1993-10-20 - Plan Commission - Minutes PUBLIC HEARING
BUFFALO GROVE PLAN COMMISSION
October 20, 1993
Comerica Bank, southeast corner of Busch Road/Weiland Road
Rezoning from the Industrial District to the B-3 Planned
Business Center District and Approval of a Preliminary Plan
Chairman Silbernik called the meeting to order at 7: 30 p.m. in
Room 24, Buffalo Grove Park District Alcott Center, 530 Bernard
Drive, Buffalo Grove, Illinois and read the Notice of public
Hearing as published in the Buffalo Grove Daily Herald, explained
the format to be followed for the public hearing, and swore in
persons who wished to give testimony during the hearing.
Commissioners present: Chairman Silbernik
Mr. Goldspiel
Mr. Krug
Mr. Samuels
Ms. Genell
Mr. Berman
Commissioners absent: Mr. Rhodes
Ms. Howard
Mr. Rosenston
Also present: Mr. Lawrence Freedman, Ash, Anos, Freedman
& Logan
Mr. John Mitchell, Otis Associates, Inc.
Mr. Daniel Lynch, Christopher Burke
Engineering Ltd.
Mr. David Miller, Metro Transportation
Group, Inc.
Ms. Gerrie Smith, Comerica Bank
Mr. Donald J. Truschke, Comerica Bank
Mr. John Marienthal, Village Trustee
Mr. Richard Kuenkler, Village Engineer
Mr. Robert Pfeil, Village Planner
The following exhibits were presented by the petitioner at the
public hearing:
Exhibit #1: Aerial view of site
Exhibit #2: Preliminary Plan dated September 23, 1993 by Otis
Associates
Exhibit #3: Enlargement of site on aerial view
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 1
Exhibit #4 : Bank floor plan and elevations dated June 25, 1993 by
Otis Associates
Exhibit #5: Preliminary Engineering Plan dated October 14, 1993
by Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd.
Mr. Lawrence Freedman of Ash, Anos, Freedman & Logan stated that
the bank parcel is part of a larger site which comprises the
southeast corner of Busch and Weiland Road. The bank site has an
area of 2.46 acres, with a parcel of 1.26 acres providing
stormwater detention for the entire 10-acre tract. The bank and
stormwater lots are proposed for rezoning to the B-3 District.
Mr. Freedman reviewed the history of the site stating that the
property was annexed into the Village in 1986 at the request of
the Village to provide contiguity for the Corporate Grove
annexation. At the time the owner of the property did not wish to
develop the property and had no particular uses proposed for the
site. The zoning classifications selected at the time were B-1 for
the northeast corner (Creekside Commmons) , R-9 to the east
(Windbrooke Apartments) , and Industrial for the 10-acre tract that
is the subject of the current rezoning petition. Industrial zoning
was basically viewed as a holding pattern until a specific use
could be identified for the property.
Mr. Freedman stated that his client has attempted to market this
site since 1986 for industrial use to no avail due to present
economic circumstances. He stated that a number of B-1 users had
been proposed but the Village was not responsive to those uses.
Mr. Freedman stated that they intend to retain the Industrial
zoning on the southern portion of the property at this time and
return to the Plan Commission once an appropriate user is found
for that site.
Mr. John Mitchell of Otis Associates, Inc. stated that Comerica is
proposing to build a 4, 600 square foot branch facility on the
site. He noted the entrance to the parcel is in alignment with
Bentley Place on Weiland Road as per discussions with the County
and Village staff. Along Busch Road an entrance has been provided
between the detention parcel and the bank parcel. The traffic flow
will come in off Weiland Road and go into the drive through lanes
and exit out or the traffic could go straight to the parking
facilities.
Mr. Mitchell stated that the zoning requirement for the bank calls
for 18 parking spaces and the proposed plan provides 34 spaces.
There is a 24 car stacking zoning requirement for the drive
through lanes and the plan proposes stacking for 32 cars and a by-
pass lane.
Mr. Mitchell stated that they are proposing an excellent landscape
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 2
plan with the intention of enhancing the site and its own
facility.
Mr. Mitchell stated the main entry to the bank faces Weiland Road
and the intersection so that the bank presents itself to the
traffic on Busch and Weiland Roads. The bank will have safety
deposit vaults and coupon booths. He noted the bank is designed
entirely in conformance with the Americans Disabilities Act as
well as the State of Illinois Capital Development Board.
