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HomeMy WebLinkAbout5. MEETING NOTICES VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT FINANCE COMMISSION AGENDA Thursday, January 24,2008 7 :00 p.m. Village Hall Building 50 South Emerson Street 151 Floor Community Center I Call to Order II Approval of Minutes - Meeting of November 8, 2007 III Discussion Regarding Proposed 2008 Work Plan IV Other Business V Chairman's Report VI Finance Director's Report VII Next Meeting: Thursday, February 28,2008, 7:00 p.m. VIII Adjournment NOTE: Any individual who would like to attend this meeting but because of a disability needs some accommodation to participate should contact the Finance Director's Office at 50 South Emerson Street, Mount Prospect, (847) 392-6000, ext. 5277, TDD (847) 392-6064. FINANCE COMMISSION DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING NOVEMBER 8, 2007 PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY DRAFT I. CALL TO ORDER Prior to the meeting being called to order the commission members and various staff members toured the facility to gain an appreciation for the recommendations made in the recent space needs study involving the new fire station and transfer of Fire Department equipment to the Public Works Building. The Finance Commission meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. Those present included Chairman Charles Bennett and Commissioners Vince Grochocinski, Tom Pekras, Ann Smilanic, John Kellerhals, Wayne Gardner and Don Ocwieja. Village staff was not present at the meeting. II. ApPROV AL OF MINUTES A motion to approve the minutes of the meeting of October 11, 2008 as amended was made by Commissioner Smilanic and seconded by Commissioner Pekras, and the minutes were accepted with the change of the word fair to fare on page 2. A motion to approve the minutes of the meeting of October 18, 2007 as amended was made by Commissioner Pekras and seconded by Commissioner Smilanic, and the minutes were accepted with the change of the word lead to led on page 2. A motion to approve the minutes of the meeting of October 25, 2007 as amended was made by Commissioner Grochocinski and seconded by Commissioner Pekras, and the minutes were accepted with four changes; Ms. Middleton instead of Mr.; on-going instead of on going; throughout as one word and combined sewer system instead of combine sewer system. III. 2008 VILLAGE BUDGET DISCUSSION The following items from the various budget meetings will be commented upon by the Chairman in his report to the Village Board: The Administrative Analyst position request to be upgraded from part-time to full-time involves a unique individual, and this may not be an appropriate long-term position which should be maintained following a change in the specific person being considered for the job. The Commissioners felt that complements were due to the implementation of the Crime Free Housing Program. The Commission was also pleased with the implementation of the new Traffic unit in the Police Department. The Commission urges the Finance Department to account for the refund of the insurance cost legal settlement and the cost to add the workout room as separate items in the accounting records. There is no direct relationship to these amounts and the bookkeeping should be separate as is required. The Commission did not agree with the establishment of a separate $20,000 fund for salary increases. Instead, the money should be budgeted as any other salary increase within the department where the employee resides. The Commission felt that computer equipment should follow the Village's lease payment process and not be collectively handled in the Computer unit. The Commission would like much more information on the proposed updating of the telephone system. The Commission recommends that the Video conferencing equipment be purchased only if a grant for the $160,000 can be obtained. IV. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT There was nothing to report. V. FINANCE DIRECTOR'S REPORT There was nothing to report. VI. OTHER BUSINESS There was nothing to report. VII. NEXT MEETING: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29,2007 (TENTATIVE) There being no further business to come before the Finance Commission, Commissioner Kellerhals motioned to adjourn which was seconded by Commissioner Smilanic. The motion passed and the meeting was adjourned at 9: 11 p.m. Respectively submitted, Vincent Grochocinski Vice Chairman, Finance Commission MINUTES VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT COFFEE WITH COUNCIL SATURDAY, January 12, 2008 Community Center 1 st Floor Village Hall The meeting was called to order at 9:05 a.m. by Mayor Wilks. Trustee Arlene Juracek was present. Representing staff were Assistant Village Manager Dave Strahl and Police Chief John Dahlberg. Residents In Attendance Rodger Kruse South Louis Street Derek Steinweg Pima Lane Carol Tortorello Elmhurst Avenue Kimberly & Andrew Skic North Owen David Schein NaWaTa Tom & Candy Psihogios N. Wille Lewis & Connie Dumas Cayuga Rodaer Kruse. South Louis Street Mr. Kruse had the following items to discuss: 1) He commented positively on the Shabonee Trail overnight parking solution, noting one car with two flyers and another car with two tickets on Prospect Avenue. 