P & D meeting.
Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
Chairman Bleveans recapped with the Committee the past review of this
ordinance. The ordinance originally appeared at P S D Committee in the fall
of 1987. Subsequent to an initial review the Committee requested the
Preservation Commission, Housing Commission, Evanston Property Owners
Association, T.O.E., and the Police Department to review the RCPC draft
ordinance and respond by May 1 to the P & D Committee. Chairman Bleveans
2-
Z
P & D Minutes
June 13, 1988
stated that he was more inclined to apply this ordinance to tenant occupied
properties and not to single family homeowner occupied units. Ald. Brady
questioned whether the City could legally apply different standards for new
versus old multi -family buildings. She felt that there was a need to
differentiate between these two types of structures. The Committee requested
that the Legal Department provide a legal opinion on this matter.
Ald. Warshaw stated that as a Housing Commission member she tried to weigh and
provide a balance between cost and security. The Committee discussed briefly
the issue that all interested parties have had ample time to provide input and
participate in the process. The Committee elected to review the Housing
Commission's draft ordinance on an item by item basis. Chairman Bleveans
reminded the Committee that P & D earlier voted to exclude single family,
owner occupied units from the ordinance.
The Committee reviewed Section 5-7-2 of the Housing Commission draft which
provided for a two year phase -in period for existing multi -family to comply
with aspects of the ordinance. Ald. Horton expressed a concerns with such a
short time frame since she felt that to comply could be costly. Ald. Warshaw
explained that inspection for compliance would be conducted in the normal
multi -family inspection program procedure and that no inspection would be made
within three (3) years of the passage of the ordinance. She felt that three
3) years would be sufficient time for the landlords to comply and spread the
cost for compliance. Ald. Warshaw further stated that the Housing
Commission's draft was similar to the Chicago ordinance and felt that the City
of Evanston's ordinance should at least be as strict as the Chicago
Ordinance. Ald. Rudy expressed reservations with requiring certain types of
doors (solid core wood or steel) to the detriment of aesthetic and historic
preservation. The Committee discussed at length whether to include existing
multi -family and whether to address doors, windows, and locks. Aid. Rudy
questions whether under Section 5-7-4-1 what performance standards would be
followed? He stated that he felt it was desirable to have performance
standards rather than have brand names applied. The Committee further
discussed the philosophies of allowing single family homeowners to elect not
to implement security safeguards and at the same time require renter occupied
units to comply with a burglary prevention ordinance. Ald. (Morton felt that
single family homeowners should have complete control over tneir own security
system, but felt that there may be a need for a mandate to develop a burglary
prevention ordinance for "the public good". Ald. Korshak stated certain
standards are necessary for all parties since any individual could endanger
another such as, police or firemen, and therefore society can place certain
rules which protect the overall good.
3-
R .
41
P & D Minutes
June 13, 1988
Chairman Bleveans opened the discussion to members of the audience to present
their views. Mr. Andy Atkinson, an Evanston property manager, stated that he
feels that if someone wants to get into a unit, they can. He expressed his
concerns that regardless of how many locks are placed in the foyer or on unit
doors if locks are not utilized burglaries Will happen. Mr. Jim Matykiewicz,
President of the Evanston Property Owners Association, stated that the
Association was not anti -security. He felt that the ordinance should be
considered to apply to single family, owner occupied and Questioned whether it
was legal to exclude single family if applied to multi -family? Matykiewicz
further stated that the Property Owners Association could live with the
Housing Commission's draft except for Section 5-7-6-2G, which requires certain
types of break proof exterior lighting. He felt that the vandal proof
lighting was a good idea for backdoors, but that it could damage aesthetics if
required for front doors. Mr. Albert, a property manager with several units
on Clyde, stated that no matter how many locks are placed on the doors if the
tenants do not use them the locks will provide no security. He felt that
tenants need to protect each other and that the landlords can only do so much.
Mr. Shapiro, a representative of Parliament Property Management, stated that a
number of buildings have recently changed doors to meet fire codes and that
these doors may also meet burglary prevention standards. He stated that in
many cases it is not the locks that break during a forced entry but the door
or the door jam.
Due to the lateness of the hour the Committee recommended that this matter be
held over for further discussion at the June 27, 1988 meeting.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is June 27, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert T. Rudd
70(2/5)
4-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
1'
6 DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
June 27, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: L. Morton
Staff Present: Office Kuempel, Brenniman, G. Sommers-Yant, C. Powers,
D. Rasmussen, J. Asprooth and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Bleveans
Minutes of June 13. 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of June 13, 1988.
Ald. Rudy moved that the minutes be amended on page 3, the last paragraph,
line 10 to reflect "standards rather than have two types of materials
specified." Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes as amended.
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairmanship Memorandum.
The Committee received the memo regarding the change of chairmanship effective
July a, 1988.
1100 Forest - Planned Unit Development (PUD) Minor Changes.
The Committee accepted a report from the City Manager approving minor changes
to 1100 Forest - Planned Unit Development.
ZBA Public Notice for July 19. 1988,
The Committee received a ZBA public notice for the July 19, 1988 meeting.
Appointment of Aldermanic Liaisons to the Plan Commission and Preservation
Commission.
Chairman Bleveans asked that members of the Committee cont_:_ ,nim prior to the
July 11, 1988 meeting and indicate their preference of bei~F a liaison to
either the Plan Commission or Preservation Commission. The :^,airman asked
that this matter be placed on the July 11, 1988 P & D ager»
Ald. Rainey Reference re Amendment to Residential Landlord :-rant Ordinance.
Chairman Bleveans recommended that this reference be forwar:. to the Housing
Commission since that body deals with the Landlord Tenant Cr:nance and other
housing issues. Ald. Brady asked that staff contact Ald. Fa:nay and request
additional documentation regarding this reference. Ald. P,,-.r stated that he
believes he understands why landlords require more than a mi)nth's rent as
P & D Minutes
June 27, 1988
security deposit, because oftentimes tenants move out and do not pay the last
month's rent and therefore money over and above a one month's period is
necessary to pay for any damages. It was the consensus of the Committee to
refer this matter to the Housing Commission.
Temporary Exception During Construction re Request from Presbyterian Home,_
3200 Grant Street.
Ald. Brady expressed concern that the neighbors most effected by this
temporary parking be notified of the decision. She also questioned how this
temporary parking would be enforced? Peter Mulvey, Chief Executive Officer of
the Presbyterian Home, stated that all employees have stickers and can be
identified and required to park in certain areas. He further stated that the
Presbyterian Home has parking spaces available for visitors. Ald. Brady
questioned whether a sign could be installed indicating that the spaces are
reserved for construction workers only? She further expressed her concern
that since this temporary parking will last for more than one (1) year that
parkers may become accustomed to it and will have a difficult time adjusting
when the temporary approval is removed. In response to a question from the
Committee, Mulvey stated that any damage to the parkway sod would be restored
by the Presbyterian Home. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the
Committee approve the temporary exception requested by the Presbyterian Home.
Committee voted 5-0 to approve the request.
Docket 134-6B--88, Municipal Use Zoning, Exemption For Construction of Fire
Station No. 4 - 1817 Washington Street.
Joel Asprooth, City Manager, was present and reviewed with the Committee a
site plan for the new fire station at 1817 Washington Street. Asprooth
explained that the new station would basically use the same foot print and
existing footings and foundations of the present station. He further
explained the the current building encroached in both the front and side
yards. As a justification for the zoning exception Asprooth explained that no
new or undue intrusion is being forced upon neighboring residents. Asprooth
reviewed with the Committee photos of the surrounding area and explained that
the current building, and its non -conformity, dates to the 1920's. He stated
that the City proposes to meet the parking requirements and exceed those
stated in the zoning ordinance since there is a need for additional parking.
The site plan proposes visitor's parking to be located in the front yard to
avoid impacting the neighborhood by having visitors park on -site rather than
on the street. Ald. Warshaw stated that she was opposed to losing any more
green area and felt that it was easy to park on the street. Asprooth
indicated that to eliminate the front yard visitor's parking would not cause
an operational problem. Ald. Brady stated that she was concerned that the
neighbors had not been involved in the process to date. Asprooth further
explained that the site plan proposed a decorative wall to be constructed in
the front yard so that an existing tabloid from the current fire station could
SP40
IMF 11 ' I' 1 1 1111I il11l11,'
I! '!!' III, I111 ^II I
I I!I I III I I
i'I'lll!I Ill ll l l ll i ll' , I
i i , i I„ , 11111 ,All^1 iTI! ' ' .1 ''1 1111 1 1 - 11
P & D Minutes
June 27, 1988
be located in the wall. Ald. Warshaw questioned why the tabloid could not be
mounted on the wall of the new fire station? The Committee felt that the City
should review places to mount the tabloid that would not require the need to
construct an additional wall in the front yard. Asprooth suggested that the
Committee approve zoning exception #1 of his memo dated June 23, 1988, which
would grant the front and side yard encroachment variations and that the
Committee hold in abeyance items 112 and #3, which address the decorative wall
and the parking in the front yard. Items #2 and #3 would not be incorporated
in the site plan unless it was felt necessary and which would necessitate the
matter coming back to the P & D Committee. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy
seconded that the Committee recommend to the City Council approval of zoning
exception Ill, for the proposed Fire Station #4, at 1817 Washington Street.
Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval to the City Council.
Preservation Commission re Triennial Review.
Ald. Brady stated that she feels the Commission is doing an excellent job.
She questioned what the Preservation's timing would be in responding to some
existing issues before the Commission?. Gwen Sommers-Yant, Preservation
Coordinator, stated that the Commission would soon be undertaking a review of
the current Planned Unit Development Ordinance. Yant also stated that the
Commission has been working for the past three (3) years toward revising the
Preservation Ordinance to allow for binding review. She felt that this matter
could be brought to the City Council within the next year. Ald. Rudy moved
and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend continuation of the
Preservation Commission and forward the review to the Rules Committee.
Committee voted 5-0 to approve.
Docket 85-5A-88, ZBA 88-5-V(R) re Variations for 1218 Sherman Avenue.
Mr. Brock, the applicant, presented an artists rendering of the facade for the
rear building. Brock reviewed with the Committee his proposal calling for
demolition of the rear portion of the rear building, thus eliminating the need
for a rear yard variation. Ald. Brady questioned Brock as to whether he would
be willing to stipulate to demolishing the back one-third of the building.
Brock stated that he would. Ald. Brady further questioned Brock as to whether
he would be willing to commit to restoring the exterior in accordance with the
rendering he was submitting to the Committee at the June 27, 1988 meeting?
Ald. Brady further questioned what the time frame would be do the majority
of the work on the back building? Brock stated that the .- house would
take between one (1) and two (2) years to complete. Brock __sted that the
outside of the rear building could be finished very soon. lid. Korshak stated
that he would want assurances in writing from Brock that the work on the
exterior of the rear building would be completed in a timP'y manner. Brock
stated that he has already been approved by the Bank of Ravenswood for a loan
that would allow him to complete the remodeling of the front house. Ald.
Korshak stated that he would like to have an estimated cost of the rehabbing
3-
P & D Minutes
June 27, 1988
of the rear building. He expressed concerns that for him to recommend
approval he would want assurance that the exterior of the rear building would
be completed in approximately twelve (12) to eighteen (18) months. Chairman
Bleveans suggested that staff should work with Ald. Korshak and the applicant
in an attempt to reduce these concerns to writing and possibly incorporate
into an ordinance.
Bro-.k stated to the Committee that it was necessary to install sewer and water
lines from the front of the property to both the front home and the rear home,
since the current lines were made of lead. He stated that he needed to know
how the Committee was going to vote on this matter since to run the sewer and
water lines to the rear building would be at great expense. The Committee
indicated that if all of the concerns previously addressed could be reduced to
writing and placed in the ordinance that he should take that as a strong
indication the Committee would approve his request. Ald. Korshak stated that
he would work with the applicant and staff in developing the proper wording
and assurances for an ordinance. Ald. Rudy stated that he has not come to an
agreement yet that would allow him to vote in favor of the request. Ald. Rudy
questioned why the applicant could not demolish the front portion of the rear
building and leave the rear portion? Brock stated that due to the
construction of the building he felt it was more appropriate to demolish the
rear portion and attempt to rehab the front. Ald. Rudy stated that he was
concerned that the proposal, even with all of the agreements by Kr. Brock, did
not meet the zoning ordinance requirements. He expressed concern that the
City was not following the standards set forth in the zoning ordinance. Ald.
Brady stated that she agreed somewhat with Ald. Rudy, except with the fact
that the site contained a unique building. She stated that the existing
building is a sound structure and doesn't interfere with the ambience of the
neighborhood. Ald. Rudy reiterated that he would feel better if the building
were located more to the rear of the lot. Ald. Warshaw stated that the
current zoning allows two (2) units in one building, but that the site offers
an even better situation since it will allow two (2) units in two separate
buildings. It was the consensus of the Committee to hold this matter to allow
Ald. Korshak, staff and the applicant to meet and attempt to develop an
ordinance addressing all of the concerns expressed by the Committee.
Docket 109-6A-88, ZBA 88-10-V(R), re Variations for 500 Sherman.
Ald. Warshaw stated that she was in favor of deterring any i:lega: conversions
in the City. She stated that she supports the ZBA recomme^elation to deny.
