HomeMy WebLinkAbout5. OLD BUSINESS 11/17/2009
Village of Mount Prospect
Community Development Department
Mount Prospect
MEMORANDUM
~
FROM:
MICHAEL E. JANONIS, VILLAGE MANAGER
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
~~
:soC)
TO:
DATE:
OCTOBER 28, 2009
PZ-27 -09 SOUTH MOUNT PROSPECT SUB-AREA PLA
SUBJECT:
The Community Development Department is seeking approval of the South Mount Prospec -area
Plan, which is a proposed amendment to the Official Comprehensive Plan. Since the ay 12, 2009
Committee of the Whole meeting, staff has conducted two open house meetings with property owners
and businesses located within the sub-area boundaries. Based on the feedback received from the
meetings, emails and phone calls, the proposed sub-area plan was modified to address raised
concerns.
The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing to review the request on Thursday,
October 22, 2009. The Planning & Zoning Commission voted 5-0 to recommend that the Village Board
adopt the amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. Details of the proceedings and items discussed
during the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing are included in the attached minutes.
Please forward this memorandum and attachments to the Village Board for their review and
consideration at their November 3, 2009 meeting. Staff will be present to answer any questions related
to this matter.
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William J. Co ney, Jr., AICP
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
CASE NO. PZ-27-09
Hearing Date: October 22, 2009
PETITIONER:
Village of Mount Prospect
PUBLICATION DATE:
October 7, 2009
REQUEST:
South Mount Prospect Sub-Area Plan
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Richard Rogers, Chair
Joseph Donnelly
Leo Floros
Theo Foggy
Ronald Roberts
MEMBERS ABSENT:
William Beattie
Keith Youngquist
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT:
Brian Simmons, AICP, Deputy Director of Community Development
Clare O'Shea, AICP, Senior Planner
INTERESTED PARTIES:
Bob McGugin, Valerie Roesti, Julio Barken, Kathy Balogh, Eric Nelson,
Mike Nelson, Rick Anderson, Ed Ruff, Mark Jensen, Timothy Stef,
David Karkubek, Jim Jakubek, Willy Sudol, Ron Boucher, Phyllis
Zumph, Pat St. Leger, Sandi Wille, Rick Bulthuis, Herbert Schardt, Pat
Weldon, Bill Johnston, Eduardo Flores, Mike Cronin, Coren Raymond,
Irene Blascher, Bret Asrow
Chairman Richard Rogers called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. Mr. Floros made a motion to approve the
minutes of the September 24,2009 meeting; Mr. Donnelly seconded the motion. The minutes were approved 5-0.
Chairman Rogers stated that case number PZ-26-09, 1060 S. Elmhurst Road, Variations for Wall Signs has been
postponed to the next scheduled Planning and Zoning Meeting on November 12, 2009. Chairman Rogers
introduced Case PZ-27-09, the South Mount Prospect Sub-Area Plan at 7:42 p.m.
Ms. O'Shea stated case number PZ-27-09 has been scheduled for the October 2009 Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting to review the application by the Village of Mount Prospect regarding a proposed
amendment to the Village's Comprehensive Plan. The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting was properly
noticed in the October 7,2009 edition ofthe Journal & Topics Newspaper.
Ms. O'Shea said South Mount Prospect is situated in a very important area and has the potential for growth due to
regional transportation projects. The STAR line is proposed to be located near South Mount Prospect and the
O'Hare Modernization Program will make the area more attractive for global businesses. Additionally, the
proposed full interchange at Interstate 90 and Elmhurst Road would make the area more accessible to the
Interstate system and the airport.
Ms. O'Shea stated the 2007 Comprehensive Plan called for a strategic plan for the intersection of Algonquin,
Busse, and Dempster Roads to review the corridor improvements and pedestrian amenities. Ms. O'Shea said
during the study to develop this plan, the Village decided to include the entire South Mount Prospect Sub-Area.
The purpose of the Sub-Area Plan is to comprehensively review the area and plan for future growth.
Richard Rogers, Chair PZ-25-09
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009 Page 1 of 7
Ms. O'Shea said information for the Sub-Area Plan has been retrieved from interviews with businesses, residents,
Village Staff, Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), ComEd, Arlington Heights and Des Plaines Staff
members, reviewing planning documents, comments from open houses, e-mails, and phone calls. Much of this
information was included with the Staff Report.
Ms. O'Shea showed a map of the South Mount Prospect Sub-Area. It is located south of the CornEd Right-of-
Way in the Village of Mount Prospect and included properties south of Oakton, and included the corporate
boundaries to the east and west side of the Village. The area is generally bounded by 1-90 to the south, Des
Plaines to the east, the CornEd Right-of-Way to the north, and Arlington Heights to the west.
Ms. O'Shea summarized the existing conditions report that included information regarding utilities, transportation
(roads and existing bus routes), jurisdictional control issues from unincorporated land, state and county roads,
zoning, and land use consistency.
