Skokie public meetings in 2022
239 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear a guest speaker on the new sustainability website, and review the Sustainability Plan's implementation and budget. They will also discuss the commission's role in the plan, get updates on refuse and composting, and hear about library educational seminars.
- Guest speaker: Meredith Gioia, Communications Manager, on new sustainability website
- Sustainability Plan implementation and budget update
- SEAC's role in the Sustainability Plan
- Refuse and composting update
- Educational seminars at the library update
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its December 21, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on January 4, 2023.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for January 4, 2023
Board of Trustees
The Board approved site plans for mixed-use buildings and a bank facility with a drive-through. They also authorized a new bird strike mitigation building code and awarded several municipal contracts. A motion was passed to hold public hearings on a formalized affordable housing policy by the end of Q1 2023.
- Approved $542,737.92 contract to Via Meridiana Contractors for North Shore Center for the Performing Arts canopy improvements
- Approved site plan and special use permit for a drive-through bank at 9409 Skokie Blvd
- Approved site plan for mixed-use building at 8029-8047 Skokie Blvd (6-1)
- Approved site plan for mixed-use development at 5400-5420 Old Orchard Rd
- Authorized drafting of Bird Strike Mitigation Building Design Guidelines ordinance
- Approved $31,500 contract to McKim & Creed, Inc. for leak detection survey
- Approved $30,183.36 purchase of ECG Monitor/Defibrillator/Pacer from Zoll Medical Corp.
- Approved amendment to Police Officer Lateral Entry recruitment rules
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission has cancelled its December 15, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on January 5, 2023. This agenda contains only procedural cancellation notice, with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for January 5, 2023
Fine Arts Commission
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission is meeting to recap the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards and discuss upcoming projects, including a February storytelling event, the March SOAR program, and October 2023 National Arts and Humanities Month programming. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; it is primarily a discussion and planning session.
- 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards recap
- Storytelling event scheduled for February 16, 2023, 7:30 p.m.
- SOAR program planned for March 2023
- October 2023 National Arts and Humanities Month programming
- Upcoming meetings at Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will hold a public hearing for a first-floor addition at 8426 Lawndale Ave. and discuss a first- and second-floor addition at 5125 Fitch Ave. The meeting also includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comment.
- Public hearing: 2022-064 – 8426 Lawndale Ave., 1st floor addition
- Old business: 2022-065A – 5125 Fitch Ave., 1st & 2nd floor addition
The Appearance Commission approved two requests for floor additions at Lawndale Ave. and Fitch Ave. Both items were approved as presented.
- Approved 1% floor addition at 8426 Lawndale Ave. (7-0-0)
- Approved 1st & 2nd floor addition at 5125 Fitch Ave. (7-0-0)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing a proposal for a one-story family room addition to the Wolfinger residence at 8426 Lawndale Avenue. The agenda includes site plans, floor plans, and elevations for the addition, which was previously approved on 9.14.22 and is being resubmitted. The commission will consider the design's compliance with appearance standards.
- One-story family room addition at 8426 Lawndale Avenue
- New submittal for previously approved appearance (9.14.22)
- Site plan includes new driveway, wood deck, and pergola
- Exterior materials: shaker siding, stucco, limestone, metal roof
- Property area: 7,445.91 sq. ft., surveyed by Central Survey Company
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing two residential requests for additions. Staff has no objections to either proposal. The meeting also reminds property owners about PIN consolidation requirements and new building codes.
- 8426 Lawndale Ave: proposed 1-story rear addition, not visible from street
- 5125 Fitch Ave: revised elevations with window changes on west elevation
- PIN consolidation required for properties with 2+ PINs before building permits
- New building codes effective September 1, 2022
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission is holding a special meeting to approve minutes, appoint new members, and discuss upcoming programs. These include partnering with CUB on solar energy education, a cybersecurity event for Password Day, and various technology education initiatives for residents and businesses. The meeting is largely planning and discussion, with no final decisions or contracts.
- Appoint Scott Schamberg as Vice-Chair and Baccat Levy as new commissioner
- Discuss partnering with CUB on Grow Solar Chicagoland event
- Plan cybersecurity program for May 4, 2023 (Password Day)
- Consider creating a technology glossary and videos for STAT webpage
- Discuss surveys for residents and businesses on technology questions
The Commission approved the minutes from November 15, 2022. Members volunteered for various roles to develop upcoming programming, including solar energy, cybersecurity, and home medical technology events. No other formal votes were taken.
- Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes
- Appointed Scott as Vice-chair
- Scheduled Cyber Security Program for May 4, 2023
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will discuss the Village's Environmental Sustainability Plan, including key elements and how the commission can assist. They will also review a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a Skokie Economic Development Strategy and discuss business retention and expansion efforts. Development updates for Downtown Skokie, Main Street, and Old Orchard will be provided.
- Review of Environmental Sustainability Plan with Liz Zimmerman
- Discussion of RFQ for Skokie Economic Development Strategy
- Business retention and expansion overview and EDC role
- Development updates for Downtown Skokie, Main Street, and Old Orchard
Board of Health
The Skokie Board of Health is meeting virtually due to COVID-19. They will hear a presentation on the Reserved Residential Parking, Will Program, Mediation Program, and Lending Closet Program, and receive the Director's monthly report. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and a subcommittee update.
- Presentation on Reserved Residential Parking, Will Program, Mediation Program & Lending Closet Program
- Director's Monthly Report by Mike Charley
- Approval of minutes from November 10, 2022
- BOH Onboarding Subcommittee update
The Board of Health approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from November 10, 2022. The session primarily consisted of reports on respiratory disease trends and updates on community health programs.
- Approved agenda by consent
- Approved November 10, 2022 minutes by consent
- Tabled BOH Onboarding Subcommittee item until January 2023
Commission on Family Services
The Skokie Commission on Family Services will meet to approve minutes, hear a presentation on the Co-Responder Team, and receive reports from the chair and staff. Old business includes updates on seniors, at-risk children and families, and people with disabilities. The agenda is largely routine, with no votes on specific items listed.
- Presentation: Co-Responder Team
- Chair's Report by Harold Primack
- Health and Human Service Report by Melissa Versch
- Seniors Subcommittee: Boomers and Beyond 2023
- At Risk Children and Families update
The Commission received a presentation on the first year of the Co-Responder program and discussed upcoming senior and family resource events. No new ordinances or funding measures were decided.
- Approved agenda by consent
- Approved November 2, 2022 minutes by consent
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its December 7, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on December 21, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for December 21, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will hold a first reading of the 2022 property tax levy ordinance and an abatement ordinance, with a presentation by the Finance Director. The board will also discuss zoning amendments for the OR Office Research district, including allowing residential and limited retail uses north of Old Orchard Road, and consider site plan approval for 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road. Several appointments and reappointments to village commissions are on the agenda.
- 2022 tax levy of $18,302,049, including $6,022,101 for general corporate purposes and $12,276,686 for the Skokie Public Library
- Tax levy abatement of $6,890,241.35 to maintain the property tax freeze
- Zoning amendment (Case 2022-31P) to allow medium-density residential and limited commercial uses in the OR district north of Old Orchard Road
- Site plan approval (Case 2022-32P) for 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road
- Appointments to Commission on Family Services, Appearance Commission, and Board of Fire & Police Commission
The Board of Trustees approved zoning amendments to the Office Research (OR) district to allow medium density residential and limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs. They also approved the site plan for 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road. Additionally, the Board adopted an ordinance regarding condominiums.
- Approved zoning amendment to allow limited service restaurants with drive-throughs as a special use in the OR District (7-0)
- Approved zoning amendment to add medium density residential, limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs, and general commercial uses to the OR district (6-0, 1 abstain)
- Approved site plan for 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road (6-0, 1 abstain)
- Adopted ordinance 22-12-C-4622 amending Village Code pertaining to condominiums (Omnibus vote)
- Appointed London Summerville to the Commission on Family Services (Omnibus vote)
- Reappointed Mike Lynk as Chair and Tom DaMario as Vice Chair of the Appearance Commission (Omnibus vote)
- Reappointed Will Evans, Jr. as Chair of the Board of Fire & Police Commission (Omnibus vote)
- Approved Voucher List #14-FY23 (Omnibus vote)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a proposed zoning amendment that would restrict vape shops and massage parlors by prohibiting them as standalone businesses and requiring them to be part of a primary use, such as a grocery store or health clinic. The amendment also aligns business licensing with zoning rules. Existing businesses would be grandfathered as legal non-conforming uses, but new ones or expansions would not be allowed.
- Proposed change to zoning definitions for 'cigarette and tobacco sales' and 'massage services'
- Tobacco sales limited to 20% or 100 linear feet of shelf space in grocery, pharmacy, liquor, or convenience stores
- Massage services limited to licensed physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, physical therapists, or health/fitness centers
- Standalone vape shops, tobacco stores, and massage parlors would be prohibited as primary uses
- Existing establishments would be legal non-conforming; licenses not transferable to new owners
Beautification and Improvement Commission
The Skokie Beautification and Improvement Commission discussed updating its website, revising the Beautification Awards scoring, and reviewing the village's weed control ordinance. The commission also reviewed award winners and planned future events.
