[0:00] It is now 7:00 PM, and we'd like to call the Village of Libertyville board meeting [0:04] to order for the day of September 8th, 2026. [0:09] At this time, Madam Clerk, can you call the roll? [0:11] Trustee Adams. [0:12] Here. [0:13] Trustee Garrity. [0:14] Here. [0:14] Trustee Kromick. [0:15] Here. [0:15] Trustee Rooney. Trustee McDonald. [0:18] Here. [0:18] Trustee Herrmann. [0:19] Here. [0:19] Mayor Johnson. [0:20] Present. And with that, I will ask Trustee Kara McDonald to lead us in the Pledge [0:25] of Allegiance. [0:27] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the [0:32] Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, [0:38] with liberty and justice for all. [0:42] Briefly, we have a few brief housekeeping matters. [0:45] First of all, for those of you who this is your first time in attendance in our [0:49] board meeting, I want to welcome you to the Libertyville board meeting for the date [0:53] of September 8th, 2026. If you would like to provide public comment on a matter, [0:59] at the front table where that gentleman is standing at the front entrance, there's [1:02] a form there. Complete it. It is intuitive. [1:06] There's a little line in the left-hand corner. [1:08] Please indicate what number item on the agenda you wish to provide public comment [1:13] on, and then give it to the closest staff member here at the table. [1:16] They will get it up here to me and the clerk, and we will call you in the order [1:21] that the item appears on the agenda, and if we have multiple people, in the order [1:25] in which we receive your form that you completed at the front desk there. [1:29] So thank you for that. And now, [1:33] having said that, I will move down to agenda item number two. [1:38] Is Alyssa Vinci in the room? Hi, Alyssa, how are you? [1:42] Good. How are you? [1:43] I'm doing well. [1:46] Is there a timer again? [1:48] I'm sorry. [1:48] Is there a timer again? [1:50] Yes. [1:50] Okay. [1:51] Three minutes. And please state your name for the record, please. [1:55] Yep. Alyssa Vinci. [1:56] Thank you. It's being recorded. That's why I ask you to repeat it. Thank you. [1:59] Yep, no worries. Good evening, again. [2:02] I had hoped the next time you would see me, I would simply be here to celebrate all [2:06] the positive movements in the communities. Unfortunately, that is not the case. [2:12] I am here tonight to ring an alarm bell, one that I also rang at the Lake County [2:16] Board meeting this morning, [2:19] about a major loophole that is about to slip through our fingers. [2:22] Three loopholes exist around data centers. [2:25] The first, inadequate meaningful public engagement. [2:28] The second, choosing not to amend zoning [2:33] to include hyperscale developments as their own category. [2:38] Those were Gray's Lake's loopholes. [2:40] But the third loophole belongs to Lake County, the surrounding towns, all of us. [2:46] Failing to establish independent baseline measurements before the development [2:50] starts to change the existing conditions. [2:53] I honestly assumed I would not have to advocate for this, but here we are. [2:58] The first building permit has been approved. [3:01] The substation construction has begun, and I cannot find any public commitment that [3:06] independent baseline testing will be conducted. [3:09] Instead, through emails with surrounding towns, all around T5, I am uncovering that [3:15] existing ordinances and state regulations will protect us. [3:19] So I want to take a chance to explain that a little bit more. [3:22] Ordinances measure compliance. Baselines measure change. [3:26] The ordinance tells you whether a limit was exceeded. [3:29] The baseline tells you what changed. [3:33] I looked through the Village of Libertyville's noise ordinances. [3:35] You actually have some of the most robust in the county. [3:38] You look at the lower frequencies, which I appreciate. [3:42] Unfortunately, that is not always enough. [3:45] In Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, Microsoft themselves admitted that they were [3:49] operating under ordinance levels, but also admitted that the total noise was [3:53] traveling farther than they anticipated. [3:56] There is now residents up to 1.5 miles away from the Microsoft Center pursuing a [4:01] class action lawsuit, the first class action lawsuit in Wisconsin against a data [4:05] center. This isn't hypothetical. [4:08] Baselines are used by Aurora, Yorkville, Naperville, and Mount Prospect as best [4:13] cases to establish what exists in the communities before they change. [4:20] That includes things like sound, air, light, traffic, vibrations, and heat. [4:24] Because once the before is gone, we will not be able to recreate it. [4:28] When residents eventually say, "Hey, something's changed," the question from the T5 [4:33] company will be, "Compared to what?" [4:36] So my request tonight is not that Libertyville solves every data center problem. [4:40] There are too many to count. I am asking you to help preserve the evidence while we [4:44] still can. Construction is already happening. [4:47] Please establish independent baselines. [4:49] Please work with your surrounding towns and the Lake County Board. [4:52] There's evidence that Lake County has co-done this with Waukegan and Green Bay [4:56] before when they measured levels in the air. The baseline cannot wait. [5:01] Please help us establish the before, before it's gone. Thank you. [5:07] Thank you for your comments. [5:11] Is there any other person that wishes to provide a comment to the board under [5:16] agenda item two this evening? If not, we will move on to the omnibus [5:22] vote agenda [5:24] in a single group. I have been told that there are individuals here to [5:30] hear what's happening with the omnibus, but you're not requesting to provide [5:35] public comment on the items that are on the agenda this evening. Is that correct? [5:40] All right. Just want to make sure. So with that, are there any items that are part [5:46] of the omnibus vote, a single group, that any trustee would like to take out for [5:50] separate discussion this evening? [5:53] If not, I will entertain a motion for approval of the omnibus vote agenda in a [5:57] single group at this time. [5:58] I move to adopt the items listed on the omnibus vote agenda in a single group [6:01] pursuant to the omnibus vote procedures of the Libertyville Municipal Code, subject [6:06] to conditions identified, if any, in the agenda supplements or such items. [6:11] Thank you. The omnibus vote agenda on a single group has been moved on. [6:15] Do I have a second? [6:16] Second. [6:16] Thank you. Any further discussion on that motion? [6:19] Hearing no further discussion, Madam Clerk, can you call the roll? [6:22] Trustee Adams. [6:23] Aye. [6:23] Trustee Garrity. [6:24] Aye. [6:24] Trustee Kromick. [6:25] Aye. [6:25] Trustee McDonald. [6:26] Aye. [6:26] Trustee Herrmann. [6:27] Aye. [6:28] Thank you. The board has taken action at this time and moved to adopt the omnibus [6:32] vote agenda in a single group. Moving down to agenda item four, which [6:37] is consideration and report of the Planning Commission on a special use permit for [6:43] PC26-10, a site plan permit, [6:47] PC26-11, for a car wash and associated site improvements [6:53] at 211 South Milwaukee Avenue. Papos 3 LLC is the [6:58] applicant. Briefly, in summary, before we call anyone up, the staff [7:04] report indicates that Papos 3 LLC is requesting a special use [7:10] permit and site plan for the development of a car wash and associated site [7:15] improvements at 211 South Milwaukee Avenue. [7:18] The applicant is also requesting a variation from the fence location requirements [7:24] to allow a fence in the front yard and a variation from the front yard setback [7:29] requirements. This project was reviewed by the Appearance Review Commission on [7:34] April 22nd, 2026 and received a recommendation for approval with [7:40] conditions. Those conditions are noted in the ARC minutes from the April 27th [7:46] meeting. The project was heard at the May 18th, 2026 meeting of the Planning [7:52] Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals. [7:55] After hearing presentation from the applicant and public testimony, the commission [8:00] reviewed the applicant's materials and continued the discussion to the July 13th, [8:06] 2026 meeting. At the applicant's request, the items were further continued to the [8:12] August 24th, 2026 meeting, at which the Planning Commission recommended [8:17] denial of the special use permit and the site plan permit by a vote of six to zero. [8:23] If the board accepts the Planning Commission's recommendation for denial, the [8:28] request will be denied. Alternatively, if the board wishes to approve the [8:33] petitioner's request, a separate motion is required for each request inclusive of [8:39] the conditions listed in the report, and an ordinance will be prepared for the next [8:43] board meeting reflecting this decision. [8:46] Under Illinois law, since the applicant received a negative recommendation from the [8:51] Planning Commission, any ordinance approving the requested relief must be approved [8:56] by the majority of trustees. And so with that, [9:01] would the petitioner like to step forward? [9:04] Who's going to be speaking for you this evening? Joe? Okay. [9:08] So Joe, just let me explain to you the process here at the board level. [9:11] So I just read the staff report and the summary. [9:14] If there's anything that I read in the staff's report or summary that you disagree [9:19] with, let me know that. If not, the next part of the process will be, I know you [9:24] have something that you plan to present. [9:26] Mm-hmm. [9:26] The next part of the process is opening it up for public comment from the audience [9:32] Turning it over to the board, and then before we turn it over to the audience for [9:36] any public comment, the department head, Heather Rowe, who you've met before at [9:41] community development, has a brief summary and outline that she will present to [9:46] the trustees. And then at that time, if there's something that you want to clarify [9:52] or question that she's presented, we present a summary, you can do so. [9:56] If not, you can wait till there's been some public comment, then provide rebuttal, [10:01] or you can wait to provide rebuttal and clarification after public comment has been [10:06] entertained and after the trustees have had discussion. It's just up to you. [10:12] And you always have an opportunity, what we call in the legal system, to do [10:17] redirect, to ask more questions from what you're hearing. [10:20] So- [10:20] Yep [10:21] ... there's opportunity for that as well. [10:23] Yep. [10:23] So with that, Heather, you want to start with your brief summary, and then, Joe, [10:27] you can come up after she finishes. [10:29] Okay. [10:29] Thank you. [10:29] Great. [10:39] Okay. [10:39] I think it's missing something. [10:42] We're still going. [10:43] Do you... Okay. [10:47] I know. [10:51] Good evening, mayor and board. [10:54] The item before you tonight is several cases. [10:58] As you can see, ZBA cases 26-14 and 26-18, as well as [11:04] Plan Commission cases 26-10 and 26-11. [11:09] The applicant is Papo's 3 LLC. Joe Stone, who you had up here, [11:15] is the representative for them this evening. [11:18] They are requesting a special use permit, a site plan permit, as well as [11:24] two variations. The items before you are the Plan Commission report, [11:30] as well as the report of the Zoning Board of Appeals. [11:33] You can see the site on South Milwaukee as represented on the top on an aerial, and [11:38] on the bottom, you can see the zoning map excerpt for that. [11:44] The property is on the west side of Milwaukee Avenue [11:49] on the block extending south from Sunnyside. If you'll advance, please. [11:54] This is the site plan that they'll be going through with you. [11:58] As you can see from here, there's two variations being requested. [12:02] Mm-hmm. [12:03] The first is a front yard setback, and the second one is for the fence extending in [12:09] front of the building line. You can see the red line at the bottom is where they [12:13] have a sound wall fence, and in the sections where it extends beyond the building, [12:20] closer to the street is what triggers that variation. If you'll advance, please. [12:26] This is just for your reference. Throughout the process, the applicant has made a [12:30] number of changes to the site plan. [12:32] A number of those have reduced some of the requests. [12:34] They're no longer requesting a text amendment. [12:37] They've reduced quite a few of the variations. [12:39] This is the ingress-egress plan that was modified at the Plan [12:44] Commission at their last meeting before it came to you. [12:49] I'm sure they will go into more detail, but you can see the exiting is intended to [12:54] only exit towards Milwaukee Avenue and not to the neighborhood at Sunnyside or [13:00] McKinley. Entrance is only on that Sunnyside. [13:04] If you'll advance, please. This is just the landscape plan, as you can see, for [13:08] reference. One of the variations that they did get rid of through the modifications [13:15] in the process was to their request for landscaping variations. [13:21] So this is the landscape plan, and it is compliant. [13:25] If you can move forward, please. [13:27] Again, they have also made some modifications to their signage throughout, so no [13:31] longer necessitating those variations or text amendment, and this is just an [13:36] excerpt of that facade. [13:40] Thank you. This is the review process, which you're familiar with, and for the [13:43] benefit of the audience here today, they did file that application, [13:50] and following the filing of the application, the materials were made available to [13:54] the public on the village website, as well as through public notices, as required [13:59] by state law. Staff also did an internal review and forwarded the material to [14:05] our consultants. Our consultants' review of their materials is provided to you in [14:12] the various materials. [14:14] The item did go to the Appearance Review Commission. [14:17] That body just looks at the facade and the landscaping type materials. [14:21] They did recommend approval four to zero to the Plan Commission. [14:24] The Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals heard the various items that were [14:28] before them. After deliberation and public testimony that was received, [14:34] they did determine their recommendation to be denial on all items by a vote of six [14:40] to zero, which brings us to the Village Board this evening. [14:44] And of course, the board has the opportunity for a denial or approval this evening. [14:51] Throughout the process, the Plan Commission and Zoning Board do look at standards. [14:56] That's a requirement for any item, and they determine whether or not a project [15:00] meets the standards, for instance, for special use permits. [15:03] A number of items for consideration are listed here as reflected right out of our [15:08] village ordinance. [15:11] In standards for variation, they do the same type of determination, and the items, [15:16] again, are listed in the municipal code, the zoning code, and this is just a [15:21] summary of some of the type of items that they looked at when making their [15:24] determination. [15:27] And that's staff's report. Thank you. [15:29] Thank you. [15:32] Any questions right now at this point? It's early. Okay. Joe, you can come back up. [15:44] Okay. [15:45] And introduce yourself to the board, too. [15:47] Check. [15:48] Okay. [15:50] Is the pointer missing? Is that what- [15:52] Yeah. [15:53] I know. [15:53] Okay. It's on its way. [15:55] You're right. [15:57] Is it- [15:58] Okay [15:58] ... is it going now? [16:00] Yes. [16:00] Okay. [16:01] We'll make do. [16:02] Okay. [16:02] That's okay. [16:05] So my name's Joe Stone. [16:06] Mm-hmm. [16:07] I am one of the owners of Papo's Express. [16:09] With me today is, most importantly, my father-in-law, but also business partner, [16:14] Russ, and then Steven, who is the sound engineer for [16:20] the study, should you have any questions for him. He's here at your disposal. [16:26] Okay. [16:26] So a little bit before we get into the nuts and bolts of the project, a little bit [16:32] more in-depth than Heather did, I first wanted to introduce who we are, Papo's [16:36] Express. We are a family-owned business that was started by my father-in-law, Russ, [16:41] back in 1983. He did that after six years in the Navy, and one of his first jobs [16:47] was working for a gentleman named Roger. [16:50] He convinced Roger to become a partner of his, who he later ended up buying out and [16:55] then growing his business from there. [16:57] Later, about 10 years after that, so on the left, that's a picture of all of us [17:02] when we opened our Lakeview Beach location in 2018. [17:06] The gentleman in the beard all the way on the right, that is his brother, Israel. [17:10] He joined the business around 10 years after he started, so sometime around [17:15] '93. Israel was a master electrician who had 20 employees in his own [17:21] electrical contracting company. [17:23] Okay. [17:23] So they determined that he spent too much time working on my father-in-law's stuff, [17:28] and they might as well just become partners. [17:29] So they merged, and then in 2018, Dwayne, who's the tall [17:35] gentleman in the middle, he's Israel's son-in-law, and then myself joined the [17:40] company, and so we have four partners, and we are loving what we're doing. [17:46] Nice family-owned business. We currently own and operate eight locations in the [17:51] Chicagoland area, and we are also a car wash distributor for 11 car wash [17:57] manufacturers, where we will sell and install the equipment for people that want to [18:01] build car washes. So that's a little bit about us. [18:05] If you could go to the next slide, please. [18:07] So a little bit, Papo's Express is more than just a name. [18:13] Very sadly, [18:15] a family member of ours, Israel's son, [18:18] lost his battle to leukemia, and ever since, we've rebranded all of our businesses [18:24] in his name, in his memory. And we've been, every single year, contributing money [18:30] from all of our businesses to try to end leukemia and other blood cancers, and [18:36] we're very proud of, so far to date, we've been able to donate over $720,000 [18:42] in Papo's name to fight leukemia. [18:45] We're extremely proud that in 2024 and 2025, we were actually the number one donor [18:51] in Chicago Land area, beating out Walgreens both years. [18:55] And we're very [18:59] proud of what we've done, and we want to turn this tragedy into something positive [19:04] and try to avoid heartbreak for other families that we felt in our family. [19:10] So if you could, next slide, please. [19:14] Okay, one last thing about our company to get to know us a little bit more is we [19:18] have a motto, if you will, and that's never settle, always get better. [19:23] Everything we do, we try to improve one day at a time, one business at a time. [19:28] My role as one of the partners is being in the stores, in [19:34] the car washes numerous times a week. [19:37] And I have a simple goal, other than checking up on things, is find something to [19:41] improve every single time I'm there. [19:43] And if I could do that, [19:46] look at where we can get to. So we always are trying to get better. [19:51] Our company goal is to be the best in the industry. [19:53] I hope throughout this presentation and what we can provide, that you would [19:58] understand that and how passionate we are for what we do. [20:01] But how we try to execute this is quality over quantity. [20:05] We could have way more than eight locations if we wanted. [20:07] In fact, the last couple of years, we sold off a couple locations. [20:10] We are very choosy, very picky on how we grow and the way that we do, and so [20:16] we truly care about quality, not just growing for the sake of growing, unlike a lot [20:21] of businesses in this industry and others. [20:24] We put our heart and souls into each and every one of our developments. [20:27] We are very proud of