1993-03-17 - Plan Commission - Minutes it
REGULAR MEETING
BUFFALO GROVE PLAN COMMISSION
March 17, 1993
Village Zoning Map - Annual Review
Rohrman Saturn Auto Dealership, Chatham B-3 Parcel
Northwest Corner of Dundee Road/Weidner Road
Rezoning to B-4 and Preliminary Plan -- Workshop #1
Chairman Silbernik called the meeting to order at 7: 30 p.m.
in the Municipal Building, 50 Raupp Boulevard, Buffalo Grove,
Illinois.
Commissioners present: Chairman Silbernik
Mr. Goldspiel
Mr. Krug
Mr. Rhodes
Mr. Rosenston
Mr. Samuels
Mr. Berman
Commissioners absent: Ms. Howard
Ms. Genell
Also present: Mr. Marc Schwartz, Batler & Schwartz
Mr. Bob Rohrman, Bob Rohrman
Automobile Dealerships
Mr. Ron Coppolino, Coppolino
Associates, Ltd.
Mr. Charles Hendricks, Village
Trustee
Mr. Robert Pfeil, Village Planner
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Moved by Commissioner Goldspiel, seconded by Commissioner
Rhodes to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of March
3, 1993 . Commissioner Goldspiel noted his comment on page 13
should be changed to reflect " . . . it is even more doubtful
that there will be sufficient street parking" . Commissioner
Rhodes noted his comment on page 10 should reflect " . . .patios
on the first floor and/or second floor of the cape cod or two
story homes" . All Commissioners were in favor of the motion
as amended and the motion passed unanimouslywith Chairman
Silbernik abstaining.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 1
I�i
COMMITTEE AND LIAISON REPORTS
Commissioner Goldspiel attended the Village Board meeting of
March 10, 1993 and stated that the following items were
discussed:
1. Approval of resubdivision of Winchester Estates;
II
2. Approval of Manchester Greens with villa participation
in the homeowner's association for the pool deemed to be
optional;
3 . Referral to the Plan Commission of the Amoco gas station
at Lake Cook Road/Route 83.
VILLAGE ZONING MAP - ANNUAL REVIEW
Mr. Pfeil stated there had been several changes to the zoning
map between March, 1992 and March, 1993 consisting of the
following:
1. JCYS on Route 83 near the LaSalle Bank property was
rezoned to the O&R District with a Special Use;
2 . Steepleview Nursing home at Weiland and Armstrong Drive
was rezoned to R-9 with a Special Use;
3. Buffalo Grove Gymnastics on Barclay Boulevard was
granted a Special Use;
4. Rogers Center for Commerce - East on Aptakisic Road was
given a Planned Unit Development for additional
industrial buildings;
5. Two lots in Manchester Greens were rezoned from R-4A to
the R-9 P.U.D. District;
6. Concord Place on Arlington Heights Road at Heritage
Place was rezoned from B-3 to R-9;
7. Grove Community Park at Route 22 and Buffalo Grove Road
was given a Special Use in the R-1 District;
8. Computer Discount Warehouse on Lake Cook Road was given
a Special Use for retail in the Industrial District.
Mr. Pfeil noted that these changes required actual map
amendments. Other changes to Fire Station No. 26, Reservoir
No. 6 and the Clayton Municipal Campus did not require map
changes.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 2
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if these changes had been
reviewed and checked with Plan Commission records for the
past year.
Mr. Pfeil stated that all ordinances and Plan Commission
agendas were reviewed for completeness.
`./ Moved by Commissioner Rhodes, seconded by Commissioner Berman
to recommend approval of the Village Zoning Map to the
Village Board.
AYES: Goldspiel, Krug, Rhodes, Rosenston, Samuels,
Berman, Silbernik
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Howard, Genell
The motion passed 7 to 0.