Ms. O'Shea stated based on the reports, the goals and objectives were developed. The goals were formatted
similar to the Comprehensive Plan. The objectives are more specific to South Mount Prospect. The goals are
broken down by residential, Economic Development (commercial and industrial), transportation and
infrastructure, and community facilities, services, and open space.
Ms. O'Shea explained the recommendations. There are three long range planning concepts that the plan focuses
on: business park, Algonquin/Busse/Dempster Commercial Center, and the United Airlines Property Office
Campus. The Village was making sure the business park area south of Algonquin Road was properly marketed
and has the correct amenities to attract and retain businesses. In regards to the Algonquin/Busse/Dempster
Commercial Center, the Village was trying to make sure this area could be easily accessed by motorists,
pedestrians, and vehicles so people could get into and out of properties and to make sure the area is safe for those
who live and work around. The third long range planning concept is the United Airlines property. The Village
was proposing a recommendation of an office campus if the property was to be redeveloped with open space and
retail to support the office campus.
Ms. O'Shea said the other recommendations were general and could be applied to the entire sub-area. These
included corridor improvements and aesthetic improvements (corridor and private property).
Ms. O'Shea discussed the implementation plan. The plan was geared to be implemented over the next ten to
fifteen (10-15) years. The strategies that were assigned to meet the plan's goals were: related objective,
responsible party, timing, and the type of strategy.
Staff recommended that the Planning and Zoning Commission approve the South Mount Prospect Sub Area-Plan
as an amendment to the Village's Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. Roberts asked that this was just a strategic plan; anything proposed mayor may not happen depending on
several factors that included funding. Ms. O'Shea confirmed that this was correct. This was a strategic plan and
the Village was looking at the area as a whole. This ensured that the Village was working with the correct
departments and other organizations on improvements in the area.
Mr. Donnelly asked if the STAR line does not go through, would the strategic plans still be a good idea for the
area. Ms. O'Shea said even without the STAR line, the area was very attractive and has a lot of competitive
advantages because of its location and accessibility to various roads. The Village would still be interested in
improving the area not only from the business aspect, but for the safety of the residents in the area. Ms. O'Shea
stated the Village was trying to improve the overall look as well.
Richard Rogers, Chair
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009
PZ-27-09
Page 2 of7
Chairman Rogers said this was an overall plan. He stated the area needs improvement. The STAR line would be
a benefit to the community as it would bring more businesses and people to the community. Chairman Rogers
stated from the Planning and Zoning Commission's point of view, this plan makes sense.
Mr. Roberts stated the Sub-Area Plan quoted a percentage of housing units that are in the area. Mr. Roberts asked
if Staff knew how many residents were in this sub-area or the total percentage of Mount Prospect's population.
Ms. O'Shea did not have the information available at the meeting.
Chairman Rogers swore in Bob McGugin, 1757 W. Crystal Lane, Mount Prospect, Illinois. Mr. McGugin stated
that the plan he saw mainly involved economic development. He wanted to know what was planned for
residential, especially rezoning. Ms. O'Shea said that Village Staff was not proposing to rezone any residential
properties; Staff would like to preserve the housing stock in South Mount Prospect. Ms. O'Shea stated Staff
would like to focus on reinvestment to make the area more safe and pedestrian friendly so the residents could
walk or bike to retail or other commercial areas in town.
Mr. McGugin said that a lot of the housing in South Mount Prospect were rental units. He stated single family
homes were practically non-existent with the exception of the Briarwood neighborhood. Ms. O'Shea said that
Staff was not proposing to change rental properties to ownership properties. Mr. McGugin believed there were
too many rental properties in the area that were potentially bringing property values down. Ms. O'Shea stated
that the Village would like to keep a choice in housing for Mount Prospect. She stated that Staff was proposing to
increase lighting for safety in all areas and work with landlords and investors to make sure the properties were up
to safety standards.
Chairman Rogers stated that the rental units in South Mount Prospect were developed because of the airport. He
said as the STAR line comes in with more businesses, he believed that the area would naturally improve.
Chairman Rogers hoped that the landlords of the properties would improve their properties as well.
Chairman Rogers swore in Valerie Roesti, Business Owner at 2355 E. Oakton Street, Arlington Heights, IL (Elk
Grove Township). Ms. Roesti said her business is on the south side of Oakton/east of Busse Road. Ms. Roesti
was concerned that the original long range plan showed that current business would be converted to a parking lot
adjacent to a hotel. She stated that the value of her business would be affected by the sub-area plan. Ms. Roesti
was also concerned with the area being annexed because codes would be different.
Chairman Rogers stated there was no reason to believe that the area surrounding Ms. Roesti's business would not
stay as a commercial/industrial area. He said the sub-area plan would hopefully improve the area.