2) Mr. Kruse questioned why cars parked on Shabonee during a snowfall are not towed. He stated one car sat on Shabonee for two days and was never towed. Chief Dahlberg explained that Village Ordinance does not currently permit the towing of vehicles so cited, but that historically the Village has relocated cars parked on downtown streets to municipal lots after significant snowfall events. After researching this issue, he will discuss it with the Village Manager. 3) Mr. Kruse inquired about the property at 701 E. Prospect where there are plans to build new town home units. A building was taken down and a green fence erected. He complained about the look of the fence, the leaves and debris piled on the property. Mr. Strahl responded that the fence was most likely put there to secure the site, but he will look in to it. 4) Mr. Kruse asked if the black plastic used by the Village to cover planting beds along many streets in the winter can be used more than one season. Mr. Strahl stated the plastic gets worn and usually lasts one season. 5) The last concern Mr. Kruse had was regarding a Pontiac Montana with a new Village sticker, which was not properly affixed to the windshield. He is concerned that the sticker could easily come off and be used on another car. There was a discussion on the proper way to affix stickers, as well as methods of removing stickers. The Police Chief will follow-up on the vehicle in question. Derek Steinwea. Pima Lane Derek Steinweg is on the Mount Prospect Youth Commission and attended the meeting to report back to the Commission on what is going on in the community. The Mayor thanked him for his service to the Youth Commission. Mayor Wilks asked if the Youth Commission came to a decision on the dog issue discussed at their December meeting. Mr. Steinweg stated they had not made a decision, but were considering signs. Mayor Wilks requested a written report from the Youth Commission. Carol Tortorello. S. Elmhurst Avenue Carol Tortorello was glad to see that the Village was considering red light enforcement cameras. There was a general discussion on red light enforcement systems. Chief Dahlberg has attended seminars and presentations on red light enforcement systems and will be submitting information to the Village Manager for the Village Board's review, as this will be a policy decision. Ms. Tortorello asked if the police department conducted "Drive 25 Keep Kids Alive" enforcement on the 2100 Block of Haven. A father commented to her that they are having trouble with IDOT trucks speeding down the street. Ms. Tortorello wanted to know if something could be done about it. Chief Dahlberg will assign the Traffic Sergeant to investigate this issue. Kimberly & Andrew Skic. North Owen Kimberly Skic announced "Elements" has received their occupancy permit from the Village and will have their soft opening on Wednesday. The Mayor wished them the best of luck. David Schein. NaWaTa David Schein had two concerns. The first was the Agreement entered into by the Village with Prospect Heights regarding Operation and Maintenance of Levee 37. His concern is that we have a handle on the maintenance costs. Mayor Wilks stated that due to the materials being used, maintenance costs will be minimal. Second, Mr. Schein asked if Traffic Study 14 will be discussed at the next Committee of the Whole. Mr. Strahl confirmed that it is scheduled to be voted on at the next regular Village Board Meeting on January 15, 2008. Mr. Schein also complimented the Village on doing a good job of letting residents know what is happening in the Village with regard to the ongoing Traffic Study process. Tom & Candy Psihoaios. N. Wille They were at the meeting to learn more about the community. Lewis & Connie Dumas. Cayuaa Mr. & Mrs. Dumas have an ongoing issue with Public Works regarding the apron on their driveway. American Water replaced the buffalo box 2 ~ years ago and in the process, the apron on their driveway cracked. Public Works arranged for replacement of the apron on a shared cost basis of 75% - 25% (Mr. & Mrs. Dumas/American Water). Two of the squares have become pitted so they contacted Public Works Department. They are not satisfied with the response they are receiving from Public Works. Mr. Strahl responded that usually there is a one year replacement on concrete, but he will follow-up with the Public Works Department and get back to them. Tom Psihoaios. N. Wille Mr. Psihogios asked if there are any regulations regarding solar panels on residential roofs or other solar generators. Trustee Juracek said she did not think there were any ordinances regarding placement of such systems, but the electrical connections associated with same require permits and the development code restricts the height of structures to no more than 30 feet. She also advised that they could look on the Village Website for a link to Commonwealth Edison for more information about energy efficiency. At 10:51 a.m., the meeting