ROHRMAN SATURN AUTO DEALERSHIP, CHATHAM B3 PARCEL, NORTHWEST
CORNER OF DUNDEE ROAD/WEIDNER ROAD - REZONING TO B-4 AND
PRELIMINARY PLAN -- WORKSHOP #1
Mr. Marc Schwartz of Batler & Schwartz stated that this plan
was referred to the Plan Commission by the Village Board on
December 7, 1992. He further stated that they are seeking
the rezoning of a 7-acre parcel at the northwest corner of
Dundee Road and Weidner Road. The parcel is presently zoned
B-3 with an approved annexation and plan for 228,00 square
feet of office space. The plan provides for two office
buildings of approximately 114,000 square feet each,
consisting of four stories over parking. He stated that they
are seeking rezoning of this parcel from B-3 to B-4 for the
development of one automobile dealership. The dealership
building would consist of approximately 18,240 square feet.
The development site would consist of approximately 4.2-acres
for the Saturn dealership with the balance of approximately
2 .8-acres for stormwater management. This stormwater
management would suffice for the entire site and take care of
all necessary drainage at the site.
Mr. Schwartz also stated that to the north and east of the
property there is multi-family housing in the R-5A District
and immediately south on the south side of Dundee Road there
are automobile dealerships in the B-4 District. West of the
site is the Happ property which is under contract for
purchase by School District 214 to be developed as open space
and playing fields.
Chairman Silbernik noted that immediately south of the
proposed development, on the south side of Dundee Road, the
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 3
zoning consists of R-1 for Bison Park and R-5 for the single-
family residential area.
Mr. Schwartz stated that the petitioner, Bob Rohrman, is an
automobile dealer who presently owns 21 dealerships, 7 of
which are in Illinois. He further noted that the projected
sales tax revenues that would accrue to the Village from the
proposed automobile dealership is approximately $200, 000 to
$300, 000 per year. He noted that at prior meetings before
the Plan Commission a study had been tendered revealing that
an average automobile dealership in an average year generates
approximately $180, 000 in sales tax revenues to the
community. That study was completed in 1991 and even with
the differences in the present economic climate, the
automobile industry is beginning to pick up, and Saturn in
particular, has experienced strong sales.
Mr. Schwartz stated that they are proposing this development
and believe that this will be a less intensive use of the 7-
acre parcel than the office plan that has already been
approved. The proposed plan is reducing the building square
footage by approximately 210, 000 square feet. He also noted
that the previously approved plan provides for development
over the entire 7-acre parcel. The new plan proposes
development of only 4.2 acres of use and the balance of 2 .8
acres as flood water control and open space.
Mr. Schwartz stated that the Village traffic engineer's
report indicates that the traffic from this site is much less
intensive than the proposed and approved use of the site
which presently exists.
Mr. Schwartz further noted that the configuration of the site
provides for extensive landscaping with buffers and berms
surrounding the site so that it is in conformity with the
surrounding properties. The line of sight from the
surrounding properties will be greatly enhanced by this
building structure as the approved plan consists of 4 story
buildings. Additionally, Mr. Schwartz noted that the use at
this site will generate substantially more revenue to the
Village of Buffalo Grove through property tax and sales
taxes.
Mr. Ron Coppolino of Coppolino Associates, Ltd. , stated that
the 18, 000 square foot building would be in the center of the
site. The building would be constructed with a great deal of
glass and stucco and surrounded by a landscaped parking lot.
Mr. Coppolino stated the parking area would consist of 320
parking spaces, including 8 handicapped spaces and there
would be customer parking for 37 automobiles.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 4
Mr. Coppolino stated the total landscaped area represents
163 ,300 square feet. The floor area ratio is .06 which is
substantially below Village requirements.
Mr. Coppolino also stated there would be one loading area in
the rear of the building where products and parts could be
brought to the building. He further noted that transport
trucks would enter from Dundee Road, unloading at the back of
the building, circulating around the site and out onto Dundee
Road.
Mr. Coppolino stated a 3-foot high berm is planned along
Weidner Road with ground cover and an additional 4 foot 6
inch high hedge extending from the rear entry at Weidner Road
to the triangular area at the corner of Dundee Road. In
effect, this would be a 7-foot, 6-inch natural wall to block
the view from residents living to the east. There would also
be substantial landscaping around the Saturn building. Mr.