Mr. Mitchell stated that the materials to be utilized consist of a
green metal roof consistent with the surrounding area. The rest
of the building will be primarily of a light brown brick with a
limestone base and tinted but clear windows with matching green
mullions to match the roofing.
Ms. Gerrie Smith of Comerica Bank stated Comerica is part of a 27
billion dollar bank holding company, with 22 banks in operation in
Illinois. She stated that the proposed facility will be a full
service facility with 24 hour drive-through ATM facility. She
further stated the facility will have a full array of deposit and
consumer loan products as well as commercial loan products. She
stated the lobby hours will be 9:00 to 4:00 p.m. and until 5: 00
p.m. on Fridays. Saturday hours will be 9:00 a.m. to 1: 00 p.m.
The drive-up hours will be 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Fridays
until 7: 00 p.m. Saturday drive-up hours will be 7:00 a.m. to
1: 00 p.m.
Mr. Daniel Lynch of Christopher Burke Engineering, Ltd. stated the
sanitary sewer is to tie in to the sanitary sewer directly across
Weiland Road at the Bentley Place subdivision. The site will be
served with water with a loop system through a 16 inch watermain
on Weiland Road and a 16 inch watermain on Busch Road.
Mr. Lynch stated the detention to be provided for the development
is partially constructed as part of the creek relocation which
took place several years ago. In addition, detention will be
provided which will serve the entire site.
Mr. David Miller of Metro Transportation Group, Inc. stated
traffic counts had been taken during the evening peak hours and
Saturday peak hours at the intersection of Weiland and Busch. He
stated that typically at these types of facilities the peaks are
evenings and Saturdays. Although the facility will be open at
7: 00 a.m. at the drive through, this is not considered a peak time
for bank traffic.
Mr. Miller stated traffic is fairly evenly distributed on Weiland
and Busch with a higher percentage from the west on Busch and from
the south on Weiland. He stated that facilities such as this are
not typically traffic generators particularly during morning and
evening peak hours. Instead they draw their traffic from the
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 3
existing flow on the street system. In the middle of the day it
may be more of a destination type of facility. During the morning
and afternoon peak hours a high percentage of traffic coming to
this facility is already on the surrounding streets and therefore
newly generated traffic is at a minimum.
Mr. Miller stated the full access to the site will be off of
Weiland about 620 feet south of the center line on Busch. This
will be a full access driveway with left turns into and out of the
site. The other access will be on Busch Road; this will be limited
to right-in and right-out turns. Busch Road has a raised median at
this point which will physically prevent left turn movements.
This drive is approximately 320 feet east of Weiland Road.
Mr. Miller stated they have had discussions with the Village staff
and the Lake County Division of Transportation. He said that Lake
County will require the driveway on Busch Road to be in alignment
with Bentley Place, and improvements will be required on Weiland
Road to provide for left and right turns into the site. He
commented that the section of Weiland Road between Bentley Place
and the drive serving the retail would be a bi-directional left
turn lane to serve both the northbound left turns into the retail
and southbound left turns into the site. Mr. Miller stated that he
does not think that the number of left turns southbound on Weiland
turning into this site will be significant or cause traffic
problems on Weiland Road.
Mr. Miller noted that the amount of proposed parking for the bank
exceeds the Village requirement as does the stacking for the
drive-through facility. In summary, he noted that the site is well
laid out in terms of the access and circulation. He stated that
the intersection of Weiland and Busch is being evaluated for
improvements to include additional lanes which would increase the
capacity of the intersection.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked how the stormwater detention area
will work.
Mr. Lynch stated the detention area will be adjacent to the creek
in the northeast corner of the property. The facility will
probably be a dry bottom basin with a mowable grass. He stated
that storm sewers and surface runoff will drain to the detention
basin with controlled release into the creek. He noted that the
detention facility is in compliance with the Lake County
Stormwater Ordinance. He further stated the detention will
generally be above base flood elevation and will not inundate the
driveway on Busch or the side slopes.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the areas not yet parceled out
will use the same access drives.
Mr. Freedman stated affirmatively.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 4
Commissioner Goldspiel asked how the drives would be used once the
new areas are developed.
1
Mr. Freedman stated he does not have any specifics on that as yet
but noted that it is their intention that once the area is built
to give the user access to the full intersection on Weiland and to
the limited right access on Busch Road. There will be some
easement for ingress and egress when the property is conveyed to
the bank that will benefit any future use on the undeveloped
parcel. He noted that the alignment will be subject to the
developer returning to the Village for plan approval.