was adjourned. MAYOR Irvana K. Wilks VILLAGE MANAGER Michael E. Janonis TRUSTEES Timothy J. Corcoran Paul Wm. Hoefer! Arlene Juracek A. John Kom Richard M. Lohrstorfer Michael A. Zadel Village of Mount Prospect Community Development Department 50 South Emerson Street Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056 VILLAGE CLERK M. Lisa Angell Phone: 847/818-5328 Fax: 847/818-5329 TDD: 847/392-6064 AGENDA MOUNT PROSPECT PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MEETING LOCATION: Mount Prospect Village Hall 50 S. Emerson Street Mount Prospect, IL 60056 MEETING DATE & TIME: Thursday January 24, 2008 7:30 p.m. I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. APPROV AL OF MINUTES OF October 25, 2007 P&Z MEETING A. PZ-34-07/ 1406 Small Lane / Wendel Residence / Variation (parking pad and lot coverage). B. PZ-39-07 / 50 N. Main Street / Midwest Bank / Special Use and Variation (signage). IV. OLD BUSINESS A. PZ-38-07 / 309-313 W. Prospect Ave. / Paul Swanson / Conditional Use approval and Variations (3- unit rowhome development). This case is Village Board Final. (CONTINUED TO FEBRUARY 28, 2008 PER PETITIONER'S REQUEST) V. NEW BUSINESS A. PZ-O 1-08 / 3401 S. Busse Road / Arrow Road Construction / Amend original Conditional Use permit (allow storage silo height to no more than 80-feet from grade). This case is Village Board Final. B. PZ-02-08 / 2020 Camp McDonald Road / St. Dominick Childcare / Conditional Use (day care facility) and Variation (on-site parking relief). This case is Village Board Final. e. PZ-03-08 / 1040 W. Northwest Highway / Mount Prospect Development Group / Map Amendment (rezone from B 1 to R2), Conditional Use (Planned Unit Development) for a 14-unit town home development. This case is Village Board Final. D. PZ-04-08/ 1042 S. Elmhurst Road (Dominick's Grocery Store) / Doyle Signs on behalf of US Bank / Variation (additional wall sign). This case is Planning & Zoning Commission Final. E. PZ-05-08 / 1750 Azalea Place / Schrambeck Residence / Variation (second driveway). This case is Village Board Final. VI. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS VII. ADJOURNMENT Any individual who would like to attend this meeting, but because of a disability needs some accommodation to participate, should contact the Community Development Department at 50 S. Emerson, Mount Prospect, IL 60056, 847-392-6000, Ext. 5328, TDD #847-392-6064. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION CASE NO. PZ-34-07 Hearing Date: October 25,2007 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1406 Small Lane PETITIONER: Jeanette Wendel PUBLICATION DATE: August 8, 2007 PIN NUMBERS: 03-35-411-015-0000 REQUEST: Variation (setbacks) MEMBERS PRESENT: Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chair Leo Floros Marlys Haaland Ronald Roberts Keith Youngquist MEMBERS ABSENT: Mary McCabe Richard Rogers ST AFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Connolly, AICP, Senior Planner Ellen Divita, Deputy Director of Community Development INTERESTED PARTIES: Jeanette Wendel, Dan Gajewski Acting Chairman Joseph Donnelly called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. Keith Youngquist made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 27,2007 meeting as corrected and Leo Floros seconded the motion. The minutes were approved 5-0. Mr. Youngquist made a motion to continue Case Number PZ-38-07 to the December 13, 2007 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. Mr. Floras seconded the motion. The motion was approved 5-0. Acting Chair Donnelly re-introduced Case PZ-34-07, a request for Variation at 1406 Small Lane at 10:34 p.m. Judith Connolly, Senior Planner stated that the Petitioner extended the existing driveway and constructed a parking pad without the benefit of a permit. The parking pad was noticed by Village Inspectors during an inspection for another project at the Subject Property. When the Petitioner applied for a permit after the fact, it was determined that the existing pad did not meet zoning regulations and needed relief from lot coverage and setback requirements. She said the case was originally heard and continued from the September 27, 2007 Planning & Zoning meeting. Since that meeting, the Petitioner modified the request so the Subject Property complies with the 45% lot coverage limitation. However, the location of the parking pad would continue to encroach into the required setbacks, requiring Variation approval. Ms. Connolly said the Petitioner submitted a revised site plan that indicates existing pavement will be removed from the Subject Property in order to meet the 45% lot coverage limitation while keeping a portion of the parking pad. The size of the parking pad will be reduced to 17' x 17.5' and the front and side service walks would be removed to bring the site to 44.8% lot coverage. Ms. Connolly stated that the Subject Property does not comply the Village's zoning regulations as a small portion of the house encroaches into the front setback slightly. Also, the patio shown on the Petitioner's site plan is located in an 8-foot utility easement and encroaches into the