Coppolino noted that this is part of General Motors' and
Saturn's concept for their buildings to create a warm and
pleasant feeling for both the inside and outside of the
store.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the plan has a 12-foot setback from
both Dundee and Weidner Road. He explained that the 12-foot
green landscaped area would not have car bumpers overhanging
because this would be controlled with curbing 14-feet, 6-
inches from the property lines.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the front corner would be a display
area with trees. The back end of the property would be the
stormwater detention area and would be all grass. Along the
front of the property, along Dundee, the existing walkway
would be removed and an 8-foot wide concrete bikepath would
be installed.
Mr. Coppolino stated the plan calls for alignment of the
driveway entry along Dundee Road with the entry that serves
both Bison Park and Nissan of Buffalo Grove on the south side
of Dundee Road. He noted this would create a more
controllable environment for automobile traffic. The
preliminary plan has been modified to leave the channelized
concrete curbing currently in Dundee Road. This has been
done based on discussions with IDOT on the possibility of
creating a full fifth lane along the Nissan and Saturn
dealerships to correct problems with traffic trying to turn
left and right. IDOT has agreed that it is a viable solution
and they have asked the Village Engineer to comment on the
proposed access plan. Mr. Kuenkler has submitted a report
that indicates he recommends this channelized curbing along
Dundee Road at Weidner stay intact, although agreeing with a
fifth lane as a left turn lane.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 5
Mr. Coppolino stated that lighting for the site will use new
adjustable optic light fixtures which will create a down
light effect so that only the parking areas are illuminated
with no light spreading beyond the property line.
Mr. Coppolino stated the amount of noise to be generated from
this site would be minimal. There will be no public address
system on the outside of the building, as all employees will
have pagers instead.
Mr. Coppolino stated that landscaped islands with trees have
been incorporated in the parking lot area. The building has
been moved 104 feet away from the property line along Weidner
Road, which is the closest residential area to the site.
Mr. Coppolino stated that automobile demonstrator traffic
will be controlled. Demonstrator traffic will not be
permitted to enter or exit from Weidner Road. All such
traffic will go onto Dundee Road and will be controlled by
having an employee along on the test drive.
Mr. Coppolino noted they will submit engineering plans
regarding the detention area which will, of course,
incorporate a safety ledge. Mr. Coppolino stated the trash
area would be located with a 10 foot high cedar enclosed area
behind the building, well protected visually from Weidner
Road and Dundee Road. All trash will be handled by
dumpsters.
Mr. Coppolino noted there would be no body shop and no used
car building on the site. He further stated the overall
building height would be a maximum of 26 feet, which is a
considerable difference from a 4-story office building.
Mr. Coppolino also noted that the Village Engineer has
recommended that Stradford Circle become a cul-de-sac. He
said they will work with Mr. Kuenkler to determine the best
means to achieve that goal.
Mr. Coppolino further stated that the Village traffic
consultant had evaluated the plan and noted that the traffic
on Weidner Road will be light and would not have a negative
effect on the neighborhood. In the traffic consultant's
comparison of this plan as opposed to the two 4-story office
buildings, he noted that peak morning hours would generate 35
vehicles per hour instead of 480 vehicles per hour that would
be generated by two 4-story office buildings. During peak
evening hours approximately 50 vehicles per hour would be
coming out of this site as opposed to 470 vehicles per hour
coming from two 4-story office buildings. Mr. Coppolino
stressed that the fifth lane recommended to IDOT would not
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 6
only help traffic at this site but traffic exiting Bison
Park.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the Village Fire Marshal has
requested a that a hydrant be placed on the site and same has
been shown on the plan to be coupled with a sprinkler system
and a fire alarm system. There are also three additional
`./ fire hydrants already adjacent to the site.
Mr. Schwartz stated that Mr. Rohrman is sincere in bringing
this project to fruition in Buffalo Grove and wants to be
able to operate a dealership at this site. He noted the
presentation has addressed almost every issue raised in prior
workshops by the Plan Commission, Village Board and
surrounding property owners. Additionally, the issues raised
by the Village Engineer have been addressed as well as those
raised by the Village Planner.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the property is to be fenced.