Commissioner Goldspiel said that provision of an access easement
to benefit the future user will be needed to achieve a coordinated
access and circulation system for the entire site.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked why a bi-directional lane for left
turns on Weiland Road is being advocated instead of the more
typical tapered left turn bays.
Mr. Miller stated that either could be done. The traditional
taper and left turn would probably be about 60 to 70 feet maximum.
Since this is a Lake County road, the ultimate decision rests with
the County Division of Transportation. Mr. Miller stated that the
road is wide enough to construct a left turn lane, and a bi-
directional design serving the retail center and the bank site
appears to be workable.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the Village had given any thought
to the bi-directional turn lane.
Mr. Pfeil stated the Village traffic consultant has indicated that
the bi-directional lane on Weiland Road will work.
Mr. Kuenkler stated that the bi-directional turn lane will be the
best in this situation because it will allow maximum use of the
area for left turn movements.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted concern with the bi-directional turn
lane because it allows opposing traffic to be in the same lane.
Mr. Kuenkler stated that this could happen but the turn lanes are
relatively short and even if the pavement is striped for two
separate left turn lanes, motorists will use it as a bi-
directional lane, it would probably be best striped as a bi-
directional lane.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the future improvements for Busch
and Weiland had been considered in the traffic analysis.
Mr. Miller stated he has discussed the planned improvements with
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 5
both the Lake County and the Village and that both are currently
working on designs for the intersection and that future widening
of Weiland is in Lake County's 2005 plan and could occur prior to
that time depending on traffic counts.
Commissioner Krug asked if the traffic study had compared the site
if it were being developed for an industrial user as opposed to a
bank.
Mr. Miller stated that he did not do such an analysis. He noted
that a bank facility as opposed to a warehouse type of facility
tends to draw a certain percentage of traffic especially during
peak hours from the surrounding traffic flow whereas an industrial
facility would be all destination orientated during peak hours.
There will not be the kind of truck traffic at a bank facility as
there would be in an industrial facility. Additionally, the lobby
will be open from 9: 00 to 4:00 p.m. whereas street peak hours are
typically 7: 30 to 8: 30 a.m. and 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
Commissioner Krug asked if the detention area will be sufficient
to handle the remaining parcel when it is developed.
Mr. Lynch stated affirmatively.
Mr. Freedman stated that the present owner of the parcel has spent
a great deal of money to reposition the creek in order to provide
a more usable development site.
Commissioner Krug asked if the bikepath would be directly adjacent
to the detention area.
Mr. Lynch stated that there would be a small berm between the
bikepath and the detention basin with a small notch where the
overflow could occur.
Commissioner Genell asked who owns the property.
Mr. Freedman stated the owners are Melvin Eisenstin, Anthony and
Bruno Pasquinelli, Dan Light and Joseph Ash.
Commissioner Genell asked if there was any thought by the owners
as to how the additional property would be used.
Mr. Freedman stated the owners have no idea at this time, and in
fact, several potential uses thus far had been turned down by the
Village.
Commissioner Genell asked the nature of the property to the south.
Mr. Kuenkler stated the property is a landscape business.
Mr. Pfeil noted the property is unincorporated and zoned Suburban
or Light Industrial by Lake County.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 6
Commissioner Genell asked why so much extra parking is proposed
for the bank site and noted it might be better to go with only the
required ordinance.
Mr. Mitchell stated that many service oriented businesses elect,
when available, to have as much parking as possible for customer
convenience.
Commissioner Genell asked if it would be better to have less
concrete from an engineering standpoint. She further noted that
this was something also advocated by the Clean Air Act.
Mr. Kuenkler stated that Mr. Mitchell's answer was reasonable. He
further stated that he did not have an answer to the question from
an engineering standpoint.
Commissioner Samuels asked if the proposed 24 foot wide access
aisle between the handicapped accessible spaces would be changed
to 26 feet in width as required by Village ordinance.
Mr. Freedman stated they would make that correction.
Commissioner Samuels asked if the tree survey has been completed.
Mr. Freedman stated such survey would be done if required by the
Village.
Commissioner Berman asked where the ATM would be located and if it
would be a drive-through or walkup facility.
Ms. Smith stated the ATM would be a drive-through located adjacent
to the bank building.
Commissioner Berman asked what kind of lighting or security would
be provided for the cash station.
