HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-08-22 PZB Meeting Minutes1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
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DES PLAINES PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING
AUGUST 22, 2023
MINUTES
The Des Plaines Planning and Zoning Board held its regularly scheduled meeting on
Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in Room 102 of the Des Plaines Civic Center.
Chair Szabo called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and roll call was established.
PRESENT: Catalano, Fowler, Hofherr, Saletnik, Veremis, Szabo
ABSENT: Weaver
ALSO PRESENT: Jonathan Stytz, AICP, Senior Planner
Samantha Redman, Associate Planner
Margie Mosele, Executive Assistant
A quorum was present.
Call to Order and Roll Call
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM August 8, 2023
A motion was made by Board Member Saletnik, seconded by Board Member
Hofherr to approve the meeting minutes of August 8, 2023.
AYES: Saletnik, Hofherr, Catalano, Fowler, Veremis, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY **
PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEM - None
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Pending Applications:
1. Address: 1749-1757 Farwell Avenue Case Number: 23-050-V
The applicant is requesting a Standard Variation to allow the construction of single-family
residences on two lots of 50 feet in width where a minimum lot width of 55 feet is required in the
R-1 Single-Family Residential District.
Applicant and Owner: Zbigniew Zalesko, 3638 N. Odell Ave, Chicago, IL
PINs: 09-33-110-012-0000 and 09-33-110-013-0000
Ward: #6, Mark Walsten
Existing Zoning: R-1, Single Family Residential
Existing Land Use: Single family residence
Surrounding Zoning: North: R-1 Single Family Residential District
South: R-1 Single Family Residential District
East: R-1 Single Family Residential District
West: R-1 Single Family Residential District
Surrounding Land Use: North: Single Family Dwellings (Residential)
South: Single Family Dwellings (Residential)
East: Single Family Dwellings (Residential)
West: Single Family Dwellings (Residential)
Street Classification: Farwell Ave is classified as a local road.
Comprehensive Plan: The Comprehensive Plan illustrates the site as single family
residential.
Zoning/Property History: Based on City records, the subject properties were subdivided prior
the adoption of the 1998 Zoning Ordinance. The garage was
demolished in 2011, and the site has been vacant ever since.
Building permits for a single-family residence on each lot are
currently being reviewed for this property. This variation is
necessary to issue the permits and begin construction. A standard
variation was previously approved in 2016 (Case Number 16-017-
V) identical to this request; however, the variation expired because
the Zoning Ordinance specifies that construction must begin within
12 months for the variation to remain in effect (Section 12-3-
6.L.2), absent an extension from the Zoning Administrator at the
time. Such extension was not granted because it was not requested
in the required time frame.
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Project Description: Overview
Both lots meet all bulk control requirements for this zoning district but are considered
legal nonconforming lots because the lot width does not meet the 55-foot requirement for
R-1 zoned properties. A variation for lot width is required to develop two nonconforming
lots “in combination” (i.e., continuous frontage and single ownership) pursuant to Section
12-5-4.B.
Building permits are currently being processed for a single-family residence located on
each property. Refer to Proposed Site Plan and Architectural Plans attachments. The
proposed projects meet all bulk control standards except for the lot width.
Below are the requirements for an R-1 zoned property per Section 12-7-2:
The majority of properties in vicinity of this property are 50 feet wide with single-family
houses (refer to Lot Width Comparison attachment). In fact, the lot width requirement
when this property and the surrounding area was originally subdivided was 50 feet. The
minimum required lot width was changed between the 1960 and 1998 Zoning
Ordinances from 50 feet to 55 feet, creating many “nonconforming lots” within the City.
Variation Findings: Variation requests are subject to the standards set forth in Section 12-3-6.H.
of the Zoning Ordinance. Rationale for how well the proposal addresses the standards is provided
below and in the attached petitioner responses to standards. The Board may use the provided
responses as written as its rationale, modify, or adopt its own.
Bulk Controls
R-1, Interior Lot
Requirement Proposed
Maximum Height 2 ½ stories or 35 ft Proposed 1749 Farwell: 30’4”
Proposed 1757 Farwell: 30’4”
Minimum Front Yard 25 ft Proposed 1749 Farwell: 25 ft
Proposed 1757 Farwell: 25 ft
Minimum Side Yard 5 ft Proposed 1749 Farwell: 5’4"
Proposed 1757 Farwell: 5’5"
Minimum Rear Yard 25 ft or 20% of lot depth Proposed 1749 Farwell: 65’
Proposed 1757 Farwell: 66’
Minimum Lot Width 55’ 50’ (variation requested to allow
construction of residences)
Minimum Lot Area 6,875 square feet 8994 square feet (each)
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1. Hardship: No variation shall be granted pursuant to this subsection H unless the
applicant shall establish that carrying out the strict letter of the provisions of this title
would create a particular hardship or a practical difficulty.