Mr. Simmons stated the original sub-area plan was presented at an open house in June 2009 and included a plan
with more detail for land uses and how the area could be re-developed. Based on comments at the open houses
held in June and August, the detailed portion of the plan was removed and Staff generalized a list of appropriate
land uses for the area. Mr. Simmons said the report does recommend more office/warehouse uses south of
Oakton to create more of an office park, but the detailed plan with the parking lot and hotel has been removed due
to public comments.
There was further discussion regarding proposed land use and Village services for annexed properties.
Chairman Rogers swore in Julio Barken, 547 Ida Court, Mount Prospect, Illinois. Mr. Barken wanted to know
how all the proposed improvements would be paid for. He was concerned with taxes being raised for the
improvements discussed in the sub-area plan. Ms. O'Shea stated the sub-area plan was a long range plan,
property owners and developers would be responsible for private property. As far as streetscape improvements
and public improvements, they would be budgeted over the next ten to fifteen (10-15) years. Ms. 0' Shea said the
Richard Rogers, Chair
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009
PZ-27-09
Page 3 of7
Village does a lot of grant writing for this area seeking outside sources for public improvements. She said that as
a part of this plan, the Village was not dOIng everything at one time.
Mr. Barken asked what type of businesses the Village was seeking for the Algonquin/Busse/Dempster
commercial area. Ms. O'Shea stated the Village would be doing retail and restaurant recruitment in this area
because it is more service oriented. There is a large daytime population within close proximity to the South
Mount Prospect area. Mr. Barken asked how many United employees would the area be losing. Ms. O'Shea
stated about a thousand, which is why the Village was looking to add other jobs to the area if United moves.
Mr. Barken was concerned with taxes being raised because of more police and fire protection in the area and for
road improvements along Dempster. Ms. O'Shea said Dempster Street was under the jurisdiction of Cook
County, but Staff would work with the county to get the road improvement on their planned projects list. She
stated one of the purposes of the sub-area plan was for the Village to go to outside organizations and show what
the Village was trying to get accomplished in the area. Ms. O'Shea stated the Village would benefit from
additional tax revenue from restaurants, retail sales, and property taxes.
Mr. Simmons said the sub-area plan indicated what the Village would like to see in the area. The improvements
to the area would still have to go through the budgeting process. The Village would create a priority list for
Capital projects and improvements would be made from an affordability standpoint along with projects elsewhere
in the Village. Mr. Barken wanted reassurance that his taxes would not increase with all the improvements.
Mr. Donnelly said United does not pay any taxes into Mount Prospect because the property is not annexed. If it
does become an office park incorporated into the Village, the tax income from the property would help pay for
additional services for the sub-area.
Chairman Rogers swore in Kathy Balogh, 1777 W. Crystal Lane, Mount Prospect, Illinois. Ms. Balogh stated the
sub-area plan called for working with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
for more subsidized housing and low income ownership. She stated this was the biggest crime area in Mount
Prospect and wanted to know any statistics on the Village's Crime Free Housing Program. Ms. O'Shea stated that
she does not work directly with the Crime Free Housing Program, but she did know that around 98% of the
landlords in the Village have become a part of the program. Ms. O'Shea wanted to clarify that when the Village
stated they were working with HUD, they were spending money that was received from HUD in this area. The
grant money was to set-up a strategic neighborhood revitalization area, so it could be spent on public
improvements. Ms. O'Shea said the Village was not trying to attract any new section eight housing, this was not
indicated anywhere in the sub-area plan.
Ms. Balogh asked if the Village would be purchasing the United Airlines property. Chairman Rogers said that all
that the Village would do would be to annex the area. The property would still be privately owned.
Chairman Rogers swore in Eric Nelson, Business Owner at 1801 S. Busse Road, Mount Prospect, Illinois. Mr.
Nelson stated that he would not have been able to open his business if it was located inside the corporate village
limits of Mount Prospect. He choose unincorporated Cook County because of the zoning. He was worried that he
would not be able to expand his business if it was in Mount Prospect in the future because of restrictive zoning.
He was also concerned with the value of his property being reduced if it was incorporated and the Village limited
the uses in the zoning district. Chairman Rogers said the buildings in the sub-area would stay as they are if they
were annexed into the Village.
Mr. Nelson understood that he would be grandfathered in under his current use. He further discussed the zoning
issue along with increased costs for the proposed improvements. Chairman Rogers stated the Planning and
Zoning Commission cannot dictate what goes in on every property. The Village and Planning and Zoning
Commission always tries to work with business owners. Mr. Floros stated that annexation into Mount Prospect
Richard Rogers, Chair
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009
PZ-27-09
Page 4 of7
was normally performed because the property owner wanted to incorporate; he said the Village rarely forcibly
annexes a property. Mr. Nelson stated that his issue was due to involuntary annexation to the Village. There was
further general discussion on annexation.