- Reviewed Skokie weed ordinance and compared with Evanston's
- Discussed updating commission website and mission statement
- Revised Beautification Awards scoring categories
- Considered moving awards ceremony to fall
- Planned plant giveaway at Emily Oaks Nature Center
The Commission discussed updating its website to promote sustainable landscaping and revising the Beautification Awards nomination form to include native plant questions. Members also reviewed the village weed ordinance and agreed to provide recommendations to staff at the next meeting.
- Approved November 3, 2022 meeting minutes
- Agreed to remove language regarding hanging banners and parkway landscapes from the commission's purview
- Agreed to add questions about native plants and perennials to the Beautification Awards nomination form
- Decided to revisit the weed ordinance at the next meeting to provide general recommendations to staff
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing on December 1, 2022, to consider a zoning amendment restricting vape shops and massage parlors to subordinate uses. The amendment was approved 6-0-3. The commission also discussed bird strike mitigation guidelines for the Building Code, but no vote was taken.
- Approved zoning amendment 2021-30P to restrict vape shops and massage parlors
- Discussed bird strike mitigation guidelines for Building Code (no vote)
- Public hearing held at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
The Plan Commission approved an amendment to Section 118 of the Village Code to prohibit vape shops and massage parlors from operating as stand-alone businesses. These uses must now be subordinate to primary businesses. The commission also held an informational discussion on bird strike mitigation guidelines for the Building Code.
- Approved amendment to restrict vape shops and massage parlors to subordinate uses (6-0)
- Approved minutes from September 15, 2022 meeting
- No vote taken on Bird Strike Mitigation Building Design Guidelines
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss a pumpkin composting achievement of 4.55 tons, and review the sustainability plan and waste subcommittee board meeting reports. They will also discuss implementation and next steps, and take public comments.
- Approval of minutes
- Pumpkin composting – 4.55 tons
- Sustainability Plan/Board Meeting Review
- Waste Sub-committee Board Meeting Report Review
- Implementation and next steps
The Commission reviewed the Village Board's recent approval of the Environmental Sustainability Plan and the transition to once-per-week refuse collection. Members discussed creating a work plan, establishing a public progress dashboard, and developing a sustainability checklist for new construction.
- Unanimously approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear committee reports, and plan upcoming events. The 'Stand Against Racism' campaign has been rebranded as 'Until Justice Just Is' to be more inclusive. The commission is also discussing a December 8 listening event at Oakton Community College.
- Rebrand of 'Stand Against Racism' campaign to 'Until Justice Just Is'
- Planning for Black History Month in February 2023
- December 8 listening event at Oakton Community College
- Block Party Forum committee update
- Next meeting scheduled for January 23, 2023 at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider approving a new Environmental Sustainability Plan and a recommendation to eliminate the second weekly refuse pick-up while starting a food compost program. The board will also vote on vehicle and salt purchases, and hold a closed session.
- Consider approval of 2022 Environmental Sustainability Plan
- Recommendation to eliminate second weekly refuse pick-up and start food compost program
- Purchase of 10 Ford Hybrid Interceptors from Bloomington Ford Inc. for $465,792.50
- Bulk rock salt purchase from Compass Minerals America, Inc. for $254,912 (3,200 tons at $79.66/ton)
- Ordinance approving site plan modifications at 5201-5239 Touhy Avenue
The Board approved contracts for police and public works vehicles and bulk rock salt. It also adopted an environmental chapter for the Comprehensive Plan and modified the threshold for condominium deconversions. Additionally, the Board approved a plan to eliminate second weekly refuse pick-up in favor of a food compost program.
- Approved $465,792.50 contract with Bloomington Ford Inc. for police and public works vehicles
- Approved $254,912 contract with Compass Minerals America, Inc. for bulk rock salt
- Approved elimination of second weekly refuse pick-up and recommendation of a food compost program
- Approved ordinance modifying site plan at 5201-5239 Touhy Avenue
- Adopted Chapter 5.5 - Environment for the Village Comprehensive Plan
- Approved raising condominium sale threshold to 10 units or 85% owner agreement
- Appointed Baccet Levy and Scott Shamberg (Vice Chair) to Telecommunications & Technology Commission
- Swore in John Oakley as Police Commander
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 17, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on December 1, 2022. This is a procedural cancellation with no items to discuss.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for December 1, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its November 16, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on December 7, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for December 7, 2022
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission is holding a special meeting to approve minutes, accept a resignation, and discuss future programming. The agenda includes brainstorming for future initiatives and deciding on a December meeting date. The prior meeting's agenda is included for reference, covering topics like solar energy events and cybersecurity programs.
- Resignation of Christopher Whitaker
- Discussion of Sam Corcione's illness and meeting cancellations
- Brainstorming and think tank for future programming
- Possibility of December meeting; next meeting date January 31, 2023
- Reference to prior discussions on ComEd Utility Program and CUB Solar Energy Event
The Commission approved the minutes from July 27, 2022, and noted the resignation of Christopher Whitaker. Members discussed several proposed community programming ideas, including a technology glossary and a cybersecurity event. No formal votes were taken on the proposed programming items.
- Approved July 27, 2022 meeting minutes
- Appointed Scott Shamberg as Vice-Chair of the Commission
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board is meeting to approve the previous meeting's minutes, review financial statements for September 30, 2022, and hear an operations report from the executive director covering programming, marketing, and upcoming events. The agenda includes no specific action items, only routine reports and updates.
- Approval of minutes from October 11, 2022 board meeting
- Review of financial statements as of September 30, 2022
- Executive Director's report on operations
- Programming update and marketing report
- Calendar of upcoming events
The Board approved the previous meeting minutes and reviewed operational reports regarding the Executive Director's departure and upcoming facility renovations. The Village Board has approved contracts for a new back-up power generator and HVAC system replacement for the main theatre backstage areas.
- Approved meeting minutes
- Endorsed new and returning artists including Herb Alpert & Lani Hall, Steven Page, and Amos Lee
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Village Board is holding a special meeting to receive a presentation on the Village's next Environmental Sustainability Plan, which sets a goal of reducing community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 35% below 2020 levels by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The agenda includes presentations from staff and consultants on topics such as food scrap composting, reducing refuse pick-up from twice weekly to once weekly, electric vehicle transition, and building efficiency. No formal votes are scheduled; the board will discuss the plan and next steps at its November 21 meeting.
- Presentation of the Village's next Environmental Sustainability Plan
- SEAC Waste Committee recommendations: food scrap composting, reduce refuse pick-up from twice weekly to once weekly, increase communications to reduce waste, explore hiring a sustainability staff position
- Municipal fleet inventory and electric vehicle transition including EV charging infrastructure
- Community Development initial implementation opportunities for existing and future buildings
- Discussion scheduled for November 21, 2022 Village Board meeting on sustainability
The Board of Trustees held a special meeting to receive a report and recommendations for a new 8-year Sustainability Plan. No votes were taken on the plan's contents; the Board will deliberate and vote on the plan and public policy elements at the November 21, 2022 meeting.
- Tabled approval of Sustainability Plan until November 21, 2022
- Approved motion to adjourn meeting (7-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Board of Health
The Skokie Board of Health is holding a virtual meeting on November 10, 2022, at 7:00 pm due to COVID-19 case levels. The agenda includes approval of the October 13, 2022 minutes, a chair's report, member introductions, a presentation on the Emergency Financial Assistance and Assist a Family programs, and the director's monthly report. Public comments must be submitted in writing to Michael Charley or via other listed methods.
- Emergency Financial Assistance & Assist a Family Program presentation by Mike Charley, Director of Health and Human Services
- Director's Monthly Report by Mike Charley
- BOH Onboarding Subcommittee discussion under Old/New Business
- Approval of minutes from October 13, 2022
- Virtual meeting format due to COVID-19 case levels
The Board of Health approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from October 13, 2022. Members discussed the appointment process for the Vice Chair and reviewed a draft member onboarding guide. No other substantive votes were recorded.
- Approved agenda via consent
- Approved October 13, 2022 minutes via consent
- Tabled member introductions
Fine Arts Commission
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission will review and discuss nominations for the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards. The commission will also discuss upcoming projects, including a storytelling event, SOAR, and National Arts and Humanities Month programming.
- 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards nomination review
- Storytelling event on February 16, 2023
- SOAR project in March 2023
- October 2023 National Arts and Humanities Month programming
The commission selected the individual and group recipients for the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards. They also agreed to present an honorary award to Michael Pauken. Planning continued for a February 2023 storytelling event and a March 2023 SOAR exhibit.
- Selected Jennifer Page for the individual Artistic Excellence Award
- Selected Robin Horwitz and the Devonshire Cultural Center for the group Artistic Excellence Award
- Agreed to present an honorary award to Michael Pauken
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will hold a public hearing to consider three new applications: a first-floor addition at 9530 Central Park Ave., commercial signage at 7701 Lincoln Ave., and a commercial facade at 4847 Old Orchard Center. They will also revisit an updated building facade at 8009 Niles Ave. as old business. The meeting includes approval of minutes and public comment.
- 2022-061A: 1st floor addition at 9530 Central Park Ave. (Applicant: Cinda Jo Berry; Owner: Jason & Jaimie Butcher)
- 2022-063A: Commercial signage at 7701 Lincoln Ave. (Applicant: Mike Brodnan & Matt Peter; Owner: Oakton Community College)
- 2022-062A: Commercial facade at 4847 Old Orchard Center (Applicant: Donna Pugh & Mike Noonan; Owner: Old Orchard Urban Limited Partnership)
- 2019-024A: Updated building facade at 8009 Niles Ave. (Applicant: OK W Architects; Owner: E&M Skokie LLC)
The Appearance Commission approved four requests regarding building facades, signage, and a floor addition. All motions were granted as presented or with conditions.