Comment: Requiring the petitioner to adhere to the minimum 55-foot lot width
requirement would prevent development on these properties and would not meet the goals
and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan to foster growth of residential areas and provide
additional housing options. Furthermore, many of the surrounding properties in the area
have similar lot widths as the request. Refer to the Lot Width Comparison attachment and
Petitioner’s Response to Standards.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
2. Unique Physical Condition: The subject lot is exceptional as compared to other lots
subject to the same provision by reason of a unique physical condition, including
presence of an existing use, structure, or sign, whether conforming or nonconforming;
irregular or substandard shape or size; exceptional topographical features; or other
extraordinary physical conditions peculiar to and inherent in the subject lot that
amount to more than a mere inconvenience to the owner and that relate to or arise
out of the lot rather than the personal situation of the current owner of the lot.
Comment: Refer to Petitioner’s Response to Standards. The property is land-locked so it
cannot be expanded to meet the lot width requirements. Not granting this variation limits
the development potential for these properties.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
3. Not Self-Created: The aforesaid unique physical condition is not the result of any
action or inaction of the owner or its predecessors in title and existed at the time of
the enactment of the provisions from which a variance is sought or was created by
natural forces or was the result of governmental action, other than the adoption of
this title.
Comment: The unique physical condition is not the result of the current owner or previous
owners. There is not a way for the petitioner to widen the lots to meet the 55-foot lot width
requirement since they are landlocked.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
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4. Denied Substantial Rights: The carrying out of the strict letter of the provision from
which a variance is sought would deprive the owner of the subject lot of substantial
rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other lots subject to the same provision.
Comment: Carrying out the strict letter of the code would prevent the petitioner from
developing the properties with the single-family residences, as many of the surrounding
properties have done, which would deny them the substantial rights enjoyed by neighboring
property owners. The majority of the existing lots in this area are less than 55 feet wide and
do not meet the current minimum 55-foot lot width requirement.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
5. Not Merely Special Privilege: The alleged hardship or difficulty is neither merely the
inability of the owner or occupant to enjoy some special privilege or additional right
not available to owners or occupants of other lots subject to the same provision, nor
merely the inability of the owner to make more money from the use of the subject lot:
Comment: The variation request would not provide the petitioner with any special
privilege that is not already enjoyed by many of the surrounding property owners. The
petitioner intends to develop this property with single family residences (Refer to Proposed
Site Plan and Architectural Plans attachments).
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
6. Title And Plan Purposes: The variation would not result in a use or development of
the subject lot that would be not in harmony with the general and specific purposes
for which this title and the provision from which a variation is sought were enacted
or the general purpose and intent of the comprehensive plan:
Comment: The request would result in the future development of this site that would be in
harmony with the surrounding neighborhood and would meet all other standards for R-1
properties in Section 12-7-2. This request seeks to develop this vacant property with single
family residences (one per lot).
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
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7. No Other Remedy: There is no means other than the requested variation by which
the alleged hardship or difficulty can be avoided or remedied to a degree sufficient to
permit a reasonable use of the subject lot.
Comment: The petitioner cannot alter the dimensions of the property to meet the 55-foot
minimum lot width requirement, as the property is land-locked by developed properties.
The variation is required for the petitioner to develop any residences on the property.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
8. Minimum Required: The requested variation is the minimum measure of relief
necessary to alleviate the alleged hardship or difficulty presented by the strict
application of this title.
Comment: The variation request is the minimum measure of relief.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
PZB Procedure:
Standard Variation
Under Section 12-3-6(F) of the Zoning Ordinance (Standard Variations), the PZB has the authority
to approve, approve subject to conditions, or deny the request. The decision should be based on
review of the information presented by the applicant and the standards and conditions met by
Section 12-3-6(H) (Findings of Fact for Variations) as outlined in the Zoning Ordinance.
Attachments:
Attachment 1: Location and Zoning Map
Attachment 2: Site and Context Photos
Attachment 3: Petitioner’s Project Narrative and Response to Standards
Attachment 4: Lot Width Comparison
Attachment 5: Plats of Survey
Attachment 6: Proposed Site Plan
Attachment 7: Proposed Architectural Plans
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Chair Szabo swore in, Joanna Klimek, Attorney and Zbigniew Zalesko, petitioner.
Joanna Klimek explained the petition for a variation to allow for the construction of two single
family residences on two 50-foot feet in width. She stated the petitioner came before the board in
2016 and was granted a variation for the 50-foot width. She stated they did not start construction
on time, so they need to reapply. She stated that the lots would be 50 x 180 feet.
Samantha Redman, Planner, gave the staff report. She stated that the property is located in R-1,
Single Family Residential. She gave a power point presentation explaining the petitioners request.