what we do and what we accomplish. We focus on details. [20:32] Details are extremely important in every business, and we don't deny that in this [20:37] one as well. We have in-depth training with the employees and especially with the [20:41] managers, where I personally train them, and the regimen goes anywhere between six [20:46] to nine months. I have a training protocol I go with them, and I don't rush it. [20:50] It's a big investment we make, but we think it's very important in how we want to [20:54] run the business and make sure that they understand how we run it and why we run it [20:58] that way. We always overstaff. There's nothing worse than going to a business, a [21:03] restaurant, a coffee place, or wherever, and you're waiting and no one's helping [21:08] you. That's not what we do, and that's what we avoid. [21:10] We always overstaff to offer the best customer service we can. [21:14] And also, something that's unique in this industry is we profit-share with the [21:18] managers. It's the best and easiest way to get them to buy in, to grow the business [21:23] and execute on performance. So, [21:27] other than that, as I said, we are a distribution company as well for 11 different [21:33] manufacturers. So we install, maintain, and do all our own in-house quality [21:38] control, which is for our places, and that is unique in the industry, because [21:44] if anyone knows anything about Murphy's Law, when it's going to go wrong, it's [21:48] going to be Friday night, Saturday morning on a beautiful day. [21:52] And if you're not doing it yourself, you're waiting until Monday to get someone [21:55] else to come out and do it. So, we can get ours turned around and taken care of in [21:59] a couple of hours. And that is something, again, we have a lot of pride in doing [22:03] everything ourselves and not relying on anyone else for our services or company or [22:09] anything else of the matter. So if you could, next slide, please. [22:15] Okay, so our goal for this development is truly to benefit everyone, to benefit the [22:21] Village, the residents close and far, the commuters, the visitors of Libertyville. [22:27] And how do we do that? Through aesthetics, through sound, through traffic, and [22:32] through kicking off a new development. [22:34] So I'll dig in a little bit more in each one of these. [22:37] If you could, next slide, please. [22:40] So currently, the building that's there is a vacant white building, and [22:46] I'm sure when it was first built, it was absolutely beautiful and exactly what [22:51] needed to be there. But at this time, I think it's run its course, and it's, [22:57] I'm guessing, not exactly the image that Libertyville wants on a very busy street [23:02] with great visibility. So currently, that's the aesthetics of the [23:07] lot that is at 211 South Milwaukee. If you could, next slide, please. [23:13] So this is what we are proposing to build. [23:16] We're extremely proud of the building we put up and the materials we've chosen. [23:21] This is our Gurnee location. I don't know if anyone's driven by it or had [23:27] an opportunity to see it. It's on the intersection of Hunt Club and Washington, and [23:33] it is our showcase until the next one we build. [23:37] So the stone material on the bottom, [23:41] that's the tan material. It's a stone fascia. [23:45] And then above it is this beautiful brick that we picked out. [23:49] It is absolutely remarkable. If you look at it in the sunlight, it's got a bluish, [23:54] charcoal-ish sheen on it. And then if you look at it in the shade, the blue goes [23:59] away and it's just got a very nice, [24:01] semi-smooth, [24:04] charcoal look, which is very elegant. [24:07] That's what we're trying to accomplish with this building. [24:10] Style and design is elegance, classiness, and something to set us apart as a [24:15] first-top organization. So these are all buildings, like I said, from our pictures [24:21] from our Libertyville building, or, I'm sorry, our Gurnee building. [24:26] So if you could, next one, please. Landscape. [24:30] Another thing that would be a big improvement for aesthetics is the landscape that [24:35] we'd be offering. So currently on site, there are 10 trees, and part of this [24:40] process, Libertyville had told us to get an arborist to go and [24:46] do a tree survey. A certified arborist with Libertyville. [24:50] What they found when they surveyed the 10 trees that are on site is that they're [24:53] all in poor health and they need to be removed. Now, I'm not an arborist. [24:59] That's simply what they said. But what I do know about arborists, they hate taking [25:03] down trees. So his [25:07] recommendation, I think, carries a lot of weight. [25:10] So what we'd be [25:12] doing is removing the 10 trees and putting up 49 trees in their place. [25:18] So almost a 500% increase is, I think, going to be aesthetically pleasing. [25:23] And other than just trees, significant amounts of shrubs, perennials, and annual [25:29] plantings as well. So next slide, please. [25:34] For instance, we take our flowers very seriously. [25:38] We are very proud of what we do. This is over at that Gurnee site, and [25:44] I don't know any car wash you'd see that does flowers like we do every year, and [25:49] the amount of care and attention we put into all the plantings we do. [25:53] And I don't know very many places that have any flowers like that, but we do. [25:57] We absolutely love what we do, and I think it sets us apart and shows the little [26:02] extra that we're willing to go to impress our customers and reflect good upon us [26:07] and the Village and the customers and the commuters and everyone around. [26:11] So if you could, next one, please. [26:14] Okay, so a little bit of the site plan. [26:16] I know Heather had talked a little bit about it. [26:19] So the entrance would be off Sunnyside. [26:22] So when you enter on that second driveway, you'd get access to the car wash, [26:27] through the pay stations with the three lanes of arrows. [26:31] Once you pay, you'll hook a left and go into the car wash. [26:35] After you wash, you can either exit on Sunnyside. [26:40] Again, you can see that we have the directional curb cuts, the pavement markings, [26:45] and there would also be a traffic sign that says, "Do not turn towards the [26:49] residence." [26:50] Or you could enter the vacuum area and you could vacuum your car, and then you have [26:55] the option of exit off McKinley or Sunnyside. [26:59] So typically, about 10% to 15% of people will dry [27:05] their car or vacuum their car after the car wash. [27:08] So not very many people choose to do that, but the ones that do, you're talking [27:13] about 10% to 15% that will choose to do that after using the car wash. [27:18] So if there are any questions, we could circle back around to this slide, but for [27:23] the time, we'll just move on to the next. [27:26] So throughout the process, most of the concerns came down to three items: traffic, [27:31] sound, and land use. And I would like to quickly go over each one of them, and then [27:37] I'm sure we'll get into a little bit more details if need be about them as we go [27:41] on. So if you could first-- Thank you. You are ahead of me now. [27:47] So like the certified arborist, I'm not the professional, but I'm really good at [27:52] reading what the professional said, putting it on a screen, and then reading it. [27:55] So according to CLOA, who did our traffic study, and was reviewed by your [28:02] traffic engineer too, [28:04] they said that eliminating the two access drives on Milwaukee Avenue will [28:10] improve traffic flow and reduce traffic conflicts. That is their words, not mine. [28:16] One of the most important thing that we could do for traffic on this project is [28:20] currently there are two driveways on Milwaukee that we will be closing down. [28:25] And whenever you close down driveways, let alone two of them, IDOT gets happy, [28:30] LightDOT gets happy, the Village usually gets happy because traffic flow greatly [28:36] improves. The less time people stop off to turn on Milwaukee, traffic [28:41] improves, and both our traffic consultant and the Village's traffic consultant [28:45] agreed that this actually improves traffic flow on Milwaukee. [28:50] Then they go on and they say, "And reduce the traffic conflicts." Again, you don't [28:54] have people stopping on Milwaukee to turn in. [28:57] Much easier and much better for everyone to use a side street for quick access [29:01] versus slamming on your brakes on Milwaukee. [29:05] So they go on to say the traffic that will be generated by the proposed car wash [29:08] can be accommodated by the area roadway system. [29:12] So basically what that's saying is that what we are doing is not going to overload [29:15] any of the streets, not Milwaukee, not Sunnyside, not McKinley. [29:19] Lastly, the proposed stacking provided by the car wash, which is 42 [29:25] spaces, [29:27] will be able to accommodate the projected demand. [29:30] What that's saying is that when we're busy, we're not going to be overflowing onto [29:34] the streets. Very important. So that's their words for the traffic. [29:38] The most important points is, again, the big bold ones that both our consultants [29:43] say that this will actually improve traffic flow and reduce traffic conflicts with [29:48] this development. If you could, next one, please. [29:52] Okay, sound study. Again, Steven's here to talk a lot more about something that I [29:58] know only enough to be dangerous with. [30:00] And so our big goal with the sound of this project is to [30:06] have no impact. We don't want to impact anyone in a negative way when it comes to [30:11] sound or traffic, or even the project as a whole. [30:14] We don't want anyone to [30:16] be impacted negatively. So, [30:20] what Steven had found is projected car wash sound levels at the nearby resident [30:26] receivers would remain at or below ambient noise levels during [30:32] the proposed operating hours. So what we had to do to be able to get the sound [30:38] testing to this point was we had to put a 19-foot tunnel