- Approved 1% floor addition at 9530 Central Park Ave (4-0-3)
- Approved commercial signage at 7701 Lincoln Ave (4-0-3)
- Approved commercial facade at 4847 Old Orchard Center (4-0-3)
- Approved updated building facade at 8009 Niles Ave with conditions (4-0-3)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing an application for a proposed sun room and roof deck extension at 9530 N. Central Park Avenue in Evanston. The agenda includes architectural drawings, materials, and site plans for the residential project. The commission will decide on the design's compliance with appearance standards.
- Proposed 22.0' x 13.45' sun room and roof deck extension
- Materials include Jeld-Wen double-hung thermo-pane windows and Trex decking
- White vinyl siding and painted brick exterior
- New railing height 3'-6" with lamp posts and planters
- Site plan shows adjacent properties at 9520 and 9534 N. Central Park Ave.
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing four property requests: one residential addition and three non-residential signage or elevation changes. Staff has no objections to any of the proposals, with minor conditions on signage placement. The meeting also notes new building codes effective September 1, 2022, and a requirement for property owners with multiple PINs to consolidate them before permits.
- 9530 Central Park Ave – residential addition, no staff objections
- 7701 Lincoln Ave – signage, must stay outside 15-foot sight distance triangle
- 4847 Old Orchard Center – elevation changes, staff in favor
- 8009 Niles Ave – windows and siding changes, staff prefers metal siding over EIFS
- New building codes effective September 1, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will vote on consent agenda items including zoning changes and a site plan for a mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue, plus several contracts. They will also receive a COVID-19 update and a Plan Commission recommendation for a special use permit for a church at 8256 Skokie Boulevard.
- Zoning map amendment for 5404-5418 Touhy Ave from M1 to B4 and 5440 Touhy Ave from B3 to B4 (2022-22P)
- Site plan approval for mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Ave and 7235 Linder Ave (20-23P)
- Plat of subdivision with land dedication for 5404-5440 Touhy Ave and 7235 Linder Ave
- Emergency sewer repair contract with DeVinci Construction Inc. for $48,595
- HVAC equipment replacement at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts with Stanton Mechanical for $104,263
The Board of Trustees approved a site plan, subdivision plat, and zoning map amendments for a mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue. Several infrastructure and software contracts were awarded via the consent agenda. The Board also approved a special use permit for religious assembly at 8256 Skokie Boulevard.
- Approved zoning map amendments for 5404-5418 and 5440 Touhy Avenue (6-1)
- Approved site plan for mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue (6-1)
- Approved subdivision plat for 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue (6-1)
- Approved special use permit for religious assembly at 8256 Skokie Boulevard (7-0)
- Awarded $48,595 emergency sewer repair contract to DeVinci Construction Inc.
- Awarded $104,263 HVAC equipment replacement contract to Stanton Mechanical
- Awarded $66,821 software maintenance contract renewal to BS&A Systems
- Appointed Sibyl Yau as Vice Chair of the Board of Health
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission has cancelled its November 3, 2022 meeting due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on November 17, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no substantive items.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for November 17, 2022
Commission on Family Services
The Skokie Commission on Family Services is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes, reports from the chair and staff, and discussion of ongoing initiatives including the Produce Initiative, Farmer's Market Food and Clothing Drive, and Boomers and Beyond 2023. No new business items are listed.
- Approval of September 7, 2022 meeting minutes
- Chair's Report by Harold Primack
- Health and Human Service Report by Melissa Versch
- Discussion of Produce Initiative
- Discussion of Boomers and Beyond 2023
The commission approved the September 7, 2022, meeting minutes. Staff provided updates on the Seniors Matter Rideshare program and the Assist A Family holiday initiative. Subcommittees discussed planning for the 2023 Boomers and Beyond senior resource fair.
- Approved September 7, 2022 minutes with one spelling correction
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its November 2, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on November 16, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for November 16, 2022
Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board is meeting to review information requested at the May 9th meeting and continue discussing 2021 use of force data and reports. They will also form a working group to create a draft report. The meeting is open to the public, with written comments accepted.
- Approval of minutes from May 9th meeting
- Review of information requested at May 9th meeting
- Continued discussion of 2021 use of force data and reports
- Working group to create draft report
The board approved the minutes from the May 9 meeting. Members discussed use of force demographics and traffic stop data provided by Chief Baker. A sub-group was formed to develop a report outline following a member survey.
- Approved May 9 meeting minutes
- Formed sub-group (Alecia Wartowsld, James Specker, Karen Sherman) to develop report outline
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will discuss a draft Bird Strike Mitigation Ordinance and an update on the Comprehensive Plan, along with ongoing sustainability efforts. They will also hear updates on the waste sub-committee and a pumpkin composting event at the Farmers Market.
- Draft Bird Strike Mitigation Ordinance discussion
- Comprehensive Plan update
- Sustainability Plan update
- Pumpkin composting at Farmers Market on November 6th
The Commission reviewed a proposed ordinance to reduce bird strikes in new construction and major renovations. The body also discussed updates to the Comprehensive Plan and potential village-wide composting options. No votes were taken on the proposed ordinance or composting programs.
- Approved September 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to discuss new business, including an iPlan and survey presented by the Public Health Coordinator, and to consider a combined November/December meeting date. They will also review updates on block party applications and other ongoing items. The agenda is largely procedural, with reports and updates rather than major decisions.
- iPlan and Survey presentation by Elizabeth Nelson, Public Health Coordinator/Data Analyst
- Block party applications updated: total 84
- NAMI Walk update
- Chair's report on sub-committees and new ideas
- Date for November and December combo meeting
The Skokie Human Relations Commission heard a presentation from Elizabeth Nelson on equity data and the IPlan framework for 2023-2028. Trustee Khem reported an escalation in incidents in Skokie that do not meet the legal definition of hate crimes, and discussed moving such cases to the HRC for community resolution. The NAMI walk raised $94,000 with 209 participants. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was largely informational and procedural.
- Deborah A. volunteered to take minutes moving forward
- Members agreed to hold a combined November/December meeting as a potluck on November 28, 2022
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for October 20, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on November 3, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for November 3, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its October 19, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on November 2, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for November 2, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider a Plan Commission recommendation to approve a new Chase Bank with a drive-through at 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard, including site plan, special use permit, and subdivision approvals. The board will also vote on consent agenda items, including fire truck purchases and other contracts. A separate site plan amendment for 5201-5239 Touhy Avenue is on the agenda.
- Chase Bank drive-through at 9401-9445 Skokie Blvd: site plan, special use, subdivision
- Fire apparatus purchase: $1,136,416 for pumper/squad and $1,991,210 for two pumpers
- NSCPA UPS replacement: $90,630 to B-Electric
- Drug analysis equipment for police: $31,907 to Thermo Scientific
- Business of the Year: Culver's of Skokie (winner), Skokie Provisions, Healing Hands, Sketchbook Brewing, Buona
The Board of Trustees approved a $3,127,626 contract for a fire squad pumper and two fire engine pumpers, and concurred with the Plan Commission to allow a new Chase bank with a drive-through at 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard. They also approved a $41,098 storefront grant for Will's Place, a site plan amendment for Rubin Skokie LLC at 5201-5239 Touhy Avenue, and adopted a new Environment chapter to the Comprehensive Plan. All votes were unanimous 7-0.
- Approved $3,127,626 contract for fire apparatus (7-0)
- Concurred with Plan Commission for Chase bank site plan at 9401-9445 Skokie Blvd (7-0)
- Approved $41,098 storefront grant for Will's Place at 7927 Lincoln Ave (7-0)
- Approved site plan amendment for Rubin Skokie LLC at 5201-5239 Touhy Ave (7-0)
- Adopted Chapter 5.5 Environment to Comprehensive Plan (7-0)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, vouchers, and proclamations (7-0)
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The Skokie Board of Health is meeting virtually due to COVID-19 cases. The board will approve the agenda and minutes, hear the chair's report, receive updates on food inspections and rat control, and review the director's monthly report. They will also discuss onboarding, a retirement recognition, and an awards presentation recap.
- HHS Food Inspections & Rat Control update by Cameron Hendricks
- Director's Monthly Report by Mike Charley
- Sue Reisberg retirement/recognition
- Partners in Public Health Excellent Awards Presentation Recap
Fine Arts Commission
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission will meet to receive a presentation from Devonshire Cultural Center/Theater staff, review program updates including the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards and 2023 SOAR, and hold subcommittee discussions on upcoming projects such as storytelling and October 2023 National Arts and Humanities Month programming. The agenda is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no votes or financial decisions listed.
- Special presentation by Devonshire Cultural Center/Theater staff (Robin Horwitz, Rebecca Goldberg, Chika Kertayuda, Caryn Watson)
- Update on 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards
- Update on 2023 SOAR
- Subcommittee discussion on storytelling project
- Subcommittee discussion on October 2023 National Arts and Humanities Month programming
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission received a presentation on Devonshire Cultural Center programming and a new Music Trail. Commissioners discussed the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards and began planning a February 2023 storytelling event and October 2023 National Arts and Humanities Month programming. No formal votes or decisions were taken.