She explained the Standard Variation. She stated that in 2016 the petition was granted to allow the
construction of two 50-foot-wide lots by the same owner. However, but since no progress was
made it expired after 12 months. Ms. Redman presented the Site Photos giving a current view of
the project. Ms. Redman explained the Variation Request. She stated that the 1960 Zoning
Ordinance allowed construction of single-family residence on 49.5 ft wide lot, if it met other
requirements. In 1998 the Zoning Ordinance requires “nonconforming lots” (i.e. lots less than 55
feet in width) with the same owner on continuous frontage to receive a variation to construct a
single-family residence. She discussed the Proposed Site Plan which is the final step for the
construction of the two houses. She presented the Proposed Architectural Plans for 1749 and 1757
Farwell Avenue. She stated that there is one action for the Planning and Zoning Board
consideration: a Standard Variation for lot width to develop two nonconforming lots “in
combination” (i.e., continuous frontage and single ownership) pursuant to Section 12-5-4.B.
Member Saletnik asked the what the total property area would be for each and if it is over the
required minimum amount.
Ms. Redman stated the total property would be 8,994 sq ft each which is over the minimum of
6,875.
Chair Szabo asked if any audience members have any questions or concerns about the petition. No
one responded.
A motion was made by Board Member Saletnik, seconded by Board Member Veremis to
approve a Standard Variation to allow the construction of single-family residences on two
lots of 50 feet in width where a minimum lot width of 55 feet is required in the R -1 Single-
Family Residential District.
AYES: Saletnik, Veremis, Catalano, Fowler, Hofherr, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY ***
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2. Address: 2777 Mannheim Road Case Number: 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
The petitioner’s previous requests for a Tentative Plat of Subdivision and Conditional Uses for
drive-through facilities for a proposed commercial redevelopment at 2777 Mannheim Road were
heard by the PZB at their April 25, 2023 meeting and City Council at its July 17, 2023 meeting.
The PZB approved the tentative plat and recommended approval of the conditional uses, which
the City Council subsequently approved. As such, petitioner GW Property Group, LLC is now
requesting the following “second step” approvals: (i) a Final Plat of Subdivision under Section 13-
2-5 of the Subdivision Regulations to consolidate the existing lots into three lots of record; and (ii)
a conditional use for a Localized Alternative Sign Regulation (LASR) under Section 12-11 -8 of
the Zoning Ordinance.
Applicant/Petitioner: GW Property Group, LLC, 2211 N. Elston Avenue, Suite 400,
Chicago, IL
Owner: 2777 North Mannheim Property, LLC, 2211 N. Elston Avenue, Suite
400, Chicago, IL
PINs: 09-33-108-012-0000; -013; -014; -022; -023
Ward: #6, Alderman Mark Walsten
Existing Zoning: C-3, General Commercial District
Existing Land Use: Restaurant and Banquet Hall (Commercial)
Surrounding Zoning: North: C-3, General Commercial District
South: C-3, General Commercial District
East: R-1, Single Family Residential District
West: Commercial (Village of Rosemont)
Surrounding Land Use: North: Car wash (commercial)
South: Commercial restaurant and retail development under
construction, also by GW Properties
East: Railroad; then Greco Avenue and single-family residences
West: Hotel (Commercial) in Village of Rosemont
Street Classification: Mannheim Road is an arterial road under IDOT jurisdiction; Pratt
Avenue is a local road under City of Des Plaines jurisdiction.
Comprehensive Plan : Commercial is the recommended use of the property.
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Zoning/Property History:
Based on City records, the subject property was annexed into the City in 1956. It
was originally utilized as an office and warehouse building for Marland Oil
Company until 1979, when the building was demolished and the site was cleared.
In 1990, the footing and foundation was constructed for café La Cave, and a year
later the restaurant/banquet hall was fully built out. The property has been utilized
as a restaurant and banquet hall since.
Development Summary:
Developer GW Properties, which is under construction for a multi-building
restaurant-and-retail development on the southeast corner of Mannheim and Pratt
(Outback Steakhouse, First Watch, Five Guys), is now also proposing a full
redevelopment at the northeast corner—the former Café La Cave site. The proposed
development is three new restaurants (“Class B” under the Zoning Ordinance) with
indoor and outdoor seating and drive-throughs. The information for each proposed
business is summarized below and described in detail in the attached Business
Narratives.
• Guzman Y Gomez is a fast-casual restaurant proposed for the one-story
stand-alone 2,850-square foot building positioned on the northern lot (Lot 1)
of the commercial development. Their anticipated hours of operation are
from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily with five to ten employees on site at a
given time. The building is designed with predominately brick material of
varying colors, metal canopy structures, and an Exterior Insulation and
Finish System (EIFS) accent.
• Cava is a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant proposed for the one-story
stand-alone 2,500-square foot building positioned in the center of the
commercial development along Mannheim (Lot 2). Their anticipated hours
of operation are from 10:45 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily with five to ten
employees on site at a given time. The building is designed with
predominately stucco material and finished wood accent.