extension at [30:44] the end of it. And inside that extension, there are going to be foam [30:49] sound-absorbing panels to absorb as much sound as humanly possible before it leaves [30:55] the exit and ventures off into the world. [30:58] So, [31:00] according to the sound projections and the sound study is that at all times we will [31:05] be at or below ambient noise levels. [31:08] Also saying that [31:11] we are [31:13] below the traffic noise from Milwaukee. [31:18] So referring to the second story window, [31:21] why we had to ask for a continuance was the original sound study did not address a [31:27] second-story window on an abutting residence. [31:31] And so we went back and addressed that. [31:34] And so what we had found is, referring to the second-story window, we expect the [31:38] new features, the extension to the tunnel of the proposed car wash, to [31:44] have no noise impact on the second-story locations and be [31:50] significantly below the ambient noise levels at ground elevations. [31:55] So that's exactly what our goal was for this project. [31:59] Now, the graph on the right, the green in there is the ambient noise levels that [32:05] were recorded while he did his study. The purple, light purple? [32:10] The higher ones. Now what that is, is the noise levels projected for that [32:16] second-story window. As you can see, at all times, it is at or below the ambient [32:22] noise levels. Excuse me. What I'll call the dark blue one all the [32:27] way on the left, that is a [32:33] property across, it's the first property across the street at the front yard. [32:40] Excuse me one second. [32:46] Okay. Sorry about that. [32:48] That property across the street is the second point of concern, [32:54] and that is also [32:58] well below ambience. [33:00] Man, sorry about that. Lastly, that light blue line is the [33:07] front yard of that same resident with a second-story window. [33:10] So those were the three points that the sound engineer was most concerned about [33:14] that might have a negative impact, and so we put it on a graph there, trying to [33:17] make it as easy as possible that it will always be at or below ambient noise [33:22] levels, these points of concern. [33:26] Next one, please. [33:27] That's good. [33:29] Okay. The last point of discussion for me for this time being [33:35] is that there's a comprehensive plan out there for what is going to happen south [33:41] of 176. And so as I was thinking about that comprehensive plan, it didn't take me [33:47] very long to realize the goal that everyone wanted was things [33:53] are awesome and ideal and the gold standard of what cities want to do north of [33:59] 176. Who does not love being downtown? [34:02] We've spent many nights over at The Tavern and walking in the park, and it's [34:07] awesome. It is phenomenal. It's fantastically done, and everyone should be jealous [34:12] of it. Even me, who's from Arlington Heights, who has a nice downtown, but this [34:17] one's way better. So understanding that, trying to duplicate that to the south [34:23] side of 176 is awesome. I think that is a great plan. [34:27] So I want to take a quick look to see what is the business composition north of 176 [34:32] and what that would look like south of 176. [34:34] So digging in a little bit, you've got that blue line above or at the very top, and [34:39] those are a lot of the walking businesses and attractions. [34:42] You've got the Conscious Cup, Mickey Finn's, Memorial Park, Timothy O Toole's, The [34:46] Tavern, a lot of places where it is very pedestrian-friendly to walk around. [34:52] As you go below the blue line to the red line, that's where a lot of villages, [34:58] they'll call it a transition area, where you transition closer to a busy [35:02] intersection. And as we transition down towards 176, the businesses change. [35:08] They go to drive-through businesses, quick-serve restaurants, convenient [35:11] businesses. You have a Dunkin' Donuts, a Chipotle. [35:14] Sorry, I meant to take off the Subway. I forgot to do that. [35:17] That's not there anymore. A gas station. You got dry cleaners. [35:20] These are a lot more of a quick serve- [35:23] Yeah [35:23] ... quick business that you're not walking to. [35:28] So if we were to just take that and transpose it below 176, it would look a [35:34] little bit like this. Red line to the blue line, that would be your drive-through, [35:38] quick-serve restaurants, convenience store businesses. [35:41] And then below that blue line, that would be the walking attraction businesses. [35:46] So there are two things I think of when I look at this. [35:53] And the first being is [35:57] the comprehensive plan is a beautiful plan, and I would do it myself. [36:00] It is going to be great to watch and experience when it's all done and complete. [36:06] The [36:08] question becomes, the comprehensive plan is a goal, it's a vision, it's a view [36:14] for what we want for below 176, south of 176. [36:20] Now that's about a three-quarter mile stretch of two sides of the street, and [36:24] that's a lot of businesses to fill with walking, pedestrian-friendly businesses. [36:28] That's a lot of business to fill. So if there is a chance [36:35] of approving a business that is not a walking business, not a pedestrian-friendly [36:40] business, you would want to make that exception in that transition zone in between [36:46] the 176 and the blue line. The south side of 176 and the blue line. [36:50] That's where you'd want to stick those non-pedestrian friendly [36:55] businesses. And the main reason, in my opinion at least, is it's going to be- ... [37:01] pretty hard to connect north of 176 to the south side of 176 with walking [37:07] traffic. I know some people do it. I know a lot of people don't. [37:11] I think a lot of people opt to drive from one side of 176 to the other because that [37:16] is a very busy intersection. So my only point of view or [37:23] thought to offer is that if there is going to be an exception, which I think [37:27] inevitably there would be at some time, because that's a lot of land to fill for [37:32] walking businesses, [37:35] you should make the exception in that transition zone just south of 176. [37:40] And selfishly, that is where we find where this property is. [37:43] So, with that, I think I'm all done- [37:48] Okay [37:48] ... for the time being. [37:49] Thank you. [37:49] I think that was the last slide, and I will open it up for questions, or tell me to [37:54] sit back down, or whatever you'd like. [37:57] Well, first, the next part in the process is, is there anyone in the audience that [38:02] wishes to provide public comment on agenda item 4A? [38:07] Yes, could you step forward, please, to the mic and identify yourself? [38:11] I haven't filled out the form. [38:14] Yeah, you can fill it out as you're coming up. Thank you. [38:19] That's 4A. [38:47] Thank you. I want to remind you that all public comment is timed by three minutes. [38:53] We have it up here on the screen. And because this is being video recorded, could [38:57] you state your name again for the record? [39:00] My name's Barbara Inga. I live at 130 McKinley Avenue. [39:03] Thank you. [39:04] Three minutes is not enough to address all the misrepresentation from this [39:08] applicant. Sunnyside Place was built in 1910. [39:12] That street is way too narrow. It has petite parkways, 36 inches deep. [39:18] You are very close to the street already. [39:20] When you come off Milwaukee Avenue and make a right onto Sunnyside Place, there's a [39:25] wide radius required, or you're going to be over the curb. [39:29] So you are automatically over the center line, right where they're going to come [39:32] out, and people are going to try to come in. [39:36] I've been a nurse anesthetist at Condell Medical Center, which is now a trauma [39:40] center, for many years, and I took trauma call. [39:43] And Stewart Avenue is a primary corridor for our 25 to 50 [39:49] ambulances per day, and there's something called door to device. [39:54] So if somebody's having a heart attack, there's a limited amount of time that that [39:58] patient needs to get to the cath lab and get that vessel open. [40:03] For the stroke patient, there's door to needle. [40:06] There's a fixed amount of time that that patient has to get to the emergency room [40:12] and receive clot-busting medication. There's something called the golden hour. [40:16] I did anesthesia for 30 years, and that patient has 60 minutes [40:22] from the impact of the accident if they have an internal bleed for that surgeon to [40:27] get in there and open them and find the bleed and help them. [40:31] And the last thing we want is 350 to 1,400 cars injected into this neighborhood. [40:38] That trauma center is not going away. The ER has been doubled, tripled. [40:42] The ICU's doubled, tripled. And the metrics are not [40:47] represented. Gurnee has 45 car queue, 28 vacs, 82,000 [40:53] square feet. Milwaukee Avenue site has 42,000 square feet, 42 [40:59] car queue, 18 vacs. [41:01] Could you repeat that again? Sorry. [41:02] They have a 170-foot tunnel. [41:04] Wind that back. I'll have her go back to it. The speakers were interesting to me. [41:08] I'll just ask if you wind it back, but I'm sorry to interrupt. We'll get it. [41:11] The numbers that you were referencing, Gurnee and- [41:13] I'm sorry. [41:14] Just repeat that. [41:15] Okay. I'm using the metrics from Gurnee because we don't have them appropriately [41:19] represented here. The metrics at Gurnee are, that's a 45-car queue. [41:25] Here, they want a 42-car queue, 28 vacs, 18 vacs. [41:28] This is actually short vacuums, which means people, the 10 to 15% that want a [41:33] vacuum, they're going to have to wait. [41:35] And there's no space on this lot, which is 42,000 square feet. It's half the size. [41:42] I live 250 feet from 211 South Milwaukee Avenue, and I personally took pictures of [41:47] those dying, dead, poor condition trees. [41:50] They're mature, 60, 80 feet, beautiful canopies, dense [41:55] foliage. I found one tree in those 10 that showed some possible wear. [42:01] It would've given