- No formal votes or decisions recorded; all items were updates or discussions
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review an application for a new house addition at 9420 Lorel Ave. The application includes plans for a single-family residential addition, with drawings and specifications submitted by the architect. The commission will decide on the project's compliance with appearance standards.
- Application for new house addition at 9420 Lorel Ave.
- Single-family residential project with 1st floor addition and remodeling
- Architect: Arlene Warda AIA, Oak Park, IL
- Fee schedule: $100 plus $50 per unit for residential new construction
- Meeting date: October 12, 2022, 7:30 PM, Skokie Village Hall
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing two proposed residential additions: a side and top story addition at 9813 Keeler Ave and a two-story addition at 5034 Birchwood Ave. The agenda consists of architectural plans and site details for both properties, indicating the commission will evaluate the designs for compliance with appearance standards.
- 9813 Keeler Ave: proposed 576.70 sq ft addition (32.54 sq ft first floor, 544.16 sq ft second floor) to existing one-story brick and stone residence
- 9813 Keeler Ave: proposed building height 23'-7" (roof) and 17'-0" (eave), within R1 zoning limits
- 5034 Birchwood Ave: proposed new 2-story frame addition with new driveway, wood deck, and 2-car garage (428 sq ft)
- 5034 Birchwood Ave: exterior materials include existing limestone and brick, night grey board & batten siding, black casement windows
- Both properties are in R1 zoning; 9813 Keeler Ave lot area is 7,359.97 sq ft
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will hold public hearings on six residential addition requests and one commercial facade alteration. The commission will also approve minutes and take public comment on non-agenda items.
- 3700 Roth Terr. – 2nd floor addition (applicant Nancy Martinez)
- 9420 Lorel Ave. – 1st floor addition (applicant Carlos Mendoza)
- 9316 Drake Ave. – 1st & 2nd floor addition (applicant Michael Hauser)
- 5034 Birchwood Ave. – 1st & 2nd floor addition (applicant Radu Alexa)
- 9747 Skokie Blvd. – commercial facade (applicant Mark Olson)
The Skokie Appearance Commission voted 6-0 on all six agenda items, approving five building additions and one commercial facade project. All decisions were unanimous with one member absent.
- Approved 2nd floor addition at 3703 Roth Terrace (6-0-1)
- Approved 1st floor addition at 9420 Lorel Avenue, subject to conditions (6-0-1)
- Approved 1st and 2nd floor addition at 9316 Drake Avenue (6-0-1)
- Approved 1st and 2nd floor addition at 5034 Birchwood Avenue (6-0-1)
- Approved 2nd floor addition at 9813 Keeler Avenue (6-0-1)
- Approved commercial facade addition at 9747 Skokie Boulevard, subject to conditions (6-0-1)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing six cases at its October 12, 2022 meeting, including five residential requests and one non-residential request. Staff comments note no objections to most proposed elevations, but flag issues such as an unpermitted addition, required parking and fire sprinklers, and a preference for matching materials and windows.
- 3700 Roth Ter: proposed addition siding must match existing second-floor siding
- 9420 Lorel Ave: rear brick addition built without permit; staff prefer non-flat roof and matching window
- 9316 Drake Ave: second off-street parking space and fire sprinklers required
- 9747 Skokie Blvd: non-residential façade changes, no staff objections
- New building codes effective September 1, 2022
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board is meeting to approve minutes from September, review financial statements through August 31, 2022, and hear operational reports including the executive director's report, programming, marketing, and upcoming events. No specific decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.
- Approval of September 12, 2022 board meeting minutes
- Review of financial statements as of August 31, 2022
- Executive Director's report
- Programming update
- Marketing report and calendar of upcoming events
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for October 6, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on October 20, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for October 20, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its October 5, 2022 meeting because there are no cases to hear. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on October 19, 2022.
- October 5, 2022 ZBA meeting cancelled
- Next meeting scheduled for October 19, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will vote on a resolution supporting a Cook County Class 7(c) real estate tax incentive for a vacant building at 3818 Oakton Street, which the owner plans to redevelop for office/commercial use. The board will also consider several routine items on the consent agenda, including a street patching contract and a street sweeper purchase. A first reading will be held on a memorandum regarding condominium deconversion.
- Resolution for Class 7(c) tax incentive for 3818 Oakton Street (Paradigm/Mozart Healthcare)
- High Priority Street Patching Program 2022 – Arrow Road Construction, $369,400
- Purchase of one Public Works street sweeper – Standard Equipment, $268,321.65
- Appointment of Regina Kinyui to Consumer Affairs Commission
- First reading of memorandum on condominium deconversion
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a $369,400 contract for high-priority street patching and a $268,321.65 street sweeper purchase, both via omnibus votes. They also approved a Class 7c real estate tax incentive for 3818 Oakton Street and discussed a proposed ordinance to raise the condominium deconversion threshold from 75% to 85%, which remains under review. The consent agenda, including minutes and vouchers, was approved unanimously.
- Approved $369,400 contract to Arrow Road Construction for high-priority street patching (omnibus vote)
- Approved $268,321.65 purchase of one street sweeper from Standard Equipment (omnibus vote)
- Approved Class 7c real estate tax incentive for 3818 Oakton Street (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including September 19, 2022 minutes and Voucher List #10-FY23 (unanimous)
- Approved executive session request (unanimous)
- Appointed Regina Kinyui to Consumer Affairs Commission (omnibus vote)
- Discussed but did not vote on proposed ordinance raising condominium deconversion threshold to 85%
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is holding a public listening session to gather input on the draft Sustainability Plan. The meeting includes opening statements, a schedule for the final plan, a presentation by Ted Redmond of paleBLUEdot, and an interactive public listening session.
- Public listening session for draft Sustainability Plan
- Presentation by Ted Redmond, co-founder of paleBLUEdot
- Hybrid meeting option via Zoom with registration required
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting to discuss the timeline for the final Environmental Sustainability Plan and to hear a presentation of the draft plan from paleBLUEdot co-founder Ted Redmond. Public comments on the draft plan are invited, with a 3-minute limit during the meeting.
- Presentation of Draft Environmental Sustainability Plan by Ted Redmond
- Timeline for final plan discussed by Director of Public Works Max Slankard
- Public comment period (3-minute limit)
The commission reviewed the draft 2022 Environmental Sustainability Plan, discussed goals including a 35% GHG reduction from 2020 levels, and set a timeline for public comment through October 17, 2022, with final Village Board consideration on November 21, 2022. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.
- Approved minutes from July 26, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
- Set next meeting for October 25, 2022
- Public comment period on draft plan open through October 17, 2022
- Community listening session scheduled for September 29, 2022
- Final draft to be presented to Village Board on November 14, 2022
- Village Board to consider plan at regular meeting on November 21, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Wednesday, September 21, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on October 5, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for October 5, 2022
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear the chair's report, and discuss old/new business. Items include promoting the NAMI Cook County North Suburbs Annual Walk on October 1, 2022, and block party applications via Google Form.
- NAMI Annual Walk on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at Gallery Park, Glenview Park District; registration 8:30 am, walk 10:00 am
- Contact Alyx Kesselring at 847-716-2252 for walk details
- Block party applications available on Google Form
- Next meeting: October 24, 2022, 6:30 pm at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street, Skokie
The Skokie Human Relations Commission discussed expanding membership to include residents from other parts of Skokie, with four current openings. They also planned a Block Party Forum for March 2023 in partnership with the Skokie Police Department and moved up the Block Party of the Year Award vote to January 2023. No formal votes or decisions were taken; all items were discussed or proposed.
- Approved June 27, 2022 minutes as amended
- Discussed expanding HRC membership to other Skokie areas
- Planned Block Party Forum for March 2023 with Skokie Police
- Moved Block Party of the Year Award vote to January 2023
- Discussed inviting Elizabeth Nelson to October meeting for iPlan resources
- Proposed partnerships with non-profits and voter registration drives
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees is meeting to vote on several items, including a 10-year cable franchise renewal with Comcast, financial commitments for bicycle lane projects on Church Street and Gross Point Road, and zoning changes for retail streets. They will also consider a plat dedication for 8047 Floral Avenue and hear about a potential ownership change at Maple Tower at Optima. The agenda includes routine consent items and public comment.
- Renewal of 10-year cable franchise agreement with Comcast, preserving franchise fee and Channel 17
- Resolution committing $330,000 for Church Street bicycle lane project from Linder Avenue to McCormick Boulevard
- Resolution committing $16,500 for Gross Point Road bicycle lane project from Church Street to Main Street
- Ordinance approving plat of dedication for 8047 Floral Avenue in CX Core Mixed-Use district
- Ordinance amending retail street designations and restricted uses, including removing a Main Street segment west of Skokie Boulevard
The Board approved a zoning map amendment, subdivision, and site plan for a mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue, including first-floor retail and upper-story residential, with a possible cannabis dispensary. The vote was 5-1, with Trustee Johnson dissenting. The Board also raised the threshold for deconversion at Maple Tower at Optima from 75% to 85% of unit owners, approved a ten-year cable franchise renewal with Comcast, and authorized grant applications for bicycle lane and road improvement projects.