required 7.5' side yard. The existing parking pad is Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25, 2007 PZ-34-07 II Page 2 currently located in the rear easement, but the Petitioner proposes to reduce the size of the pad so the pad will no longer be in the easement. However, the parking pad is considered an accessory structure similar to a patio and cannot be located in the required 7.5' side yard or the 15' rear yard setback. Therefore, the proposed setbacks require Variation approval. She showed a table comparing the Petitioner's proposal to the RI Single Family Residence District's bulk requirements. Ms. Connolly said the standards for a Variation are listed in Section 14.203.C.9 of the Village Zoning Ordinance and include seven specific findings that must be made in order to approve a Variation. She summarized these findings as: . A hardship due to the physical surroundings, shape, or topographical conditions of a specific property not generally applicable to other properties in the same zoning district and not created by any person presently having an interest in the property; . Lack of desire to increase financial gain; and . Protection of the public welfare, other property, and neighborhood character. Ms. Connolly stated that the Petitioner proposes to modify the parking pad so it will not be located in the rear easement. Portions of existing service walks will be removed so the site will not exceed the 45% lot coverage limitation. However, the request continues to be based on providing a convenience to the Petitioner rather than the pad's location being based on a hardship as defined by the Zoning Ordinance: the parking pad is necessary to accommodate maneuvering multiple vehicles into the side loading garage and to accommodate storing seasonal recreational equipment. She said it appears the original driveway configuration was elongated to provide vehicles ease in maneuvering in to and out of the 2-car garage. The parking pad constructed by the Petitioner does not facilitate enter/exiting the garage but serves primarily as a storage area for vehicles and recreational vehicles. Therefore, the parking pad serves more of a convenience than allowing the Petitioner adequate access to/from the garage and its location does not meet the standards for granting a Variation. Ms. Connolly said the Variation request to allow a parking pad to encroach into the side and rear yards fails to meet the standards for a Variation contained in Section l4.203.C.9 of the Zoning Ordinance as the request is based on convenience and not a hardship. Based on this analysis, Staff recommends that the P&Z deny the following motion: "To approve a Variation to allow a parking pad with a 10-foot rear setback and a 1.67-foot side setback, as shown in the Petitioner's revised exhibit, for the residence at 1406 Small Lane, Case Number PZ-34-07." Ms. Connolly stated that the Village Board's decision is final for this case because the amount of the setback Variations exceeds 25% of the Zoning Ordinance requirement. Prior to Village Board review, Staff recommends that the Petitioner have a new plat of survey prepared as there are a number of improvements not reflected on the Petitioner's plat of survey. Acting Chair Donnelly swore in Petitioners Jeanette Wendel and Dan Gajewski of 1406 Small Lane, Mount Prospect, Illinois. Ms. Wendel stated that in response to the Commission's concern with lot coverage on the Subject Property, they propose removing 269 square feet of impervious surface to comply with lot coverage requirements. She said they do not request the Variation for the purpose of vehicle storage on the parking pad, but to allow for vehicle maneuvering in and out of the side loading garage. She stated that her neighbors support the parking pad on the Subject Property. Ms. Wendel stated that she believes she has complied with everything discussed at the previous Commission meeting by removing part of the pad out of the easement and by reducing the amount of lot coverage. She said that the service walks to be removed will not be a detriment to the appearance of the Subject Property. Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25, 2007 PZ-34-07 II Page 3 Acting Chair Donnelly asked if the neighbors closest to the driveway and parking pad are in favor of the project. Ms. Wendel said the letters submitted to the Commission did include supportive letters from the neighbors closest to the parking pad. Mr. Youngquist said it appears the Petitioner did try to comply with the suggestions from the previous meeting. He said he does agree with Staff in suggesting they obtain a current Plat of Survey prior to going to Village Board. Ms. Wendel said she was not sure if the new Plat should be done before or after the proposed changes are completed. Ms. Connolly said Staff would like to see an updated Plat of Survey prior to this Case going to Village Board to ensure the lot coverage calculations are accurate. There was general discussion regarding the need for an additional Plat of Survey once the work is completed. Mr. Floros concurred that the Petitioner has made a good-faith