Chairman Rogers swore in Mike Nelson, Elk Grove Township Fire Chief, 1415 E. Algonquin Road, Arlington
Heights, Illinois. Mr. Nelson wanted to clarify two issues for the record. He stated that the Village of Mount
Prospect does not completely surround the United Airlines parcel. According to Elk Grove Township Fire
Department records, there is a condo development to the north along Dempster that is still unincorporated along
with parcels along Algonquin Road. Mr. Simmons confirmed that the Village does not completely surround the
United Airlines parcel as a single parcel, but the land area where United is located including adjacent parcels as a
whole is surrounded by the Village.
Mr. Nelson asked if the Village forcibly annexed the east side of Busse Road, south of Moretti's to Interstate 90,
in the early 1990s. Mr. Floros said that was a possibility. Mr. Nelson stated there was a court battle and the
Village did forcibly annex these properties and made the property owners upgrade their fire alarms with computer
lines. He said all of these properties went to court to disconnect, but the only businesses that did not were
Moretti's and the gas station that was converted into a Laundromat. Mr. Floros stated there were property owners
that did want to come into the Village. Mr. Nelson stated no, all the businesses were disconnected with the
exception of the Citgo because a notification was never received, the Moretti's parking lot along Algonquin Road,
and the adjacent parking lot.
Ms. Roesti wanted clarification that if she sold her business in the future that did not conform to code in the long
range plan, this would not affect the sale because the business was grandfathered in. Chairman Rogers said it
depended on what the new business would want to change the use to. If they maintained the existing business,
there would be no issues. If the change in use was drastic, there could be a problem. The new use would need to
conform to the zoning in place at that time.
Mr. Barken stated that when he moved to Mount Prospect in 1972, Ida Court was unincorporated. He could not
recall the year his property was incorporated, but he was told everything that existed would be grandfathered in.
He was concerned based on a previous experience that new annexed areas would have problems rebuilding. He
provided an example of a garage that burned down across the street from his property. Mr. Barken said the owner
had issues rebuilding due to current code requirements. Chairman Rogers stated that if there was a fire that
significantly destroyed a structure, the new structure would have to conform to Village Code. This applied to all
areas of the Village, including areas that have been annexed. Mr. Donnelly said property owners could also apply
for a Variation.
Chairman Rogers swore in Rick Anderson, 1106 E. Algonquin, Arlington Heights, Illinois. Mr. Anderson said
that a certain part of his property lies in a flood plain. The original drawing showed his property as a detention
pond. He wanted to know how his property and others that lie in the flood plain would be sold in the future. Mr.
Simmons said the drawing was no longer in the plan as previous public comments were reviewed. If there were
any new developments, there would be requirements for providing storm water detention. Mr. Simmons stated
there are certain federal restrictions for development in a flood zone. There are options to regrade the property
through the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) or other departments that would handle storm
water detention.
Mr. Anderson asked if the Village would condemn certain properties south of Algonquin Road, east of Busse for
redevelopment in the future. Mr. Simmons said the South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan is a long range plan for
what uses the Village would like to see in the area if redevelopment did happen. The Plan would advise a
potential developer of uses in a particular area. Mr. Simmons said the Village was limited by the State of Illinois
how it could utilize condemnation powers. Any sort of redevelopment in this area would likely be by private
development.
Richard Rogers, Chair
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009
PZ-27-09
Page 5 of7
There was further general discussion on eminent domain and condemnation.
Chairman Rogers swore in Ed Ruff, 521 N. Elm Street, Mount Prospect, Illinois. He stated that he was
representing JA Johnson Paving Company located in the South Mount Prospect Sub-area at 1025 E. Addison Ct.,
Arlington Heights, Illinois. Mr. Ruff stated all the O'Hare activity has the Village concerned and how it impacts
the Village. He said the Village would like to have some control. Mr. Ruff asked if the STAR line would be
north of Interstate 90 through the corridor. Chairman Rogers said there was a basic outline for the STAR line, but
the exact location had not been determined. He believed there was a good chance a station would be in Mount
Prospect. Chairman Rogers did state that the Village would like to have some control in the area with a positive
approach so everyone would be happy. Mr. Ruff asked if there were any annexations for the sub-area. Chairman
Rogers said the Village would like to annex the United property because the Village almost surrounds the entire
parcel.
Mr. Floros questioned if the STAR line was suppose to run down the middle of the Interstate. Mr. Simmons said
Metra was also exploring potential locations north and south of the Interstate 90 right-of-way. The most likely
scenario for the location of the STAR line would be down the center median of Interstate 90 to limit the impacts
of properties within the corridor. Mr. Simmons stated the Village has a Comprehensive Plan already in place that
looks at the Village as a whole. One of the directives of this plan was to look at properties that are not
incorporated that surround the Village for potential annexation. Mr. Simmons said with the sub-area plan, there
was more detail in this specific area to discuss annexation options. Going forward, any annexation would have to
go through a more detailed plan analysis to determine whether or not properties would be viable to come into the
community. Mr. Simmons stated the United property would come into the Village via voluntary annexation due
to its size.