Mr. Coppolino stated they do not think fencing is necessary
as the shrubbery and trees will act as a natural fence and
will not detract from the appearance of the neighborhood.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted it might be desirable to berm
the north side perimeter thereby effectively screening the
homes in that area.
Mr. Coppolino stated they would essentially be doing so
because the distance of the buildings on the north end were
considerably further from the site than those along Weidner
Road and would not therefore require the same screening
height.
Commissioner Goldspiel said that it seems that the shrubbery
would not be as effective in screening the cars as would a
berm.
Mr. Schwartz noted that berming another foot or so would not
present any problems. However, since the homes to the north
are much farther away than those on Weidner, a high berm such
as the one proposed along Weidner would not be necessary.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted disagreement with Mr. Schwartz 's
statement.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if there would be any parking or
Dundee Road access for the recreation area on the Happ
property.
Mr. Pfeil stated District 214 does not intend to develop a
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 7
parking area on the Happ site, but an access driveway to
Dundee Road will be used for service vehicles.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted he would like to see a
description of the detention area, specifying if the
detention area would be wet or dry and if the depth would be
the same as the existing depth or deeper.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the depth will be slightly less
than the existing condition. The existing culverts will
continue to be used and the water flow will not be disturbed.
He noted that this will be a wet pond which is a requirement
because the lake to the north and the dry pond to the south
function that way now.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted that he hopes that the pond will
have better water quality and aesthetic features than what
exists now.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if there would be cars located
at the corner display area.
Mr. Coppolino stated that cars would be displayed in the
area.
Commissioner Goldspiel stated this would not be a desirable
use for the corner as it accentuates the commercial use and
interferes with the line of sight.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted that it would be desirable to
have some kind of curbing and landscaped space between the
parking spaces and the building.
Mr. Coppolino noted that they intended to pave up to the
building for ease in maintenance. He asked if wheel stops
would be acceptable.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted that was the treatment used at
the Toyota dealership. He said the Plan Commission would need
to look into this site planning item in more detail.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked how high the proposed lighting
fixtures would be.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the lights would be sitting on 2
foot concrete bases with 20 foot high poles for a total
height of 22 feet.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the lens or bulb of the light
fixtures would be visible or hidden by the shoebox fixture.
Mr. Coppolino noted that a great deal of lighting development
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 8
has been done specifically for the automobile industry. He
noted that lights need to be directed mainly on the
automobiles. Therefore, the lights to be used will keep the
light focused on the cars with virtually no glare or
spillover.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked when the lighting would be
turned down each day.
Mr. Coppolino stated that only security lights would be left
on at night after closing. He stated that he anticipates
approximately four lights to remain on until 3 :00-4 :00 a.m.
and then shut off automatically. These lights would be
controlled by photo cells and timers.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked what the hours of operation
would be for the dealership.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the service operation would begin
at 7: 00 a.m. The sales office would open at 9: 00 a.m.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked where the used cars would be
located.
Mr. Coppolino stated used cars would be located at the west
side of the parking lot.
Commissioner Krug noted agreement with Commissioner Goldspiel
regarding the triangular corner display area.
Commissioner Krug asked for a further description of the
fifth lane on Dundee Road.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the fifth lane that IDOT would like
to use is presently used on many state highways. The center
median is used for a turning lane for two different turning
movements, such as north and south. With two lanes of through
traffic in either direction, the center area gets a non-
bermed, non-curbed but striped area with an area for left
turns.
Commissioner Krug asked how this concept would make it easier
for people coming out of Bison Park.
Mr. Coppolino stated that it will give people the capability
to come out and sit in the left turn lane area until traffic
is cleared.
Commissioner Krug noted that as a left turn lane it cannot be
used for merging as the police would ticket drivers.
Commissioner Krugasked if the existingand is to be
P
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 9
relocated.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the pond would be slightly moved.