Ald. Brady stated that she has reviewed the site and is convinced that the
current owners are not at fault. Ald. Brady moved that the Committee grant
the variation for retention of a sixth dwelling unit and e:iminate the need
for additional parking space requirements. Ald. Rudy stated tha_ he agreed
with Ald. Warshaw. Ald. Warshaw stated that she would agroe with converting
the current illegal sixth unit back to a five unit buildin, without requiring
4-
P & D Minutes
June 27, 1988
any additional parking. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, was
present and clarified that the off-street parking variation request was only
dealing with a dimension variation and that the applicant did not request a
variation to eliminate the additional parking need. Mrs. Popodopoulous was
present and requested an opportunity to come back with a revised parking
plan. She stated that her and her husband did not realize the history of the
building when they purchased it. She stated that they have put a significant
amount of money into improving the property. Ald. Brady stated that her
review of the transcript finds that there is no question that the standards
were not met to warrant the variation. However, she feels the Zoning Board in
both a subtle and not -so -subtle way made it clear that the P & D Committee and
City Council could overturn their recommendation. Chairman Bleveans stated
that he doesn't agree with ZBA's position that the City Council has unfettered
discretion to overturn ZBA recommendations and waive zoning ordinance
requirements. He stated that the City Council also must abide by zoning
ordinance standards. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the P & D
Committee concur with the ZBA recommendation to deny the variations and
recommend same to the City Council. Committee voted 3-2. Voting Aye:
Aldermen Bleveans, Rudy and Warshaw. Voting Nay: Aldermen Brady and Korshak.
Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
Due to the lateness of the hour the Committee recommended setting Tuesday,
July 12, 1988, 7:30 p.m. as a special meeting of the P & D Committee to
discuss the Burglary Prevention Ordinance. Also, Ald. Rudy submitted to staff
some requests for information regarding performance standards. Ald. Brady
also recommended that at the special meeting of July 12, 1988 that the
Committee address the draft ordinance prepared by RCPC rathtzr then the Housing
Commission draft.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meet:nL of the P b D
Committee is July 11, 1988; next special meeting of the P & D Committee is
July 12, 1988.
Staff:
Robertr T. Rudd
70(2/6)
5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT.'NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
July 11, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, J. Zendell, D. Rasmussen, D. Carter,
R. Ahlberg and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Minutes of June 27. 1988.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of June 27, 1988 as
submitted. Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 88-14-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 280E Sheridan Place.
The Committee received a final decision from the ZBA without comment.
ZBA 88-15-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1130 Michigan Avenue.
The Committee received a final decision from the ZBA without comment.
Arts Council re Art in Public Places.
The Committee received a memorandum from the Arts Council describing future
activities regarding the establishment of a comprehensive public arts program
without comment.
Request for Anti -Nuclear Zone Signs.
Ald. Bleveans questioned why this matter was not before Human Services' He
felt that the matter had been previously discussed before that Committee and
this matter should be referred to Human Services. Ald. Brady expressed her
dismay at the request to construct twenty-two (22) signs at entrance locations
to the City of Evanston. She felt that signs in general were becoming quite
overwhelming. Ald. Brady felt that the City needs to develop a policy on
municipal signs and suggested establishing a Blue Ribbon Committee to develop
such a policy. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the P & D
Committee recommend to the City Council that the Sign Review & Appeals Board
be given the status of a "Blue Ribbon Committee" for a limited term to develop
a policy dealing with municipal signs. Ald. Brady felt that since the Sign
Review & Appeals Board is composed of experts in the area of design, signage
and advertising that this group would be most appropriate to review the
matter. The Committee discussed the motion and felt that the reference to the
Sign Review & Appeals Board went beyond the issue of nuclear weapon free zone
P & D Minutes
July 11, 1988
signs and that it could be several months or a year before the Board could
report back. The Committee amended the motion to recommend that the Sign
Review & Appeals Board provide a phased recommendation and address the nuclear
weapons free zone signs first and then address municipal signs. Ald. Rudy
felt that the scope of review by the Sign Review & Appeals Board should not
just be municipal signs but should be broadened to include "public signs".
Ald. Warshaw estimated that the Sign Review & Appeals Board could report back
to P & D within ninety (90) days regarding the nuclear weapons free zone
signs. Ald. Morton questioned, by making such a reference, would discussion
at P & D Committee be closed -off and the policy decision be made by a special
committee? The Committee clarified that the Sign Review & Appeals Board would
only be making a recommendation back to P & D, initially for the nuclear
weapons free zone signs, and at a later date for "public signs".
Dick Carter, Director of Planning, stated that several years ago the Plan
Commission did develop such a report regarding municipal signs. He suggested
that it may be helpful for the Committee to review that report. By the
consensus of the Committee Ald. Morton moved that the matter be held -over to
the next P & D Committee meeting of July 25. 1988 to allow the Committee an
opportunity to review the Plan Commission report.
Appointment of Aldermanic Liaisons to the Plan Commission and Preservation
Commission.
Former Planning & Development Committee Chairman Bleveans indicated that in
discussing the appointments with Committee members the following volunteers
would be named to the following committees: Plan Commission - Ald. Korshak;
Preservation Commission - Ald. Rudy. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the
appointment of the volunteers to the committees.
ZAC Request to Eliminate Reference on Manufacturing Districts.
Chairman Korshak reviewed the ZAC recommendation to eliminate a reference to
the Zoning Amendment Committee and to send another reference regarding
manufacturing districts to the Zoning Commission so that the issue can be
comprehensively studied and included in the upcoming zoning ordinance. Ald.
Bleveans moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee approve the ZAC
recommendation and make the requested reference. The Committee voted 6-0 to
concur.
Docket 138-7A-88, Review Operating Hours for Domino's Pizza at 3333 Simpson.
Chairman Korshak questioned whether Aldermen of the ward had been contacted
and whether their comments had been solicited? Staff indicated that the
aldermen had not been contacted but were forwarded the information. Chairman
Korshak stated that in future instances that involve cases specific to a ward
he is directing staff to contact those aldermen to obtain their comments.
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P & D Minutes
July 11, 1988
Aid. Brady stated that this issue arose in the Rules Committee and that it was
the direction of the Rules Committee that Chairman of the committees make the
contact with aldermen. Chairman Korshak stated since it was his prerogative
to make contact with aldermen of the ward, he was now so directing staff to
make that contact. Aid. Bleveans stated that he would discuss with aldermen
of the ward prior to this issue being discussed at the City Council meeting on
July 11, 1988. Aid. Warshaw moved and Aid. Brady seconded that the Committee
recommend to the City Council that the Domino's Pizza hours of operation be
maintained in the future as they have been for the past year and as
established in Ordinance 99-0-86.
Appeal of Decision of Sign Review & Appeals Board re 1015 Chicago Avenue -
Sims Subaru.
Aid. Warshaw questioned why the Committee has not received the minutes of the
Sign Review & Appeals Board. Jack Weiss, Acting Chairman of the Sign Review &
Appeals Board stated that he also did not have the minutes and was unable to
provide additional explanation. Gerald Murphy, representing the applicant,
stated that he did have a copy of the minutes and provided the material to the
P & D Committee. Chairman Korshak read the minutes of the subject Sign Review
Appeals Board meeting to the P & D Committee to provide as much information
as possible. Mr. Weiss also stated that the Sign Review & Appeals Board has
not received the material submitted to the P & D Committee for the July 11
meeting and would have a difficult time in responding to the issue. Aid.
Bleveans suggested that the Committee direct staff to provide all interested
parties all of the information pertinent to the issue and that the matter be
continued to the next meeting of the P & D Committee on July 25, 1988. Aid.
Morton felt that it would only be fair for the P & D Committee to make a
decision based on the evidence submitted and that it could not do so until all
parties had received all information. The Committee discussed whether to
decide at the July 11 meeting whether to hear an appeal or to wait until
assurance was given that all parties had the same information in hand. Aid.
Rudy stated that he did understand the situation and was prepared to make a
decision. Aid. Morton stated that she was not prepared to make a decision and
felt that time was needed to work out an agreement with the applicant which
could be done at the July 25, 1988 meeting. Aid. Brady stated that she
concurs with Aid. Rudy and that she has sufficient information and understands
the request. Aid. Morton discussed with the Committee the development of the
Sign Ordinance. She felt that the Sign Ordinance is not perfect and that it
possibly did not address the situation such as proposed by Sims. Aid.
Bleveans reviewed with Aid. Morton the long hours the P & D Committee spent
developing the Sign Ordinance and the compromises and complicated issues that
was discussed with all interested parties which included the Chamber of
Commerce, staff, professional sign people, etc. Aid. Morton questioned
whether the Sign Ordinance should be viewed as perfect and whether the whole
process allowed for any new ideas.
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P & D Minutes '
July 11, 1988
Weiss stated that the Sign Review & Appeals Board took its deliberations
seriously regarding an applicant's request and in all cases has offered
helpful suggestions and alternatives to applicants. Applicant Les Sims was
present and stated that the Subaru sign was necessary since the current sign
doesn't differentiate between "new" and "used" car sales. He stated that the
used car sales were necessary for the success of his business. Sims also
Indicated that it was his opinion that the Sign Review & Appeals Board was
significantly slanted against car dealers and made several derogatory comments
about that business and this particular request at the Sign Review & Appeals
Board meeting. He concluded that he felt his application did not receive a
fair hearing and was doomed to failure because of the biases of the members of
the Sign Review & Appeals Board.
It was the consensus of the P & D Committee to hold this matter over to the
July 25, 1988 meeting, until staff had provided all interested parties with
the requested information.
139-7A-88, Ordinance 46-0-88, ZAC 88-2. Zoning Amendments re Churches.
Chairman Korshak review with the Committee the background of this matter. The
issue involved a law suit by the Love Church which resulted in a Federal
Judge's order that the City amend the zoning ordinance to allow churches as a
permitted use in certain districts. Ald. Warshaw reviewed the ZAC Report
which confirmed her belief that per the report churches would be identical to
meeting halls, thus being permitted uses wherever meeting halls were permitted
uses. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
to City Council adoption of the ZAC Report. Ald. Bleveans questioned that
since this is such an important issue wouldn't the Zoning Commission be more
appropriate to comprehensively review this matter and incorporate in the new
zoning ordinance' Bob Ahlberg, Zoning Planner, indicated to the Committee
that the ZAC Report recommends amending immediately the zoning ordinance to
address the order by the Federal Judge and also recommends that P a D
Committee refer to the Zoning Commission the more comprehensive issue of
churches and to be included in the new zoning ordinance. Ald. Warshaw moved
to amend her motion to include the reference to the Zoning Commission to
address the church issue.
Ald. Brady stated that though she will support the amendment based on the
judge's order, she finds the telling comment in the ZAC transcript was that
research found that no other ordinances allow churches as permitted uses
without at least some specific regulations. She stated that she shared ZAC's
frustrations in not having the opportunity to deal with the issue in a
comprehensive fashion but feels the City is in a difficult position with the
judge's order. Ald. Bleveans reiterated his concern that the Zoning
Commission could be comprehensively considering this matter during the next
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P & D Minutes
July 11, 1988
eighteen to twenty-four (18-24) months. His concern is that in this time
period numerous new churches could be established in areas that the new zoning
ordinance may not allow. Ald. Bleveans questioned whether it would meet the
intent of the judge's order if the City were to refer this to the Zoning
Commission at this time and not take action on the subject ordinance. Ellen
Szymanski, Assistant Corporation Counsel, stated that she felt that would be
acceptable if the City could assure the judge that it is was taking diligent
steps to resolve the issue. The Committee discussed at length whether to send
the matter to the Zoning Commission, to recommend introduction of the
ordinance, or to recommend introduction of the ordinance and send the overall
issue to the Zoning Commission. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning,
stated that he is currently holding a request for a church and if the matter
is not resolved soon, will be required to notify the church that a special use
is needed.
The Committee voted on the original motion as amended by Ald. Warshaw to
recommend introduction of Ordinance 46-0-88 and at the same time refer the
overall issue to the Zoning Commission to comprehensively review. Ald. Brady
also requested that the Legal Department supply the Committee a legal opinion
as to whether it would be appropriate to send this matter to the Zoning
Commission and not amend the zoning ordinance at this time. The Committee
voted 5-1 on the motion. (Ald. Rudy voting nay.)
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Committee is July 25, 1988.
Staff:
Robert ?.'Rudd
70(2/6)
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The next regular meeting of the P 6 D
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
MINUTES
Special Meetint
Planning and Development Committee
July 12, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
J. Bleveans
Staff Present: C. Kuempel, G. Sommer -Pants and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Review of Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
Chairman Korshak opened the meeting by informing the members of the audience
that the first thirty minutes would be allocated to comments by the Committee
followed by an opportunity for those in attendance to also comment. Ald.
Horton moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee attempt to close the
meeting at 9:30 p.m. but no later than 10:30 p.m. It was the consensus of the
Committee to attempt end the meeting no later than 10:00 p.m. Both Aldermen
Warshaw and Brady stated that they would prefer, at this point, to hear from
the audience and then have the Committee comment later. Ald. Horton
questioned staff regarding the BOCA Code and whether it covered the same items
as the Burglary Prevention Ordinance? Rudd indicated that the BOCA Code did
require locks but it was a minimum building code and did not cover, for the
most part, the items addressed by the proposed Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
In response to Ald. Morton, Rudd gave a brief history of the Burglary
Prevention Ordinance from the point where City staff was involved which was
about two and one-half years ago. Ald. Morton questioned whether other
security devices such as alarms were considered by RCPC in the development of
the Burglary Prevention Ordinance. Rudd stated that the Committee primarily
addressed multi family, renter occupied residences and thus did not review
indepth burglary alarm systems. Also, in response to a question from Ald.