Chairman Rogers swore in Mark Jensen, 1690 Imperial Court, Arlington Heights, Illinois. Mr. Jensen stated his
company has been at this location since 1968. He said his company has been happy with emergency services in
the area, but there are several issues and concerns with the street that is in disrepair. Mr. Jensen said he was glad
the Village was looking at the sub-area for improvements.
Chairman Rogers swore in Timothy Stef, 2231 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, Illinois. Mr. Stef was asking Staff
or the Planning and Zoning Commission to clarify what surrounding area meant in the sub-area report. Chairman
Rogers stated that the surrounding area was within driving or walking distance of Mount Prospect. Mr. Stef
referenced page 8 of the sub-area plan that stated that annexation would be voluntarily or forced if the land is
wholly surrounded less than 60 acres. Ms. O'Shea clarified that this sentence in the report was educational to set-
up the legal parameters of annexation. It may be forced or it may be voluntary, if it's going to be forced the legal
requirements were explained. This was just to introduce the topic of annexation. Ms. O'Shea said the report does
discuss annexation further that references the Village's cost and the needs of the business. Mr. Roberts asked if
the word wholly meant complete, one-hundred (100) percent surrounding. Ms. O'Shea stated that this was
correct, completely surrounded.
Mr. Stef asked about improvements and safety to the sub-area. Chairman Rogers stated the plan was suppose to
make Mount Prospect a better community.
There was further general discussion regarding improvements.
Mr. Roberts asked Mr. Stef to clarify what he meant by Algonquin and Dempster east of Busse Road being bad.
Mr. Stef said the streets were bad. Mr. Roberts stated the Village does not maintain Dempster and he agreed that
it is in terrible condition. Mr. Stef stated that he was concerned with the police always being in the area. There
was further discussion regarding police and fire activity in the area.
Richard Rogers, Chair
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009
PZ-27-09
Page 6 of7
Chairman Rogers asked if anyone else in the audience would like to speak on the sub-area plan, hearing none, he
closed the public portion at 8:53 p.m. and brought the discussion back to the commission.
Mr. Foggy asked if the sub-area plan was being developed to create a land use map around the STAR line, or ifit
was being created regardless if the STAR line moved forward. Ms. O'Shea stated that the plan was being
produced originally due to the businesses at Algonquin, Busse, and Dempster per the directives of the Village's
Comprehensive Plan. The Village was already working in the area to improve its general safety. The report
expanded beyond the Algonquin, Busse, and Dempster intersection as many of the proposed recommendations
applied to the entire sub-area and not specifically to this corner. Ms. O'Shea stated there are a lot of great things
coming into the area over the next ten to fifteen years (10-15) and the Village wanted to have a unified vision for
the area. The plan would still be appropriate even if the STAR line does not become a reality.
Mr. Foggy said the real purpose of the plan was not to take land, but the Village was trying to control the growth
and limit mistakes other municipalities may have made by not having a long range plan in place.
Mr. Donnelly made a motion to approve a recommendation to the Village Board to amend the Official
Comprehensive Plan for the Village of Mount Prospect to include the South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan.
Mr. Floros seconded the motion.
UPON ROLL CALL:
AYES: Donnelly, Floros, Foggy, Roberts, Rogers
NAYS: None
Motion was approved 5-0.
Mr. Donnelly made a motion, seconded by Mr. Roberts, to adjourn at 8:57 p.m. The motion was approved by a
voice vote and the meeting was adjourned.
;(~
Ryan Kast, Community Development
Administrative Assistant
Richard Rogers, Chair
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting October 22, 2009
PZ-27-09
Page 7 of7
. Village of Mount Prospect
Community Development Department
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
MOUNT PROSPECT PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
RICHARD ROGERS, CHAIRPERSON LSn[L~ cg@lfl)'\'l1
VILLAGE OF
MT. PROSPECT
CLARE L. O'SHEA, AICP, SENIOR PLANNER
OCTOBER] 5, 2009
HEARING DATE:
SUBJECT:
OCTOBER 22, 2009
PZ-27-09 - SOUTH MOUNT PROP SECT SUB-AREA PLAN
N
A
LEGEND
- Sub-area Boundary
(Average Daily TraffiC)
o 015 03 06
,Miles
PZ-27-09
Planning & Zoning Commission meeting October 22,2009
Page 2
BACKGROUND
A public hearing has been scheduled for the October 22, 2009 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting to review
the application by the Village of Mount Prospect (the "Petitioner") regarding a proposed amendment to the
Village's Comprehensive Plan. The P&Z hearing was properly noticed in the October 7, 2009 edition of the
Journal & Topics Newspaper.