them- [42:03] I know, but let's not harp on that because I can go back with staff to verify the [42:07] arborist report. [42:08] Okay. [42:08] The representation was that 10 of the trees were in poor condition based on [42:14] the evaluation of an arborist. So we can verify that. [42:17] Okay. [42:17] That's easily verifiable. [42:19] Okay. [42:19] Thank you. [42:21] Oh, I don't... Okay. [42:22] Go ahead real quickly and summarize, but don't take another three minutes. [42:26] Okay. [42:27] But go ahead and summarize because you [42:29] were interrupted by a couple of questions. [42:31] Sorry. Thank you. [42:32] That's okay. [42:33] Quality over quantity. [42:34] That's okay. [42:35] Pie Hole's Yelp reviews over 43 years is a dismal 2.7, [42:41] and the number one quality is they do not stand behind anything. [42:46] I submitted a public comment letter, and there is a page and a half of quotes of [42:51] disgruntled people that they have not taken care of. [42:59] The access drives, the two that they're referring to, I don't see anybody coming [43:03] and going in those, and that's just from being there. [43:07] The traffic study was done March 26th, which is the Thursday of our spring break. [43:13] The Thursday of our spring break and the Saturday of our spring break. [43:17] And I know that those times were delayed because no one in my neighborhood will go [43:22] and try to go south or north on Milwaukee Avenue in certain times of the day, and [43:27] the delays were half of what they usually are. [43:30] Okay. Now, I'll give you a little latitude, but I have to be consistent. [43:33] Okay. [43:33] So make your final two words. [43:35] Thank you. [43:36] Thank you. [43:36] And the last thing, for sound, the vacuums are going to run 14 hours a day. [43:41] Each of them is 70 decibels. The vacuums, the frequency of those is what bothers [43:45] the human ear, which you can't avoid or shut out with a residential window. [43:50] Thank you. [43:50] Thank you, Barbara. I'm trying to see in the packet of [43:56] comments that we received to review, when did you submit yours? [44:02] I have- [44:04] Because I went through a lot, and I don't recall. Oh, here it is. Yes, it is. Inga. [44:09] Okay. On 130... Yeah, I see it now. Okay. That was you. I understood that. [44:15] Okay, thank you. So I wanted to verify for you, we did [44:21] receive a packet of comments that were presented by various residents on this [44:27] issue in our packets, and I do have from you the dangerous [44:33] wide turns, the omitted street widths. I did read through that. [44:37] Okay. [44:37] Okay? So I just want to assure you, we did get that. Yes, sir. [44:41] Yes. [44:41] Did you fill out the form while you were sitting there? Thank you. Okay. [44:46] Thank you. [44:46] Step forward to the mic and state your name for the record, please, and I am going [44:51] to keep you to the three minutes, Michael. Thank you. [44:54] Yep. [44:55] Michael Furlong, Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Duizender. [44:59] I represent Graham Enterprises, Inc., the proprietor of the 176 Station at [45:04] Milwaukee. [45:05] You represent Graham? Okay. [45:06] Correct. [45:06] Yes, I understand. [45:08] So, I just would ask the board to consider [45:13] the standards for special use permits pursuant to the ordinance at [45:17] 26-16-9.5, and to [45:23] recognize the lack of discussion of adverse impact on surrounding [45:28] property owners. Obviously, this is going to be a car wash next to a car wash [45:33] that's two buildings up the street. [45:36] So for that reason alone, I think the adverse impact on the [45:42] neighboring property owner [45:45] justifies a denial of the special use permit. [45:48] And also to highlight that [45:52] the application doesn't establish a public need for a car wash [45:58] at that location in Libertyville. [46:00] So for those reasons, under the applicable ordinance, I don't think that the [46:04] application meets the standards for issuance of a special use permit. [46:08] Mm-hmm. [46:09] So thank you for your consideration. [46:11] Thank you. [46:14] Is there anyone else that wishes to provide public comment on this issue, motioned [46:18] item 4A? Okay. Yes, sir. Step on up. [46:23] Did you complete the form? Thank you. [46:25] I filled out my form. [46:25] Yes, thank you. Huh? [46:27] I turned it in earlier. [46:28] Oh, okay. And you are... I apologize. Did we miss you? [46:33] Okay. [46:35] My name is Mario Weber. I'm the property owner at 211. [46:38] Oh, yeah. There you are. I apologize for that. Go ahead. [46:41] Good evening, mayor, trustees. So, I'm here for a little bit of a market analysis [46:46] and to give you my opinion- [46:48] Yes [46:48] ... and the background of what's been going on there. [46:49] So I bought this property about seven years ago, and I purchased it for a long-term [46:55] family investment. There was Advance Auto Parts there. [46:58] Yes. [46:58] It was a 25-year lease. It was a triple net deal. [47:01] When I bought it, I was shown tons of documents. [47:03] I was told this was one of the highest grossing Advance Auto Parts in Northern [47:07] Illinois. There was 22 car dealers obviously on that strip, which are big [47:11] customers, which is a no-brainer. [47:13] Yeah. [47:13] And then of course, this wonderful thing called COVID hit. [47:16] And between that and bad management, and unfortunately they found a loophole, and [47:21] they were able to get out of the lease. [47:22] So as you know now, it's been vacant now, it's probably a couple of years now. [47:26] Yeah. [47:28] I have tried for over two years to try to lease that place. [47:31] But unfortunately, as the world is now, 25,000 square foot buildings are almost [47:37] impossible to find a user. As they call them white elephants, and they're just [47:41] really hard to do things. And we have had everything. [47:44] We've had stuff that for sure I didn't want to bring to you guys. [47:47] We've had body shops, we've had used car dealers, we've had all kinds of stuff that [47:52] I didn't even proceed into an LOI because I knew that we were going nowhere. [47:56] So finally, Papas had approached us, and before I even entertained a contract, I [48:01] went to go visit a couple of his locations. [48:04] And I got to tell you, first when I heard car wash, I'm like, "Who is this guy? [48:08] Back of the alley car. What are they doing? [48:09] Hand car washes and that." I went to this place in Gurnee, and this is [48:13] multi-million dollar operations. These guys are serious. They do the right thing. [48:18] He mentioned flowers. They weren't kidding. There's trees, there's flowers. [48:21] They're really nice. Really nice operation. [48:23] So at that point, we considered to go forward. [48:26] The shameful part would be is when Advance was there, it was generating millions [48:30] and millions of dollars of tax revenue for the city. [48:33] And now it's generating nothing. And it's been generating nothing for a couple of [48:36] years. So, the decision, I know there's people that obviously aren't all happy, and [48:40] everybody's not excited. There's not people jumping up and down for every use. [48:43] But I would tell you, if this doesn't pass, it might be another couple of years [48:47] before I find somebody, and it still generates no money. [48:50] These guys have a major operation that they can put a couple million dollars of [48:53] sales every year, and really help the city fill their coffers. [48:57] So, for that, that's what I can speak to, of what I can testify to what I've seen. [49:02] I know about their operation. I've visited a couple of their locations, and they're [49:06] really the real deal. They're not fly-by-nighters and they take it very seriously. [49:13] The last thing I will make a comment to is I've been through a lot of these with [49:15] some other villages and cities in my past, in that when they make comments about [49:20] from the community, the noise, the traffic, this and that, it seems like Mr. [49:24] Stone has really taken it seriously. [49:26] Like the last one I attended, he mentioned there's a second floor window, and it [49:31] was going to obviously disturb their bathroom or their bedroom. [49:35] And they went and revamped all their plans, extended the tunnel, spent a ton of [49:40] money on architect, probably on changing things to really to listen, and obviously [49:44] didn't just come here and say, "Well, too bad. That's what it is. It is what it is. [49:47] Deal with it." So I think they're really trying to play ball fairly and that would [49:52] be my comment on our property and- [49:55] Thank you, Mario [49:56] ... we'll see how it goes. [49:56] Just for a minute, before you leave. [49:58] Sure. [49:58] I want to verify. So, [50:01] when it got to the planning and zoning level, I know that there was a May meeting, [50:05] and there was a July meeting. So can you, since this video recorded for the record, [50:10] can you verify, Heather, that there were some modifications and changes made as [50:15] he's representing? [50:16] Yes. There were a number of changes between the two meetings. [50:20] They did extend the structure at the exit of the facility, [50:27] as was mentioned, in an attempt to [50:32] respond to some of the sound concerns. [50:34] Okay. [50:34] They also added some additional landscaping. [50:38] They changed the turning movements at the exits. [50:42] And they relocated the [50:46] trash enclosure. That eliminated the text amendment, and they modified some [50:52] signage. So they were responsive in a number of ways [50:56] to some of the comments that were there. [50:58] And did some of that, and forgive me, because I'm reading comments. [51:02] I'm reading summary. [51:03] Yep. [51:04] Trying to put it all together. Was there any modifications or changes in terms of [51:08] the sound barrier with the vacuuming piece that we talked about? [51:11] Yeah. So they extended the tunnel at the end. That was one of the things they did. [51:17] They did also modify the fencing, or as they call it, the sound wall, [51:24] the height of it, to some extent. So that was a couple of