Plans for a revitalized downtown move forward as the Village begins the process for a Downtown Development Plan while the Drake Group proposal for 1850 Glenview Rd. advances.
1850 Glenview Road (Bess Hardware site)
The proposal from the Drake Group has gained preliminary approval from the Appearance Commission, subject to a second vote at a future Appearance Commission meeting. A third amendment to the purchase agreement between the Drake Group and the Village was approved by the Board of Trustees on July 21. The amendment extends the closing time for the purchase, allowing for a potential change in title insurance companies. The amendment also contains provisions that will facilitate the demolition of the building that sits on the property.
While the Village moves ahead with the approval process, a lawsuit attempting to challenge the sale and rezoning process has been filed on behalf of the residents of Station Place and other named neighbors. In the initial court hearing this past week, the judge denied their request for emergency injunctive relief (“TRO”), but has allowed Station Place to proceed with amended pleadings.
Downtown Development Plan and Moratorium
On July 7, the Board of Trustees established a temporary moratorium on new projects in the Downtown District. This will allow time for the creation of an Economic Development Plan and update the the Downtown Revitalization Plan of 2006. On July 21, the Board amended the moratorium to allow an exception appeal process that was not part of the original proposal. The moratorium will last for nine months. The moratorium does not affect the development at 1850 Glenview Rd. (Bess Hardware site).
Village Hires Development Plan Consultant
The Village has hired CallisonRTKL Inc. to help formulate the Development Plan. During the nine month moratorium, the consultants will assist the Village to gather data, consult with stakeholders, and conduct meetings with the public.