Morton, Rudd indicated that the major portion of the burglary prevention
ordinance, when being developed, was dedicated to renter occupied multi
family, though the RCPC representatives did address single family. Ald.
Korshak read from his memo to the Committee dated July 12, 1988 (attached)
which highlighted several concerns he had and suggested approaches to
addressing this issue. Ann Graff, a representative of the Residential Crime
Prevention Committee (RCPC) reviewed briefly the crime prevention figures
published recently in the Chicago Tribune. Figures indicated that Evanston
had a relatively high burglary rate, Ivan Lippitz, a RCPC representative,
stated that the RCPC addressed single family mostly due to, at the time, a
legal opinion which stated that multi family and single family must be
addressed by the proposed ordinance. Lippitz also recommended that the P & D
Committee accept certain sections of the proposed ordinance which are
acceptable and not controversial and proceed to review only those areas that
P & D Minutes
Special Meeting
July 12, 1988
appear to be controversial. Linda DeWoskin, representing TOE, stated that her
organization endorses the ordinance. DeWoskin proceeded to list several
Illinois Municipalities that have enacted similar ordinances (Alsip, Tinley
Park, St. Charles, Evergreen Park and Morton Grove). DeWoskin stated that it
was recognized that increased cost would be borne by the tenants but the
tenants also would receive increased security. She stated that the human cost
of burglary victims far outweighed any increases to be experienced by tenants
due to increased rents necessitated by improved security for the units. She
further stated that tenants do not have the choice of installing their own
security and must rely on landlords. DeWoskin reviewed with the Committee
numerous complaints received by TOE constituents that centered on the lack of
security in various buildings. In response to a question from Ald. Brady
regarding the implementation phase -in for security standards, DeWaskin stated
that regulations vary from suburb to suburb. Robert Heibergev, a
representative of Evanston Property Owners Association, read from a letter
from that organization stating that if the City should enact a burglary
prevention ordinance, it should apply to both single family and multi family.
Mr. Tomich, a custodian for over forty years in the City of Evanston, stated
that no matter what device was put in place for security, it would always rely
on the tenant using the device. He stated that the City cannot force people
to build fortresses. Albert Bowen stated that he recently purchased a
twenty-three unit building and had to replace the furnace at an expense of
approximately $16,000. He stated that he cannot afford the burglary
prevention improvements and that tenants may not use the locks anyway. Louis
Urbanik stated that ideas such as the burglary prevention ordinance oftentimes
have merit in part, but when all of the sections are put together, the
ordinance doesn't make sense. Urbanik questioned whether there were
statistics to justify solid core doors as a requirement. Like Bowen, Urbanik
stated that locks will only work if the tenants use them and questioned
whether there were statistics indicating the number of burglaries where the
locks were broken or where burglaries took place where the locks weren't
locked. Urbanik stated that in his opinion the City of Evanston requirements
were driving up rents and causing higher vacancies. He stated that efforts
should be directed at going after the burglars and not the landlords. Mr.
Manji, stated that he was a former tenant and is now an apartment building
owner. Mr. Manji stated that he supported aspects of the burglary prevention
ordinance but recognizes that the ordinance is a trade-off of
coat -versus -security. He stated that he supports enforcing the lock
provisions of the ordinance. Manji stated that he is opposed to the
requirements of new doors and jambs. Manji also questioned whether statistics
were available indicating how many times burglars broke the doors and jambs
versus the locks. He further suggested that the installation of intercoms
would significantly increase security and decrease unauthorized entry.
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P `& A Minutes
Special Meeting
July 12, 1988
At this point Chairman Korshak reviewed with the Committee a legal opinion
from Herb Hill, First Corporation Counsel, stating that the City could develop
a distinction between single family and multi family. Police Officer, Curt
Kuempel, was present and provided the Committee with a number of statistics
regarding the percent of residential multi family burglary victims. Kuempel
stated that in 1986 there were 1004 burglaries in Evanston. Of that number,
669 were of the multi family nature (66.5%). In 1987 the City experienced
1010 residential burglaries with 664 in multi family buildings (59.9%). In
the first five months of 1988 Evanston has had 260 residential burglaries with
119 in multi family buildings (45.7%). Kuempel further stated that burglaries
generally were in the area of forced entry at or around a door or window.
Ald. Warshaw observed that many burglaries in residential buildings take place
in the basement entries. Kuempel reviewed statistics with the Committee that
excluded burglaries in storage areas, garages, etc. which found the
following. In 1986, 50% of the burglaries were in multi family units. In
1987, 26.9% were in multi family units and in 1988 (the first five months)
31.5% were in multi family units. Ald. Rudy reviewed with the Committee an
ASTM Report, page 21, which detailed methods of entry. In response to Ald.
Rudy`s question regarding similar City of Evanston information, Kuempel stated
that the City did have the information but that it was not readily
retrievable. Ald. Rudy observed that the statistics in the ASTM Report found
that 32% of home entries were not forced entries (were through unlock doors).
Chairman Korshak summarized with the Committee some of the open issues.
Chairman Korshak observed that the Committee needs to decide whether to apply
the ordinance to multi family, single family or to further break down the
categories to existing and new multi family, and existing and new single
family. Chairman Korshak suggested that the Committee may want to consider
phasing -in aspects of the ordinance to different types of units. Korshak
stated that his findings are that the cost of replacing a door may run between
300-500. Ald. Brady stated that she could support applying the ordinance to
new single family and multi family buildings. Ald. Morton stated that she
would not support applying the ordinance to single family homes that are being
built by the homeowner. She stated that the homeowner should have the right
not to apply burglary prevention standards. She stated that she would support
applying the ordinance if a builder is constructing a home to sell. Ald. Rudy
questioned whether the issue really was a legal one- does the City have the
ability to differentiate between new and old and single and multi family? He
stated that he has difficulty with Ald. Morton's analysis and division of
single family because eventually a person building their own house could sell
the unit. Ald. Rudy further stated that the Committee needs
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1 I I i I .e I I .^ i II iIN 11
i - - I ' I I 1 II
P & D Minutes
Special Meeting
July 12, 1988
to come to grips with historic preservation issues. Ald. Warshaw suggested
that the Committee may need to propose an exemption for historic preservation
aspects of a building. Ald. Korshak questioned whether the Committee wanted
to include new construction, single family and multi family? Ald. Morton
asked whether thought had been given to the cost of the prevention
regulations? Aldermen Morton, Rudy and Brady concurred in eliminating
existing single family units from all aspects of the code. Ald. Warshaw
stated that she did not agree and felt there was at least a need to educate
that component because approximately one-half of break-ins take place in
single family homes. Chairman Korshak stated that he has concerns regarding
the safety of policemen and firemen. Ald. Brady questioned how the City would
regulate single family homes since the City does not inspect these homes?
Ald. Morton followed up with, if the City did inspect single family homes, how
would the City pay for additional inspectors? Under one proposal, Ald. Brady
stated that if only multi family units were inspected the current staff would
inspect those units with respect to burglary prevention ordinance on a regular
schedule, which is currently three to five years. Ald. Brady recommended that
the Committee, due to practical considerations defer any regulations applying
to existing, free standing, owner occupied, single family homes
exclusively). Heiberger questioned what category the Committee would place
townhouses. Ald. Brady stated that she would include townhouse in her
definition of free standing single famA'ly homes.
Graff stated that RCPC supports applying the ordinance to all residential
units. Jeff Wisnewski, stated that he is a member of RCPC and Peels that
enforcement of the ordinance will help slow down burglaries but will not
necessarily eliminate burglaries. Karen Carlson, a representative of RCPC,
suggested that the Committee may want to consider inspecting single family
homes at the point of sale (title transfer) and require that the home be
brought up to code at that time. Chairman Korshak indicated that the City may
be taking on substantial liability and may not want to enter into that type of
inspection. Mr. Goldman, stated that he just came from an Elk Park Neighbor
meeting and that all members of that group were against the entire ordinance.
Jim Matykiewicz, representing Evanston Property Owners Association (EPOA),
stated that it was his opinion that the ordinance was too expensive and that
under the current discussion of the P & D Committee, the ordinance would be
applied to multi family structures occupied by tenants which in his opinion
are of a low economic strata and the one least able to pay. He further stated
that the Committee appears to be leaning in the direction of excluding the
single family owner occupied homes which are in a higher economic strata and
which would appear to be better able to pay.
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P '& D Minutes
Special Meeting
July 12, 1988
Officer Kuempel reviewed with the Committee the costs that he received from
Evanston Lumber, Hines Lumber and Courtesy Lumber regarding costs for pre -hung
doors, metal doors and solid core doors. Ald. Rudy suggested that rather than
basing decisions on estimates received from these companies that the Committee
rely more on an estimating catalog.
Due to the lateness of the hour it was the consensus of the Committee to
continue discussion for one hour starting at 7:00 p.m on July 25, 1988. Since
that is a regular meeting of the P & D Committee other agenda items would be
taken up between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
Staff:e /,////
Robert T. Rudd
71(11/15)
5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
jury 12,1988
To: Members of P and D Committee
Fr: Jack Korshak, Current Choir
Re: Burglary Prevention Ordinance
I have prepared this to be savi ng of your time at the special meeting called for tonight.
First, unless you disagree, I propose to ask for a cut-off time so that the ending of the
meeting is made known to everyone. I suggest that one of you propose a time not later than 10 PM.
Second, I would like to reserve the first 30 minutes for such preliminary comments as
each of you wish to make. Then I would like to turn to those present who have given this much
study and ask for brief comments. The Res Crime Prey Unit is one such. The Tenants Organization
has asked to be heard. The Police may have a comment. Members of our Staff may wish to comment.
Finally, there may be individuals. (including property owners). A sign-up sheet would be
helpful, I think
I suggest we hear each of them without comment by us, while we take such notes as may
facilitate the response you wish to make to any point.
Many present may feel our study of this problem is overlong. But our
obligation as AIderpeople is different than those in th audience. We are all
agreed that strong safety measures are desirable. However,
Only we must accept responsibility for any ordinance we recommend.
Only we have a responsibility both to property owners and tenants.
We must consider the costs of any procedure we recommend. We must consider the time to
be allowed for compliance with an ordi nonce. And above all we must consider the realistic efficacy
of any measures we propose.
For example: knowing that 60%of break-ins occur in multi -family units, we might ask
In what percentage of cases was break-in attributable simply to a lock''' '1n .,het percentage was
a forcible entry made by breaking the door or the )amb?" (The best lock in the -world won't help if
the door or jamb can be easily forced).
We must decide whether from a practical point of view, the beat we can do is establish a
standard for locks on the theory that delaying a break-in, making it necessary for an intruder to
take more ti me and create a noise which may attract attention.
I don't know the answers. But working together on this we may evolve a solution. if we can
do that tonight well and wood. But I suggest it is more important that we reach come rrsus on a
sound and defe nsi ble solution than simply placate people by moving too quickly.
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
r
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
July 25, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.K.
S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton and J. Rudy
J. Bleveans and R. Warshaw
C. Kuempel, G. Sommers -Rant, J. Zendell, C. Pourers,
D. Rasmussen, D. Carter, R. Carlson and R. Rudd
Phil Peters
J. Korshak
Minutes of July 11(regular meeting) and July 12 (special meetinK). 1988.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the minutes
of the Planning 6 Development Committee meeting of July 11, 1988 as
submitted. Committee voted 4-0 to approve the minutes. Ald. Brady moved and
Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the minutes of the special
meeting of July 12, 1988. Committee voted 4-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 88-16-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 1001 Maple Avenue.
The Committee received, without comment, the final variation decision from the
ZBA.
Reference to P & D from Ald. Larson.
Ald. Brady recommended that the reference from Ald. Larson regarding
Sanctuary City" be discussed when the Committee reviews the Request for
Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Signs.
1100 Forest - Planned Unit Development (PUD) Minor Changes.
Th Committee accepted a City Manager memorandum regarding minor changes to
1100 Forest.
OLD BUSINESS
Burglary Prevention Ordinance
Chairman Korshak reviewed with the Committee his memo dated July 25, 1988.
That memo suggested that the Committee attempt to phase -in the burglary
prevention standards by addressing at this time only the dead -bolt lock
issue. Ald. Korshak suggested that to deal with hinges, jambs, doors, etc.
would hinder the enactment of a minimum burglary prevention ordinance. The
memo recommended that every multi family building owner be required to advise
the City the address of the property. the number of units having plus those
needing dead -bolt locks and that the owners be allowed a three (3) month
period to accomplish the installation of the locks and advise the City when
P & 0 Minutes
July 25, 1988 r
completed. Ald Korshak further suggested that in the meantime the Committee
could work gathering data on what other communities have done, consider
practical problems, and develop a sensible and practical plan for continuing
to move on the burglary prevention ordinance. Officer Kuempel reviewed with
the Committee statistics indicating that from January to May 1988 there have
been 182,multi family (apartment and condo) burglaries. The Committee
reviewed with Kuempel the types of entry (kicking and splitting door, door
frames or defeating locks). In response to a question from Ald. Brady,
Kuempel stated that 170 of the above cited burglaries were in multi family
units while only 12 were in condos. Kuempel further stated that from June 1
to this date, the City has experienced 150 multi family burglaries. Ald.
Norton questioned whether the burglaries to apartments were at a rear door,
common door or other entry points? In response from a question from Ald.