Mr. Mitchell stated the proposed lighting will be under the canopy
and will be well lighted. Landscaping would be provided that will
maintain vision to all areas of the drive-through.
Chairman Silbernik asked why morning peak hours were not examined
in the traffic study.
Mr. Miller stated that based on their experience and the industry
standard, the real peak for such a banking facility are in the
evenings and Saturdays. He noted there will be some early morning
traffic but typically this would be from traffic already on the
street system, not separate traffic generated by the bank as a
destination.
Chairman Silbernik asked if there is the possibility of traffic
being diverted from other roadways to Busch Road in order to use
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 7
the bank.
Mr. Miller stated it is possible that there would be some of that.
Chairman Silbernik asked why the bank drive-through will open at
7: 00 a.m.
Ms. Smith stated the main reason is to be competitive with other
facilities in the area.
Chairman Silbernik asked if the developer would agree to berming
along the bikepath.
Mr. Freedman stated the developer will agree to a berm.
Seymour Goldgehn, 364 Bentley Place, displayed Public Exhibit #1.
He asked if the deceleration lane going southbound on Weiland Road
into Bentley Place will remain.
Chairman Silbernik stated there had been no changes made to the
west side of Weiland Road and the right turn into Bentley Place
will remain.
Mr. Goldgehn noted that on the east side of Weiland Road an
additional right turn lane is being proposed.
Mr. Miller stated that he has discussed the existing northbound
right turn lane from Weiland to eastbound Busch with Lake County.
He stated that the developer's plan proposes a separate northbound
right turn south of the bank drive to go to the access drive. The
County, however, wants this right turn lane to extend from south
of the bank driveway over 600 feet to Busch Road. He stated he
does not think that there is any technical reason for extending
the right turn lane in this manner. He noted they would be having
some additional meetings with the County to see if the plan could
be modified.
Mr. Goldgehn asked if the issue of shortcutting through the bank
site to avoid the traffic signal at the Busch/Weiland intersection
has been addressed in the developer ' s traffic analysis.
Mr. Miller stated that in his opinion this would not be a problem.
He noted that the site plan has been designed to discourage this
type of movement. He said that cut-through traffic is a
possibility, but it is a very circuitous route, and many motorists
will not consider it to be advantageous to cut through the
property.
Julian Bloom, 393 Bentley Place, stated that Bentley Place has a
left turn lane but that Weiland Road is down to one lane at that
point. He noted that the only way to get to Busch is to skirt the
traffic and cross the yellow striped left turn lane. He stated
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 8
that every morning traffic in the northbound lane on Weiland Road
is backed up from Busch Road to Pauline Avenue and this maneuver
is almost impossible. He further noted that the yellow dividing
line on Weiland is about six feet deep from north to south.
Mr. Miller stated the reason for the small dividing line is that
they have cut back the nose in order to make it easier to come out
at Bentley Place.
Chairman Silbernik stated that this is probably the reason the
County wants a continuous right turn lane so that additional
traffic does obstruct the left turn lane to Busch Road.
Mr. Bloom further stated that he banks at the Northbrook bank
facility and there is a great deal of cut through traffic going on
at that location.
Chairman Silbernik stated that this is a problem that would have
to be dealt with through enforcement.
Ms. Smith interjected her calculations as to how many customers
pass through the early hour drive throughs. She stated that
approximately 30 customers use the early morning drive through
facility.
Arnold Rosenbaum, 360 Bentley Place, asked how vehicles would make
a left turn into the bank facility on Weiland if cars are bumper
to bumper.
Chairman Silbernik stated that this question had already been
answered. He noted that traffic moving southbound on Weiland Road
would be expected to make a left turn on Busch and enter the bank
facility at the Busch driveway access.
Mr. Miller reiterated that the early morning peak hours will show
a maximum of 30 vehicles. Of that 30 a certain number will be
turning right on Busch into the bank. He noted that during the
morning peak hour which seems to be crucial to the traffic
congestion is the time the bank is experiencing lower volumes. He
noted that the bank's peak is usually in the evening between 5: 00
to 6: 00 p.m. and Saturdays.
Mr. Rosenbaum stated that aligning the bank driveway with Bentley
Place will make it even more impossible for residents to exit
Bentley Place.