Commissioner Rhodes asked if roof mechanicals would be used
and if same would be screened.
Mr. Coppolino stated that there would be mechanicals on the
roof. He noted that one roof line is higher than the other
which effectively screens any mechanicals. He said that cedar
fencing would be used to screen any mechanicals that are not
hidden by the roof lines.
Commissioner Rhodes asked what the hours of delivery for
transports would be.
Mr. Coppolino noted that delivery is usually during the day
before 5:00 p.m.
Commissioner Rhodes asked approximately how many employees
would be present in the building at about 11:00 a.m.
Mr. Rohrman stated approximately 25 employees would be
present in the building at that time.
Commissioner Rhodes asked where these employees would park.
Mr. Rohrman stated that employees would park in the back of
the building.
Mr. Schwartz noted that they were aware of a parking problem
on Weidner Road and Mr. Rohrman would make sure that there
would be no employee parking on the street.
Commissioner Rhodes asked if Mr. Rohrman uses the Bison Park
lot for his Nissan dealership.
Mr. Rohrman stated that he has permission from the Buffalo
Grove Park District to use the Bison Park lot.
Commissioner Rhodes inquired who would be responsible for
maintaining the stormwater pond.
Mr. Coppolino said that Mr. Rohrman would own and maintain
the pond.
Commissioner Rosenston agreed that he would not like to see
any display cars at the corner of the property.
Commissioner Rosenston asked how cars would be delivered to
customers after service has been finished.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 10
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Mr. Coppolino stated that the cars would be parked at the
back and people would pick up at that point.
Commissioner Rosenston asked what the view would be for the
adjacent residents from their second story residences.
Mr. Coppolino stated that residents would be viewing the 7-
foot berm and a wall of nicely done dryvit.
Commissioner Rosenston stated he would also like to see
additional berming along the north side of the property.
Commissioner Rosenston asked if there would be any gating on
the driveways.
Mr. Coppolino stated no gating is anticipated.
Commissioner Rosenston asked what kind of dumpster would be
used for trash.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the dumpsters in the trash area
would be brought up to the truck and dumped into same. The
trash will consist mainly of paper stock. He further noted
that excess car parts from the service area would be handled
separately and waste products are also handled by a separate
carrier in above ground tanks within the building.
Commissioner Rosenston asked if the service department would
be open on Saturdays.
Mr. Rohrman stated that they are not immediately planning to
have service hours on Saturday but may eventually open on
Saturdays between the hours of 8:00 to 11:00.
Commissioner Rosenston asked what the hours for sales and
service departments would be.
Mr. Rohrman stated the service department would be open from
8: 00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and the sales department would be open
on weekdays from 8: 30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Commissioner Rosenston asked what time the outdoor lights
would be shut off.
Mr. Rohrman stated lights would be turned off around 9: 00
p.m.
Commissioner Rosenston asked if there would be a sufficient
radius for truck turning movements at the Dundee entrance.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the plan provides for a 50-foot
radius both in and out at the Dundee entrance.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 11
Commissioner Samuels noted that presently the plan is showing
only two handicapped parking spaces whereas 8 spaces are
required.
Mr. Coppolino stated that this has now been redesigned to
include 8 handicapped spaces and 37 customer spaces as
required by ordinance.
Commissioner Samuels stated that he would prefer to see
berming along the north side of the property as well as the
east side and additionally he would like to see a 15-20 foot
high dense hedgerow screening for the neighbors on both the
east and north side of the property. This would have the
evergreens getting close to the height of the lights and
would more effectively screen the neighbors.
Commissioner Berman concurred with Commissioner Samuels
comments regarding 15 to 20 foot high evergreens and he also
concurred with extending the berming to the north side of the
property.
Commissioner Berman asked if there is anything that could be
done to prevent cut through traffic by high school students
at the Weidner entrance.
Mr. Coppolino stated that signage and local enforcement is
necessary to prevent cut through traffic. He also stated
that this is not exactly an easy cut through and that drivers
would have to wind their way through the site.