Brady, Kuempel stated that it is possible to defeat any type of lock if a
burglar is given enough time. Ald. Marton questioned whether there were types
of security available other than locks? Officer Kuempel stated that the Crime
Prevention Bureau has programs such as "Neighborhood Watch" and "Building
Watch". Ald. Rudy questioned whether the burglaries took place in "walk-up"
buildings or elevator buildings? Kuempel stated that the majority of the
burglaries took place in older buildings which were primarily walk-up
buildings. The Committee discussed the issue of replacing doors, frames, and
whether they should be solid wood or metal. Ald. Rudy suggested that to meet
certain aspects of the building code, it may be necessary to replace a wood
frame with a metal frame and thus could result in a major change to the
building. Ald. Rudy expressed concern regarding changes resulting in
architectural and historical preservation issues. He further stated that it
is unknown whether people in buildings want this type of increased security at
the expense of architectural change and financial burden. Ald. Rudy suggested
that tenants and owners need to meet and decide whether they need this type of
additional security. He felt that new buildings should meet a new standard.
Ald. Morton stated that she agrees with Ald. Rudy in part and is opposed to
applying the security standards to existing structures. Ald. Morton suggested
the City consider starting education programs with tenants and attempt to have
tenants obtain redress through the landlord and to work with the Crime
Prevention Bureau. Chairman Korshak observed that simply due to the existence
of TOE, it has been proven that landlords and tenants cannot just agree on
matters and resolve problems. Chairman Korshak reiterated his earlier concern
for the safety of policemen and firemen in buildings that may not have proper
security devices. Chairman Korshak reviewed with the Committee again his memo
which addressed the Preservation Commission's concerns, would now require
dead -bolt locks which would increase security by necessitating more time
during attempts of entry and thus retard a burglary attempt. Chairman Korshak
further felt that to require the installation of dead -bolt locks could be
easily accomplished and that it would not be that costly.
Ald. Brady stated that the Housing Commission proposal basically addressed the
Issues proposed by Chairman Korshak. She stated that the problem was that the
locks would provide minimal delay in unauthorized entry and that the frame and
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P & D Minutes
July 25, 1988
the door could be the weak link. Ald. Brady suggested that any new ordinance
consider allowing tenants to mandate that dead -bolt locks be installed. She
stated that it may be difficult to require all doors and possibly frames to be
replaced. Ald. Rudy suggested that the City could develop an ordinance
mandating annual tenant meetings to review the lock issue. Under such a
proposal.the City could require each building owner to have a meeting and to
provide the results of the meeting to the City for review. He stated that it
is important that agreement is not forced upon tenants and landlords by the
City and that it is decided upon by those two groups. Ald. Morton stated that
regardless of how the lock issue is resolved, she feels that it is necessary
that the City develop an ordinance requiring a "door scope" be installed on
every door. She stated that she continued to oppose the requirement of
installing dead -bolt locks. Ald. Rudy stated that he continues to believe
that the City should address performance standards such as ASTM in any
ordinance that is developed.
Jerry Sharp, an Evanston property manager, suggested that the committee not
limit locks to just double cylinder dead -bolt locks since they pose a fire
danger, but also allow vertical dead -bolt locks in addition to horizontal
dead -bolt locks. Sharp also offered alternatives that are available to
replacing an entire door frame. Ivan Lippitz, a representative of RCPC,
informed the Committee that one inch dead -bolt locks and one and one-half inch
mortisse locks are allowed in the proposed RCPC Ordinance. Lippitz further
recommended that the P 6 D Committee develop a consent agenda and adopt those
aspects of the RCPC Ordinance that are not controversial. Due to the lateness
of the hour it was the consensus of the Committee to meet at 7:00 p.m. on
August 8, 1988 to continue discussion on the Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
Ald. Brady also suggested that the Committee consider to tentatively set a
special meeting date for August 15, 1988 to further address this matter. It
was the consensus of the Committee to evaluate the special meeting date at the
end of the August 8, 1988 meeting.
Docket 139-7A-88. Ordinance 46-0-88. ZAC 88-2. Zoning Amendments re Churches.
Upon review of a legal opinion from Herb Hill, Corporation Counsel, it was the
position of the Committee to recommend to the City Council that the item be
removed from the City Council agenda.
Appeal of Decision of Sign Review & Appeals Board re 1015 Chicago Avenue -
Sims Subaru.
Chairman Korshak briefly reviewed with the Committee updated information that
indicated that two (2) items in disagreement regarding the proposed sign have
been resolved and that both the petitioner and the Sign Review and Appeals
Board request that the matter be referred back to the Board for further
hearing. It was the consensus of the Committee to refer the appeal back to
the Sign Review and Appeals Board.
Docket 141-78-88. Consider Authorization to City Manager to Increase Building
Zoning Department Staff.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to City
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P & D Minutes
July 25, 1988
Council to authorize the City Manager to increase the Building & Zoning
Department staff by one (1) Zoning Officer. Ald. Morton questioned how this
position would be paid for in future budgets? Rudd indicated that it was
expected that revenue generated by the Department would pay for the position
in the current budget year and in the future years.
Docket 142-7B-88, Municipal Exemption - Noyes Cultural Arts Center (Temporarx
Use).
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of the municipal exemption for the Noyes Cultural Arts
Center for a temporary theater use in the gymnasium. Ald. Brady questioned
when the gym was in use for a theater, what normal activities would be
eliminated? Joe Zendell, Director of the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, stated
that a few day dance classes and some gymnastics classes would be required to
rearrange schedules. Ald. Morton questioned whether a formal agreement to
return the gymnasium to its original condition was worked out with the theater
group' Zendell said that would be a part of the lease agreement. The
Committee voted 4-0 to recommend to City Council approval of the municipal
exemption.
Docket 143-7B-88. Approval of plat of Consolidation for Property at 2650
Sheridan Road.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of a plat of consolidation for the property at 2650 Sheridan
Road. The Committee voted 4-0 to approve the plat of consolidation.
Docket 144-7B-88, Ordinance 48-0-88, ZAC 88-3, Rezone Part of 2205 Lee Street.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of the requested rezoning of a portion of 2205 Lee Street
from M1 District to M3 District. Chairman Korshak indicated that the request
was located within his ward and he found no objection. The Committee voted
4-0 to recommend to City Council introduction of Ordinance 48-0-88
recommending the rezoning.
Request for Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Signs.
Chairman Korshak stated that not all entrances to the City appear appropriate
for such signs. Ald. Brady stated that it is not a question of being for or
against the proposed signs but feels the City should separate regulatory
versus non-regulatoty signs. She stated that the Committee should decide to
send the matter to the Plan Commission or to a special subcommittee of the
Sign Review and Appeals Board. She stated that she is not trying to postpone
the decision regarding Nuclear Weapons Free Zone signs and Sanctuary City
signs, but feels that there are substantive policy issues that need to be
addressed. Ald. Rudy suggested that it would be helpful to have photos of all
of the entrances to the City to aid in determining what signs are already in
existence. Sid Orlov, an advocate for the Nuclear Weapons Free Zone signs
stated that his group proposed to place the subject signs under the "Tree
City" signs located at some entrances. Chairman Korshak questioned whether
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P & D Minutes
July 25, 1988
Orlov's committee has attempted to prioritize the signs! Orlov stated that no
alternatives were reviewed. Orlov further stated that his committee has
written letters to synagogues, churches, and other organizations, in addition
to representative Bowman, all of which have responded favorably to the
proposal. Orlov stated that the signs being proposed will have the nuclear
weapons tree zone symbol and are approximately 12x18 inches in size. Chairman
Korshak suggested that Orlov supply the Committee with a rendering and
dimensions of the proposed signs. Mrs. Levinson, an advocate of the nuclear
weapons free zone sign, stated that the group would provide any information
requested when it was told which committee would discuss the matter.
Ald. Brady stated that the Committee needs to develop standards and policies
before they address specific signs such as Nuclear Weapons Free Zone and
Sanctuary City. The Committee reviewed a 1977 report from the Plan Commission
regarding regulatory signage in the City. Dick Carter, Planning Director,
stated that it is his recollection that the report was never adopted by the
City Council. In response to a question from the Committee, Carter stated
that the Plan Commission could render an opinion but if a study regarding
control of regulatory and non -regulatory signs were required, the Plan
Commission and staff at this time could not undertake such a study. Chairman
Korshak questioned whether the matter should be sent to the Human Services
Committee since it would appear to be more in that area? Chairman Korshak
further stated that even if the Human Services reviewed the matter, the P & D
Committee would need to review the mechanics of implementation at a later
date. Ald. Rudy suggested that the Committee recommend approval of the
Sanctuary City and Nuclear Weapons Free Zone signs and suggested a consultant
develop a plan to organize the signs at the entrances to the City. Ald.
Morton suggested that possibly the signs should not be located at entrances
but possibly be located at other locations. Orlov stated that his group felt
that the entrances were the logical location and had not explored other areas.
It was the unanimous decision of the Committee that this matter continue to be
addressed at the P & D Committee. It was the consensus of the Committee that
opinions and concerns from the Plan Commission be received regarding both
regulatory and non -regulatory signs. The matter will await further input from
staff and Plan Commission in addition material from Mr. Orlov's group.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is August 8, 1988 at 7:00.
Staff: A,
RobeKt T. Rudd
70(2/10)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
ti
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
14INUTES
Planning and Development Committee
August 8, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Bleveans, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: L. Horton
Staff Present: C. Kuempel, G. Sommers-Yant, C. Powers, T. Clarke,
D. Rasmussen, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Minutes of July 25. 1988.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the minutes
of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of July 25, 1988 as
submitted. The Committee voted 3-0 to approve the minutes (Aldermen Warshaw
and Bleveans absent).
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 88-8-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 90 Kedzie Street.
The Committee received a final variation decision regarding 90 Kedzie from the
Zoning Board of Appeals. Ald. Brady stated that she has received several
calls from neighbors that feel that the house will be too large for the
parcel. Mary Singh was present and stated that she feels the question of
diminution of value of the adjoining property was not a':-assed by ZBA. She
stated that it is her opinion that the 'ZBA should have placed as a condition
on the variation the prohibition of adding further to the rear of the
building. She felt that "ZBA did not properly address the variation
standards. Ald. Warshaw stated that upon reading the ev dence as presented in
the transcript, she could not believe the conclusion reA:hed by "ZBA.
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 149-8A-88, Ordinance 49-0-88. 'ZBA 88-18-V(R) re Variations for 425 Lee
Street.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council to grant the variations to permit the subdivision into two lots
and the sale of each lot separately. She stated that tha :natter is in her
ward and she has no difficulty with the request. Ald. R::,:y noted that the
City basically doesn't have much of a choice in this ma*:-r Committee voted
4-0 to recommend approval of the variations (Ald. Bleve int-ont).
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P & D Minutes
August B. 1988
Docket 150-8A-88, Ordinance 50-0-88, ZBA 88-17-V(R) re Variations for 931-33
Sherman Avenue.
Chairman Korshak provided some background to the Committee on the subject.
Sometime ago a variation was granted for the continuation of a sound studio.
The current request is to permit conversion of the rear building into a single
family dwelling. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the
Committee recommend to City Council approval of the variation request. The
Committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval of the variations (Ald. Bleveans
absent).
Docket 148-8A-88, "RFP for Custer/Callan " Proiect.
Chairman Korshak provided some background to the Committee detailing the
City's purchase of the property and elimination of the commercial stores on
the project. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee
recommend to City Council approval of the RFP. Ald. Brady questioned how much
money the City has put into the project at this point? Tim Clarke, of the
Planning Department, stated that the City has paid approximately $475,000 thus
far. Ald. Brady questioned that the issue of affordable housing was not
directly spoken to in the RFP. Ald. Warshaw stated that construction costs
has risen substantially in the last 3 112 years since the concept of
affordable housing was proposed. She stated that the RFP still reflects the
same concept and will attempt to seek below market mortgages to make the
housing affordable to a moderate income population. Ald. Brady expressed her
preference that the City try to recapture all of the $475,000 already in the
project. Ald. Warshaw stated that that might make the project unmarketable
and the housing too expensive. Clarke stated that the Economic Development
Committee felt that affordable housing must be on the site, but had
reservations about providing a subsidy for first-time buyers and letting them
reap significant benefits at a later date. Ald. Rudy questioned the
feasibility of placing ten (10) units on a site of this size. Ald. Warshaw
stated that it was necessary to allow the market to decide the type of
redevelopment; whether it will be mixed, commercial or residential. Upon
review of the RFP, Ald. Brady felt that certain sections were extremely
limiting to future developers of the site. The Committee discussed conditions
of the RFP which addressed "in -kind contributions" and warding that indicated
the site should face the street and neighborhood and not be turned inward.
Ald. Brady stated that there should be a reference to bedroom size and would
prefer more bedrooms and less units on the site. Ald. Warshaw stated that the
RFP is to be as broad as possible to allow some creative prop-sals. The
Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to City Council approval of the RFP.
Docket 147-8A-88, Plat of Consolidation re 2130 Jackson Avenue,
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of the request for a plat of consolidation for Hanson
Roofing Inc. Committee voted 5-0 to approve.
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P & D Minutes
August 8, 1988
OLD BUSINESS
Burnlary Prevention Ordinance.