effort in complying with the suggested changes and supports the request. Mr. Youngquist made a motion to approve a Variation for setbacks at 1406 Small Lane with the condition that the Petitioner obtain a current Plat of Survey prior to appearing before the Village Board. Marlys Haaland seconded the motion. UPON ROLL CALL: A YES: Floros, Haaland, Richards, Youngquist, Donnelly NAYS: None Motion was approved 5-0. After hearing one additional case, Leo Floros made a motion to adjourn 8:35 p.m., seconded by Keith Youngquist. The motion was approved by a voice vote and the meeting was adjourned. Stacey Dunn, Community Development Administrative Assistant C:\Documents and Settings\kdcwis\Local Settings\Tcmporary Internet Filcs\OLK6B\PZ-34-07 1406 Small Lane- I1,doc MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION CASE NO. PZ-39-07 Hearing Date: October 25, 2007 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 50 North Main PETITIONER: Midwest Banc Holdings, Inc. / James Giancola PUBLICATION DATE: October 8, 2007 PIN NUMBERS: 03-34-331-019-0000 REQUEST: 1) Variation - maximum size for a wall sign 2) Special Use - electronic message board sign MEMBERS PRESENT: Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chair Leo Floros Marlys Haaland Ronald Roberts Keith Youngquist MEMBERS ABSENT: Mary McCabe Richard Rogers ST AFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Connolly, AICP, Senior Planner Ellen Divita, Deputy Director of Community Development INTERESTED PARTIES: Kelly Alcock, Tom Nelson, Patrick Hamann, Roberta Hamann, Rodger Kruse, John Eilering, Brian Madden, Helen Luckey, Dennis Motyka, Christian Schoenenberger, David Tomasik Acting Chairman Joseph Donnelly called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. Keith Youngquist made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 27, 2007 meeting as corrected and Leo Floros seconded the motion. The minutes were approved 5-0. Mr. Youngquist made a motion to continue Case Number PZ-38-07 to the December 13,2007 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. Mr. Floros seconded the motion. The motion was approved 5-0. After hearing one previous case, Acting Chair Donnelly introduced Case Number PZ-39-07, a request for Variation and Special Use at 50 North Main Street, at 7:53 p.m. Judith Connolly, Senior Planner stated that the Subject Property is located at the southwest corner of Main and Henry Streets, and contains a bank building with related improvements. The Subject Property is zoned B5 Central Commercial and is bordered by the RA Single Family Residence District to the north, east, west, and by the B5 District to the south. Ms. Connolly said the Petitioner proposes to remove the existing Mount Prospect National Bank signage and replace it with signage for Midwest Bank. The proposed signage includes a new wall sign and modifying the existing freestanding sign to include an electronic message board component. Ms. Connolly stated that the existing wall sign reads 'Mount Prospect National Bank' and is engraved into the masonry band above the entrance to the bank. The Village's Sign Code exempts this sign from the Sign Code regulations as it was interpreted as a "Building Identification, Historical Markers" and it is permitted to span the entire elevation of this portion of the building. The Petitioner proposes to cover the masonry band with a tan metal band intended to match the existing masonry color and the metal band will include 'Midwest Bank' in blue Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25, 2007 PZ-39-07 Page 2 lettering with the company logo. She said that due to the nature of the building's architectural design and building materials, the metal band has been interpreted to be part of the wall sign because it is not masonry. Consequently, Variation approval is required because the sign exceeds the 50% wall sign limitation and covers 100% of the signable area. Ms. Connolly said the required findings for sign variations are contained in Section 7.725 of the Village of Mount Prospect Sign Code. She summarized these findings that must be made in order to approve a Variation as: . The sign allowed under code regulations will not reasonably identiry the establishment; . The hardship is created by unique circumstances and not serve as convenience to the petitioner, and is not created by the person presently having an interest in the sign or property; . The Variation will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood; . The Variation will not impair visibility to the adjacent property, increase the danger of traffic problems or endanger the public safety, or alter the essential character of the neighborhood; and be in harmony with the spirit and intent of this Chapter. Ms. Connolly stated that the Petitioner notes in their application that it is cost prohibitive to replace the masonry and engrave the name of the new bank on the masonry band. Staff can appreciate the Petitioner's desire to minimize costs, but the architecture of the building fayade would be compromised by using a metal band when the building was originally designed with