things that they did [51:29] to attempt to address some of the sound concerns. [51:33] Okay. Thank you for that. [51:36] Yeah. [51:36] Thank you. [51:36] If I could just steal 10 more seconds. [51:38] Yes. Yeah, go ahead. [51:39] I just want to make another real estate comment really quick. [51:42] Besides my property that's obviously for sale, there's one kitty corner, if you go [51:46] a little bit further south, that's for sale. [51:48] There's a little building on it, but it's all vacant. [51:50] And then obviously the one across from the Shell station. [51:52] So, there's still a lot of parcels that are empty. [51:56] I may be, before this doesn't happen, I may be before the committee, I don't know [51:59] in Chicago how it works, if you have a vacant property for a long time, sometimes [52:03] they start condemnations to tear it down. [52:05] Because it's a big, ugly building, that obviously there's nothing going on. [52:08] So, hopefully, if this passes tonight, this gentleman will have the chance to make [52:13] it beautiful once again. [52:15] All right. Thank you. [52:16] Thank you for your time. [52:16] Thank you, Mario. Is there anyone else who wishes to provide public comment before [52:21] I turn it over to the board for comment? [52:25] You will have an opportunity if you want to clarify or rebuttal for things. Yes. [52:30] Okay. So I'll start with you, Trustee Hannan. [52:34] Yeah. My daughter, Ariel, my daughter lives on the same street. [52:36] Yeah, I know she does. Right. [52:38] So it's a busy corner off of 176. And I read through the packet, and [52:45] I was excited when we heard that there was something going to happen to that [52:48] property because it's needed it for a number of years. [52:51] But, [52:53] and I read through everything from planning and zoning and the comments that the [52:57] residents have. [52:58] Mm-hmm. [52:59] To me, I don't think it's the right fit for that piece of property. [53:03] It's very tight. [53:06] The streets are small over in that area. [53:08] In my mind, I think it'll end up being more of a nuisance than a good [53:14] product. And I feel bad for the property owner that that's the situation with that [53:18] property, but, and we've got other properties in LaGrange that you've mentioned [53:21] along Milwaukee Avenue that have that same problem. [53:26] But I think at this point in time, I don't know that I can support a car wash. [53:29] Okay. Trustee Garrity. [53:32] Well, I do know in this world, we always have to be careful what we wish for. [53:36] However, [53:38] in the case of this project, it's been vetted very deeply by the planning [53:43] commission and the ZBA, and it came back denial 6-0, [53:50] and I see no reason to go any differently than planning and [53:56] zoning and ZBA. [53:59] Okay, thank you. Trustee Crumb. [54:01] Thank you, Mayor. Couple questions for the petitioner. [54:05] Yeah, go ahead. [54:05] Help me understand why- [54:06] Joe, come on up [54:07] ... yeah, please, come on up. First of all, I want to tell you, [54:12] thanks to Trustee Garrity, I went to the right one. [54:14] I initially went to the wrong car wash. [54:15] I went to the one up like- [54:17] Oh, wow [54:18] ... it was Grand, almost Waukegan. [54:20] Oh, no, that's Trio. That's what that is. [54:22] Yes. No. [54:23] Tsunami. [54:24] It's Tsunami. [54:25] Oh. [54:25] Yeah. [54:26] Oh yeah, that's off there. [54:27] Yeah. And he's like, "No, you went to the wrong one." [54:28] No. [54:29] I did go there. [54:30] Oh. [54:30] It's a beautiful car wash. [54:31] Thank you. [54:32] It's quite an operation. So kudos to that. You guys are growing a fine business. [54:35] It sounds like you're good employers and good stewards, hopefully. [54:39] So thank you for bringing that to our community to consider. [54:42] That being said, [54:44] there was a question I just wanted you to clarify. [54:46] I believe you stated last time that this development was going to improve traffic [54:52] on Milwaukee Avenue. [54:53] Yes, sir. [54:55] Tell me how that's going to happen. [54:57] According to my engineer, my traffic engineer, and the village's engineer who [55:01] agreed with his assessment, is by closing off the two driveways off Milwaukee, it [55:06] improves traffic flow off Milwaukee. [55:08] And when you improve traffic flow off Milwaukee, all the [55:12] ... accessory streets surrounding Milwaukee also improve. [55:16] That was their assessment. [55:17] So by closing off the two curb cuts that are on- [55:20] Yes, correct [55:21] ... the front of the gas pumps. Okay. [55:23] Which makes sense when you think about it, because how- [55:26] Partially, I get you [55:27] Yeah. How hard is it to get a curb cut from IDOT? [55:30] They don't give them, and that's why. [55:31] So instead of using those curb cuts, you would then put traffic onto Sunnyside or [55:35] McKinney? [55:35] For the first, it was 150 feet until they get into our facility. [55:40] Okay. [55:40] Yes, they would direct onto that [55:43] street to come in, and then leave back onto Milwaukee. [55:46] Okay. Well, you have some good consultants. I know Dr. [55:50] Thunder and family have a good reputation, so I kind of follow their guidance. [55:57] Many of us on the board here were part of the South Milwaukee Corridor study. [56:01] It was something that- [56:01] Mm-hmm [56:02] ... near and dear to our hearts- [56:03] Yep [56:03] ... and advanced. [56:05] I will say that our former director of development, John Spoden, [56:11] probably disliked me at the end because I kept hammering on him, "When are we going [56:14] to get this thing done?" And he did a great job finishing it up, and Heather's now [56:19] the steward of it. [56:20] But there were some very specific things in there that we had called out for the [56:24] development of that corridor. I understand what you're saying regarding, this is in [56:27] downtown Milwaukee Avenue. And I also say we can't lead from our heart. [56:33] Like, "I don't like this. I don't think it's a good fit." [56:35] Mm-hmm. [56:35] I look at it more abstract, like what did we put in that corridor study that was [56:39] the breadcrumbs for you to follow? [56:42] And a couple of the things [56:45] I just wanted to call out. [56:46] Yep. [56:47] The materials. We specifically said in there [56:51] metallic metal or steel material should not be used on the elevation. [56:57] Right. [56:57] You're showing a large portion of your elevation is aluminum panel. [57:02] Mm-hmm. [57:03] Which is contrary to what we stated in the South Milwaukee Corridor study. [57:08] We specifically stated earth tones. We showed examples of grays and browns. [57:13] We showed tans and browns. You're showing grays and these kind of bluish colors. [57:18] Mm-hmm. [57:19] We specifically called for wall offsets. [57:21] Your wall offsets are 95 feet apart, if I look at your columns right and the way [57:25] they're dimensioned. So the repetition, the desire for those offsets, as we showed [57:29] in the examples, aren't there. And then you mentioned the one that I thought was [57:34] interesting, because I noticed it when I was up in Gurnee. [57:37] Your building's really shiny. And you could even see the reflection in Google [57:42] Images of the light fixture off of your panel, because those are red. [57:46] They're really vibrant. [57:47] Mm-hmm. [57:48] Again, in the study, we specifically said no shiny materials. [57:52] We wanted subdued earthy materials. So I'm going to give you every shot at this. [57:56] Mm-hmm. [57:56] But there are breadcrumbs that we put there that are completely disregarded. [58:00] And so I think that's one thing, Heather, we have to have a discussion with the ARC [58:04] on, because they seem to miss the boat on that. [58:08] Because I think the ARC voted in affirmative, if I recall. [58:11] Yes, they did. [58:12] Yeah. [58:12] Correct me. [58:13] Unanimously. [58:13] But the architecture materials are completely counter to what we called out for in [58:18] the study. [58:20] I also tend to agree with the attorney that was up here earlier. [58:23] The arguments that we put forth in the special use, you can't just say, "Is [58:29] this going to be a burden to the residents?" I'm making that up. [58:33] I don't believe it's going to be a burden to the residents. [58:34] You got to tell me why, right? I want to hear a good argument. [58:37] I'm all for [58:39] bending a little bit and trying to put something where it might not be considered [58:43] initially. But I think with some of these items [58:48] that we hope to achieve, and there not being a strong argument formulated as to why [58:52] we should look the other way or maybe examine a new route, I just can't get behind [58:56] it. [58:57] Mm-hmm. [58:58] I'd love to see you all somewhere else in town that maybe doesn't have such [59:01] restrictive architecture requirements, because I think you have a good business. [59:07] But I just don't see it here. And I think with the South Milwaukee Corridor study, [59:12] there's a vision there, and it's only a few years old. [59:14] If that vision turns out to be BS in 10 years, then we really need to rethink that. [59:18] But right now, we're just a few years into it, so I'd rather hold true to that [59:22] study at this point. [59:23] Okay. Well, I appreciate the comments, and [59:29] as far as the looks of the building go, the appearance committee loved it. [59:34] And as far as the-- If the only issue here was [59:40] the aluminum composite paneling, which is kind of a matte metal, not highly [59:46] reflective, that's an easy fix. We were looking at different [59:53] concrete-type [59:56] replacements for that. We just couldn't find one that we liked in time for this [59:59] project. So we're like, "We love the trademark look that we had." So for us, [1:00:04] that would be an easy fix. But it doesn't seem like that's necessarily the [1:00:11] sticking point for you necessarily. [1:00:13] No, I think it's a good conversation point. [1:00:15] I do think there was a study that was authored- [1:00:17] Mm-hmm [1:00:18] ... with the intent to be followed. [1:00:20] And so [1:00:22] I understand