SUMMARY OF PROPOSAL
Since the adoption of the 2007 Comprehensive Plan, staff has been working to initiate strategies from the plan's
Implementation Program. One of the strategies listed in the Comprehensive Plan is to create a strategic plan for
the Algonquin Road, Busse Road, and Dempster Street intersection. As staff began the data collection and
conducting interviews with stakeholders, many of the issues discussed applied to the South Mount Prospect area
in general and the recommendations developed were appropriate for several corridors; therefore, the plan
encompasses a larger boundary creating the South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan. The Sub-area Plan is a more
specific guide for future development.
Long range planning is critical for land use consistency and planned development as South Mount Prospect is
affected by large regional transportation projects, such as the O'Hare Modernization Program, Elgin-O'Hare
Western access improvements and the Suburban Transit Access Route (STAR) Line. Improvements to South
Mount Prospect, such as completing the sidewalk system and installing pedestrian traffic signals, are currently
underway, but the Sub-area Plan creates a comprehensive approach to development and public improvements.
The South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan consists of an existing conditions report, recommendations,
goals/objectives, and an implementation program. Research for the existing conditions report included data
gathering, field observations, and interviews. As part of the Recommendations Section, the sub-area plan
examines three areas in detail: the industrial area bounded by Busse Road, Oakton Street, and Algonquin Road,
the commercial center at Algonquin Road, Busse Road, and Dempster Street, and the United Airlines
headquarters property. These areas may present redevelopment opportunities or are ready for enhancements from
expected development.
A summary of the recommendations are:
. Corridor Improvements
o Safe and efficient transportation system for motorized and non-motorized traffic
. Aesthetic Improvements
o Improvements for lighting, landscaping, pedestrian amenities
. Improving the appearance of property and the safety in the neighborhood
o Invest and re-invest in residential, commercial, and industrial areas
o Create better buffers between uses and improve the connectivity of the area
. Increase marketing of the area to communicate the advantages of the location and its proximity to the
Interstate Highway system, O'Hare International Airport, and alternative transportation
Staff worked to create consistency between the South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan and the Comprehensive Plan
for the Goals Section, which are broken down by Residential, Economic Development (commercial and
industrial) and Community Facilities/ Services/Open Space. The strategies to reach the goals are actionable tasks
and are specific to South Mount Prospect. The Implementation Program contains strategies, responsible parties,
and timeframe for each action. In May, staff presented the draft plan to the Village Board and received direction
to gather additional public input through open houses to discuss the plan. In June and September, Staff held open
houses and sought public input from property owners, businesses, and residents about the area. Comments from
the open houses are attached and staff worked with the public to reach a consensus on issues.
Adopting specific directives which address the characteristics of the South Mount Prospect Area will provide the
development community with a clear vision of the type of development and redevelopment that the Village will
PZ-27-09
Planning & Zoning Commission meeting October 22, 2009
Page 3
support for the area. Communicating these policies to the development community prior to formal submission of
a plan to the Village will allow developers and property owners to better evaluate development opportunities for
the area and develop initial plans that are consistent with the Village's vision. "Up front" information will result
in high quality development within the South Mount Prospect Sub-area.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning & Zoning Commission make a recommendation to the Village Board to
amend the Official Comprehensive Plan for the Village of Mount Prospect to include the South Mount Prospect
Sub-area Plan.
Community Development
Attachments: Draft South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan (October 2009)
Summary of comments received from the public
Notes from open house meetings: June 24, 2009 and September 16,2009
South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan
Public Comment
Email: We have lived in the Lake Briarwood community for 11 years and watched the
surrounding areas change. With the speed limit on Algonquin 45 mph, it is dangerous when
people dart out between cars, no regard for the stoplights or crossing at an intersection. I am
not sure what the answer is, but many of us have gotten into near miss or had accidents. Folks
from the apartments are trying to get to the strip mall. It would be great to see better stores in
the surrounding area and limit the number of Labor Temp agencies. It breeds loitering and
threatening behavior and I won't go there. Friday and Saturday nights after the tenants have
had a few beers becomes unsafe. Going condo on the Briarwood street off Algonquin has not
helped the situation since it is not monitored with how many people live in each one. Would
love to see them torn down and a park put in.
Email: I read thru the plan and want to compliment the village and you on the well researched
and easily understood plan. I am very excited about the plan to implement the STAR system.
Public transit is so important to any area but especially in a diverse housing area as south Mt.
Prospect. I am concerned about the plan for housing around our area. I live in the Dearborn
Court duplexes. We consistently have problems with the apartments to our east. They are
constantly knocking down our fence, making noise to all hours and we have had rat problems.
I know there are standards and I am sure the Village enforces them but it would be great to
see more done to clean up these areas. Since the apartments across the street in Arlington
Heights went condo the noise level and problems seemed to have lessened. Are there any
plans for condo conversions in this area?