• Raising Canes is a quick-service restaurant proposed for the one-story 3,300-
square-foot building positioned on the southern lot (Lot 3) of the commercial
development at the northeast corner of Mannheim and Pratt. Their
anticipated hours of operation are from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sunday
through Thursday and 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. Friday to Saturday. There are
expected to be eight to fifteen employees on site at a given time. The building
is designed with predominately brick material of varying colors, finished
wood accents, concrete masonry units, and metal canopy structures
throughout.
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FINAL PLAT OF SUBDIVISION
Request Summary: Overview
The subject property consists of five lots of record in the C-3 district totaling 2.39
acres, all under the address of 2777 Mannheim Road. The petitioner received PZB
approval of the Tentative Plat to consolidate the existing five lots into three. Now
the petitioner is requesting a Final Plat of Subdivision, titled Final Plat of 2777
Mannheim Road Subdivision, for three lots as detailed below.
Lot Lot Type Lot Width Lot Depth Lot Area
Lot 1 Interior 125 feet (west);
140 feet (east)
208 feet (north);
244 feet (south)
29,740 SF
(0.68 acres);
Lot 2 Interior 123 feet (west);
126 feet (east)
244 feet (north);
277 feet (south)
31,835 SF
(0.73 acres);
Lot 3 Corner 125 feet (west);
143 feet (east)
277 feet (north);
288 feet (south)
42,869 SF
(0.98 acres)
The subject property’s unique shape is narrower on the north and gradually widens
as it continues south. Thus, while the proposed lot widths are similar, the lot depths
and areas increase substantially from proposed Lot 1 to proposed Lot 3.
Nonetheless, all proposed lots meet the minimum lot depth requirement in Section
13-2-5.R of the Subdivision Regulations. Note that there are no lot width or lot area
requirements for commercial districts.
Building Lines and Easements
The proposed subdivision shows the following building lines and easements: (i) a
new 5-foot front building setback line along the west property line for all proposed
lots where the proposed subdivision abuts Mannheim; (ii) a 25-foot rear building
setback line along the east property line for all proposed lots of the subdivision;
(iii) a five-foot side building setback line along the south of Lot 3, where the
proposed subdivision abuts Pratt; and (iv) a new ten-foot-wide public utility and
drainage easement extending throughout the development.
Subdivision Process, Required Public Improvements
Chapter 13-3 of the Subdivision Regulations allows the City to require various
right-of-way (ROW) improvements based on criteria such as traffic and effect on
adjacent properties. Under Section 13-3-1, the developer is required to: (i) ground
and resurface the entire Pratt ROW along the frontage of the proposed development;
(ii) re-stripe Pratt within existing ROW to allow a new turn lane from Pratt to
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Mannheim; and (iii) per IDOT comments, re-stripe Manheim within existing ROW
to allow a new left turn lane into the site and onto Pratt. Certain underground
infrastructure are required to be installed to the standards required by Public Works
and Engineering (PWE). Specifically, the developer will be required to install a new
water main in the east Mannheim ROW, which will connect to existing water mains
at both ends. The developer has provided PWE with an estimated cost of public
improvements totaling $236,291, an amount for which PWE has approved. A
performance security in the form of a letter of credit, with the City named as the
beneficiary, will be required to secure the improvements. An attached memo serves
as PWE’s approval (as noted) under Section 13-2-4.
CONDITIONAL USE LASR
Request Summary: Overview
The proposal includes a request for a Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
(LASR), which is a specialized sign plan eligible for certain types of developments.
Recall the definition of a sign found in Section 12-13-3 as:
“Any object, device, or structure, or part thereof, which is used to advertise, identify,
display, direct, or attract attention to an object, person, institution, organization,
business, product, service, event or location by any means, including words, let ters,
figures, designs, symbols, fixtures, colors, illumination, or projected images. Signs
do not include the flag or emblem of any nation, state, city, or organization; works
of art which in no way identify a product; scoreboards located on athletic fields.”
Section 12-11 -8 of the Zoning Ordinance is meant to consider the potential unique
sign needs for commercial shopping centers and multiple-building commercial or
institutional developments such as, medical centers, office parks, universities, and
colleges. Section 12-11 -8.A identifies the full list of use types eligible for a LASR,
which was recently amended through Ordinance Z-12-23 on July 17, 2023 to
expand the types of eligible developments. The proposed commercial development
that is the subject of this application is now eligible.
The proposed commercial development consists of three separate restaurant
buildings—otherwise classified as a multi-building commercial development—
which meets the eligibility requirements for a LASR, subject to the review and
approval of a conditional use permit by PZB. Since this is a request for a new LASR
for the subject property, the petitioner is requesting a conditional use.