- Approved zoning map amendment for mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy and 7235 Linder (5-1)
- Approved 3-lot subdivision/dedication for same property (5-1)
- Approved site plan for mixed-use development including possible cannabis dispensary (5-1)
- Enacted ordinance raising deconversion threshold at Maple Tower at Optima from 75% to 85% (6-0)
- Approved ten-year cable franchise renewal with Comcast (6-0)
- Authorized grant application for Church Street bicycle lane improvements (omnibus vote)
- Authorized grant application for Gross Point Road improvements (omnibus vote)
- Approved contract for purchase and installation of 12 Flock Falcon cameras (omnibus vote)
🗳️ How they voted — 3 divided votes
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing on September 15, 2022, and approved all five items on the agenda. These included a zoning chapter amendment to allow medium-density residential and commercial uses in the OR Office Research district, site plan approval for a mixed-use development at 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road, a special use permit and parking determination for a religious assembly at 8256 Skokie Boulevard, and a comprehensive plan update adding an Environment chapter. All items were approved as presented, with votes ranging from 4-2-3 to 6-0-3.
- Zoning amendment (2022-31P) to allow medium-density residential, townhouses, multifamily, limited-service restaurant with drive-through, and general commercial in OR district north of Old Orchard Road; approved 4-2-3
- Site plan approval (2022-32P) for mixed-use development with multifamily, townhouses, retail, and drive-through restaurant at 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road; approved 6-0-3
- Special use permit (2022-33P) for religious assembly use in CX Core Mixed-Use district at 8256 Skokie Boulevard; approved 6-0-3
- Parking determination (2022-34P) for religious assembly use at 8256 Skokie Boulevard; approved 6-0-3
- Comprehensive plan update (2022-35P) to add Environment chapter incorporating 2016 Sustainability Plan objectives; approved 6-0-3
The Plan Commission approved four items: a zoning amendment to allow medium-density residential, limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs, and general commercial uses in the OR Office Research district (4-2); site plan approval for a mixed-use development at 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road with 245 rental units, 49 townhouses, retail, and a drive-through (6-0); a special use permit and parking determination for Blessed Word Christian Church at 8256 Skokie Boulevard (6-0 each); and a comprehensive plan update adding an environment chapter (6-0).
- Approved zoning amendment for OR district: medium-density residential, limited-service restaurant with drive-through, general commercial uses, reduced setbacks (4-2)
- Approved site plan for mixed-use development at 5400-5420 Old Orchard Road: 245 rental units, 49 townhouses, retail, drive-through (6-0)
- Approved special use permit for religious assembly at 8256 Skokie Boulevard (6-0)
- Approved parking requirement of 30 spaces for Blessed Word Christian Church (6-0)
- Approved comprehensive plan update adding environment chapter (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a proposed zoning amendment that would allow medium-density residential uses, including townhouses and multi-family buildings, north of Old Orchard Road within the OR Office Research district. The amendment also permits limited commercial uses, such as drive-through restaurants, and reduces certain setbacks for lower-height residential buildings. Staff recommends approval, citing changing office market conditions and compatibility with nearby residential areas.
- Allow townhouse and 3+ unit multi-family residences north of Old Orchard Road in OR district
- Permit limited service restaurant with drive-through in OR district
- Reduce front yard to 25 ft, side yard to 8 ft, rear yard to 30 ft for residential uses under 40 ft tall north of Old Orchard Road
- Require 6-foot wall or fence separating new development from abutting residential property north of Old Orchard Road
- Allow up to 15,000 sq ft of general sales/services uses on properties primarily developed with residential uses
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is considering a site plan approval request for a mixed-use development at 5400-5420 Woods Drive (Old Orchard Road), including 294 rental units, 13,000 sq ft of commercial space, and a drive-through restaurant. The proposal requires zoning relief for rear yard setback, lot coverage, and parking in the front yard. Staff recommends approval with conditions, pending revised plans and further review.
- 294 residential units (49 townhomes, 245 apartments) plus 13,000 sq ft commercial
- Requested relief: rear yard 28 ft (required 30), lot coverage 37% (allowed 30%), parking setback 17 ft (required 50)
- 625 parking spaces, 125 bicycle spaces
- Traffic study projects 2,190 daily trips, less than existing office use
- Staff recommends amending prior site plan ordinance V.O. 00-9-Z-2930
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will consider a special use permit for Blessed Word Christian Church to hold religious assembly in a vacant office space at 8256 Skokie Boulevard, along with a companion parking determination. Staff recommends approval with conditions, including parking lot improvements and restrictions on operating hours to avoid conflict with the primary tenant, Gerber Collision & Glass. The commission will also review a requested variance for a substandard driveway width.
- Special use permit for religious assembly in CX Core Mixed-Use district at 8256 Skokie Boulevard
- Parking determination for 33 spaces, with Sunday peak demand estimated at 30 spaces
- Relief from §118-212(c)(l)b.3 to allow north driveway narrower than 24 feet
- Conditions include ADA access, landscaping, and 5 bicycle parking spaces
- Church limited to operating when Gerber Collision & Glass is closed
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a staff recommendation to amend the Village's Comprehensive Plan by adding a new Chapter 5.5 on the Environment. The chapter incorporates objectives from the 2016 Skokie Environmental Sustainability Plan related to land use and development, covering water management, air quality, energy conservation, transportation, and waste management. The commission will decide whether to recommend this amendment to the Village Board.
- Amendment to Comprehensive Plan adding Chapter 5.5 Environment
- Incorporates 2016 Skokie Environmental Sustainability Plan objectives
- Includes programs on water conservation, energy efficiency, and recycling
- Reviewed by Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission (SEAC) in March and April 2022
- Staff recommends adopting the chapter and updating the Table of Contents and Executive Summary
Fine Arts Commission
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission is meeting to review recent programs, including the Skokie Summer Scenes photo project and member visits, and to plan upcoming projects such as a storytelling event, the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards, and the 2023 SOAR program. The commission will also hold a brainstorming session on its mission and purpose. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no votes or formal actions listed.
- Review of Skokie Summer Scenes – Spring/Summer 2022 Skokie Through the Lens
- Discussion of Summer 2022 Commission Member Informational Visits
- Planning for Storytelling event (date and location TBD)
- Planning for 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards
- Planning for 2023 SOAR program
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission discussed upcoming projects including a storytelling program at Take Flight Spirits and a National Arts Month celebration in October 2023. No formal votes or decisions were taken; all items were discussed and subcommittees formed for further planning.
- Agreed to hold storytelling program at Take Flight Spirits on Lincoln Avenue
- Formed subcommittee for National Arts Month in October 2023, chaired by Jeff Rhodes
- Formed storytelling subcommittee, chaired by James VanOsdol
- Discussed inviting representatives from Devonshire Cultural Center, North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, and Skokie Theater to future meetings
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing a proposal from JP Morgan Chase Bank to install new exterior and interior signage at 9445 Skokie Blvd, including illuminated channel letters, a pylon sign reface, and various directional and ADA signs. The agenda consists solely of detailed sign design drawings and specifications, with no other business items listed.
- Four sets of illuminated 24-inch white channel letters and Chase logo on building elevations
- Reface of two tenant panels on existing illuminated pylon sign
- Installation of non-illuminated directional signs (D-2-RE) for entrance and drive-up ATM
- Addition of ADA handicap signs and four Do Not Enter signs
- Interior signs including ATM surrounds, ADA plaques, and illuminated octagon
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review an application for a first-floor addition and related work at 9309 Avers Avenue. The applicant, Mr. and Mrs. Schankeman, propose a 1,073-square-foot addition, including demolition of part of the existing screened porch and roof, and relocation of a kitchen sink. The commission will also consider the project's compliance with R1 single-family zoning requirements, including building height, setbacks, and lot coverage.
- Application for 1st floor addition at 9309 Avers Ave, 1,073 sq ft
- Proposed demolition of existing screened porch and roof sections
- Zoning worksheet shows proposed building area 3,356 sq ft vs allowed 4,179 sq ft
- Proposed impermeable area 4,929 sq ft vs allowed 5,233.75 sq ft
- Application fee: $50 for 'Other Appearance Review'
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing two residential projects: a new single-family home at 8515 Harding Ave. and an addition with a two-car garage at 7626 Lowell Ave. The commission will decide on the exterior appearance of these projects based on submitted plans and applications.
- New construction at 8515 Harding Ave. with basement, first, and second floor plans
- Addition of attached 2-car garage with master suite and family room at 7626 Lowell Ave.
- Application fees: $100 plus $50 per unit for new residential, $50 for other reviews
- Both projects include site plans and elevation drawings for review
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing eight cases, including six residential additions and two non-residential projects. Staff comments note fire sprinkler requirements, zoning relief needs, and design objections. No final decisions are made in this staff report; the commission will discuss and act at the meeting.
- 9309 Avers Ave: no objections to façade changes
- 9049 Kildare Ave: staff prefers eyebrow alignment on addition
- 5125 Fitch Ave: fire sprinklers required; bedrooms prohibited in basement
- 8515 Harding Ave: second parking space required due to added bedrooms
- 9435 Skokie Blvd: relief needed for north wall sign; directional signs reduced to 30 inches
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will hold public hearings on seven new applications, including facade changes, second-floor additions, signage, and a new mixed-use building, plus one old business item. The commission will also approve minutes and take public comment on non-agenda items.
- Facade change at 9309 Avers Avenue
- Second-floor additions at 9049 Kildare, 8603 Springfield, 5125 Fitch, and 8515 Harding Avenues
- Signage at 9435 Skokie Boulevard
- New mixed-use building at 8047 Skokie Blvd.
- Old business: first and second floor addition at 7626 Lowell Ave.