you have a prototype, and you want to go in a different direction, and [1:00:25] that's fine. As for the use, I'm hit or miss. [1:00:30] Yeah. [1:00:30] There's a car wash right there. There's a gas station right there. [1:00:33] But I would argue against the fact that it's not pedestrian-friendly. [1:00:37] There's a lot of kids, there's a lot of children, there's a lot of families who [1:00:39] live on Sunnyside. I used to live at the corner of Stewart and Sunnyside that use [1:00:43] that as a pedestrian area. So as a community, we're trying to create a more [1:00:46] pedestrian-friendly space there. [1:00:48] I think your design kind of hits it a little bit, but [1:00:51] again, there's too many counters to what we've put in that study to me, kind of [1:00:56] like. [1:00:57] Yeah, and [1:01:00] as far as that study goes, when it comes to the appearance, we had adjusted several [1:01:06] things, and we're letting the committee really lead that. [1:01:10] Yeah. [1:01:10] And when a small percentage of the building was aluminum composite, and they were [1:01:15] okay with that, we're like, "Okay, we're good. [1:01:17] So let's move forward." So anyway, I appreciate the comments, and like I said, if [1:01:22] that's a sticking point, it's not necessarily for us. [1:01:24] But [1:01:26] that doesn't seem like it's the only box for you that needs to be checked. [1:01:30] Thanks again for coming. [1:01:31] Yep. [1:01:32] Trustee McDonald. [1:01:36] I [1:01:38] appreciated the opportunity to meet this afternoon. [1:01:40] It was really nice to hear about the history of the company, and I've got great [1:01:45] respect for the business, for sure. [1:01:48] And I also have great respect for the collaboration and perseverance you've had [1:01:52] through this process. And Mr. Weber, I'm certainly sympathetic to your [1:01:57] circumstances. [1:01:59] I'm not comfortable that the standard for no adverse impact to the neighbors has [1:02:05] been met. And I also don't find the use to be a public benefit [1:02:11] for the neighborhood. So for those reasons, I'm not in support of moving [1:02:17] forward. [1:02:19] Trustee Hern. [1:02:21] So I appreciate the opportunity that you bring to the village and all the changes [1:02:26] that you've made to try to accommodate the neighborhood. [1:02:29] But for me, it really comes down to the site. [1:02:32] I think we're trying to fit too intensive of a use onto a property that just isn't [1:02:37] suited for it. I also give a lot of weight to the Plan Commission's unanimous [1:02:43] recommendation. And after reviewing the record for myself, I do agree with their [1:02:48] conclusion. When I weigh the proposal as a whole, I don't believe the benefits [1:02:53] outweigh the potential adverse impacts on the surrounding neighborhoods. [1:02:59] So for that reason, I can't support the car wash. [1:03:04] All right. Thank you. [1:03:05] Thank you. [1:03:06] Jo, did you have any comments you wanted to make as a result of what was stated? [1:03:11] It's totally up to you. [1:03:19] I know you-- Has it- [1:03:21] I've got my notes, but I'll just summarize. [1:03:23] Yeah. So [1:03:25] let me say, [1:03:29] in terms of the trustees in the village, we [1:03:33] have an issue of sensitive vacancies in our community. [1:03:38] And as the leader of the community, I'd like to see some of those vacancies [1:03:44] filled, not only for the purpose of complying with our zoning, but also, too, to [1:03:50] generate tax revenue for the services that our residents hold near and dear. [1:03:55] So this is very challenging. [1:03:58] I would like to, one, extend our [1:04:03] gratitude for you looking at our community as you wanted to expand your business. [1:04:08] I think what you've heard from the trustees, which is true That [1:04:14] there's some clear direction that was given when the whole concept came of [1:04:19] improving that corridor. And so for the owner and for you [1:04:25] with your good business model and wanting to fill the vacancy and not having a lot [1:04:30] of people coming up to show an interest in Mr. [1:04:35] Weber's property that would fit within our current zoning, it makes it really [1:04:40] challenging. So the message that we want to send as a board is, one [1:04:46] is if you are so inclined, I don't know if our staff has had an [1:04:51] opportunity to offer up any alternative sites that may be of interest to you. [1:04:56] If they've already done so, then I apologize for being repetitive. [1:05:01] I do think it's worthy to note that before we go forward with a motion, and I can [1:05:07] tell from the comments where our trustees are going, I think it's worthy to note [1:05:12] the things not only that we are giving you direction on, but the positive things as [1:05:16] well. When people come into our community and file a petition expressing interest [1:05:22] in coming to Libertyville, it resonates with our community cultural values that the [1:05:28] business owner doesn't just have a business for profit, but they do things to turn [1:05:34] that money around and invest it in good causes. [1:05:37] It did resonate with us, although it was a family member, it doesn't make your [1:05:40] cause any less important to donate money and support with leukemia. [1:05:46] Those are things that resonate with us. [1:05:48] So it would be our hope that if something does arise, that just because this one [1:05:54] didn't work, because our board felt collectively that that site, not you as [1:05:59] individuals, was a fit, that you would not scratch us off your list of [1:06:04] prospects. And I would like you to know that as a community, and this board [1:06:09] supports that, that our staff works very hard with giving people [1:06:15] options on alternative sites that fit within the use and the opportunity. [1:06:20] I feel very badly for the owner because it is very tough to have a dated piece of [1:06:26] property that it's tough to attract people to come to fill that [1:06:31] vacancy. But I must tell you that the delicate balance that we have up here as [1:06:36] trustees is not only are we trying to do what we can for people that come to invest [1:06:41] in our community, but we also do what we can to support the vision that we have for [1:06:46] development in the southern corridor as well. [1:06:49] And so that's why decisions like this are very, very tough for us. [1:06:54] And so that's why as the leader of the community and the one presiding over this, I [1:06:58] wanted to convey that there were many things about what you do in your business [1:07:03] practices, the additional flowers, the different landscaping, and everything to [1:07:08] beautify the surrounding area resonates with us. [1:07:11] It's just that in terms of where we are in those plans, we didn't feel that it fit [1:07:16] for this site. So with that, I will start with the motion for [1:07:22] item 4A, which is a motion to [1:07:30] support the recommendation for denial of the special use permit and the [1:07:36] site plan permit as recommended by the [1:07:40] Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals by a vote of six to zero. [1:07:45] Do I have a motion? [1:07:47] Second. [1:07:47] Okay, it's been moved on by Trustee Adams, seconded by Trustee Garrity. [1:07:52] Any further discussion on the motion? [1:07:54] Hearing no further discussion, Madam Clerk, can you call the roll? [1:07:57] Trustee Adams? [1:07:58] Aye. [1:07:59] Trustee Garrity? [1:08:00] Aye. [1:08:00] Trustee Kramick? [1:08:01] Aye. [1:08:01] Trustee McDonald? [1:08:02] Aye. [1:08:03] Trustee Hermann? [1:08:03] Aye. Thank you. The board has taken action, and they have approved supporting the [1:08:09] recommended denial of planning and zoning. [1:08:11] So as we move down to 4B, [1:08:14] it's just a matter of going through the motion of it. [1:08:18] Okay, so item 4B, the report of the Zoning Board of Appeals, variation for front [1:08:23] yard setbacks, ZBA 26-14. Variation for fence location, [1:08:29] ZBA 26-18, for a car wash associated site improvements at [1:08:35] 211 South Milwaukee Avenue. Papos 3 LLC is the [1:08:41] applicant. As what we indicated before, as it relates to the Zoning Board [1:08:47] of Appeals on August 24, 2026, they recommended denial of the requested [1:08:52] variations as I outlined by a vote of six to zero. [1:08:57] Therefore, at this time, I will entertain a motion of this board to recommend the [1:09:03] Zoning Board's appeal recommendation for denial of the request regarding the [1:09:10] variation for the front yard setbacks, ZBA [1:09:14] 26-14, and a variation for the fence location at ZBA [1:09:19] 26-18 for the parcel at 211 South [1:09:24] Milwaukee Avenue. Do I have a motion? [1:09:26] So moved. [1:09:27] It's moved on by Trustee Adams. Do I have a second? Seconded by Trustee Garrity. [1:09:32] Any further discussion on the motion? [1:09:34] Hearing no further discussion, Madam Clerk, can you call the roll? [1:09:36] Trustee Adams? [1:09:37] Aye. [1:09:37] Trustee Garrity? [1:09:38] Aye. [1:09:39] Trustee Kramick? [1:09:39] Aye. [1:09:40] Trustee McDonald? [1:09:40] Aye. [1:09:41] Trustee Hermann? [1:09:41] Aye. Thank you. The board has taken action and filed the recommendation of the [1:09:46] Zoning Board of Appeals on item 4B and item 4A. [1:09:51] Papas, I'm really [1:09:54] very heartfelt about the fact that when people come before us and look at our [1:09:58] community, they make a tremendous investment in the prep work, attending all the [1:10:03] meetings, and having the support people here. [1:10:07] And so, [1:10:09] I will tell you that as a collective board, we do appreciate your looking at our [1:10:14] community and considering it as a form of investment, and you do a great job with [1:10:20] what you put forward. It just wasn't a fit for this board at that particular site. [1:10:25] So thank you very much for considering us in terms of the outcome. [1:10:30] Thank you very much. Okay, moving down to agenda item five, which is the update. [1:10:36] The Economic Development Commission will not meet at 7:30 a.m. [1:10:40] on Tuesday, September 15th, 2026. It will not meet. [1:10:45] The