Commissioner Berman asked if speed bumps had been considered
along that driveway as an additional deterrent.
Mr. Rohrman stated that they enforce a 5 mph speed limit at
all his dealerships.
Commissioner Berman asked who would be expected to use the
Weidner entrance.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the Weidner entrance would be used
mainly by emergency vehicles and a few customers.
Commissioner Berman asked if the proposed detention has been
designed to continue to carry the flow from the Happ
property.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the overall condition of the area
has not changed and therefore the flow will be carried from
the Happ property.
Commissioner Berman asked why no trees or shrubs are shown
along the north side of the property.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 12
Mr. Coppolino stated that this is the stormwater detention
area which is not a park nor does it have any trees on it at
the present time.
Commissioner Berman stated that the developer may want to
consider additional landscaping along the north side of the
detention area which will improve the view for the
residential area and will screen sound from the dealership.
Commissioner Berman asked how many new cars are planned to be
stored on site at any one time.
Mr. Coppolino stated approximately 100 new cars will be
stored at one time.
Commissioner Berman asked if Saturn requires a certain amount
of inventory of cars on site.
Mr. Rohrman stated that there are not enough Saturn cars
being produced to fully stock all dealerships, so an
allotment system is used.
Commissioner Berman asked approximately how many used cars
are to be stored on the lot at any given time.
Mr. Rohrman stated approximate 50 used cars would be on the
lot.
Commissioner Berman asked how many light fixtures as proposed
for the site.
Mr. Coppolino stated that photometric engineering has not
been completed.
Commissioner Berman asked if the security lights would be the
same as the other outdoor lights.
Mr. Coppolino stated the lights would be the same, although
only one shoebox out of two or three would be used for
security illumination.
Commissioner Berman asked how the anticipated sales tax
revenue had been computed.
Mr. Rohrman stated that the figures were based on a study
conducted based on the Libertyville dealership which showed
that the Buffalo Grove area would be approximately twice as
profitable as the Libertyville area. He noted that in
Libertyville last year he had sold approximately $24 million
worth of cars and this area is projected to attain twice that
amount which is approximately $200, 000 in potential sales
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 13
taxes.
Commissioner Berman asked how much start up time would be
needed before the projected sales figures would be reached.
Mr. Rohrman stated approximately two months would be needed
if they can get enough cars.
Commissioner Berman asked if any data had been gathered
regarding the impact of automobile dealerships on surrounding
property values.
Mr. Coppolino stated that he does not have information on
this topic.
Commissioner Berman noted that there have been some concerns
and discussions regarding the impact of this dealership on
the neighborhood and the compatibility of the dealership with
the surrounding uses on the north side of Dundee Road, noting
in particular that Dundee Road should be the dividing line
between the B-4 District to the south and the residential
district to the north. He asked that this concern be
addressed.
Mr. Schwartz stated that commonly accepted zoning practices
provide for commercial buffered by multi-family and then
residential. The proposed plan follows that pattern exactly.
He further stated that the use that is being proposed is less
intensive than the approved use on the site and less
intensive than many other uses that would be acceptable on
the site under the B-4 classification. He said that Mr.
Rohrman would accept restrictions to limit use of the
property to an auto dealership.
Chairman Silbernik noted his concerns regarding the proposed
plan as follows:
1. The mass of the cars on the lot. Residents will be
viewing cars and lights, not just landscaping. He said
that he would like to see some line of sight drawings
showing what adjacent residents will see.
2. Photometric information concerning the outdoor lighting
is needed.
3 . Intensity of the traffic flow during non-peak hours, as
this kind of use may generate a more consistent flow of
traffic than the kind expressed in the peak hours
traffic study.
4. Summertime service for cars; if doors are left open for
ventilation and cooling, the noise level can be a major
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 14
problem for residents.
5. The position and height of all proposed signs.
6. The adequacy of parking if a large inventory of new cars
is maintained at the site.
7. Correction of Mr. Schwartz 's statement that the south
side of Dundee Road directly across the street from the
proposed development is zoned B-4. The area is zoned R-1
and R-5 residential.