Ald. Norton, through Chairman Korshak, requested that her position be made
clear that she is opposed to all elements in the ordinance, except for the
view scope (peep -hole) for existing construction, but is not opposed to
requirements for new construction. Officer C. Kuempel was present and
reviewed with the Committee material they submitted detailing ways to attack
doors and locks. Kuempel's material highlighted deadbolts and various types
of deadbolt locks. He stated that deadbolt locks were superior to other types
of locks, but that they must be properly installed. Kuempel shared with the
Committee photos of doors damaged in recent residential burglaries. Chairman
Korshak suggested that the Committee narrow the discussion to a type of lock
and not address the doors, jambs and hinges. Chairman Korshak stated that he
was not eliminating all future discussion but felt that a weak jamb. frail
door, etc could be discussed forever and never reach a consensus. He felt
that it was possible to agree on locks more readily and allow a more practical
approach to be immediately implemented. Ald. Warshaw moved to require all
rental units have deadbolt locks with a minimum one inch bolt. Ald. Brady
seconded the motion. Ald. Rudy stated that he was troubled with the proposal
because such locks can be defeated. He stated that it does not make sense to
require the deadbolt locks because we have no indication that such a lock will
limit illegal entry. Ald. Rudy suggested that the AS7H requirements be
utilized to enhance the entire system (jamb, door, hinges, locks) to be
successful. However, he stated that the requirements should apply to new
construction. Ald. Rudy further expressed his position, as at the previous
meeting, that the City should not impose itself on landlords and tenants, but
rather should let them decide whether they want to install locks. Chairman
Korshak noted that the Police Department strongly recorranends the installation
of deadbolt locks. Kuempel stated that locks can not sake apartments and
homes totally burglary proof. He stated that additions: security devices are
buying time by delaying entry and hopefully will discourage intruders. Ald.
Bleveans stated that locks are more difficult for entry and by requiring
deadbolt locks the City is adding a layer of protection, thus escalating the
defense against burglary. Ald. Bleveans stated that locks are a basic first
step in the security of a home. He felt that the locks are the essential
pieces of a burglary prevention ordinance which are re'.atively inexpensive to
install. Ald. Warshaw stated that the Committee is tr ,ng to balance
safety/security with the least amount of intrusion int: peoplo's lives. Shp
stated that no home is completely secure. Ald. Warshaw suggested that the
Committee consider requiring that locks be placed on the outermost doors of a
rental building instead of only on inner doors leading to individual units.
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P & D Minutes
August 8, 1988
Chairman Korshak questioned whether the Committee intended the locks to apply
to Northwestern's dormitories, hotels/motels, nursing homes and other similar
institutional type living arrangements? Staff reviewed with the Committee the
current landlord/tenant ordinance which eliminated dormitories, nursing homes
and other similar institutions from coverage. The Committee discussed that
the development of a security ordinance may wish to exclude areas such as
those excluded by the Landlord Tenant Ordinance. The Committee discussed an
implementation period for whatever ordinance is developed. The Committee
discussed six months, twelve months and twenty-four months as possible
timeframes to implement the ordinance. Chairman Korshak developed another
formula which basically provided that 25% of all the units would be required
to comply with the ordinance within ninety (90) days.
Teresa DeGroh, a tenant in Evanston, stated that she has the ability to move
around and find a safe place. She stated that she is monitoring the P S D
Committee activity for those who do not have the same ability to find a safe
apartment. She stated that all tenants would be for the Burglary Prevention
Ordinance. Constance Draper, an Evanston tenant, stated that deadbolts are
helpful but weak doors can easily be kicked -in. She stated that tenants need
protection in older dwellings and that the City should require full
implementation of the ordinance for those units. She stated that Evanston is
not the City it once was and that there is now substantial crime and that a
Burglary Prevention Ordinance is necessary. Judy Johnson, a TOE
representative, stated that when the Landlord Tenant Ordinance was passed it
was made effective immediately. She feels the Burglary Prevention Ordinance
should be made effective immediately upon passage and that no timeframe should
be allowed for installation of the locks. The Committee discussed further
whether a one year period was reasonable to have all locks installed. The
Committee further discussed whether to include condominiums as part of rental
and multi -family units that would be covered by the ordinance. Ald. Korshak
moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee include condominiums as part
of the coverage of the ordinance. The Committee voted 5-0. Due to the length
of the agenda the Committee recommended that the next P b D Committee meeting
on August 22, 1988 start at 7!00 p.m. to further discuss the Burglary
Prevention Ordinance.
Docket 85-5A-88, Ordinance 51-0-88, ZBA 88-5-V(R) re Variations for 1,18
Sherman Avenue.
Chairman Korshak expressed concern about the vague langukZe regarding the
commitment to complete the rear building within eighteen (18) months. Dave
Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, clarified that the completion of the
rear building only addresses the exterior work. Chairman Korshak stated that
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11111
P & D Minutes
August 8, 1988
if the work was done, he would recomarnnd that a covenant be filed which would
cause the removal of the rear building at no cost to the City if the owner
failed to meet all requirements. The applicant, Hr. Brock, was present and
stated that the exterior work of the rear building would only take two (2)
months. However, he can not afford to do the work on the rear building until
he completes the front building and sells his current townhouse, at which
point he would move into the front building. Ald. Rudy expressed concern that
the elevation submitted as an attachment does not coincide with the floor plan
submitted. Brock stated that he agrees with that but understood that the
Committee was interested in the final exterior elevations and that he would
develop interior floor plans at a later date. Ald. Rudy questioned whether
the Committee has reached the point of accepting two (2) units on a lot? And
if so, why? Chairman Korshak stated that he has little difficulty when
applying the strict interpretation of the ordinance in new construction.
However, he felt to do so in this case, with an existing building, would be
unfair. Ald. Bleveans stated that the Committee is trying to maximize housing
opportunities when they can be made reasonably compatible with the surrounding
areas. Ald. Warshaw stated that she is offended by the thought of demolishing
usable residential buildings.
The Committee discussed some revisions to Sections 5 and 6 of the proposed
ordinance so they would reflect the issue of the exterior elevations only and
also the condition that the building would be demolished at the expense of the
owner, if the timeframes were not met. The Committee also approved an
amendment to the ordinance proposed by Ald. Brady which delegated to the Site
Plan Review Committee the final approval of the exterior elevations at such
time Hr. Brock submits for building permits for the rear building. Tho
Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to City Council to overturn the ZBA
recommendation and to introduce, as amended, Ordinance `.1-0-88, reflecting the
P & D Committee's opinion.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is August 22, 1988 at 7:00 p.m.
Staff. Z,
Robert T. Rudd
70(216)
5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Staff Present:
Presiding Official:
Others Present:
MINUTES
Planning, and Development Committee
August 22, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.M.
S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Bleveans, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
K. Brenniman, R. Carter, C. Kuempel, C. Powers, D.
Rasmussen, and R. Rudd
J. Korshak
P. Peters, Plan Commission Chairman
Minutes of August 8. 1988
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the min-
utes of the Planning and Development Committee meeting of August 8, 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved that the minutes be amended on page 3, last paragraph, to
reflect "consider recommending" rather than "consider requiring." The Com-
mittee voted 3 - C to approve the minutes as amended (Aldermen Bleveans.
Morton and Rudy absent).
Burglary Prevention Ordinance
Chairman Korshak questioned the Committee as to whether it was the consensus
to recommend dealing with only the lock issue of the security ordinance.
Chairman Korshak reviewed with the Committee a memo from him with a copy of
the Chicago Lock Ordinance. Ald. Brady suggested the Committee eliminate, for
the time being, the discussion of doors for existing buildings. She stated
that she still wanted to consider windows, jambs, locks, etc. Chairman
Korshak polled the Committee and gained a consensus that locks were the first
step in developing the security ordinance.
The Committee began review of the original ordinance submitted by R.C.P.C.
Section 5-7-(A): Committee recommended that this section be unchanged and
pertain to all new residential construction.
Section 5-7-(B): Ald. Brady recommended that this section be amended to read
all existing multi -family buildings."
Section 5-7-4-2 Tests: Ald. Rudy stated his desire to use ASTM standards. He
stated that he feels it is necessary to name specific tests.
Planning and Development Committee
August 22, 1988
Page 2
Section 5-7-5 Definitions:
X) Ald. Brady stated that the Committee may want to review this de-
finition as the Committee progresses in developing the ordinance.
G) The Committee questioned whether a doorscope could be obtained
with a 180 degree field division? Officer Kuempel stated that he
would investigate the matter. Ald. Rudy questioned what U.L.
Standard 972 meant? Rudd indicated he would contact Underwriters
Laboratory and obtain a copy.
S) Ald. Brady recommended that the word "five' be changed to "two."
Section 5-7-6-1: The Committee recommended that this section be changed to
read Single Family:New Construction. Ald. Rudy recommended that the Committee
strike most of the section regarding the standards and require that the ASTH
Standards be met. The Committee discussed as to whether requiring detail and
ASTM Standards would delay the issuance of building permits. Rudd indicated
that it was possible since in many cases such detail is not supplied at such
an early stage of permit review and in some cases such detail would not be re-
quired under the current procedures. Ald. Brady questioned whether the Com-
mittee wanted to eliminate A thru Q of this section? Ald. Rudy recommended
that only "doorscopes" be eliminated from this section.
Section 5-6-2 ?Multi -Family Existing: The Committee recommended that (P) be
added to the earlier reviewed new residential construction section. The Com-
mittee also recommended that (C) be eliminated from this section on page 5.
Chairman Korshak requested that the minutes reflect that though Sections (D),
C) were being eliminated from this draft, the Committee was not ruling out
for all time these issues regarding doors. The Committee at this time was
only deferring consideration in an effort to develop an ordinance that could
be implemented 'in a relatively short time. Due to the length of the rest of
the Planning and Development Committee agenda and the time remaining, the Com-
mittee directed staff to prepare a new working draft of the subject ordinance
for review at a future meeting.
Ald. Rudy's Reference Regarding Comprehensive Planning, Process
Phil Peters, Chairman of the Plan Commission, reviewed with the Committee a
memo responding to Ald. Rudy's reference regarding the need for a more compre-
hensive planning process. Ald. Bleveans stated that he agreed with the review
of the Plan Commission's position and recommendation regarding the need for
additional staff if the Plan Commission and staff were to become more involved
in the comprehensive planning process. Ald. Brady observed that her reading
of various minutes indicate that the Plan Commission has been very much in-
volved in zoning matters and other issues that have taken away from their time
that could be spent on comprehensive planning. She stated that she foresees
many additional items contained in the Plan Commission's recommendation that
will require even more time spent away from comprehensive planning. Ald.
Warshaw questioned whether the Plan Commission should be expanded in light of
the proposed increased responsibilities? Peters indicated that a trade-off of
doing items of less significance such as review of side yard and front yard
Planning and Development Committee
August 8, 1988
Page 3
fences be eliminated and allow the Plan Commission to concentrate on more sig-
nificant matters. Ald. Brady suggested that the Plan Commission should con-
sider removing some of its members from serving on the various bodies in order
to concentrate on the added duties and responsibilities. Ald. Horton ques-
tioned whether the Plan Commission could be re -structured so as not to hire an
additional staff person? Ald. Brady stated that it was her opinion that the
work needed to be undertaken with staff work and it was not for the policy
makers on the Plan Commission. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that
the Plan Commission recommendation be forwarded to the City Manager with com-
ments from the Planning and Development Committee indicating a favorable de-
cision about expanding the current Planning Department staff to provide an ad-
ditional planner. The Committee voted 6 - 0 to make that recommendation to
the City Manager. Dick Carter, Planning Director, was present and in response
to the question from Ald. Morton, indicated that several years ago the City
had 4 planners. Currently, there is only a part time planner to address com-
prehensive planning issues.
Special Use for 601 Ridge Avenue
Chairman Korshak indicated that Ald. Warshaw has requested that this matter be
held over until the next meeting. Since Chairman Korshak will not be at the
next meeting, he wished to pass on an observation to the Planning and Develop-
ment Committee. it was Chairman Korshak's concern that when the subject sat-
ellite antenna ordinance was passed, possibly it did not take into account a
topographical situation where there would be a sloping piece of property such
as the case at hand. He asked that the Committee members take this into con-
sideration when reviewing this matter.
Variations and Special Use for 2105 Ashland Avenue
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee concur with the
ZBA recommendation to grant a variation and special use to permit the instal-
lation of a parking lot. Ald. Rudy stated he has trouble with the one foot
south side yard setback. He felt that such a limited area would eliminate
possible landscaping even though the site plan provided for landscaping. Ald.
Rudy questioned whether that was what the City really wanted in its residen-
tial districts? Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director for Zoning, was present
and stated that the design provided for screening on other sides of the
parking lot which were bordered by residential uses. Ald. Warshaw stated that
the church was lessening the parking problems even though the design may not
be ideal, a better situation for the neighborhood is being created. Ald. Rudy
stated that he is bothered that the City has different standards for different
parts of the community and such a proposal would not be approved in other
areas of the City. The Committee voted 4 - 2 to recommend to the City Council
the approval of the variation and special use (Bleveans and Rudy voting nay).
Special Use for 2416 Dempster Street
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval to grant a special use to permit structural alterations
to the rear of the existing building for the purpose of installing a garage
door and bay for the detailing of automobiles. Ald. Warshaw observed that
though she supports the special use, she wishes there was a better way to ac-
commodate the long lines of traffic generated by this use. The Committee
r
Planning and Development Committee
August 22, 1988
Page 4
voted 6 - 0 to recommend to the City Council approval of subject special use
request.
Variations for 1500 Asbury Avenue
Aid. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council to concur with the ZBA recommendation to (1) deny a variation
for the location of an air conditioning unit, and (2) grant a variation for a
piano studio in an accessory building. Ald. Brady questioned the applicant as
to whether the air conditioning unit could be relocated? The applicant re-
sponded that the contractor was in the process of relocating the air condi-
tioning unit. The Committee voted 6 - 0 to affirm the ZBA recommendations.
Aid. Raden's Reference Regarding Design Review Board
Ald. Bleveans stated that he was opposed to a Design Review Board concept.