Proposed Sign Plans
The proposal includes: (i) a multi-tenant monument sign plan for the entire
development and (ii) separate sign plans for each proposed lot (all attached), which
are summarized in more detail below. All signs related to the existing Café La Cave
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building will be removed as part of the redevelopment of the subject property, so
all signs identified in this report will be new.
• Site Multi-Tenant Monument Sign: The proposed eight-foot-tall, 41-square-
foot multi-tenant monument sign is located along Mannheim on proposed Lot 2
(Cava Site) and is intended to include signs for all three restaurant tenants. It also
includes the official assigned addresses for the three new lots, which will be
effective upon the approval by City Council and recording by Cook County of
the Final Plat. Monument signs are limited by quantity, height, and area, all
dependent on the total street frontage of the lot on which they are located. Lot 2
is shown on the attached Final Plat to have approximately 124 feet of frontage
along Mannheim Road. Pursuant to Section 12-11-6.B, the sign meets the
quantity, area, and setback requirements, but exceeds the maximum height of 5
feet for signs on lots having more than 120 feet of frontage on a single street, but
less than 300 feet of frontage. However, through the LASR request and standards
for conditional uses, the PZB may consider the nature of the multi-building
commercial development and the multi-tenant sign’s purpose to reduce the
overall number of signs on the site (i.e., more efficient than having a greater
number of smaller signs).
• Lot 1 (Guzman and Gomez) Sign Plan: The attached Lot 1 Sign Plan consists
of six wall signs proposed for the restaurant building, which are summarized in
the table below. No ground signs are proposed for this lot. Note that the mural
on the north (side) building elevation is classified as artwork and is not included
in the sign calculations.
Sign ID* Sign Type Sign Location Sign Area**
Sign A Wall West (front) elevation 22 SF
Sign C Wall East (rear) elevation 12 SF
Sign D Wall North (side) elevation 42 SF
Sign E Wall East (rear) elevation 7 SF
Sign F Wall South (side) elevation 38 SF
Sign G Wall East (rear) elevation;
West (front) elevation
55 SF each
(110 SF total)
Total Sign Area (Lot 1): 231 SF
*Sign B was removed from the plan. **Sign areas rounded to the nearest whole number.
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• Lot 2 (Cava) Sign Plan: The attached Lot 2 Sign Plan consists of three wall
signs proposed for the restaurant building, which are summarized in the table
below. No ground signs aside from the aforementioned site multi-tenant
monument sign are proposed for this lot.
Sign ID Sign Type Sign Location Sign
Area*
“Digital Pickup” Wall North (side) elevation 8 SF
“Cava” Wall South (side) elevation 21 SF
“Cava” Wall West (front) elevation 21 SF
Total Sign Area (Lot 2): 50 SF
*Sign areas rounded to the nearest whole number.
• Lot 3 (Raising Cane’s) Sign Plan: The attached Lot 3 Sign Plan consists of
multiple sign types including six wall signs, two window signs, one directional
sign, and three drive-through menu board signs, which are summarized in the
table below. Note the following:
o The “One Love Heart” (Item D) on the west (front) building elevation and
“Red Dog” (Item F) on the south (side) building elevation are classified as
artwork and are therefore not included in the sign calculations.
o Item E on the north (side) building elevation is labeled as the “Painted
Arrow Mural.” However, it is classified as a wall sign and is included in the
sign calculations.
o The proposed speaker posts (Item I) are not classified as signs.
o Item J is the tenant panel for the site multi-tenant monument sign discussed
earlier.
o The proposed “1” element on the west (front) elevation is classified as a
wall sign and is included in the calculations.
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Sign ID* Sign Type Sign Location(s) Sign Area**
Item A Wall
West (front) elevation; North
(side) elevation;
East (rear) elevation;
South (side) elevation
12 SF each
(48 SF total)
Item B Window West (front) elevation 3 SF
Item C Window South (side) elevation 3 SF
Item E Wall North (side) elevation 63 SF
Item G Drive-Through Menu
Board
One West of Interior drive-
through lane;
One West of Exterior drive-
through lane
42 SF each
(84 SF total)
Item H Drive-Through Menu
Board
One West of Interior drive-
through lane
9 SF
Item K Directional One next to the West drive
aisle off Pratt
6 SF
“1” element Wall West (front) elevation 129 SF
Total Sign Area (Lot 3): 345 SF
*Items D, F, and I are not classified as signs and are not included in this table; Item J is the tenant panel for
the site multi-tenant monument sign discussed above.
**Sign areas rounded to the nearest whole number.
For all three lots combined, a total sign area of 626 square feet is proposed for the requested
LASR. In reviewing the proposed multi-building commercial development as a whole and
reviewing the standards below, the PZB may request additional information from the
petitioner regarding one or more of the proposed signs to consider their necessity for the
development.