The Skokie Appearance Commission voted on eight agenda items, all passing with a 6-0-1 vote. Five facade and addition requests were granted as presented, three were granted with conditions, and no items were denied or tabled.
- Approved 6-0-1: Facade at 9309 Avers Avenue (Raffi Arzoumanian)
- Approved 6-0-1: 2nd floor addition at 9049 Kildare Avenue (Raffi Arzoumanian)
- Approved 6-0-1: 2nd floor addition at 8603 Springfield Avenue (Lucy Barnett & Francisco Leyton)
- Approved 6-0-1 with conditions: 1st & 2nd floor addition at 5125 Fitch Avenue (Radu Alexa)
- Approved 6-0-1: 1st & 2nd floor addition at 8515 Harding Avenue (Adam & Andrea Stokes)
- Approved 6-0-1 with conditions: Signage at 9435 Skokie Boulevard (Terron Wright)
- Approved 6-0-1 with conditions: New mixed-use building at 8047 Skokie Boulevard (Gary Levittas)
- Approved 6-0-1 with conditions: 1st & 2nd floor addition at 7626 Lowell Avenue (Mugeeth Raheem)
Economic Development Commission
The commission will receive updates from the Community Development Department and the Economic Development Department. Discussions include the Homewood Suites By Hilton project and various downtown and village-wide developments.
- Homewood Suites By Hilton construction and groundbreaking update
- 8031 Niles Parking Garage
- Oakton Terrace and Annie’s projects
- Strategic Plan RFP
- SESBA Grants
Performing Arts Center Board
The Board will review financial statements from July 31, 2022, and receive an operations report. Discussion includes a management firm transition and a foundation benefit event scheduled for November 19, 2022.
- Review of July 31, 2022 financial statements
- Management Firm Transition update
- Foundation Benefit featuring Fleetwood Mask on November 19, 2022
The Board approved the minutes of the previous meeting. General Manager Michael Pauken reported that the management transition from PFM to VenuWorks took effect July 1, with a new business manager hired and a new ticketing system (Ticketmaster) launched September 1. The Board also received updates on capital improvements, including roof replacements, entrance canopy renovations, and a new backup power generator, all funded by the Village of Skokie.
- Approved the minutes of the previous meeting
- Noted the management transition from PFM to VenuWorks took effect July 1
- Noted the hiring of new business manager Steph Shryock (starting September 22) and events manager Lyndee Hallahan (started August)
- Noted the transition of ticketing systems from Paciolan to Ticketmaster, with sales starting September 1
- Noted VenuWorks of Skokie LLC obtained its liquor license at the end of July
- Noted the replacement of both theatre roofs (funded by the Village) is ongoing
- Noted an architect has been hired for entrance canopy renovations, with bidding expected later this fall
- Noted the HVAC system serving backstage areas of the main theatre will be replaced this fall
Board of Health
The Skokie Board of Health is holding a virtual meeting due to COVID-19 case levels. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes, a chair's report, a presentation on the HHS Vision and Hearing Program, a director's monthly report, and discussion of Partners in Public Health Excellence Awards. Public comments must be submitted in writing.
- Approval of minutes from June 9, 2022
- HHS Vision and Hearing Program presentation
- Director's monthly report by Mike Charley
- Partners in Public Health Excellence Awards discussion
- Virtual meeting due to COVID-19 case levels
The Skokie Board of Health voted unanimously to approve submitting a memo to the Village Board to present the Partners in Public Health Excellence Award to Heartland Health Centers and Kids First Pediatrics. The board also discussed COVID-19 updates, a vision and hearing program presentation, and the resignation of Dr. William Werner as Chair. A subcommittee was formed to develop an onboarding process for new board members.
- Approved submitting memo to Village Board for Partners in Public Health Excellence Awards to Heartland Health Centers and Kids First Pediatrics (unanimous)
- Formed subcommittee to develop BOH onboarding process for new members
Commission on Family Services
The Skokie Commission on Family Services is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports, and discuss old and new business. Items include updates on the Produce Initiative, Farmer's Market drive, and 4th of July parade, plus survey results and planning for Boomers and Beyond 2023. The October 5 meeting is cancelled for Yom Kippur.
- Approval of June 1, 2022 minutes
- Produce Initiative update
- Farmer's Market Food and Clothing Drive
- Survey results discussion
- Boomers and Beyond 2023 planning
The Commission on Family Services reviewed survey results from commissioners and discussed forming a new subcommittee on disability issues. No formal votes were taken; all actions were discussion-based. The October 5 meeting was cancelled due to Yom Kippur.
- Approved agenda as amended by consent
- Approved June 1, 2022 minutes as amended by consent
- Cancelled October 5 meeting for Yom Kippur
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its September 7, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on September 21, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for September 21, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider approving a $103,450 professional services agreement with Gewalt Hamilton Associates for engineering services on the Oakton Terrace and Lamon Avenue improvement project, which is tied to the Homewood Suites hotel development. The board will also take a first reading on an ordinance to accept a land dedication at 8047 Floral Avenue, and will vote on a resolution urging state and federal action on assault weapons and large capacity magazines. The agenda includes routine consent items such as meeting minutes, a voucher list, and appointments to the Beautification & Improvement Commission.
- Professional services agreement with Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc. for Oakton Terrace/Lamon Avenue improvements, not to exceed $103,450
- Tree removal services contract with Advanced Tree Care, Inc. for $49,305
- First reading of ordinance approving plat of dedication for property at 8047 Floral Avenue (CX Core Mixed-Use district)
- Resolution calling on federal and state government for action on assault weapons and large capacity magazines
- Appointments to Beautification & Improvement Commission: Mitch Sandler as Vice Chair, Bob Quane as Chair
The Board of Trustees unanimously adopted Resolution 22-9-R-1540 calling upon federal and state government to act on assault weapons and large-capacity magazines. They also approved a $103,450 special services agreement with Gewalt Hamilton Associates for roadway improvements related to a new Homewood Suites parking garage, and awarded a $49,305 tree removal contract to Advanced Tree Care. A vote on eliminating second-week garbage pickup was delayed until November pending recommendations from the Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission and Public Works.
- Adopted Resolution 22-9-R-1540 calling for federal and state action on assault weapons and large-capacity magazines (unanimous).
- Approved a special services agreement not to exceed $103,450 with Gewalt Hamilton Associates for Oakton Terrace and Lamon Avenue roadway improvements (unanimous).
- Awarded a $49,305 tree removal contract to Advanced Tree Care, Inc. of Lincolnshire, Illinois (omnibus vote).
- Approved appointments of Mitch Sandler as Vice Chair and Bob Quane as Chair of the Beautification & Improvement Commission (unanimous).
- Accepted resignations from Ferdinand Soco (Beautification & Improvement Commission), Pouriya Soltani (Consumer Affairs Commission), and Michael Delanois (Economic Development Commission) (omnibus vote).
- Approved the consent agenda, including minutes of August 15, 2022, and Voucher List #8-FY23 (unanimous).
- Approved executive sessions for litigation review and personnel matters (unanimous).
- Delayed vote on eliminating second-week garbage pickup until November, pending recommendations from the Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission and Public Works (unanimous).
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission approved several requests from KF Skokie, LLC for a JPMorgan Chase Bank development. The actions include site plan approval, parking and stacking determinations, a special use permit for a drive-through, and a two-lot subdivision.
- Site plan approval for 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard including relief for 30 parking spaces
- Parking and stacking determination for a drive-in bank at 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard
- Special use permit for a drive-through facility and two building wall signs
- Two-lot subdivision of 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard
The Plan Commission approved all four cases for a new Chase Bank with a drive-through at 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard, including site plan approval, parking and stacking determination, special use permit, and a 2-lot subdivision. All votes were 7-0, with two commissioners absent. Signage relief was approved subject to Appearance Commission approval, and a ground sign was not allowed. The commission also approved the August 18, 2022 meeting minutes and welcomed new Community Development Director Johanna Nyden.
- Approved site plan for new bank with drive-through at 9401-9445 Skokie Blvd (7-0)
- Approved reduced parking spaces relief under §118-218(b)(4) (7-0)
- Approved parking and stacking determination for drive-through bank (7-0)
- Approved special use permit for drive-through bank facility (7-0)
- Approved wall sign relief for north and east sides, subject to Appearance Commission approval (7-0)
- Approved 2-lot subdivision of 9401-9445 Skokie Blvd (7-0)
- Approved minutes of August 18, 2022 meeting (voice vote)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will consider a proposal by KF Skokie, LLC on behalf of JPMorgan Chase Bank to build a new bank with a drive-through at 9401-9445 Skokie Boulevard. The request includes site plan approval, a parking and stacking determination, a special use permit for the drive-through, and a 2-lot subdivision. Staff recommends approval, including relief to allow 432 parking spaces instead of the required 463.
- New 4,528 SF Chase Bank with drive-through and two ATMs at 9409 Skokie Boulevard
- Special use permit for drive-through bank facility (Case 2022-27P)
- Parking reduction from 463 to 432 spaces (relief from Sec. 118-218(b)(3))
- 2-lot subdivision creating outlot for bank (Case 2022-28P)
- Repeal of existing site plan ordinance V.O. #16-4-Z-4222
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing to consider two requests for a property at 8029-8047 Skokie Boulevard. The first was a site plan approval for a new mixed-use building with upper-story residential over nonresidential uses, and the second was a 1-lot subdivision/dedication. Both items were approved, with the site plan approved as presented and relief granted.