Aid. Bleveans moved not to refer this matter to various groups for comments.
Ald. Brady observed that the matter was currently being studied by the Preser-
vation Commission, but was limited to Historical Preservation issues. Ald.
Brady stated that the Committee may want to limit a Design Review Board to
just preservation and move slowly on this matter. The Committee was informed
that the Zoning Commission recently began discussion of a Design Review Board.
Ald. Brady asked that a memo be sent to the Site Plan Review Committee,
Preservation Commission, Plan Commission and Zoning Commission requesting
input from those groups. Aid. Warshaw asked that the memo also seek comments
from the groups regarding their possible limited scope in participating in a
Design Review concept. Staff indicated that a memo would be forwarded to the
respective groups seeking their input.
Plat of Consolidation for 2516-22 Green Bay Road
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of the plat of consolidation for the former Berry Tire
Company property. The Committee voted 6 - 0 to approve of consolidation.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
The next regular meeting of the Planning and Development Committee will be
held Tuesday, September 13, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: W;Iobert'T. Rudd
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
September 13, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.K.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, L. Morton, and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: J. Korshak and J. Rudy
Staff Present: B. Ahlberg, J. Zendell, C. Powers, D. Rasmussen,
K. Brenniman and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: L. Horton
Minutes of August 22, 1988.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of August 22, 1988.
The Committee voted 4-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
Memo from Ald. Rudy re Variations and Special Use for 2105 Ashland.
Ald. Brady questioned staff as to whether the recommended changes by Ald. Rudy
could be accomplished with the present site plan? Staff indicated that the
current proposal was designed in a manner to provide a greater modular width
than required by code. To reduce the modular width as recommended by Ald.
Rudy would allow the additional landscaping buffer. Chairman Morton
questioned whether by reducing the modular width would the turning and backing
area be impacted? Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, indicated
that the turning area would be reduced. Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the
applicant had been contacted regarding Ald. Rudy's response? Staff indicated
that the applicant has not as yet been contacted. Ald. Brady suggested that
staff contact Rev. Curry, of the Church, and at the same time prepare a
revised ordinance for passage at the September 26, 1988 City Council meeting.
Chairman Morton expressed concern that a two week delay may be unreasonable.
After further discussion the Committee concurred with staff that the proposed
change was of a relatively minor nature and that the ordnance could be passed
at the September 13 meeting and that staff could work w::h the Church to make
sure the plans were implemented in a manner in substantial compliance with the
proposal. All parties agreed that efforts would be made to incorporate Ald.
Rudy's change to the site plan.
ZBA 88-20-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 142 Ridge Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the zoning ordinance allowed a more dense use
in an R5 as compared to an Rb? Dave Rasmussen stated that under the current
ordinance that was correct. It was the Committee's recercnendation that the
Zoning Commission address this issue in the new ordinance to make the zoning
districts consistent with density policies.
P & D Minutes
September 13, 1988
ZBA 88-21-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2812 Lincoln Street.
The Committee received the final decision from the Zoning Board of Appeals for
2812 Lincoln Street without comment.
Ald. Korshak's Memorandum re U-Districts in Evanston.
Ald. Brady questioned whether this matter should be discussed in the absence
of Ald. Korshak? She stated that the City of Evanston's Zoning Ordinance has
incorporated U-Districts for many years during which time they appear to have
worked well. She stated that she agrees with Ald. Korshak with his point
regarding 2020 Ridge. Ald. Brady further stated that she would like an answer
to the issue raised in point #3 in Ald. Korshak's memo, which requested
Corporation Counsel Jack Siegel to outline what legal steps the City can take
to restrain the University from acquisition of property outside of the campus
area. Ald. Brady stated that she does not agree with Ald. Korshak's
recommendation to abolish the U-Districts since they have accomplished a
specific purpose and are necessary in Evanston. Ald. Bleveans moved that the
P & D Committee recommend to City Council to retain the U-Districts. He
reminded the Committee that prior to any of the Committee members being on the
City Council that a substantial amount of time and hard work was put into the
Zoning Ordinance to draft the U-Districts. He felt that it was not sensible
or responsible to abolish the districts. Ald. Brady seconded Ald. Bleveans'
motion. Aid. Warshaw stated that she did not concur with Ald. Korshak's point
2, which was a recommendation to rescind immediately the U-District
classification nor to send the matter to the Zoning Commission for review.
Ald. Warshaw felt that this matter may be most appropriate if it was referred
to the Zoning Commission to review the U-Districts in conjunction with a new
zoning ordinance. Ald. Bleveans stated that he feels to send the matter to
the Zoning Commission sends a message that the City Council is targeting a
specific district (U-Districts) for elimination.
Bob Ahlberg, Zoning Planner and staff person to the Zoning Commission,
Informed the Committee that the Zoning Commission is currently reviewing all
districts including the U-Districts. After a brief discussion the Committee
voted 3-1 (Ald. Warshaw voting nay) on Ald. Bleveans' motion. Ald. Brady
recommended that Corporation Counsel Siegel be requested to assist the Zoning
Commission in developing regulations to restrain Northwestern University
outside of the current U-Districts. It was the consensus of the Committee to
make that request, per Ald. Korshak's point #3, to Corporation Counsel,
Docket 166-BB-88. ZBA 88-13-SU(R), re Special Use for 601 Ridge Avenue.
Chairman Morton and Ald. Warshaw informed the Committee that due to the
religious holiday, the applicant has requested that this matter be held over
to the September 26, 1988 P & D Committee meeting. The Committee members
concurr-d with this request.
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P & D Minutes
September 13, 1988
ZAC Report on Zoning Ordinance Parking Amendments.
Ald. Brady stated that she has reviewed the staff report and compliments the
staff on a concise, well written report on a very difficult and complex
topic. Ald. Brady further stated that she agrees with the practical,
equitable, and creative recommendations of ZAC in addressing this issue. She
stated that she strongly recommends and moves that this matter be forwarded to
the Zoning Commission. Ald. Warshaw seconded the motion. Chairman }Horton
questioned the issue of accessory buildings on page 8 of the ZAC report which
requires that accessory buildings maintain a 10 foot setback from the
principle building on a lot. Discussion ensued regarding some issues about
accessory buildings. Ald. ?Horton requested that the Zoning Commission review
closely the issue of accessory building setbacks. The Committee voted 4-0 to
refer the parking amendments to the Zoning Commission.
Docket 177-88 re Plat of Consolidation for 1450 Sherman Avenue (N.W. corner
Sherman and Lake).
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of the plat of consolidation for the property at 1450
Sherman Avenue (northwest corner of Sherman and Lake). Ald. Brady questioned
whether there were any specific tenants for the proposed retail building?
Scott Gendell, developer of the site, stated that his company had no firm
commitments. He stated that they expected to break ground in the very near
future for the development. The Committee voted 4-0 to approve the plat of
consolidation.
Docket 178-9A-88, Ordinance 66-0-88, ZBA 68-25-V&SU(R), re Variation and
Special Hospital Use for 2650 Ridge Avenue.
Ald. Bleveans stated that though he was not able to attend the neighborhood
meetings he was informed by aldermanic seat -mate Collens that the meetings
were well attended and neighbors raised good questions. He stated that he was
informed that the Hospital answered all of the questions and explained in
detail the project. Ald. Bleveans further stated that Evanston Hospital has
set a good example on how to inform the neighborhood and respond to
Neighborhood's concerns. Ald. Warshaw stated that the proposal appears to be
a positive move to enhance the hospital campus. Chairman Morton pointed out
that the City of Evanston has also been responsive in the neighborhood with
improvements such as the cul-de-sacs to control traffic congestion. Ald.
Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of the variation and special use requests. The Committee
voted 4-0 to approve.
Ald. Davis' Reference re Arts Council.
Chairman Horton stated that she was not sure if the Committee was requested to
take a specific action. Ald. Warshaw stated that she was disturbed by some of
the references cited in the attachments to the memo, since they were not
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P & D Minutes
September 13, 1988
related to the City of Evanston situation. Ald. Brady stated that it was her
opinion that arts are important to the City of Evanston and that the City
Council should be behind arts being incorporated in downtown projects. She
further stated that the City Council should help promote arts and questioned
whether the Arts Council wanted to identify a particular space? Ald. Warshaw
questioned the Committee as to whether there was any particular way to attack
this problem. Steve Fiffer, Chairman of the Arts Council, was present and
stated that the memo was an effort to bring to the forefront that there is a
need to identify a location for performing arts in the downtown area. He
stated that it appeared to be particularly timely since the City was deeply
involved in the Research Park and a new Library. Ald. Warshaw questioned
whether a special reference should be made to the Plan Commission to develop a
subcommittee to look at a performing arts space in the downtown and to work in
conjunction with the Arts Council? Joe Zendell, Director of the Noyes
Cultural Arts Center, stated that the Arts Council is looking for the City
Council to take a stand and get behind the promotion of arts in the downtown.
Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the Arts Council was looking for some kind of
incentive to offer to developers to include art in their projects, such as tax
abatement, density bonuses, etc. Zendell stated that the Arts Council does
have support for bringing these issues to the negotiating table with
developers and incorporating arts in developing in conjunction with the City's
Planning staff. Zendell further stated that it was his understanding that
there will be a performance space in the new library. He felt that the Arts
Council's job was to see that the space was the best that it could be. He
further informed the Committee that the Arts Council on a number of occasions
has indicated a strong interest in arts in the library to the Library Board.
Ald. Warshaw suggested that the Arts Council or Arts Council staff formally be
included in the library project planning. Ald. Brady moved that the Arts
Council come back to the P & D Committee with a plan to explain how arts can
be incorporated in the development process and bring back to the Committee a
specific plan. Ald. Bleveans seconded the motion. The Committee voted 4-0 to
refer the matter back to the Arts Council.
Ad.i ournmen t
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, September 26, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
S t of f :
Robert T. Rudd
70(2/5)
4-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVuD
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
September 26, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, L. Morton, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: J. Korshak
Staff Present: D. Carter, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: L. Morton
Minutes of September 13, 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of September 13,
1988. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
BurRlary Prevention Ordinance.
The Committee received a draft copy of the proposed ordinance and indicated
that this matter would be held over to the October 10, 1988 meeting to afford
Ald. Korshak the opportunity to chair this on -going item.
Ald. Raden's reference re Design Review Board.
Ald. Brady requested that the Site Plan Review Committee, Preservation
Commission, and Plan Commission receive copies of materials sent to the
Committee by The Southeast Evanston Association. Ald. Rudy requested that
staff develop a review similar to that prepared by Ms. Singh comparing
activities that are currently undertaken by the City of Evanston with respect
to Design Review. Ald. Rudy requested that this matrix be forwarded to the
Committee for review.
Ald. Brady requested that the minutes reflect that the zoning analysis status
report now being forwarded to all members of City Council is very helpful in
keeping the aldermen aware of activity in their respective wards.
OLD BUSINESS
Request for Nuclear Weapons Free Zone SiRns.
Dick Carter, Planning Director, presented a slide show depicting various
entrances to the City. These photos were requested by the P & D Committee at
an earlier meeting during discussion of the Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Sign
issue. The photos illustrated the clutter at entrances to the City in the
form of various regulatory and award type signs. Drew Petterson, representing
the Plan Commission, stated that it is the Commission's position that all
P & D Minutes
September 26, 1988
entrances should have only City of Evanston name
indicated. It is recommended that six (6) major
locate well designed signs with landscaping. It
Commission recommendation that the entrances be
lieu of proclamations, awards and signs of servi
Commission feels that a more proper place to dis
specific downtown location or in City Hall. The
recommends that the development of entrance sign
done under the auspices of the Sign Review and A
Commission currently is limited in the time it c
The Plan Commission feels that if the signage is
manner, and uniform size with landscaping, that
enhanced. Ald. Brady stated that recently Aid.
develop kiosks in one or two prominent places to
received by the City.
signs and with population
entrances be identified to
Is further the Plan
identified with the signs in
ce organizations. The Plan
play such signage may be in a
Plan Commission further
s and criteria could better be
ppeals Board. The Plan
an spend on such an issue.
presented in a unified
the entrances can be
Collens proposed the idea to
display certain awards
Ira Golan, Executive Director of Evanston Chamber of Commerce, stated that the
Chamber has been discussing this issue and agrees with the Plan Commission.
Golan stated that the Chamber advocates the development of an ordinance or
sign that states it is unlawful to post on public property such as street
lights and other public fixtures. He stated that the Chamber has expressed
concern about the general appearance of entrance points to the City and does
not favor the erection of Nuclear Weapons Free Zone or Sanctuary City signs at
those locations. Ald. Brady questioned Golan whether the Chamber of Commerce
has a program to police its own members that are in violation of the City's
Sign Ordinance. Golan stated that the Chamber is concerned about their
violations, but does not have policing authority and that all businesses are
not members of the Chamber. Carter indicated that the Plan Commission sees
that there is currently no policy, standards or control for the erection of
entrance signs. Petterson indicated that it may be difficult to gain
adherence to a regulation when in many cases the City of Evanston is the
greatest violator with its proliferation of signs. Ald. Warshaw stated that
the City needs to spell -out a policy on the issue. Sid Orloff, an advocate
for the Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Signs, stated that it was not necessary to
place the Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Signs at the entrance. He stated that his
organization was quite willing to accept placing the sign a block or so into
the City. The Committee discussed whether to ask the Plan Commission to
develop a regulatory scheme. Chairman !Morton suggested that maybe the Sign
Review and Appeals Board is a more appropriate body. Ald. Bleveans stated
that he feels the Plan Commission is a more policy oriented group whereas the
Sign Review and Appeals Board is more regulatory oriented. Ald. Warshaw moved
and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the P g D Committee recommend that the Plan
Commission and Sign Review and Appeals Board form a ,point subcommittee to
develop criteria and a scheme for signage on the public rights -of -way. The
Committee discussed whether to hire an outside designer to help with the
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I 111 R I 1 III r I I ' 1 n 111 ^ 1
I
U i
Ih IIII 1 11111 IRi '
P & D Minutes
September 26, 1988
program. The Committee expressed some concern with the cost associated with
hiring a professional designer and discussed whether it was appropriate to ask
that the work be done free of charge. The Committee voted 4-1 (voting nay:
Ald. Morton) to recommend that the Plan Commission and the Sign Review and
Appeals Board form a joint subcommittee to review the issue and if necessary
recommend back to the P & D Committee the need to hire a professional designer.