Conditional Use Findings: Conditional Use requests are subject to the standards set forth in
Section 12-3-4(E) of the Zoning Ordinance. Rationale for how the proposed amendments would
satisfy the standards is provided below and in the attached petitioner responses to standards. The
Board may use the provided responses as written as its rationale, modify, or adopt its own.
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
15
1. The proposed Conditional Use is in fact a Conditional Use established within the specific
Zoning district involved:
The proposed development includes signs in a quantity and size that require a LASR. A LASR
is a Conditional Use, as specified in Section 12-11 -8 of the Zoning Ordinance for multi-
building commercial developments.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
2. The proposed Conditional Use is in accordance with the objectives of the City’s
Comprehensive Plan:
The redevelopment of the subject property from a single user to three separate users requires
the installation of appropriate signs to direct motorists and pedestrians to/from and throughout
the site. The Comprehensive Plan strives to increase commercial development along major
corridors like Mannheim Road as well as increase wayfinding for motorists and pedestrians
alike. The proposed sign plan includes a site-wide multi-tenant monument sign to adequately
identify each proposed restaurant use in this development and reduce the number of individual
ground signs in the development. A great deal of building-mounted signs are proposed
throughout the development. However, it can be argued that many of these signs provide proper
wayfinding for motorists and pedestrians as they access the site and assist them in reaching
their destination.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
3. The proposed Conditional Use is designed, constructed, operated and maintained to be
harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the
general vicinity:
The proposed Conditional Use for a Localized Alternative Sign Regulation requests additional
signage to assist in the identification of each restaurant user to help both motorists and
pedestrians navigate the property. The proposed development is similar to existing commercial
developments in the area—especially the multi-building commercial development on the
southeast corner of Mannheim and Pratt—and the proposed signs are generally harmonious to
these surrounding developments.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
4. The proposed Conditional Use is not hazardous or disturbing to existing neighboring
uses:
Many of the proposed signs are not hazardous or disturbing to the existing neighboring uses as
a majority of all signs are directed towards public streets or other commercial properties.
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
16
However, signs, artwork, and other elements facing west towards residential could be
disturbing to residents based on their design and positioning. As a result, all signs, artwork,
and elements on these elevations must be non-illuminated at all times. All signs will meet all
required performance standards as outlined in Section 12-11 -6(B) of the Zoning Ordinance.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
5. The proposed Conditional Use is to be served adequately by essential public facilities and
services, such as highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse
disposal, water and sewer, and schools; or, agencies responsible for establishing the
Conditional Use shall provide adequately any such services:
The proposed signs have no effect on essential public facilities and services. Instead the new
signs will improve wayfinding services throughout the site for motorists and pedestrians alike.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
6. The proposed Conditional Use does not create excessive additional requirements at
public expense for public facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the
economic well-being of the entire community:
The proposed signs would not create a burden on public facilities, nor would they be a
detriment to the economic well-being of the community. The signs are intended to share
information and help visitors safely and easily access the site.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
7. The proposed Conditional Use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials,
equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property,
or the general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke fumes,
glare or odors:
The proposed signs will not create additional traffic or noise that could be detrimental to
surrounding land uses. Instead the signs will help better direct and circulate traffic throughout
the site.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
8. The proposed Conditional Use provides vehicular access to the property designed so that
it does not create an interference with traffic on surrounding public thoroughfares:
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
17
The proposed signs will not create an interference with traffic on surrounding public
thoroughfares but rather establish building identification and wayfinding for both motorists
and pedestrians.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
9. The proposed Conditional Use does not result in the destruction, loss, or damage of
natural, scenic, or historic features of major importance:
The proposed new signs would not cause the destruction, loss, or damage of any natural, scenic
or historic features of major importance. The signs will be used to enhance a site that has
already been developed.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
10. The proposed Conditional Use complies with all additional regulations in the Zoning
Ordinance specific to the Conditional Use requested:
All signs will comply with setback, landscaping, and performance standards as outlined in the
Zoning Ordinance.
PZB Additions or Modifications (if necessary): _________________________________
PZB Procedure and Recommended Condition: Given the separate conditional use LASR and
final plat requests, the PZB shall take two motions. First, pursuant to Section 13-2-5 of the
Subdivision Regulations, the PZB may vote to recommend approval, approval with conditions, or
denial of the Final Plat of Subdivision.
In regard to the conditional use LASR request, the PZB may vote to recommend approval, approval
with conditions, or denial of the conditional use pursuant to Section 12-11 -8 of the Zoning
Ordinance. If the PZB chooses to recommend approval the LASR, staff recommends the following
conditions.
Recommended Conditions of Approval:
1. A three-foot landscape bed in all directions must be provided at the base of all freestanding
signs. All landscape beds must be comprised of low-lying evergreen shrubs, perennials,
and annuals.