Mr. Miller stated that duringthe morning g peak most people will
opt to continue east on Busch and turn right into the bank
facility. The only people with no option are those coming west on
Busch. They would have to make a left on Weiland and then turn
left into the bank. However, that is the lightest traffic
movement of vehicles entering the bank property.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 9
Commissioner Goldspiel stated that it is Village policy to try and
align streets and access driveways because there is less conflict
with turning movements. He noted that the Village traffic
consultant is firm in stating that the Weiland Road access for the
bank parcel must align Bentley Place.
Commissioner Samuels noted that many of the comments by the public
are expressing general frustration with the traffic congestion
that exists in the area. However, the subject of the hearing is
deals with this particular development, not alleviation of traffic
congestion in the area. He noted that it has been stated by the
petitioner's traffic expert that the bank facility will generate
very little additional traffic on Weiland and Busch Road.
Sylvia Gold, 364 Bentley Place, asked how many employees will be
at the bank.
Ms. Smith stated that there would be 7 to 10 employees at the
facility at one time.
Paul Kaufman, 384 Bentley Place, asked why the proposed plan does
not align the driveway access with the shopping center on the west
side of Weiland.
Commissioner Samuels noted that the driveway at the shopping
center is too close to Busch Road, and the turning lanes serving
the intersection would not function properly.
Mr. Miller stated that there is a northbound left turn lane from
Weiland to Busch. Therefore it would be impossible to develop
adequate turn lanes for both northbound and southbound movements.
Mr. Kaufman asked why the undeveloped parcel is being left as
industrial zoning.
Mr. Freedman stated that B-3 zoning is designed specifically to
give the Village control over the development of the bank
facility. He said the Village does not generally grant B-3 zoning
without a specific plan and use for a property. Until a use is
found for the remaining parcel the clients would like to leave it
as industrial.
Don Litz, 390 Bentley Place, asked if it would be possible to
close off the left turn access to southbound traffic on Weiland
Road during peak morning hours as well as the use of speed bumps
in the facility to cut down on cut through traffic.
Mr. Freedman stated that speed bumps are not good for snow plowing
services. He further noted that the intersection is controlled by
the Village and ultimately the Village would have to make the
determination concerning access restrictions.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page q 10
Mr. Goldgehn stated that there is not enough information about
what will happen to Busch and Weiland from the County level to
make an intelligent decision on the proposed plan. He further
noted that spot zoning will be the result if the B-3 zoning is
granted, and one parcel remains with Industrial zoning. He stated
that the owner of the property has the right to the highest use of
the property but the Village must ensure traffic safety. He said
that once B-3 is granted for a portion of the track it will be
difficult for the Village to deny commercial zoning for the rest
of the property.
Chairman Silbernik stated that the purpose of the public hearing
is to garner as much information as possible. There has been some
evidence to suggest that there may be some alleviation of the
traffic problem on Busch and Weiland. He noted that they have
been advised that a maximum of 30 vehicles would be added to the
morning peak hours. He stated that all of this information will
be digested prior to a vote.
Commissioner Krug if any increased traffic has been considered for
the third, fourth and fifth days of each month when customers want
to deposit or cash various federal payments.
Ms. Smith stated that most social security deposits are now direct
deposits as are other forms of monthly deposits. She noted that
direct deposit is now the trend in banking.
Andrew Long, 388 Bentley Place, stated that there may be a great
deal of traffic coming out of the corporate businesses that the
bank will be drawing from.
Mr. Freedman stated that corporate business would not be taking
place at 7:00 a.m.
Mr. Long asked if there is any estimate for ATM traffic in the
early morning hours.
Chairman Silbernik stated that cash stations are so prevalent
throughout the community that most people will not go out of their
way to use this particular cash station.
Mr. Long asked why the building is sited as proposed.
Mr. Freedman stated that specific siting of the building had been
discussed at previous workshop meetings. He stated that it was
felt that this was the best siting in relation to traffic and
security.
There being no further comments or questions from anyone present,
Chairman Silbernik closed the public hearing at 9: 10 p.m.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 11
Respe sully sub tted,
Fay R •in, re ording Secretary
APPROV •
MARTIN SILBERNIK, Chairman
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 20, 1993-Page 12
REGULAR MEETING
BUFFALO GROVE PLAN COMMISSION
October 20, 1993
Comerica Bank, Southeast Corner of Busch Road/Weiland
Road - Rezoning from the Industrial District to the
B-3 District and Approval of a Preliminary Plan
Checker Place, Northwest Corner of Buffalo Grove
Road/Checker Road - Rezoning from the B-3 District
to R-9 P.U.D. and Approval of a Preliminary Plan
Workshop #2
Chairman Silbernik called the meeting to order at 9:15 p.m. in
Room 24, Buffalo Grove Park District Alcott Center, 530 Bernard
Drive, Buffalo Grove, Illinois.