- Site plan approval for mixed-use building at 8029-8047 Skokie Boulevard
- 1-lot subdivision/dedication for same property
- Approved 6-0-3 for both items
- Applicant: 8047 Skokie, LLC on behalf of Gary Levitas
The Plan Commission approved a site plan and subdivision for a new 6-story mixed-use building at 8029-8047 Skokie Boulevard, including 56 residential units and commercial space, with 78 parking spaces. The commission also granted multiple zoning relief items related to retail depth, building façade, and parking lot requirements. All votes were unanimous (6-0).
- Approved site plan for mixed-use building at 8029-8047 Skokie Blvd (6-0)
- Approved 7 zoning relief items including reduced retail depth and parking lot tree waiver (6-0)
- Approved 1-lot subdivision/dedication for 8029-8047 Skokie Blvd (6-0)
- Approved minutes of August 4, 2022 meeting (voice vote, all in favor)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing a site plan and subdivision request for a 6-story mixed-use building with 56 apartments and ground-floor commercial space at 8029-8047 Skokie Boulevard. The proposal includes several zoning relief requests. The commission will also consider a companion subdivision/dedication case.
- 6-story mixed-use building with 56 residential units and 5,837 SF of commercial/amenity space
- 78 parking spaces proposed (70 required), including accessible spaces
- Zoning relief requested for retail depth, building façade setback, restricted uses, drive aisle width, and sight distance triangles
- 2-foot dedication along the alley to help meet minimum alley width
- Project near CTA Yellow Line Oakton-Skokie Station
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a request by Aaron Cohen and Elisheva Bernstein for a variation to build an addition at 9049 Kildare Avenue, resulting in a floor-to-area ratio of 0.66, exceeding the 0.6 maximum. Staff recommends approval, noting that 808 square feet of the home is partially below grade and counts toward the ratio due to zoning rules. The board will also consider proposed findings of fact, some of which staff does not support.
- Variation request for floor-to-area ratio of 0.66 vs. 0.6 maximum at 9049 Kildare Avenue
- Proposed addition would increase home floor area to 5,248 sq ft on a 7,872 sq ft lot
- Staff recommends granting the variation despite the size of the increase
- Petitioners have not appeared before the Appearance Commission
- Staff finds the variance is not the minimum necessary and necessity was not created by owner
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variation for a single-family home at 9049 Kildare Avenue, allowing a floor-area ratio of 0.66 instead of the 0.60 maximum. The vote was 8-0-1, and a covenant is required.
- Approved variation 2022-03Z for 9049 Kildare Ave to exceed floor-area ratio limit (8-0-1)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on August 17, 2022, to consider a single request for a zoning variation. The board approved the request unanimously (8-0-1) with a covenant required. The agenda contained only this one substantive item.
- Approved variation for 9049 Kildare Ave to allow floor-area ratio of 0.66 instead of 0.60 maximum in R1 Single-Family district
- Applicants: Aaron Cohen and Elisheva Bernstein
- Covenant required as condition of approval
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees is considering several items, including approving a ground lease with American Landmark Properties for a new parking garage at 8031 Niles Avenue, an intergovernmental agreement with Cook County for road improvements along Old Orchard Road, and an ordinance appropriating funds for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2022. The board will also discuss a resolution authorizing architectural and engineering services for the garage.
- Ground lease with American Landmark Properties for a 301-space parking garage at 8031 Niles Avenue, $10 annual rent, 30-year term with 30-year renewal option
- Intergovernmental agreement with Cook County for Old Orchard Road improvements from Woods Drive to Skokie Boulevard, with Village cost estimated at $75,000
- Appropriation ordinance for FY2023 covering multiple funds including general, library, pension, and tax increment financing funds
- Resolution to approve architectural and engineering services with Malcomb Ware for the parking garage
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a ground lease with American Landmark Properties for a new parking garage at 8031 Niles Avenue, awarded architectural design services to Ware Malcomb for $178,600, and awarded a construction contract to Russell Construction not to exceed $450,329. The board also approved a $53,000 TIF grant for El Fuego Mexican Cuisine, an intergovernmental agreement with Cook County for Old Orchard Road improvements, and several consent agenda items including contracts for network infrastructure, Microsoft Exchange renewal, and light poles. An ordinance on water rates and refuse fees was adopted after being removed from the consent agenda, and a zoning amendment for retail streets was approved.
- Approved ground lease with American Landmark Properties for parking garage at 8031 Niles Ave (6-0, Johnson abstained)
- Awarded architectural design services to Ware Malcomb for $178,600 (6-0, Johnson abstained)
- Awarded construction contract to Russell Construction not to exceed $450,329 (6-0, Johnson abstained)
- Approved $53,000 TIF grant for El Fuego Mexican Cuisine at 8018 Lincoln Ave (7-0)
- Approved intergovernmental agreement with Cook County for Old Orchard Road Phase III (7-0)
- Adopted ordinance amending water rates and refuse fees (7-0)
- Approved zoning amendment for retail streets per Plan Commission case 2021-28P (7-0)
- Approved consent agenda including contracts for CDW, Planet Technologies, and Graybar (7-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review 12 applications for additions, new buildings, signage, and a facade change. These are public hearings on new business; no final decisions are noted in the agenda.
- 9510 Hamlin Ave: 1st & 2nd floor addition
- 4925 Lunt Ave: 1st floor addition
- 7848 Kolmar Ave: new detached residence
- 9635 Skokie Blvd: commercial signage (Ulta)
- 5400 Old Orchard Rd: new mixed-use development
The Skokie Appearance Commission approved 10 of 11 applications for additions, new buildings, and commercial changes, with one continued to September 14. All votes were 6-0-1 except one 6-0-1 vote for the first item. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved 9510 Hamlin Ave addition (6-0-1)
- Approved 4925 Lunt Ave addition (6-0-1)
- Continued 7626 Lowell Ave addition to September 14, 2022
- Approved 8534 Drake Ave addition with condition (6-0-1)
- Approved 7848 Kolmar Ave new detached residence (6-0-1)
- Approved 5248 Arcadia St addition (6-0-1)
- Approved 7827 Keystone Ave addition (6-0-1)
- Approved 9635 Skokie Blvd commercial signage with condition (6-0-1)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing two signage applications at Old Orchard Center: one for ULTA Beauty at 9635 Skokie Blvd. and one for Maggiano's Little Italy. The ULTA application proposes illuminated channel letters and branded awnings, while Maggiano's seeks approval for exterior paneling and signage. The commission will decide on these proposals at its August 10, 2022 meeting.
- ULTA Beauty: illuminated channel letters (66 sq ft) and 3 branded awnings at 9635 Skokie Blvd.
- Maggiano's Little Italy: exterior slat paneling and non-illuminated signage at Old Orchard Center
- Both applications are for signage at Old Orchard Center, a commercial property
- Meeting date: August 10, 2022, 7:30 PM at Skokie Village Hall
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing an application for a mixed-use development at 5400 Skokie Boulevard, including 294 residential units and commercial space. The agenda includes detailed site plans, elevations, and landscape designs for the project, which will be discussed at the August 10, 2022 meeting.
- 294 residential units (49 townhomes, 245 apartments) and 13,000 sq ft retail/commercial space
- Site covers 11.16 acres with 37% building coverage
- Proposed 6-foot cedar townhome perimeter fence
- Landscape plan includes trees, shrubs, and perennials with specific plant list
- Site lighting plan with 16-foot pedestrian lights and 4-foot bollards
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review two residential applications: a proposed two-story addition at 9510 Hamlin Ave. and a project at 7626 Lowell Ave. The agenda includes application forms, site plans, and fee schedules. The commission will decide on the appearance of these projects.
- Two-story addition at 9510 Hamlin Ave. (Conley Residence)
- Project at 7626 Lowell Ave. (Even Biz)
- Application fees: $50 for additions, $100 plus per-unit for new residential
- Digital-only application process via PDF submissions
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing two residential construction proposals: a new two-story brick veneer residence with basement at 7840 Kolmar Ave. and a two-story frame addition with covered porch at 5248 Arcadia St. The agenda includes detailed site plans, zoning worksheets, and building specifications for both properties.
- New 2-story brick veneer residence with basement at 7840 Kolmar Ave.
- 2-story frame addition (679 SF) and covered porch (223 SF) at 5248 Arcadia St.
- Zoning district R-2 for both properties
- Existing 1-story brick & frame addition to be demolished at 5248 Arcadia St.
- Tree protection and fencing required per Village of Skokie
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing 11 cases, including residential additions, new construction, and commercial projects. Staff has objections or conditions on several, such as masonry requirements, fire sprinklers, and design changes. The meeting also notes new building codes effective September 1, 2022.
- 2022-044A: 7626 Lowell Ave – staff objects to elevations; masonry relief needed, porch encroaches front yard
- 2022-037A: 7827 Keystone Ave – second parking space and fire sprinklers required due to bedroom increase
- 2022-026A: 7720 Austin Ave – staff recommends brick or split-face masonry; Special Use Permit No. 565 review required
- 2022-049A: 5400 Old Orchard Rd – proposed apartment building and townhouses; height within 105' limit; bird-friendly glass may be required
- 2022-046A: 9635 Skokie Blvd – staff objects to white fascia, recommends color change
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on August 4, 2022, to consider three related requests from Linder Touhy LLC for a mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue. The requests include a zoning map amendment, site plan approval, and a 3-lot subdivision/dedication. The proposed development would include first-floor retail (possibly a cannabis dispensary) and upper-story residential units.