2. Structural design plans shall be provided for all signage at time of building permit.
3. All proposed signs, artwork, and elements facing residences must be non-illuminated at all
times.
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
18
4. The applicant/petitioner shall provide sight line analysis for vehicle-to-vehicle sightlines
and vehicle-to-pedestrian/bicycle sightlines showing that the sign position does not intrude
upon the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
Green Book sight triangles for the freestanding signs proposed along the roadway
driveways and site access drives. The location of the freestanding signs may have to be
slightly adjusted at the time of building permit review to comply with AASHTO site
triangle clearance.
Attachments:
Attachment 1: Location/Zoning Map
Attachment 2: Site and Context Photos
Attachment 3: ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey
Attachment 4: Responses to Standards for Conditional Uses
Attachment 5: Project Narrative
Attachment 6: Business Narratives
Attachment 7: Site Plan, Geometrics, and Striping
Attachment 8: Select Final Engineering Plans for Lots 1 & 21
Attachment 9: Select Final Engineering Plans for Lot 32
Attachment 10: Landscape Plan for Lots 1 and 2
Attachment 11: Landscape and Tree Preservation Plan for Lot 3
Attachment 12: Final Plat of Subdivision
Attachment 13: Public Works and Engineering Memo
Attachment 14: Elevation and Sign Plans for Lot 1
Attachment 15: Elevation and Sign Plans for Lot 2
Attachment 16: Select Elevation and Sign Plans for Lot 33
Chair Szabo swore in Bryan Rosenblum, petitioner for project and Cystal Ferrell, representative
for Raising Canes.
Bryan Rosenblum reminded the board about previous requests for a Tentative Plat of Subdivision
and Conditional Uses for drive-through facilities for a proposed commercial redevelopment at the
former Café La Cave site at 2777 Mannheim Road that were heard by the PZB at their April 25,
2023 meeting and City Council at its July 17, 2023 meeting. The PZB approved the tentative plat
and recommended approval of the conditional uses, which the City Council approved. The
petitioner GW Property Group, LLC is now requesting a Final Plat of Subdivision to consolidate
1 A full copy is available upon request to City of Des Plaines staff.
2 A full copy is available upon request to City of Des Plaines staff.
3 A full copy is available upon request to City of Des Plaines staff.
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
19
the existing lots into three lots of record and a conditional use for a Localized Alternative Sign
Regulation (LASR).
Mr. Rosenblum went over the three tenant elevations. He discussed each individually. He stated
that Lot 1 is Guzman Y Gomez which is a Mexican style restaurant. He went over the signage for
Guzman and Gomez and discusses colors and signs that are not illuminated. He went over the
North and South elevations and the Site Plan.
Lot 2 is for Cava which is a Mediterranean restaurant. He went over the North and South Elevations
and the Site Plan from staff’s slideshow and talked about signs that are illuminated versus not
illuminated.
Crystal Ferrell from Raising Canes goes over the signage for the restaurant on Lot 3, including
signage locations, wall signs. She discussed how recycled car hood are used as a building detail,
but specifies it is not just one solid color. She stated part of the mission is “one love”, the one love
of Cane’s is chicken, so that is part of the one love – the chicken. She said part of the signage is
representative of the owner who was an Alaskan fisherman, and the dog was his dog. Ms. Ferrell
stated that the Raising Canes owners first restaurant he opened there was a hole in the ceiling, and
he decided a disco ball could bring more light in and cover the spot in the ceiling.
Jonathan Stytz, Senior Planner went over the staff report. He said as the petitioner stated, we are
looking at the final plat of subdivision and LASR. He presented the Location Map and
Background. He explained the location of the property, there was a recent CU and tentative plat
for this drive thru facility. He presented the Site Photos and explained they are making room on
the property for this new development. Mr. Stytz discussed the project summary and stated tonight
we will focus on the final plat and the LASR for the restaurants.
Mr. Stytz presented final plat prepared by the petitioner and approved by the engineering
department. He stated the lots have not changed since the tentative subdivision and gives a
reference of what that looks like. He explained the improvements which include re-striping of the
roadways around the development including Mannheim and Pratt and a left turn lane that allows
patrons into the development. Mr. Stytz stated no widening is required for Mannheim, but there
will be striping required. He said Pratt will be re-striped for a turn lane. The petitioner will provide
a new water main.
Mr. Stytz presented the Conditional Use for Localized Alternative Sign Regulation. He presented
the signs for each restaurant. He presented one multitenant monument sign. He discussed the
required landscaping, address signs, and the sizes. He presented a slide with the total signs
proposed for each tenant. He gave an overview of the location of each sign.
Jonathan Stytz explained the requests for the Conditional Use for Localized Alternative Sign
Regulation and the subdivision. He explained the conditions of approval for each Conditional Use.
He displayed the engineering department approval letter as an attachment.