Email: I'd like to voice my concern as a business owner whose business is on the "Oakton
Corridor" in your Sub-Area Plan. In recent years I have had to hire a law firm to represent my
interest when Des Plaines wanted to annex our area. Most recently I was very concerned with
IDOT's plan for access to the O'Hare airport - which I was very happy when the most
destructive (to businesses) plan for roadways was taken off the planning table. Now I'm reading
about Mt. Prospects plan. My business is at 2355 E. Oakton (across the street from West Shore
Pipe Line, in Mt. Prospect). Your planners vision does not include my business (a printing
business), but rather where my business stands, a parking lot would be. I read the South Mount
Prospect Sub-Area Plan and I wasn't sure of the order of the "plan". First I imagine Mt.
Prospect would annex the land. With annexation, does that mean that we would have Village
water? Would then the Village buy the property? Would the Village pay to move my business to
another location? Or, would we be able to operate as normal. My concerns are multi-fold -
1) my parents own the property/building. If zoning restrictions are placed on the property, it
would severely impact the value of the land to others.
2) as a business owner - what would be paid for to move our business?
I just completed a renovation of our interior space to fit our businesses needs - so I'm not
looking to undertake a move - our build out requirements are expensive. Also, I'm wondering
why the Village chose not to officially notify us as to this plan which would affect our business's
life? I found out thru the local business owners "grapevine". In this economy, where all are
feeling the effects of "the great recession", I wonder where is all of the money going to come
from? Your answers to my questions will be greatly appreciated.
Email: I own an entertainment lighting company located at 2461 East Oakton in unincorporated
Cook County. Presently we are tied to Arlington Heights with a zip code of 60005. Our fire
seNice comes from Elk Grove Village. I received a letter regarding the South Mount Prospect
Sub-Area Plan, and looked at the website. I noticed that Oakton Street was mentioned several
times, although I could not see a detailed enough map to figure out what areas were and were
not part of the scope of your plan....Or, what areas Mount Prospect is pursing for annexation, if
any. I'm interested in any information that may pertain to my location that involves your plans.
I despise having to deal directly with Cook County for seNices and permits, etc.
Phone calls:
. Crysta I Towers
Turning left onto Busse Road is very difficult. There are many potholes in the streets
east of Busse Road.
Left hand turn onto Busse Road is nearly impossible at rush hour, but there are
problems all day long. There are 300 units in the development so this is a concern for
many people. What is the status with the development at Busse and Dempster?
Old cars at D'Augustino's are not attractive and should be cleaned up.
Likes the business park idea for the area east of Busse
Would like to have fewer Laundromats
Would like to see more landscaping and better property maintenance
Would like to have a bank in the area near Busse and Algonquin
. Ida Court
Dempster has pot holes. Would have liked to see residential use at the Briarwood
Business Center instead of industrial use. Would like more open space in the area. If
United leaves, he would like to see open space and seNices for local residents (retail,
etc.).
· Algonquin Road
Is the project funded? Will properties be annexed and condemned? We should explain
that the plan is for the next 10-15 years.
Village of Mount Prospect
South Mount Prospect Open House Meeting Notes
June 24, 2009
Staff opened the meeting with a presentation to the public describing the development of the
plan, research, and purpose of the South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan. Goals and objectives
for the area have been developed and recommendations for improvements are proposed. The
discussion was open to the open house attendees and the following is a summary of the
comments/concerns:
· Elk Grove Township Highway Commissioner, Chuck Surchuk, had questions about access
to the plan and communication. He wasn't notified about the plan and felt the
unincorporated area of town was left out of the planning process. Staff explained that
the purpose of today's meeting is to gather input from the group.
o Some property owners south of Oakton did not receive letters. Staff apologized
for the error and is planning to hold another meeting for the area south of
Oakton Street.
· Was the plan focus looked at from a financial tax-revenue standpoint?
o The plan is a general view of the area that takes into account the large
transportation projects that will affect the growth in Mount Prospect. The
purpose is to coordinate development to ensure the highest services for the
community.
· How much does historical research play into the plan?
oDes Plaines attempt to annex the area recently
o Some areas were annexed in the 1980s
. How will the improvements be funded?
o The improvements will be funded over the next 10-15 years and the village will
seek grants for additional improvements.
. Comment about a need of a traffic light at the Recplex entrance on Dempster
o dangerous for kids at parks
. What land uses will be implemented if United does leave?
o The plan calls for office, retail, and an open space component
. Is there a comparable example to what might replace United?
o Kensington Business Park is an attractive office park with open space and retail
to support the businesses.
. How was Oakton corridor added into the plan?
o The Village of Mount Prospect is concurrently developing a transportation plan
and the area south of Oakton was addressed because of its proximity to the
proposed STAR line station.
. What residents/businesses has Mount Prospect reached out to?
o The Village of Mount Prospect reached out to businesses near Algonquin, Busse,
and Dempster at several business meetings, lOOT, surrounding municipalities,
village departments, etc.
. Will condemnation take place?
o That is not part of this plan.
. Who is going to buy property when land may be annexed?
o The Village of Mount Prospect is not planning on purchasing the property. Most
improvements to private property will be developed by the private sector.