masonry. In addition, the request does not meet the standards for a Variation as listed in the Village's Sign Code because the request is based on cost considerations. Ms. Connolly said the Petitioner's exhibit indicates the existing freestanding sign would be modified. The proposed changes include modirying the base of the sign to include Midwest Bank's tag line and logo. Also, the height of the sign would be increased as an illuminated blue band with white lettering that reads 'Midwest Bank' and an electronic message board sign would be added to the sign. The brick columns would be extended and would wrap around the proposed electronic message board and the blue band. Ms. Connolly stated that in order to approve the electronic message board, the P&Z Commission has to find that it meets the standards for a Special Use. She summarized the required findings for Special Use requests contained in Section 7.720 of the Sign Code as: . Protection of public safety and welfare; . Harmony with the scale and architecture of nearby buildings and signs; . Lack of negative impacts on adjacent properties or signs; and . Compliance with other provisions of the Sign Regulations. Ms. Connolly said the size of the freestanding sign complies with the Village's Sign Code regulations and its location complies with the 600-foot distance separation limit. Staff found that the design of the proposed sign would not create a negative impact on adjacent properties as the sign includes a sensor to dim its illumination level in the evening. Also, the Petitioner has received feedback from lOOT, which has jurisdiction over Main Street (Route 83), that it is reasonable to change the message on a 10 second interval. However, Staff asks that the Petitioner confirm the proposed interval time as that information is not specifically noted in the application. Ms. Connolly stated that based on this analysis, the proposed electronic message board sign meets the standards for a Special Use as noted in the Village's Sign Code, subject to the Petitioner confirming the display interval timing. Therefore, Staff recommends the Planning & Zoning Commission approve the following motion: Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25, 2007 PZ-39-07 Page 3 "To approve a Special Use permit to incorporate an electronic message board sign into the existing freestanding sign, as shown on the Petitioner's exhibit prepared by Whiteway Sign dated September 27, 2007, and for the sign to be operated as noted in the Petitioner's application, Case Number PZ-39-07, for the property located at 50 N. Main Street." However, Staff found the proposed wall sign does not meet the standards for a Variation. Staff recommends the Planning & Zoning Commission deny the following motion for the proposed wall sign: "To approve a Variation to allow a wall sign to cover 100% of the signable area for a wall sign, as shown on the Petitioner's exhibit prepared by Whiteway Sign dated September 27, 2007, Case Number PZ-39-07, for the property located at 50 N. Main Street." The Planning & Zoning Commission's decision is final for both requests. Chairman Donnelly swore in Kelly Alcock, Permit Coordinator for Whiteway Sign, 451 Kingston, Mount Prospect, Illinois. Ms. Alcock stated that the metal backing would cover the masonry lettering on the wall. She advised the cost alone to remove the existing letters on the building would be approximately $32,000, which creates a hardship. She said that the metal band would be the same color stone and blend with the building. Ms. Alcock mentioned that this same design was approved by Des Plaines last week as they had a similar sign issue. According to Ms. Alcock, the channel letters are to code and the words "Midwest Bank" combined with their owl logo equals 43 square feet. Ms. Alcock then discussed the ground sign. She said that a standard car blocks the current sign. Therefore, adding another cabinet would be necessary to identify the business. This additional cabinet would include a header panel and electronic message center. She reiterated that the end product would meet code. She agreed to incorporate a brick 'frame' around the electronic message board add-on to match the existing brick work per suggestions from Staff. Chairman Donnelly asked if there were any questions for the Petitioner or Staff at this time. Keith Youngquist asked Staff if the sign on the building includes the whole box around the building, which is why it exceeds the limit; Ms. Connolly replied yes. Discussion continued whether the issue is if the metal band of the material is considered a sign or an architectural detail of the building. Chairman Donnelly said if it is considered an architectural design like Staples and Home Depot, then it is not considered signage and only the text needs to meet the Sign Code size regulations. He said if the metal band is considered part ofthe sign, then there is an issue regarding the size limit. Chairman Donnelly mentioned that the letters on the sign meet the code, but factoring in the background exceeds to maximum size permitted. Mr. Roberts asked Staff if this was true; Ms. Connolly