Mr. Rohrman stated that high ceilings and fans would keep the
area cool enough not to require open doors.
Mr. Coppolino stated that there would be one sign at each
entry and exit drive that would be of the maximum allowable
square footage under the ordinance.
Commissioner Rosenston said that he concurs with the 15 to 20
foot high trees along Weidner and the north edge of the site
to cut down on effects such as lighting and aesthetics.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the area along the north side
of Weidner along the detention area is subject to the parkway
tree program.
Mr. Pfeil stated that this area would be subject to the
Village's requirement for parkway trees.
Commissioner Goldspiel said that clustering the trees and
using a meandering sidewalk design should be considered by
the Village.
Commissioner Goldspiel further noted that he would like the
portion of the property shown as green space to remain with
B-3 rather than B-4 so that expansion of the automotive use
would not occur in the future.
Commissioner Goldspiel said that he doesn't think that
traffic will use the Weidner Road entrance to cut through to
Dundee Road, but he noted that pedestrians and bicyclists
might cut through the site. He noted his disapproval of the
use of speed bumps.
Commissioner Krug asked if the transport drivers will arrive
early and sit in the parking lot with their rigs running
waiting for the dealership to open.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the transport drivers cannot unload
until someone is present on the site and they are very
tightly scheduled on delivers so that they do not have time
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 15
to sit around. He further noted that these are private
handlers and they can be required to arrive at certain hours.
Commissioner Krug asked what time trash would be picked up.
Mr. Coppolino noted that trash would be picked up late
morning or early afternoon.
Chairman Silbernik noted that the following issues needed to
be addressed:
1. Screening and berming on the north side of the property;
2 . Removal of the corner display along Dundee Road;
3 . Wheel stops around the building;
4. Specific delivery hours to lessen neighborhood impact;
5. Possible speed bumps on the property;
6. Parkway trees along Weidner and around the detention
area as well as tree clustering in the parkway;
7. Comments on the impact of auto dealerships on
surrounding property values;
8. Enhanced landscaping to provide 15 to 20-foot high
evergreens and landscaping along Weidner Road;
9. Line of sight drawings showing the views from adjacent
residential areas into the site;
10. Analysis of traffic impact in off-peak hours;
11. B-3 zoning for the stormwater pond area.
Commissioner Rhodes stated that he is not convinced that this
is the proper location for this development, although this is
a very nice plan.
Commissioner Samuels stated that he would like to defer the
zoning issue and focus on the plan only.
Chairman Silbernik said the request is for both rezoning and
Preliminary Plan approval, so the zoning issue is pertinent
as part of the workshop discussion.
Commissioner Krug stated that in the past the Plan Commission
has always tried to restrict commercial development along
Dundee Road. He stated that an automobile dealership on the
north side of Dundee Road would not be welcome and he would
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 16
not support any commercial or retail use on the north side of
Dundee Road.
Commissioner Goldspiel stated that the comments by
Commissioners Rhodes and Krug clearly indicate that there is
a major issue concerning the use on this property.
Dick Brooks, 915 Stradford Circle, stated that this plan is
not a good use for this location. He also asked if the
Chatham monument sign is to be removed. He further noted his
concern with Hapsfield Road being left open and the parking
situation on the east side of Weidner.
Mr. Schwartz stated that the Chatham monument sign will be
removed whether or not this plan goes ahead.
Ellen Malow, 838 Stradford Circle, emphatically stated that
this is not the proper use for this location.
Felicia Homam, 652 Hapsfield Land, asked if there would be
enough room from the service center entry out to Dundee Road
to allow for stacked cars. She also noted that at present,
residents can see clear over to the high school from the
second story residences. Further, she asked if any
arrangements had been made for wildlife since the detention
area is to be moved.
Chairman Silbernik noted that he had asked to see line of
sight drawings.
Mr. Coppolino stated that the service area can hold six cars
in the building and will have four doors with cars waiting.