Commissioners present: Chairman Silbernik
Mr. Goldspiel
Mr. Krug
Mr. Samuels
Ms. Genell
Mr. Berman
Commissioners absent: Mr. Rhodes
Ms. Howard
Mr. Rosenston
Also present: Mr. Lawrence Freedman, Ash, Anos, Freedman
& Logan
Mr. John Mitchell, Otis Associates, Inc.
Mr. Daniel Lynch, Christopher Burke
Engineering, Ltd.
Mr. David Miller, Metro Transportation
Group, Inc.
Ms. Gerrie Smith, Comerica Bank
Mr. Donald J. Truschke, Comerica Bank
Mr. Russ Taylor, Ralph Burke Associates
Mr. Bernard Gold, G.S. Building Corp.
Mr. John Marienthal, Village Trustee
Mr. Richard Kuenkler, Village Engineer
Mr. Robert Pfeil, Village Planner
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Moved by Commissioner Samuels, seconded by Commissioner Berman to
approve the minutes of the public hearing of September 22, 1993 on
Concord Glen. Commissioner Genell noted several typographical
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Mtg-October 20, 1993-Page 1
errors on page 5.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted a typographical error on page 10.
All Commissioners were in favor of the motion as amended, and the
motion passed unanimously, with Chairman Silbernik abstaining.
Moved by Commissioner Genell, seconded by Commissioner Samuels to
approve the minutes of the public hearing of September 22, 1993 on
Outback Steakhouse. Commissioner Krug stated that on page 4,
paragraph 9, the word "units" be included and how long they had
been in business. All Commissioners were in favor of the motion
as amended, and the motion passed unanimously, with Chairman
Silbernik abstaining.
Moved by Commissioner Goldspiel, seconded by Commissioner Berman
to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting of September 22,
1993 . All Commissioners were in favor of the motion and the
motion passed unanimously with Chairman Silbernik abstaining.
COMMITTEE AND LIAISON REPORTS -
Commissioner Goldspiel reported on the Village Board meeting of
October 18, 1993; the following planning items were discussed:
1. Concord Glen annexation agreement hearing was continued;
2 . Approval of a resolution objecting to rezoning by Lake County
of an unincorporated property on Weiland Road.
COMERICA BANK, SOUTHEAST CORNER OF BUSCH ROAD/WEILAND ROAD,
REZONING TO THE B-3 DISTRICT AND APPROVAL OF PRELIMINARY PLAN
Moved by Commissioner Samuels, seconded by Commissioner Goldspiel
to recommend approval to the Village Board of the petition for
rezoning from the Industrial District to the B-3 Planned Business
Center District for Lots 1 and 2, and for approval of a
Preliminary Plan for Lots 1, 2 and 3 pursuant to exhibits and
testimony presented at the public hearing.
Commissioner Goldspiel stated that most comments directed at
zoning and use at the public hearing were favorable. He noted a
great deal of concern regarding traffic issues from the very
beginning of this plan. He noted that Busch Road has been slated
for improvements and there has also been some discussion of
improvements for Weiland Road. He noted that staff has made
adequate provision for the improvement of the intersection at
Busch and Weiland and noted that both ingress and egress has been
addressed and provided for this development as well as any future
development on the site. He noted that access on Weiland Road has
been designed so as not to conflict with any left or right turns.
He further noted that it has been recommended by the traffic
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular -Mtq October 20, 1993-Page 2
experts that it would be best to go with a bi- direction left lane
turn lane on Weiland Road.
Commissioner Goldspiel pointed out that the stormwater detention
area has been designed for the whole 10-acre parcel and an
easement will be provided for coordination of access and traffic
circulation for the bank and the future development on the
remaining industrial parcel. He stated that the use on this site
is appropriate with the non-residential, industrial and business
character of the area. He stated that public support will be
necessary when the roads require widening and he would hope that
the residents would cooperate and support such improvements. In
summary, he stated that this seems to be a very desirable
development that is well sited and well planned and will be an
advantage to the neighborhood.
Commissioner Krug stated this development will be a good step for
Buffalo Grove and he is in favor of it. He noted that the traffic
issues had been adequately addressed.
Commissioner Genell stated that she agrees with the concept of a
bank. However she noted concern with transportation and stated she
hoped the Village and County would move things along the priority
list for improvements on these roads.