Orloff stated that if the concern is the cost of erecting the Nuclear Weapons
Free Zone Signs, his organization would try to raise the dollars necessary for
the cost of the signs. Haywood Blake, a member of the Sign Review and Appeals
Board, stated that the joint committee should be given enough freedom to make
a recommendation regarding the criteria back to the P & D Committee. He
stated that the current Sign Ordinance really does not address regulatory
signs but only commercial signs. It was the consensus of the Committee to
have the joint subcommittee report back to the P & D Committee.
Docket 166-SB-88, ZBA 88-13-SUM , re Special Use for 601 Ridge Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw moved that the Committee recommend to overturn the ZBA
recommendation to deny the request for a special use permit for an 8 foot
diameter satellite dish antenna. Ald. Warshaw stated that on behalf of the
applicant it is her understanding that when the original dish was installed,
many towns did not regulate such obstructions. Further she stated that if the
applicant had known a permit was required they would have sought the permit.
She further noted that the topography of the lot is such that it is of a
sloping nature which mitigates against the visual impact of the antenna. She
further stated that the applicant has agreed to remove the existing dish
antenna and erect a new antenna of a mesh construction that would be in
harmony with City of Evanston's requirement. Ald. Warshaw finally noted that
the original vote was 4-3 on the ZBA and was not a-resoundingdenial. She
felt to prevent totally the satellite antenna for aesthetic reasons was not
appropriate. Ald. Brady seconded the motion and stated that she agrees with
Ald. Warshaw. Ald. Brady questioned whether the new zoning ordinance
standards would address this issue? Ald. Warshaw stated that she felt that
the City could condition the special use on the mesh satellite dish, limit the
height, and control the colors. Ald. Bleveans stated that he was opposed to
the motion and felt that the antenna was aesthetically unpleasing. He stated
that the ordinance was written in the early '80's to address issues such as
the one at hand. He stated that the 601 Ridge case is the epitome of what was
expected to require a special use and if it did not meet the standards would
be denied. He stated that he feels that the antenna has the same impact as
being in the front yard, even though it is not. Ald. Warshaw stated that she
agrees that the antenna is ugly, but feels that the proposed mesh satellite
dish resolves some of the problem. She also noted that the neighbors are not
offended by the satellite dish. Ald. Bleveans commented that being the case,
however, motorists on
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P & D Minutes
September 26, 1988
Ridge Avenue still see the antenna and it may not be acceptable to them. He
further felt that the color change and modification to a mesh dish Was not a
significant improvement. Ald. Rudy stated that he agrees with Ald. Bleveans
and feels that the Committee needs to project this request to the and
potential. He feels that the Committee must be fair to all future requests
and respond in a similar way. Chairman Morton stated that the Committee needs
to consider what the neighborhood feels and since the neighbors are not
opposed the Committee may want to consider acting favorably on Ald. Warshaw
motion. The Committee discussed whether it would be more applicable if the
current antenna could be landscaped and screened from neighboring areas. Ald.
Bleveans stated that he would be willing to look at a proposal. Mr. Frankel,
the applicant, stated that it would not be possible to provide landscape
screening for the antenna due to the slope of the lot. Mr. Kent Yowell,
attorney for the applicant, briefly reviewed legal background of the issue for
the Committee. After further discussion Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady
seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council that the ZBA denial be
overturned and direct staff to develop an ordinance, with conditions earlier
mentioned, and return the matter to the Committee at the October 10, 1988
meeting. The Committee further directed that the proposed ordinance not
appear on the October 10, 1988 City Council agenda to afford the P & D
Committee an opportunity to review the ordinance. Voting Aye: Aldermen
Morton, Brady and Warshaw. Voting Nay: Aldermen Bleveans and Rudy.
At the conclusion of the meeting Mr. John Thompson, an advocate for the
Burglary Prevention Ordinance, stated that he is concerned with the recent
sexual assaults in the City and feels there is a strong need for a Burglary
Prevention Ordinance. The Committee indicated to Hr. Thompson that the matter
would be discussed upon Ald. Korshak's return on October 10, 1988.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P 6 D
Committee is Monday, October 10, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert' T. u
70(2/5)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
Q
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
October 10, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak. L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: C. Powers, E. Szymanski, D. Rasmussen, C. Kuempel and
R. Rudd
Presiding Official: L. Horton
Minutes of September 26. 1988.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of September 26, 1988.
The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 88-24-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2424 Prospect Avenue.
The Committee received without comment.
ZBA 88-26-A(F), Final Notice of appeal Decision re 2001 Seward Street.
Ald. Warshaw stated that it appeared that the applicant should not have been
before ZBA. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that he tried
to dissuade the applicant from making the appeal but the applicant did have the
right to appear before ZBA.
Electrical Commission Triennial Review.
Leroy Young, a member of the Electrical Commission, was present and reviewed
with the Committee the purpose of the Commission. Young stated that the
Commission reviewed the BOCA and National Electrical Codes prior to making
recommendations to the City Council for adoption. Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald.
Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to the Rules Committee
continuation of the Electrical Commission. The Committee voted 6-0 to continue
the Electrical Commission.
Request from Center for Public Ministry re Extension of Homeless Shelter.
It was the consensus of the Committee to set at 7:30 p.m. at the regular
meeting of the P & D Committee on October 24, 1988 as a public hearing to hear
testimony and to decide whether the Homeless Shelter should be continued for
another year. The Committee received correspondence from the Center for Public
Ministry, dated October 10, 1988 making said of request.
P & D Minutes
October 10, 1988
Docket 166-8B-88, Draft Ordinance, ZBA 88-13-SU(R), re Special Use for 601
Ridge Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the draft ordinance supplied by City staff. The ordinance allows,
with conditions, a special use for a satellite dish antenna at the subject
address. This ordinance, if approved by the P & D Committee and City Council,
would overturn ZBA's decision to deny the special use request. Dave Rasmussen,
Assistant Director of Zoning, explained that since this is a special use and
not a variation, that a simple majority of the City Council is needed to
overturn the ZBA decision. Ald. Bleveans stated that he is still opposed to
the recommendation to overturn the ZBA decision in that such a decision would
set a terrible precedent. He stated that though the dish antenna is
technically in the side yard it has all of the impact of being in the front
yard. He stated that the regulations are drafted so that the only way the City
can deny a satellite antenna is based on aesthetics and in his opinion this
fails to pass that test. Ald. Bleveans further felt that the City may never be
able to deny another dish antenna based on aesthetics. Ald. Brady stated that
she was against the original special use request but since then the FCC has
develop new regulations. Ald. Brady felt that the City may have a difficult
time in court sustaining an argument. Also, the owners have made some
concessions since the original request in addition to the evidence that was
brought out in dealing with the unique configuration of the property. Ald.
Warshaw stated that the owner was not asking for a significant variation and
that the applicant is offering a compromise with respect to type of
construction and color. Ald. Warshaw also pointed out that the neighbors were
not oppose to the request though that should not be a determining factor. Ald.
Rudy stated that the ordinance was primarily geared to concealing the satellite
dish antenna. He stated that this case appears to be a conflict of two
valuc-a: aesthetics versus a need or desire to have a satellite dish. The
Committee discussed the definition of "neutral color". Ald. Warshaw stated
that the applicants would be willing to erect either a white or black mesh
color antenna. The Committee voted 4-2 to recommend to City Council to
overturn the ZBA decision denying the special use and introduction at the
October 24, 1988 City Council meeting of an ordinance granting the satellite
dish antenna with conditions. Voting Ayes: Aldermen Warshaw, Brady, Korshak
and Morton. Voting Hay: Aldermen Bleveans and Rudy.
Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
Mr. John Thompson, a resident at 749 Sherman Avenue expressed concern with the
recent spate of crimes in his neighborhood. He expressed dismay that anyone
would be opposed to the subject Burglary Prevention Ordinance, Marlene Birch,
a resident in the same area, stated that some buildings are occupied only by
women and children during most of the day. She stated that she is aware of
numerous break-ins in the area and suggested that a provision of the ordinance
be amended to require landlords to take extraordinary actions to prevent
break-ins after a certain number of break-ins are documented. Ald. Warshaw
observed that the subject area is within her ward and it appears that the
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P & D Minutes
October 10, 1988
perception of break, -ins is higher than the actual number based on Police
Reports that she has received. Linda DeWoskin, a TOE representative, reviewed
with the Committee the issue of providing adequate exterior lighting. The
Committee discussed the difficulty of measuring the lighting factor. Officer
C. Kuempel offered corrections of typographical errors in the ordinance.
Kuempel also questioned the Committee as to whether it was their intent to
delete references to doors, jambs, frames, etc. Ald. Korshak stated that the
Committee decided at an earlier meeting that the issue of doors and jambe
would not be addressed in the current ordinance since to do so would prolong
the review for several more months. He stated that the Committee did not
foreclose the issue of addressing doors but would do so at a later date. Ald.
Warshaw questioned whether the new regulations regarding sliding glass doors
should apply to balconies that are not accessible from the ground. The
Committee reviewed the definition of accessible which appeared to solve the
issue.
Chairman Morton suggested that the ordinance should only apply to single and
multi -family commercial properties and recommended that the proposed ordinance
be amended to extend the one year compliance period on multi family residences
to two years. Also, Ald. Horton recommended that if a dwelling unit became
vacant within the first two years, that the unit be brought up to the
standards of the ordinance. Finally, Aid. Morton suggested that all
provisions pertaining to entrances and exits be required to be complied with
within one year. Ald. Morton continued to express concern with the costs to
existing multi family property owners. Ald. Bleveans observed that the
ordinance will make the residential units more burglary repellant but will not
make the units burglary proof. He stated the intent of the ordinance was to
slow down illegal entry. Ald. Brady stated that she agrees with Ald. Morton
regarding the two year compliance period. Ald. Warshaw stated that she still
favors the one year period.
The Committee discussed what "new residential construction" meant. It was
recommended that section 5-7-2 "scope enforcement" (A) all new residential
construction; be amended to read "all new residential construction; or change
or use".
Due to the lateness of the hour the matter was continued for further
discussion to the P & D Committee meeting of October 24, 1988.
Ad ournmen t
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, October 24, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: ,4
Rober T. Rudd
70(2/4)
3-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
0
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
October 24, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: C. Powers, B. Povalla, C. Brenneman and R. Carlson
Presiding Official: L. Morton
Minutes of October 10, 1988.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of October 10, 1988.
The Committee voted 5 ayes, 0 nay (Ald. Rudy absent) to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairmanship Schedule.
A memorandum regarding chairmanship change was reviewed without comment.
Update Plans for Lakefront Pathway System.
A memorandum from Donald Wirth, Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry
updating the proposed plans for changes in the Lakefront Pathway System was
reviewed. There were no questions or comments.
ZBA Public Notice fnr November 15. 1988.
A copy of the ZBA public notice for the aforementioned date was reviewed.
There were no questions or comments.
Homeless Shelter re Public HearinR.
The Chairman opened the public hearing regarding the request for the Center
for Public Ministry to extend the operation of the homeless shelter at the
First Baptist Church at 606 Lake Street for an additional one (1) year period,
ending November 1, 1989. The following persons spoke for or against the
shelter operations. Carol Morchanduas, representing the shelter, reviewed the
program with emphasis on the addition of the health care clinic for the
homeless clients. She felt that this was an ideal opportunity to provide the
only health care that clients of the shelter receive. Mr. Warren Schnider who
lives near Hinman and Lake noted that persons have been found sleeping in the
vestibule of his building and noted sleeping on park benches during the day.
He asked that zoning approval be revoked or that the shelter be moved to
another part of the City.
Ald. Rudy entered the meeting at this time.
P & D Minutes
October 24, 1988
Mrs. Brash of 600 Grove noted that homeless persons made use of adjacent parks
prior to the shelter being established. She has not been aware of any
problems for the past two (2) years and endorsed the shelter and cited the
great need for affordable housing for the homeless and low income persons.
Royce Scharf endorsed the shelter and noted that in his position as Chairman
of the Homeless Committee of the Ecumenical Council there was a recognition of
the great need for the homeless shelter. Mr. Scharf also reviewed the
operation of the daytime center for the homeless operating at St. Mark's
Church, six days per week , Monday thru Saturday, that is serving 70-80% of
the night residents of the center with daytime activity. Hilda Carper,
Director of the shelter noted an almost complete lack of police contacts with
the residents of the shelter. She also noted that she checks the park
regularly and has observed no residents making daytime use of the park. The
need for Sunday daycare was also noted. Ald. Brady stated that she was
impressed with the professional nature of the operation of the shelter and
specifically the new health care program offered to the residents of the
shelter. She noted further that shelter guests are spending a decreased
number of nights in the shelter before being guided into other programs. She
noted a complete lack of complaints received as the Alderman living closest to
the shelter. Ald. Rudy also stated that he has not received complaints
regarding the operation of the shelter or the conduct of the residents. Upon
a motion by Ald. Brady to recommend to the City Council for an extended one
1) year period of operation for the homeless shelter and a second by Ald.
