The Temperance Trails project, spearheaded by the Cook County Housing Redevelopment Authority, aims to subdivide a 29.37-acre parcel into ten residential lots as part of a planned unit development. The proposal includes a mix of two-bedroom and three-bedroom homes. Staff presentations emphasized the importance of adhering to zoning requirements and state and federal regulations, especially concerning wetland impacts. However, inaccuracies in wetland boundaries and discrepancies in total area calculations were identified, necessitating revisions before approval could be granted.

The preliminary plat’s inaccuracies, particularly in wetland delineation, were a central concern. The proposed road needed adjustments to minimize impacts on wetland areas, and questions about the septic system’s design and proximity to stormwater ponds were raised. The staff recommended tabling the application until these issues could be addressed, citing the need for accurate wetland delineation, revised lot sizes, compliance with stormwater management requirements, and updated homeowners’ association (HOA) documentation.

During the public comment period, a representative from the Cook County Housing Redevelopment Authority acknowledged the issues and expressed a commitment to resolving them. He highlighted the need to adhere to agreements with the prospective builder and emphasized the importance of facilitating progress on the project despite the outstanding issues.

Commissioners appreciated the thoroughness of the staff presentation but voiced concerns about specific aspects of the proposal, particularly the septic design. Discrepancies in the application, such as wetlands on lots 108 and 109, were highlighted, raising questions about how the developer would protect these wetlands and whether protective easements should be incorporated into the HOA agreements.

The application was tabled, pending further revisions and discussions.

Following the Temperance Trails discussion, the Commission addressed a variance request from Michael and Teresa Kik for constructing a 34 x 94 accessory structure, which would serve as a laundry garage shop and include three employee housing units, at a reduced road setback of 26 feet from the centerline. Additionally, they requested to place three rental cabins at a 35-foot road setback on their property located on Craw Road. Concerns about impacts on bluff stability and water runoff were raised, with staff emphasizing the need for careful evaluation to prevent unintended consequences.

Public comments revealed divided opinions among residents. Some supported the project, noting its potential benefits for tourism and the local economy, while others opposed it due to concerns about the size and location of the proposed structures. Specific worries included increased traffic, stormwater runoff, and the project’s impact on the area’s character.

A speaker, identified as Michael Kelik, addressed the Commission, clarifying misconceptions about the project and emphasizing that there was no plan for an event center. He argued that the variance plan represented a better approach than constructing a larger building without a variance on the lakeside of Crawfield Road.

Further deliberations focused on the proposed building’s location and its proximity to a bluff. Concerns about the feasibility of road improvements and the impact on existing properties were discussed. The members acknowledged the challenges posed by heavy snowfall and the necessity of a snow management plan. The need for worker housing and adherence to zoning regulations were also highlighted.

The Commission members expressed a desire to balance community concerns with the legal framework guiding their decisions. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that all viewpoints were considered while navigating the complexities of zoning and land use regulations.

Ultimately, a motion was made to table the variance request for 30 days, allowing for the development of a bluff management plan by a local contractor. The motion passed unanimously, and the board set to reconvene on October 16th to further explore the issues surrounding the bluff and the proposed structure’s placement.