said yes. Mr. Roberts said he found the staff report confusing in regards to the reason this case is being reviewed. He stated that the P&Z is reviewing this because the metal band covers 100% of the signable area, and clarified that the blue text on the metal band is within code limits. Ms. Connolly said yes, and noted that the issue stems from whether or not the metal band is considered building material and not part of the sign. Ms. Connolly stated that it was originally interpreted that the metal band around the entire building would be considered a sign and that is why it was considered covering 100% of the signable area. Mr. Roberts asked what the permissible signable area is. Ms. Connolly referenced the picture of the metal band on the building and said the blue text measures 43 sq. ft. and does meet code if the metal band is considered a building element. Mr. Floros asked that if this situation has happened before. Chairman Donnelly confirmed that there was a similar case involving Staples. The Planning and Zoning Commission previously considered the red background as building material and not part of the signage. Mr. Floros stated that he does not have a problem with the current case based on the precedent with Staples. Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25, 2007 PZ-39-07 Page 4 Chairman Donnelly stated that the main sign issues have been covered and transitioned into discussing the electronic sign. He said that he has observed trees blocking the current sign when traveling north on Elmhurst Road. Chairman Donnelly also stated that the north side of the sign faces a residential area and asked if there was consideration in regards to moving the sign to a different area of the property. Ms. Alcock said that the masonry structured is beautiful and she would hate to wreck it. She stated that it is an asset to the property. Ms. Alcock added that the electronic cabinet would be on a dimmer that could automatically be dimmed at night via a solar panel. She mentioned that the property was just purchased and landscaping and trimming of the trees will be completed soon. Chairman Donnelly asked about the sign interval. Ms. Alcock confirmed that the electronic message board would not flash, blink, or scroll. She said the message would remain constant. She is requesting a 10-second interval for message change that would also include a time, temperature, and she would not be opposed to listing community events. Mr. Youngquist questioned whether the sign would be turned off during a certain part of the night. Ms. Alcock said that they would agree to turn off the messaging from midnight to 6 AM. Ms. Connolly asked if the entire sign would be turned off or just the message board. Ms. Alcock did confirm that the messaging would turn off, but the sign with the name identifying the bank would remain on to notify customers of an ATM. The Commission discussed the text on the freestanding sign. Ms. Alcock stated several proposals have been given to Staff regarding the size of the cabinet. She said the original plan has been modified and incorporates brick around the sign so the electronic component blends better with the original sign design. Mr. Youngquist stated that a 10-second interval is not a lot of time for such a small area. Ms. Alcock responded that they would not take advantage of changing the message every 10 seconds; the messaging would be programmed by the bank and would not go shorter than 10 seconds. Chairman Donnelly asked if there were any additional questions or if anyone wanted to address the issue. Chairman Donnelly swore in Patrick Hammon, 101 N. Main St., Mount Prospect. Mr. Hammon said he is having an issue with the sign due to the traffic congestion of the intersection. He said he is concerned for safety and that placing a message board on the comer would cause further distractions to motorists. He said the current sign is fine and he would not be opposed to having the proposed sign moved to different area of the property. Chairman Donnelly swore in John Eilering, Area President for Midwest Bank, 50 N. Main St, Mount Prospect. Mr. Eilering does not feel that the proposed sign is intrusive. He is really proud of the way the building looks and the banner will not change the character of the sign. Mr. Eilering said changing the signs will allow the bank to be more competitive with other banks in the community. He said branding and name recognition is very important. Discussion continued among the Commission in regards to how the building sign would be illuminated. Ms. Alcock responded by saying that it would be lit by internally illuminated channel letters, which allows "Midwest Bank" to be visible when looking at the building. Chairman Donnelly swore in Dennis Motyka, Senior Vice President for Midwest Bank, based at 1606 N. Harlem Ave, Elmwood Park, IL. Mr. Motyka said he represents the retail part of the bank and stated Midwest Bank is excited and proud to be a part of Mount Prospect. He said that the proposed sign is a nice addition and it tells the Village who they are. Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25,2007 PZ-39-07 Page 5 Chairman Donnelly asked if Midwest Bank considered moving the sign on the property. Mr. Motyka stated that it was cost prohibitive and that he would hate to ruin the existing sign. Chairman Donnelly asked if there were any other banks in town that had electronic signs. Mr. Youngquist stated that there is a bank on Prospect Avenue by the train tracks that has an electronic message board. Mr. Motyka stated that they have used electronic signs at other locations and the signs have been a benefit for the business. Chairman Donnelly stated that he likes signs that change on 2 to 5 minute cycles as opposed to the flashing signs. He said he feels that Midwest Bank needs a display time appropriate for the location of the electronic sign. Ms. Alcock stated that they could make a condition to the approval requiring the display time to be longer than 10 seconds. She said that they are flexible in the time. Chairman Donnelly asked if they would consider not illuminating the north part of the sign and just having the south end illuminated. Mr. Eilering stated that the north end of the sign is where they obtain the branding effect with the south bound traffic on Route 83. He said the north bound traffic is somewhat obstructed by the tree. Mr. Eilering did state they he would be comfortable with a 2 minute message on the board. Chairman Donnelly asked if Midwest Bank would consider having just the Midwest Bank illuminated sign without a message board. Mr. Motyka said they could do this, but the electronic board helps them promote their products. Mr. Eilering stated that there are other banks that have much larger signs as the one being proposed. They are trying to display information in a small area while keeping a classic look to the sign, which is important to them. Mr. Youngquist stated that the library and the Village have their signs just to the south so the proposed sign would just be another one within the area. Mr. Roberts said he felt the request for a 10 second change interval is very reasonable as Village Code allows for a 2 second change. He also commended the bank for its character and involvement with community activities. Discussion continued regarding the bank staff being retained as ownership and name change switched. Mr. Youngquist added that if this was any other bank coming to town, they would have to cover-up the lettering as well. Mr. Floros said he does not have a problem with either sign, but laments the loss of the name Mt. Prospect being removed from the bank. Mr. Eilering stated that the same staff of the bank has been there for 10 years and will continue to be there. Chairman Donnelly asked Ms. Connolly if there were any restrictions when the lights should be off for residents. He said midnight is late during the week and okay on the weekends. Ms. Connolly said that per the sign code, they would need to turn them off at 11 pm if the business is not operating and could be turned back on at 7 AM. Chairman Donnelly asked if they need to add this to the motion or if it is automatically added. Ms. Connolly clarified that this is a Sign code requirement they are required to follow. She stated that relief was not requested, therefore it is expected that Midwest Bank will follow code. Mr. Eilering said that they will follow whatever the code states and will keep the sign stationary for 2 minutes. Chairman Donnelly asked if anyone else would like to address this case. There was no response. Chairman Donnelly advised that the Public Hearing was closed and brought the discussion to the Commission. As there was no further discussion, Chairman Donnelly advised that the vote will be completed in two parts. Mr. Floros made a motion to approve the proposed wall sign design as shown on the Petitioner's exhibit as the metal band was not considered as part of the wall sign; Marlys Haaland seconded the motion. Joseph Donnelly, Acting Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 25, 2007 PZ-39-07 Page 6 UPON ROLL CALL: AYES: Floros, Haaland, Roberts, Youngquist, Donnelly NAYS: None Motion was approved 5-0. Mr. Floros made a motion to approve the Special Use permit request to allow an electronic message board with the conditions listed in the Staff Report, and the additional condition requiring no less than a 2 minute interval between text changes. Ms. Haaland seconded the motion. Before roll call, Ms. Ellen Divita asked Mr. Roberts if there was any dialogue on the 2-minute intervals. Mr. Roberts stated that he would like to know how the other members felt about the longer interval time. Following brief discussion, the Commission decided to keep the interval at 10 seconds and the motion was amended. UPON ROLL CALL: A YES: Floros, Haaland, Roberts, Youngquist, Donnelly NAYS: None Motion was approved 5-0. Leo Floros made a motion to adjourn 8:35 p.m., seconded by Keith Youngquist. The motion was approved by a voice vote and the meeting was adjourned. Ryan Kast, Community Development Administrative Assistant C \Documents and Senings\kdewls\Local Scttings\Temporat)' Internet Files\OLK6B\PZ-39-07 50 N Main (midwest bank slgnageJ.doc