Rorshak the Committee voted 4-0 (Aldermen Bleveans and Warshaw temporarily
absent) to approve the motion.
Peter N. .Tans Golf Course Presentation of Capital Development Plan.
Dr. Richard Fischl, President of the Evanston Community Recreation Association
which operates the golf course was present to review the operation of the
course and future plans for renovations. The following points were noted by
Dr. Fischl. The course is almost self supporting with Evanston submitting
3,800 and Wilmette providing $1,200 over the past year. A need was cited for
a new master plan for the course with the old plan dated 1919. The existing
course layout has some conflict with neighbors plus there is a great need for
an underground watering system to be installed to replace the expensive, labor
intensive hand -watering which now must take place. Johnson Landscape Planner
of Madison, Wisconsin have provided a new master plan which calls for an
approximate $600,000 renovation cost and will be completed in increments. The
termination date of the present Metropolitan Sanitary District property lease
in the year 2000 was noted as well as council assistance being needed in
renegiotating a new lease before a commitment is made for the renovation
program. Ald. Brady noted that staff should work with the Association to opei,
negotiations for a new property lease. Fischl noted that disposition of the
adjacent Fire Department property should also be settled. He stated that the
Association will pursue cooperate and individual funding for the renovation
due to the fact that the Association does not have any bonding power.
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P & D Minutes.
October 24, 1988
Ald. Warshaw entered the meeting at this time.
Ald. Rudy questioned Dr. Fischl as to the desired length of a new lease.
Fischl replied that at least a twenty (20) year lease renewal is desired. The
actual lease of the Association is a sublease from the City with the City
leasing from the Metropolitan Sanitary District. A sum of $1,200 per year has
been paid to the City by the Association. Fischl noted further that a special
fee of $1.00 per round is being charged and put in a segregated fund for
capital improvements with that fund currently being at the amount of $15,00.
He further noted that playing the Jans Course is only 1/3 the cost of playing
on private courses, thus making this activity extremely attractive to senior
citizens and young people. There was no official action required on this
report.
Economic Development Committee Triennial Review.
Ald. Bleveans entered the meeting at this time.
Ald. Nelson and Assistant City Manager Aiello reviewed the report of the
Economic Development Committee. Ald. Nelson noted the past years activity
that has taken place regarding the Zera property in southwest Evanston for
Industrial park development. Consideration has also been given to the
Rust-Oleum property due to the fact that Rust-Oleum will be closing their
facility. Activity has also taken place on a study of neighborhood shopping
districts and their needs. He noted that the committee has found those
districts for the most part in a healthy condition. He stated further that he
felt that the Economic Development Committee is a vital part of the community
and a worthwhile activity to retain. He also noted that the committee has
been working in smaller task force groups on specific questions rather than
working in full committee sessions. Ald, Warshaw questioned why the Economic
Development Committee does not change from the twelve (12) mandated full
committee meetings per year to a task force meeting meeting schedule. Ald.
Brady stated that she feels that sufficient information has not gone out to
Council members and asked that task force reports in the future be distributed
to the entire Council. Ald. Rudy stated his concern with planning
considerations been coordinated with the activity of the Economic Development
Committee. Ald. Nelson stated that the Plan Commission and other boards and
commissions are represented on the Economic Development Committee in a
specific effort toward coordination, and that the Plan Commission is
specifically requested to comment on development plans. Ald. Nelson stated
that the present triennial review process is less than desirable and asked
that the Rules Committee consider a revised system. Upon a motion by Ald.
Brady seconded by Ald. Rudy, the triennial review report form of the Economic
Development Committee was approved 6-0 with a recommendation that the
committee continue in operation.
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P & D Minutes
October 24, 1988
Ald. Korshak stated that the triennial reporting process is faulted and that
he would be making a reference on the Council floor to the Rules Committee for
a revised system of reporting.
Docket 195-1OB-88, Resolution 48-R-88 re Housing Assistance Plan.
Catherine Powers, Housing Rehab & Property Maintenance Director and B.
Povalla, Housing Planner were present to review the 1988-1991 three year
Evanston Housing Assistance Plan which must be on file with HUD prior to the
City submitting its application for Community Development Block Grant Funds.
This HAP three year plan is for a period from October 1, 1988 until September
30, 1991 and must be submitted to HUD by October 31, 1988. Powers and Povalla
reviewed the report and an amendment which was presented to the Committee.
Ald. Warshaw stated that the displacement activities of the City working above
federal guidelines should be mentioned in the report. Ald. Brady noted that
the zero displacement activity referred only to federally funded projects and
It should be mentioned that federal guidelines for displacement are being
surpassed by the City. Ald. Korshak stated his displeasure with the receipt
of information at the meeting at which approval is expected. Powers and
Povalla noted the short working time allowed to the City by HUD for completion
of the report.
Ald. Bleveans temporarily left the meeting at this time.
Ald. Warshaw noted that the late receipt of material by the Committee inhibits
discussion by the Committee and in fact limits discussion almost totally to
the Council floor. Ald. Brady stated that the Housing Assistance Plan forms
do not speak to the real housing issues of the City. Ald. Horton inquired as
to statistics in the report being binding on the City and possibly requiring
abandonment of houses with numerous housing code violations. Powers replied
that the report will only note that those types of homes would be eligible for
rehab. Ald. Morton stated the need for the City to give preference in housing
programs to Evanston residents. Ald. Bleveans reentered the meeting at this
time. Ald.
Morton further questioned the meaning of the "expected to reside" statistic.
Povalla replied that this figure is the number of low income persons who woulu
desire to live in Evanston. Upon a motion by Ald. Bleveans with a second by
Ald. Brady, Resolution 48-R-88 approving the City of Evanston 1988-91 Housing
Assistance Plan was recommended for approval by the City Council as amended.
Committee voted 6-0 to approve the motion.
Burglary Prevention Ordinance.
Ald. Korshak assumed the chair for discussion of this item. Ald. Korshak
suggested a special meeting for October 31, 1988 in order that the Burglary
Prevention Ordinance could be introduced to the City Council on November 7,
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i ^ ° m I 1,'
v
P & D Minutes
October 24, 1988
1988. Ald. Brady stated that with changes being made in the ordinance it was
not fair to the public to have the ordinance introduced prior to an
opportunity for review. Ald. Warshaw stated that enforcement of the
provisions of the Burglary Prevention Ordinance should commence at the end of
a one year period due to the infrequent inspection schedule of multi -family
buildings. Ald. Morton objected to the one year provision as a hardship on
building owners especially those of low income and endorsed a two year waiting
period before enforcement. Upon a motion by Ald. Warshaw, seconded by Ald.
Brady a one year waiting period for enforcement was approved 5-1. Voting
Nay: Ald. Morton. Ald. Rudy stated that further definition of condos and
co-ops should be contained in the ordinance. Ald. Brady stated that single
family dwellings should be defined as a owner occupied single dwelling units,
condominium or cooperative, this would place rented single family dwellings
under the ordinance. Due to the late hour, Ald. Korshak suggested that staff
should rewrite the ordinance inserting comments forwarded by the Aldermen at
the meeting of November 7 and at this meeting.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, November 7, 1988 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff RA Ca(I on
70(2/6)
5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
November 7, 1988
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.K.
S. Brady, J. Bleveans, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
None
C. Powers, E. Szymanski, C. Kuempel and R. Rudd
S. Brady
Minutes of October 24. 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of October 24, 1988.
Chairman Brady moved that the minutes reflect the correct spelling of the
names of Kr. Snyder, Ks. Brasch and Rev. Scherf. The Committee approved the
minutes as amended 5-0 (Ald. ?Morton absent).
COMMUNICATIONS
None
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 207-11A-88. Ordinance 80-0-88. ZBA 88-27-SU(R). re 2045 Sheridan Road.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the
request from Northwestern University for two curb cuts on Sheridan Road to
serve parking lot #6. Ald. Rudy expressed concern that if the openings are
too far apart there could be a traffic congestion problem. Jim Perry,
Attorney for Northwestern, stated that the openings will be adequately marked
to allow for left and right hand turns from the egress lane. Ald. Warshaw
questioned whether exiting during the rush hour would cause a traffic jam on
Sheridan Road? She questioned whether "right turn only" should be permitted
from the lot? Chairman Brady stated that she shares the same concern about
the amount of traffic on Sheridan Road and the volume of traffic entering and
exiting the subject lot. Ald. Rudy stated that the proposed entrances will
improve the situation and that possibly something could be done by controlling
the traffic flow on Sheridan Road. Perry stated that Northwestern was also
concerned and may look at providing a person to direct traffic in conjunction
with the proposed improvements. Ald. Bleveans moved that proposed Ordinance
80-0-88 be amended to reflect a new condition which would read "signage with
regard to egress from the subject lot will be coordinated with the City of
Evanston Traffic Engineering Department and the Illinois Department of
Transportation". Ald. Warshaw seconded the motion. The Com=ittee voted 6-0
to approve the amendment.
P & D Committee - Minutes
November 7, 1988
Ald. Warshaw wished the minutes to reflect her objection to ZBA member Ms.
Fields, for participating in the discussion of Northwestern since Ms. Fields
is a graduate student at Northwestern. Ald. Korshak expressed a similar
concern. Ald. Bleveans stated that he also would like the minutes to reflect
that he does not take issue with Ms. Fields participating in a hearing dealing
with Northwestern University. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval
of the special use to the City Council with the aforementioned amendment.
Docket 206-11A-88, Plat of Subdivision re 425-429 Lee Street.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the plat of subdivision. A member of the audience stated that the
property has been sold and the buyer intends to use the existing rooming house
as a rooming house in the future. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the plat
of subdivision.
Docket 205-11A-87. Mavor's Special Housing Fund re Over the Rainbow
Association Loan.
Ald. Warshaw reviewed with the Committee the request from Over the Rainbow for
a $100,000, unsecured loan from the City's Mayor's Special Housing Fund. Ald.
Warshaw explained that the Housing Commission favors going forward and
approving the subject loan request. She explained that the loan would
eventually be paid back through a grant from the Robert McCormick Foundation
to Over the Rainbow. She explained further that the McCormick Foundation
stated that it would not guarantee the loan and that it would not allow for
its grant to be paid directly to the City, but rather will require that the
McCormick Foundation $100,000 grant be provided to Over the Rainbow which in
turn may reimburse the City. Mitchell Milner, a representative for Over the
Rainbow, was present and reviewed with the Committee the overall financing
package for Over the Rainbow at its project at the former Community Hospital.
Milner explained that the total cost of the project is S1,750,000. Of that
amount, HUD has provided financing for $1,733.000. Additional costs for
construction interest, insurance and architectural services, bring the total
project cost to $2.2 million dollars (excluding the Vocational Center). Ald.
Korshak questioned Milner whether Over the Rainbow would be doing the work
themselves or hiring a general contractor? Milner explained that Over the
Rainbow has hired a general contractor to do the construction work. Ald.
Bleveans questioned what was meant by "barrier -free living environment"?
Milner stated that the proposal is for the rehabilitation of the former
Community Hospital for residency by developmentally disabled and thus the need
for a barrier -free living arrangement to allow wheelchair and other forms of
accessibility. Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee
recommend to City Council approval of the $100,000 loan to Over the Rainbow
Association. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval of the loan.
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P & D Committee - Minutes
November 7, 1988
Old Business
B,urglary Prevention Ordinance
Upon review of the draft ordinance, Ald. Rudy made the following
recommendations.:
Page 8: strike from (A) the wording starting with "in lieu of" from the
subject section. Page 8 (B) change the word glass to "glazing". Page
9: (H) obtain a copy of the subject bulletin. Page 10: (B), change the
section to provide for a "one inch minimum throw" and. reword the subject
section.
Ald. Warshaw suggested that section (C) on page 10 be amended to read
accessible vision panels".
Ald. Rudy recommended the following changes, Page 11: (K) should read
aluminum sliding glass windows" and section (L) should read
illuminated with a minimum of 5 ft. candles".
Ald. Korshak suggested that page 5 should read as follows: " A device
combining a dead -latch operable by knobs or non --removable key from the
Inside and outside by a key, both of which can be retracted from the
inside by turning the knob or non -removable key from the outside by a
key".
Ald. Morton questioned whether the requirements were realistic to apply to
owners of income properties that were not generating a significant amount of
income? She stated that some things should be done in one year or less while
others should be given a period of at least two years to be installed.
Chairman Brady stated that she could not support an amendment that would
provide for anything other than a one year application. Ald. Warshaw stated
that she sees the ordinance as primarily a lock ordinance and that the
deadbolt and cylinder guards are most important and are needed now. Ald.
Morton questioned whether the issue of locks was as big of a problem as it
seems to be reflected in the ordinance? Officer C. Kuempel was present and
reviewed with the Committee previous reports submitted to P b D indicating the
problem with illegal entry due to weak locks. Ald. Horton continued to
express her concern with the high cost to landlords. Alai. Horton suggested
that the Committee consider utilizing the Mayor's Special Housing Fund dollars
to provide funds to landlords that cannot afford to implement the requirements
of the ordinance. Ald. Horton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the
Committee refer to the Housing Commission the issue of developing a program
utilizing either CDBG or Mayor's Special Housing Fund dollars to be :Wade
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