. Comment about area safety:
o Need better streetlights on Dempster
Village of Mount Prospect
South Mount Prospect Open House Meeting Notes
June 24, 2009
o Connect the sidewalks
o Acknowledged that there is a gang presence
· MP resident was happy that improvements were being proposed for the area
· Where and what kind of cultural events will be held in this area?
o Resident feels that traffic is an issue and an event might bring more traffic.
· What is the timeframe for the Elmhurst Road interchange?
o Within 10 years
· When would "movement" into the area happen? When would the plan happen?
o The plan is underway because the Village of Mount Prospect is working with the
community to make the neighborhood more attractive and safer. The Village of
Mount Prospect currently promotes the area to brokers looking for available
properties and several village departments work with property owners to improve
the appearance and safety of their properties.
· General concern with future developments that might affect businesses.
Village of Mount Prospect
South Mount Prospect Open House Meeting Notes
September 16, 2009
Staff presented the South Mount Prospect Sub-area Plan to meeting attendees. The
background, plan development, and recommendations were discussed and a discussion
question opened the initial discussion.
. Why live or work in South Mount Prospect?
o Most of the attendees represented businesses in the area and almost all stated
that the proximity to O'Hare International Airport was the biggest attraction for
their location.
. What does the O'Hare expansion have to do with SMP?
o A meeting attendee asked why the O'Hare expansion and improvements were
discussed in the report. Staff mentioned that the airport is important to
businesses and residents in the area and its expansion will affect how attractive
the land is for future and existing businesses and residents. Mount Prospect's
proximity to the airport is a competitive advantage for businesses that ship or
travel nationally or internationally.
. Why are the timelines different between the comp plan and SMP sub-area plan?
o Attendees questioned why short-term and long-term were defined differently in
the 2007 Comprehensive Plan and the draft sub-area plan. Staff stated that the
Comprehensive Plan gives the direction for a more in-depth analysis of activities
and studies.
. Meeting attendees raised concern that the south Oakton area did not reflect land uses of
some of the businesses (warehousing and light industrial) to make the area consistent
with 2007 Comprehensive Plan.
o Staff agreed to revise the exhibit to show a mix of uses in the Oakton Corridor.
Based on the comments, staff stated that the report would be reviewed, but there wasn't a
need for another open house. The meeting attendees will be notified about the public hearing
before the Planning and Zoning Commission.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE OFFICIAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
OF THE VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT TO INCLUDE
THE SOUTH MOUNT PROSPECT SUB-AREA PLAN
WHEREAS, the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mount Prospect did
adopt the Official Comprehensive Plan of the Village of Mount Prospect on June 5, 2007,
pursuant to Ordinance No. 5631; and
WHEREAS, the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mount Prospect have
determined that a need exists to amend the Official Comprehensive Plan of 2007; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to 65 ILCS 5/11-12-7, the Planning and Zoning Commission of the
Village of Mount Prospect held a Public Hearing on October 22, 2009 pursuant to legal
notice being published in the Mount Prospect Journal & Topics on October 7, 2009, to
consider the proposed amendment to the Official Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, the President and Board of Trustees have considered the proposed
amendment to the Official Comprehensive Plan of 2007 and have determined that the
best interests of the Village would be served by amending the Official Comprehensive
Plan of the Village of Mount Prospect and include the South Mount Prospect Sub-Area
Plan dated October 2009.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE VILLAGE PRESIDENT AND BOARD
OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT, COOK COUNTY,
ILLINOIS ACTING IN THE EXERCISE OF THEIR HOME RULE POWERS:
SECTION ONE: The President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mount Prospect
do hereby amend the Official Comprehensive Plan of the Village of Mount Prospect and
include the South Mount Prospect Sub-Area Plan, dated October 2009 as part of the
Appendix of the Official Comprehensive Plan, a copy of said South Mount Prospect Sub-
Area Plan is attached as Exhibit "A" and hereby made a part this ordinance.
SECTION TWO: The Village Clerk of the Village of Mount Prospect is hereby
authorized and directed to file notice of the amendment to the Official Comprehensive
Plan of the Village of Mount Prospect with the Cook County Recorder of Deeds, as
provided by the Statutes of the State of Illinois.
SECTION THREE: The Village Clerk of the Village of Mount Prospect is hereby directed
to publish in pamphlet form, said South Mount Prospect Sub-Area Plan, dated October
22, 2009, as an amendment to the Official Comprehensive Plan for the Village of Mount
Prospect, pursuant to the Statutes of the State of Illinois made and provided.
SECTION FOUR: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its
passage and approval and publication in pamphlet form in the manner provided by law.
A.
Comp Plan - South
MP Sub-area Plan
Page 2 of 2
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
PASSED and APPROVED this day of November, 2009.
Irvana K. Wilks
Mayor
ATTEST:
M. Lisa Angell
Village Clerk
H:\CLKO\WIN\ORDINANCE2\AMENDCOMP PLAN 2007NOV2009.doc