The driveway is sufficient to handle stacked cars in the
area. He further noted that the detention area plan is a
tremendous improvement over what presently exists and should
actually attract more wildlife.
Don Sowa, 608 Hapsfield Lane, noted that the fifth lane now
has a grass median with trees which would be ripped out under
the new plan. He further noted that the existing lights at
the Nissan dealership are very intrusive and if they are an
example of hi-tech lighting, they are not very effective. He
also noted that any exit off Weidner should be eliminated.
Ben Pomerants, 773 Weidner Road, stated that the impact on
adjacent property values is a very important issue for the
residents, he would prefer to have the Village assemble the
information that has been requested, not the developer.
Ron Defoe, 745 Weidner Road, stated that he does not want to
see a dealership at this location and specifically no exit
off of Weidner Road.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 17
Eleanor Hesse, 787 Beechwood, noted that she presently has a
view of Lions Park from her home and she does not want to
have a view of a car lot.
Rich Pawl, 912 Greenridge Road, stated that an automobile
dealership will cheapen the neighborhood and he specifically
objects to the placement of a large sign for the dealership
which he will have to look out at from his bedroom window.
Mr. Coppolino said that the developer would be conforming
with all sign regulations and would not be looking for any
variations.
Mr. Wurtzimlar, 601 Hapsfield Road, asked if there would be
signs out stating the information about the public hearing.
Mr. Pfeil stated that the developer is furnishing the names
and addresses of persons who own property within 250 feet of
the site, who will be notified by mail of the public hearing.
The Village will post signs at the site two weeks prior to
the public hearing.
Chairman Silbernik stated there would also be notification of
the hearing in the newspaper.
Diana Hooghkirk, 891 Beechwood, asked where excess cars would
be stacked if more cars than anticipated are delivered. She
noted that the Nissan dealership is already using the Bison
Park parking area to hold cars.
Mr. Schwartz stated that the vehicles parked in the median of
the driveway at Bison Park are parked for sales display and
not because of overflow parking. He further noted that he
had stated that if there is a problem with overflow parking,
Mr. Rohrman would direct his employees to park in the parking
area at Nissan.
Mr. Sassano, 641 Hapsfield, noted that he would like to see
the entrance on Weidner closed, and he said the timing of the
traffic signal at Weidner and Dundee should be evaluated. He
asked how long it would take to construct this project.
Mr. Coppolino stated that construction would be approximately
three months. He said construction workers would park on the
site, not on Weidner Road.
Diana Hooghkirk noted that the retention pond appears to be
close to Weidner Road, and she asked who would have the
responsibility of making sure that the facility will not be a
III
safety hazard for children.
II
Mr. Schwartz noted that the retention area is on Mr.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 18
Rohrman's property, and he will be responsible for both
maintenance and liability.
Mr. Coppolino noted that the pond is only being moved
approximately 50 to 100 feet. He commented that children need
parental supervision, and the existing pond has been in place
for many years. He noted that a safety ledge would be
installed in the pond as required.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if there is any potential for
making the stormwater retention area into some kind of
recreational amenity.
Mr. Schwartz stated that they had discussed donating this
facility to the Village, School District 214, Buffalo Grove
Park District, and even the condominium association. He said
that none of these entities is interested in owning and
maintaining the stormwater retention area.
Chairman Silbernik directed developer to prepare for a second
workshop and address the comments made by the Plan
Commission.
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT - None
FUTURE AGENDA SCHEDULE
Mr. Pfeil said that the next Plan Commission meeting is set
for April 7, 1993 when a public hearing will be held
concerning a variation of the Floodplain Ordinance for the
American Needle site in the Corporate Grove and a second
workshop will be conducted for the Rolling Hills subdivision.
PUBLIC COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS - None
STAFF REPORT - None
NEW BUSINESS - None
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Commissioner Rosenston, seconded by Commissioner
Berman and carried unanimously to adjourn. Chairman
Silbernik adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 19
Respectfully submitted,
Fay Rubi , Recording Secretary
APPROV
MARTIN SILBERNIK, Chairman
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-March 17, 1993-Page 20