Public Works Committee will meet at 6:00 p.m. [1:10:48] on Tuesday, September 22nd. The Village Board will meet at 7:00 [1:10:54] p.m. on September 22nd. And with that, Village Administrator Ahmed, do you have an [1:10:59] update for us? [1:11:00] Thank you, Mayor. I just want to remind the board that we have the [1:11:06] 9/11 25-year celebration this Friday in Cook Park. [1:11:11] That will begin- [1:11:12] 10:00 a.m. [1:11:13] 10:00 a.m. Thank you. I wanted to confirm whether it was 9:00 or 10:00. [1:11:16] Yeah. [1:11:16] So hopefully, people can join us. We have a good program put together, so looking [1:11:21] forward to that. And then I think Trustee Garrity will cover the community bike [1:11:25] ride, so I won't steal your thunder. But that's coming up this weekend as well. [1:11:29] And then we also have the fire department open house coming up the first week in [1:11:32] October. So as summer closes, fall begins, and we have some great community events. [1:11:37] That's all I have. Thank you. [1:11:39] Thank you for that. And I would just like to emphasize before we go through it [1:11:43] quickly, that 9/11, this is the 25-year [1:11:48] anniversary for those that are watching at home and those here. [1:11:52] We are a community, Libertyville, as reflected in what we call ourselves, [1:11:56] Libertyville, that it is critical to us to honor those whose [1:12:02] lives were lost on 9/11 in 2001, both first responders, [1:12:08] fire and police, as well as veterans and military that were involved, and [1:12:13] civilians on Flight 93. So, I would hope that [1:12:19] anyone that lives in this country would be wanting to be there if they didn't have [1:12:24] to be at work to support honoring the memory of those individuals. [1:12:29] And for those of you that are 25 and under, you need to be there so you're reminded [1:12:34] of the history and the sacrifice that every individual made on that particular day. [1:12:40] It boggles my mind that people 25 and under don't even know what that day is about, [1:12:45] many. But it would be good to bring as many young children, young adults, as well [1:12:50] as adults, and those who have family members who may have lost someone in 9/11, or [1:12:55] they have veterans or first responders that they hold near and dear that day. [1:13:00] We would appreciate you coming to Cook Park and supporting us in honoring their [1:13:04] memory at 10:00 a.m. So thank you for that. [1:13:07] And now, is there anything you'd like to share? [1:13:10] No. [1:13:10] Okay. Thank you. Anything you'd like to share? [1:13:13] No, I just want to thank Mr. Weber and the folks from the car wash for being here [1:13:16] tonight. I want to echo what the mayor said. [1:13:19] We do embrace the fact that we have people interested in our community, and [1:13:23] unfortunately, this wasn't a good fit, but we really appreciate the great effort [1:13:27] and the presentation that you gave tonight. [1:13:29] Yeah, absolutely. Thank you. Trustee Garrity? [1:13:31] Yeah, I concur. A lot of time and effort went in, dollars and cents, and we [1:13:35] appreciate that you have invested. It just honestly just wasn't a good fit. [1:13:41] But that's- My opinion or whatever. As Mr. [1:13:46] Aramendi mentioned, there are actually two events in my purview. [1:13:50] One is we have Tasty Thursday on this coming Thursday, and [1:13:57] we're certainly hoping for a nice, calm night so the balloons can glow, and [1:14:03] that'll be at the Riverside Park. Starts at 5:30? [1:14:06] 4:30. [1:14:07] 4:30. [1:14:08] 4:30 to 7:30. [1:14:09] Thank you, Mayor. [1:14:09] Yeah. [1:14:10] All right. So, we've got that one, and then the second one is that on Sunday [1:14:14] morning at Adler Park, we have our community bike ride. [1:14:18] Mm-hmm. [1:14:18] And this is the 10th annual, and there's no charge. [1:14:23] And you can sign up on the web, or you can just show up, 9:00 in the morning, and [1:14:29] we've got a couple of different lengths of rides. [1:14:31] But we've got this down to a pretty good drill. [1:14:34] The hope is that we'll have good weather on Sunday morning. [1:14:38] So- [1:14:38] All right [1:14:39] ... looking forward to any and all to show up for that event. [1:14:42] Thank you. [1:14:42] Thank you, Mayor. [1:14:42] And just, I wanted to emphasize, because I know this is important to you, the event [1:14:46] starts at 9:00, but registration is at 8:30. [1:14:49] So if you plan to be participating at the beginning of the ride, we'd appreciate it [1:14:53] for those volunteers and people that are there to get the ride started, that you [1:14:58] arrive at 8:30 to complete the registration process. [1:15:00] Right. It's not a race. [1:15:02] Yep. [1:15:02] It's just a ride. [1:15:03] Just a ride. [1:15:04] Yeah. [1:15:04] Just a ride. [1:15:04] All shapes and sizes are riding on their bikes that morning, so. [1:15:08] Right. Family event. [1:15:09] That's it. [1:15:10] Family event. [1:15:11] Exactly. [1:15:11] Trustee Carmick? [1:15:12] So two things, just again, to reiterate. [1:15:17] You seem like a great business, right? We're not here to say no. [1:15:19] We're here to grow our community. [1:15:22] Mm-hmm. [1:15:22] I think it was just locationally constricted, right? [1:15:24] And some of the vision that we have for that corridor. [1:15:27] We'd love for you to continue to find other opportunities in town. [1:15:30] I know Heather's working hard with some underutilized businesses and some larger [1:15:35] parcels that are sitting out there. [1:15:37] Maybe there's an opportunity, I don't know, but we'd be more than happy to help [1:15:40] out. Secondly, I think with all the events that are going on in the next few days, [1:15:45] I think it's important to recognize there's a lot of stuff that goes on in the [1:15:50] background with staff helping out- [1:15:52] Absolutely [1:15:53] ... with all of these events. So I just want to say thank you to staff and all the [1:15:57] department heads that help. Everything from police and fire to [1:16:01] everyone- [1:16:02] Yeah [1:16:02] ... is involved in planning these. [1:16:03] Good point. [1:16:04] So thank you, staff, for making this the community that it is. [1:16:09] And that's it for me today. [1:16:10] Thank you. Trustee McDonald? [1:16:13] I concur with what my colleagues have said up here, in addition to the mayor. [1:16:17] We really appreciate you and [1:16:19] wish the outcome were different. [1:16:24] And then I wanted to give a fun update. [1:16:27] Maybe a month, two months ago- [1:16:30] Mm-hmm [1:16:30] ... I made a comment about the bus shelters by the hospital. [1:16:36] Oh, yeah. [1:16:36] And Mayor Johnson, thank you so much for making the suggestion that I reach out to [1:16:42] Matt Hickey, who has recently been appointed to the Pace regional board. [1:16:48] Regional board, right. [1:16:48] And I'm really excited to announce, or chair- [1:16:53] Mm-hmm [1:16:54] ... that we're going to get a couple of bus shelters at that Milwaukee and Condell [1:17:00] in spring, summer of next year. [1:17:02] Yeah. [1:17:03] Yeah. [1:17:03] Which is very good. [1:17:03] I'm tickled pink. [1:17:06] We love that, tickled pink. That's good. Trustee Hermann? [1:17:10] I just want to say thanks for coming. [1:17:11] On Sunday, I went to the Gurnee location and had a great experience, despite what [1:17:17] Yelp says. I had a wonderful... Both my wife looked at me and said, "Why are you [1:17:22] taking me to Gurnee?" I'm like, "We have to go." And I secret shopped your [1:17:26] bathroom, as advertised, by the way. [1:17:28] Oh, good. [1:17:28] It was very clean. So you guys are... It just wasn't the right fit for this. [1:17:33] But I really do admire what you've done and what you've built and grown, okay? [1:17:38] Mayor, it was one year ago today, we started Citizens Academy. [1:17:44] That's correct. [1:17:44] We participated. [1:17:45] Go ahead. Right. [1:17:46] Are we sold, or have we filled the spots by chance? [1:17:50] We're good to go. [1:17:51] We're good to go? [1:17:51] Mm-hmm. [1:17:51] Okay. All right. [1:17:53] Yeah. [1:17:53] So we look forward to the reports. [1:17:55] Right. [1:17:56] Trustee Carmick's in there, too. [1:17:58] And Trustee Carmick. [1:17:58] You're in there, too. [1:17:59] Unfortunately, I had a conflict that day. [1:18:01] Oh, you had a conflict. Okay. [1:18:02] Could not participate. I sent somebody else. [1:18:03] Oh, okay. Gotcha. [1:18:05] So for those who are participating, it was a really meaningful experience, and it [1:18:09] gives you a real close up front view of what our staff does and our [1:18:15] first responders. So thank you to everyone who is participating in the program. [1:18:19] Yeah, it really does. Thank you for that. [1:18:23] It's a worthwhile exercise, and it's important that we understand that our [1:18:28] interactions with police and fire are not always under dangerous circumstances, [1:18:34] that there is a depth to what they do and a purpose behind it. [1:18:37] And so when you complete the exercise of eight to nine weeks of Citizens Academy, [1:18:43] I did it in the pilot program, so did Trustee Hermann, and I will tell you, you [1:18:47] walk away with a different perspective on what they do and how they do it. [1:18:51] And so I'm very proud that we're continuing that effort. [1:18:55] So with that, I will entertain a motion to go into executive session to discuss [1:19:00] collective bargaining negotiations pursuant to Chapter 5, ILCS 120, [1:19:06] Subsection 2, Subsection C, Subsection 2. We know who needs to be there, correct? [1:19:12] So with that, I will entertain a motion to go into executive session. [1:19:16] So moved. [1:19:16] Okay, thank you. Do I have a second? [1:19:18] Second. [1:19:18] Second, thank you. All those in favor, indicate-- Oh, that's right. [1:19:23] Madam Clerk, can you call the roll? [1:19:24] Trustee Adams. [1:19:25] Aye. [1:19:25] Trustee Garrity. [1:19:26] Aye. [1:19:27] Trustee Carmick. [1:19:28] Aye. [1:19:28] Trustee McDonald. [1:19:29] Aye. [1:19:29] Trustee Hermann. [1:19:30] Aye. [1:19:30] Thank you. We're now going into executive session. Thank you.