Commissioner Samuels stated that the issue of cut through traffic
has been addressed as well as can be expected. He stated that the
development will be an asset to the community and he also hoped
that the residents of Buffalo Grove would support any widening of
roads when plans are proposed.
Commissioner Berman concurred with Commissioners Samuels and
Goldspiel. He stated that he hoped the traffic issues would be
resolved by the agencies empowered to do so. He further stated
that this development is the least intrusive and best use for this
corner. He stated that this development will be a convenience for
the area and he is pleased to have a zoning district upgraded as
he would not want to see an industrial development on the entire
10-acre site.
Chairman Silbernik stated that the Plan Commission has done an
outstanding job over the years directing the growth of the
Village. He stated that he is excited by the original concept of
this development and feels that this is the best overall use for
this corner in terms of visibility and aesthetics. He noted that
banks are historically good neighbors and also stressed the hope
that residents will support road widening projects in the area
when plans are proposed.
Chairman Silbernik called for a vote on the motion and the vote
was as follows:
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Mtg-October 20, 1993-Page 3
AYES: Goldspiel, Krug, Samuels, Genell, Berman, Silbernik
NAYES: None
ABSENT: Rhodes, Howard, Rosenston
ABSTAIN: None
The motion passed 6 to 0.
CHECKER PLACE, NORTHWEST CORNER OF BUFFALO GROVE ROAD/CHECKER
ROAD, REZONING TO R-9 P.U.D. -- WORKSHOP t2
Chairman Silbernik excused himself from the chair and Vice
Chairman Goldspiel took over the meeting.
Mr. Russ Taylor of Ralph Burke Associates stated the plan now
incorporates a new unit so that there are three product types
comprised of an interior two-story townhouse, an end two-story
townhouse and a flat over flat unit. He stated that the total
number of dwelling units has been reduced from 56 units to 52
units of which 28 are townhouse units and 24 are flat over flat
units.
Mr. Taylor stated that the road configuration is basically the
same as the previous plan, although much of the pavement in the
southeast corner of the property has been moved pursuant to the
Commission's previous comments.
Mr. Taylor stated the new product units have been incorporated
into buildings 1, 2 and 8. On the west side of the street the
plan now shows a 40 foot side-to-rear separation and side-to-front
separation. He noted that the plan also provides a greater
separation from Checker Road to the first unit driveway.
Mr. Taylor further stated that based on staff comments they have
removed some on-street perpendicular parking to simplify traffic
movement. The plan also provides some driveways that serve entire
buildings, thereby reducing the number of curb cuts on the street.
This was done in response to the Village Public Works
Director's comment that the number of curb cuts should be reduced.
Mr. Taylor also stated that due to the new shorter building length
they have been able to widen the separation between buildings 6
and 7 by 25 feet and 35 feet on the western edge. An 8 unit
building has been incorporated on the north property line to
accommodate the shifting of the buildings and to allow the use of
a driveway serving the entire building with only one curb cut.
Mr. Taylor reviewed the street connection to Checker Road. If the
street is aligned with Manchester Drive, the site plan is greatly
impacted. He said that it is the developer's suggestion that the
street be allowed to be offset from Manchester Drive, with a
design at the intersection with Checker Road that will facilitate
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Mtg-October 20, 1993-Page 4
turning movements in and out of the site. He indicated that the
proposed design provides two lanes out onto Checker to allow right
turn and left turn movements. A separation of 290 feet from the
curb line of Buffalo Grove Road is maintained so that there is
still adequate distance to provide for stacking of traffic on
Checker Road at the Buffalo Grove Road intersection.
Mr. Taylor noted that one of the suggestions by the Village's
traffic consultant is to construct an island at the street
connection to Buffalo Grove Road to regulate right-in, right-out
traffic movements. He commented that there is a barrier median on
Buffalo Grove Road at this location, so there will be no
opportunity for vehicles to turn left to go north on Buffalo Grove
Road. He said that the developer would prefer not to construct
the island since it would not really serve to regulate traffic
movements.
Mr. Taylor stated that according to the demographic standards
developed by Associated Municipal Consultants, the proposed 52
dwelling units would generate 120 persons total including 16
school age children. He stated that the developer believes that
the homes will be a neighborhood consisting mainly of empty
nesters.
Commissioner Krug stated that the new plan is a big improvement
over the original plan, however, he would like to see Mr.