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
20
Chair Szabo asked if anyone in the audience in favor. The four audience members raised their
hands in approval.
A motion was made by Board Member Catalano, seconded by Board Member Hofherr to
recommend approval to the City Council of the Final Plat of Subdivision as requested by
staff.
AYES: Catalano, Hofherr, Fowler, Saletnik, Veremis, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY **
A motion was made by Board Member Catalano, seconded by Board Member Fowler
recommend approval to the City Council of the Conditional Use for Localized Alternative
Sign Regulation with the four conditions requested by staff.
AYES: Catalano, Fowler, Hofherr, Saletnik, Veremis, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY **
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
21
3. Address: 2991-3025 Mannheim Road, 3041 Orchard Place, and 1620-1630 W. Higgins
Case Number: 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
The petitioner is requesting the following under the Zoning Ordinance: (i) a Major Change to a
Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) for the Orchards at O’Hare PUD, including any
necessary exceptions, Conditional Uses, or amendments to Conditional Uses; (ii) a Conditional
Use for a Localized Alternative Sign Regulation (LASR); and (iii) any other variations, waivers,
and zoning relief as may be necessary.
PIN: 09-33-305-018-0000, 09-33-305-019-0000, 09-33-305-020-0000,
09-33-305-023-0000, 09-33-305-024-0000, 09-33-305-025-0000
Petitioner: Rehan Zaid, 1375 Remington Rd, Ste E, Schaumburg, IL 60173
(Owner/Authorized Agent)
Owners: Orchards Lot 5, LLC; Orchards Lot 6, LLC; Orchards Lot 7, LLC;
Prominence O’Hare, LLC; and DP Higgins, LLC (Manager: Rehan Zaid,
1375 Remington Rd, Ste E, Schaumburg, IL 60173)
Date: August 14, 2023
To: Planning and Zoning Board (PZB)
From: John T. Carlisle, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development
Jonathan Stytz, AICP, Senior Planner
Subject: Request to Continue 23-051-PUD-CU LASR: 2995-3001 Mannheim Road
Due to the quantity of comments addressed by staff in the Official Review Letter, the petitioner
has requested to continue the hearing to the Board’s regular meeting on Tuesday, September 12,
2023. I recommend the Board grant this request, which is attached.
A motion was made by Board Member Hofherr, seconded by Board Member Saletnik to
continue the matter to September 12, 2023.
AYES: Saletnik, Hofherr, Weaver, Fowler, Veremis, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY **
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
22
4. Address: Citywide Case Number: 23-043-TA
(continued from July 25, 2023)
The petitioner is proposing the following text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance: (i) modify
Sections 12-3-11 and 12-8-1.C to create separate allowances for detached parking structures based
on use, provided that certain larger garages would be subject to building design requirements; (ii)
modify Section 12-8-1.C to increase the maximum size for accessory structures that are not
detached garages and carports (e.g., sheds, gazebos, pergolas); and (iii) modify Section 12-13-3 to
revise the Accessory Structure definition to clarify the types and characteristics of the structures
that are included in this definition.
PIN: Citywide
Petitioner: City of Des Plaines, 1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Request Description: The City of Des Plaines is proposing amending the Zoning
Ordinance to clarify regulations for detached parking structures
based on use, to increase the maximum area for accessory structures
except detached garages and carports, and to amend the accessory
structure definition.
Date: August 16, 2023
To: Planning and Zoning Board (PZB)
From: Jonathan Stytz, AICP, Senior Planner
Cc: John T. Carlisle, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development
Subject: Request to Continue 23-043-TA: Text Amendment for Accessory Structures
Due to the request of PZB to obtain additional information on the accessory structure regulations
of surrounding communities, staff has requested to continue the hearing to the Board’s regular
meeting on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. I recommend the Board grant this request, which is
attached.
A motion was made by Board Member Catalano, seconded by Board Member Fowler to
continue the matter to September 12, 2023, so staff can find out what the other municipalities
are doing on all aspects to be able to make an educated decision.
AYES: Catalano, Saletnik, Fowler, Hofherr, Veremis, Szabo
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
***MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY **
1749-1757 Farwell Variation 23-050-V
2777 Mannheim Final Plat of Subdivision, Conditional Use, 23-045-FPLAT-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
2991-3025 Mannheim, Final Planned Unit Development, Conditional Use, 23-051-FPUD-CU-LASR
Localized Alternative Sign Regulation
Citywide Text Amendment 23-043-TA
23
ADJOURNMENT
The next scheduled Planning & Zoning Board meeting is Tuesday September 12, 2023.
Chairman Szabo adjourned the meeting by voice vote at 7:35 p.m.
Sincerely,
Margie Mosele, Executive Assistant/Recording Secretary
cc: City Officials, Aldermen, Planning & Zoning Board, Petitioners