Carmignani's comments on the new plan. He asked where the
stormwater detention would be located.
Mr. Taylor stated that stormwater detention is provided off-site
based on the engineering plan approved for the Vintage
development.
Commissioner Genell asked if the 35 foot setback on building 8
would be comparable to the setback across the street at Town
Place.
Mr. Pfeil stated that Town Place has a 35-foot setback from the
Buffalo Grove Road right-of-way.
Commissioner Genell asked how far building 5 is from the deck.
Mr. Taylor stated the deck is 6 feet and the unit is therefore
approximately 33 feet from the building line.
Commissioner Samuels noted that he still finds the proposed plan
to be extremely dense, lacking amenities and overloaded with
pavement. He stated that he would like to see a further reduction
in the density and more public space or amenities in order to give
some distinction to this development.
Commissioner Goldspiel stated he agreed with Mr. Pfeil's memo of
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Mtg-October 20, 1993-Page 5
October 15, 1993 suggesting the sidewalks should be adjusted to
connect directly to the internal street instead of to driveway
areas.
Mr. Taylor agreed to this adjustment.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted that the main issue surrounding this
development is the road design and asked for clarification of the
alternate plan.
Mr. Taylor stated that the traffic engineer is concerned because
the intersection of the proposed street with Checker Road is only
90 feet from the intersection of Manchester Drive. The engineer
would like to accommodate potential left hand turns occurring at
these streets where they intersect with Checker Road.
Commissioner Goldspiel stated that the proposed design for
channeling traffic and regulating turning movements at the
intersection with Checker Road looks as though it will cause more
problems than if a standard intersection design is used. He said
it seems like an obstacle is being created for anyone making a
turn into the development. He also noted the undesirability of a
dual lane exit which cuts down on green space and does not serve
any purpose for the low amount of traffic.
Mr. Kuenkler stated that it is important to have adequate
dimensions on Checker Road for storage of cars and tapers for the
turn lanes. He indicated that the offset of the new street and
Manchester Drive appears to be workable, although the turn lane on
Checker Road serving these streets will be bi-directional.
Commissioner Krug stated that the traffic volume entering the
development from Checker Road would not be large enough to warrant
a divided median at the street intersection.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the Commission would like to
concentrate on aligning the new street with Manchester Drive or if
the street intersection design just needs refinement.
Commissioner Berman said he thinks that the offset from Manchester
Drive could work if the intersection at Checker Road is designed
properly.
Commissioner Genell stated she still has a problem with the
density and noted the development needs a more viable design.
Commissioner Berman stated he would like to see building 9
eliminated and separate building 8 into two buildings. He noted
that this would give the developer more flexibility with the road
as well as reduce the density somewhat and create more open space.
Commissioner Samuels concurred with Commissioner Berman and noted
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Mtg-October 20, 1993-Page 6
that the building could then be moved farther east which would
open up the corner.
Commissioner Goldspiel noted he would like to see building 4
revised since it cuts down on the side yard for building 5. He
also noted that he is not bothered by the density of the
development as this will be a good transition from the residential
area at Vintage as well as a benefit to the nearby Town Center.
Commissioner Samuels stated the development looks overbuilt.
He noted that his concern is primarily with the coverage of the
property being proposed by the plan, not with the number of
dwelling units on the plan.
Mr. Gold reviewed the various building elevations. He said the
design of the buildings uses varied lines for the roofs and other
exterior features to create an interesting appearance.
He noted that the elevations are designed to give the development
a single-family residential appearance. He said that two or three
colors would be used in the exterior materials and there would be
varied use of the brick and siding elements.
Mr. Freedman stated the developer requests that the Plan
Commission schedule an additional workshop so that the issues
raised at this workshop can be resolved prior to the public
hearing.
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT - None
FUTURE AGENDA SCHEDULE
Mr. Pfeil noted there would be a meeting on November 3, 1993.
PUBLIC COMMENTS AND OUESTIONS - None
STAFF REPORT - None
NEW BUSINESS - None
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Commissioner Genell, seconded by Commissioner Berman, and
carried unanimously to adjourn. Vice Chairman Goldspiel adjourned
the meeting at 10:40 p.m.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Mtg-October 20, 1993-Page 7
Respectfully s itted,
Fay Rubin, R cording Secretary
APPROVE
TIN SILBERNIK, Chairman
Buffalo Grove PlanMtg-October Comm-Regular Mtq October 20, 1993-Page 8