- Zoning Map Amendment (2022-22P): Rezone 5440 Touhy from B3 to B4, and 5404-5418 Touhy and 7235 Linder from M1 to B4
- Site Plan Approval (2022-23P): Mixed-use development with retail and residential, possible cannabis dispensary
- Subdivision/Dedication (2022-24P): 3-lot subdivision of the properties
- Public hearing at 7:30 PM, Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
- Written comments accepted via email or mail
The Skokie Plan Commission voted 7-0 to approve three related requests for a mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue: a zoning map amendment to B4 Regional Mixed-Use Shopping, a site plan approval (including a possible cannabis dispensary), and a 3-lot subdivision/dedication. The approvals include numerous variances and relief items, such as reduced setbacks and parking spaces. The minutes also record that the commission approved the May 5, 2022 meeting minutes by voice vote.
- Approved rezoning of 5440 Touhy from B3 to B4 and 5404-5418 Touhy and 7235 Linder from M1 to B4 (7-0)
- Approved site plan for mixed-use development with retail, residential, and possible cannabis dispensary (7-0)
- Approved 3-lot subdivision/dedication with 10-foot dedications along Touhy for IDOT (7-0)
- Approved relief items including reduced side/rear yards, reduced glazing, and 734 residential parking spaces (7-0)
- Approved minutes of May 5, 2022 Plan Commission meeting (voice vote)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is considering a zoning map amendment to rezone 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue from B3 Business and M1 Office Assembly Industry to B4 Regional Mixed-Use Shopping. The petitioner, Linder Touhy LLC, seeks this change to build a two-phase mixed-use development with ground-floor retail and upper-story residential units. Staff recommends granting the request, despite noting it is inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan, subject to conditions including transportation and infrastructure improvements.
- Rezoning of 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue from B3 and M1 to B4
- Petitioner: Linder Touhy LLC, on behalf of Chicago Title Land Trust Company Trust #17767
- Site size: 272,516± square feet with frontage on Touhy and Linder Avenues
- Proposed 2-phase mixed-use development with first-floor retail and upper-story residential
- Related cases: 2022-23P (Site Plan Approval) and 2022-24P (Subdivision/Dedication)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a site plan and subdivision request for a mixed-use development at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue. The proposal includes 494 residential units, 30,300 sq ft of commercial space (including a possible cannabis dispensary), and 980 parking spaces. The commission will consider zoning relief requests and conditions related to traffic, fire safety, and infrastructure.
- Mixed-use development: 494 residential units, 30,300 sq ft commercial, 7-story building
- Possible cannabis dispensary (5,100 sq ft) within 750 ft of Skokie Police Department
- Zoning relief: reduced front yards, side/rear yards, and glazing requirements
- 10-foot dedication along Touhy Avenue for right-turn lanes (IDOT jurisdiction)
- Bicycle parking shortfall: 94 provided vs. 119 required
Public Arts Advisory Committee
The Skokie Public Arts Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss future murals and sculptures, including potential locations, artists, and maintenance. The agenda also covers landscaping and future public art programming, but no decisions or votes are listed.
- Discussion of future mural locations, possibly via Enews and Newsletter
- Discussion of future muralist selection and maintenance
- Discussion of future sculpture locations, sculptors, and maintenance
- Discussion of landscaping related to public art
- Discussion of future public art programming and initiatives
The Skokie Public Arts Advisory Committee met and discussed future mural locations, including a possible call for locations in village publications, and the need to redo the Shawnimals and Nate Otto murals. They also discussed future sculpture locations and artists, as well as ideas for future public art programming such as a sound artist, an ice sculpture, and light or interactive sculptures. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was discussion-only.
- No formal decisions made; all items were discussion only
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Wednesday, August 3, 2022, has been cancelled because there are no cases to consider. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on August 17, 2022.
- August 3, 2022 ZBA meeting cancelled
- Next meeting scheduled for August 17, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees is meeting to approve routine consent items and hold first readings on two ordinances: one amending cannabis and zoning rules, and another adjusting water rates and refuse fees. The board will also consider a resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement for the Backlot Bash festival, including street closures and indemnification of IDOT.
- Ordinance granting temporary alcohol sale and consumption on public property during Backlot Bash, Aug 26-28, 2022
- Ordinance amending Chapters 11 and 118 on cannabis, zoning, administrative procedures, and business districts
- First reading of FY2023 appropriation ordinance covering multiple funds
- First reading of ordinance amending water rates and refuse fees (Chapter 46)
- Resolution approving intergovernmental agreement for Backlot Bash with Skokie Park District and Youth Foundation, including IDOT indemnification
The Skokie Board of Trustees, with Mayor Van Dusen absent and Trustee Sutker serving as Mayor Pro Tempore, approved the consent agenda and a sole-source contract for project management and owners advocacy services for the new parking garage at 8031 Niles Avenue. The contract was awarded to Integrated Facilities Solutions, Inc. at $10,620 per month for up to 18 months, with Trustee Johnson abstaining. The board also heard first readings on the FY2023 appropriation ordinance and water/refuse fee changes, and received public comments about noise at JCC Camp Apachi and a bird strike study.
- Appointed Trustee Edie Sue Sutker as Mayor Pro Tempore (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda including July 18, 2022 minutes and Voucher List #6-FY23 (6-0)
- Swore in Police Canine Jinn
- Reappointed Barbara Reeder as Vice Chair and Terrance Guolee as Chair of Performing Arts Center Board
- Accepted resignation of Joel Reyes from Public Safety Commission
- Awarded sole-source contract to Integrated Facilities Solutions, Inc. for parking garage project management at $10,620/month for up to 18 months (5-0, Johnson abstaining)
- Approved resolution for Backlot Bash 2022 intergovernmental agreement
- Approved sale of surplus vehicles and equipment
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the Environmental Sustainability Plan (ESP) survey, a Mack Truck demonstration, a recycling/compost booth for National Night Out, and a waste program review. The agenda includes approval of minutes, public comments, and other business.
- ESP Team Update: Survey
- Mack Truck Demo
- National Night Out – Recycling/Compost Booth
- Waste Program Review Update
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission is meeting to discuss several community programs, including a solar energy event with CUB, the FCC Affordable Connectivity Program, and cybersecurity education. They will also review internal projects like a media campaign, webpage updates, and standardized brochures. The meeting includes approving minutes from the previous session and planning for future meetings.
- Discussion of CUB Solar Energy Event partnership with Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
- FCC Affordable Connectivity Program: up to $30/month broadband discount and $100 device discount
- Cybersecurity program presentation tabled until member returns
- Proposed 'STATus Updates' media campaign for Village website
- Webpage cleanup and new forwarder www.skokie.org/STAT
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, July 21, 2022, due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for August 4, 2022. This notice is purely procedural with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for July 20, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on August 3, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for August 3, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider a special use permit allowing outdoor storage of propane tanks at a convenience store at 5363 Lincoln Avenue, along with other routine items on the consent agenda. The board will also discuss referendums and hear reports on building code amendments and contracts for fire safety gear and theater canopy restoration.
- Special use permit for outdoor propane tank storage at 5363 Lincoln Avenue (2022-14P)
- Contract with The HOH Group for NSCPAS entry canopies restoration design services - $32,000
- Proprietary purchase of fire safety gear from W. S. Darley & Company - $47,750
- Ordinance amendments to Chapters 38 and 50 (Emergency Services and Fire Prevention) and Chapters 26 and 46 (garage sales)
- First reading of ordinance to allow alcohol sales at Backlot Bash
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a $53,500 grant for CK Studio Salon at 5041 Oakton Street, authorized drafting of updated building codes, and passed the consent agenda including contracts and ordinances. The board also discussed referendums and heard public comments on various topics.
- Approved $53,500 grant for CK Studio Salon (unanimous)
- Authorized Corporation Counsel to draft building code updates (unanimous)
- Awarded $32,000 contract to The HOH Group for NSCPAS entry canopies (consent)
- Awarded $47,750 contract to W.S. Darley for fire safety gear (consent)
- Adopted special use permit for outdoor storage at 5363 Lincoln Ave (consent)
- Adopted ordinances amending emergency services, fire prevention, and garage sale codes (consent)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes and voucher list (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing a proposal for a second-floor addition to a single-family home at 7827 Keystone Ave. The agenda includes preliminary architectural plans, elevations, and a materials board, indicating a design review. The meeting is scheduled for July 13, 2022, at 7:30 PM.
- Second-floor addition at 7827 Keystone Ave.
- Proposed first and second floor plans include new bedrooms, a main bedroom with walk-in closets, a study, and a bathroom.
- Exterior materials include vinyl lap siding in Vintage Wicker, white trim, and 3-tab shingles to match existing.
- Application fee for an addition is $50.
- Meeting date: July 13, 2022, at Skokie Village Hall.
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review applications for new construction, additions, facades, and signage. The agenda includes a proposed bank relocation at 9435 Skokie Boulevard and facade improvements at 7300 Linder Ave. The commission will also consider fee schedules for various application types.
- Bank relocation at 9435 Skokie Blvd. with proposed floor plan of ~4,528 sq ft
- Facade improvements at 7300 Linder Ave. including new windows
- Application fees: $100 plus $50 per unit for residential, $100 plus $50 per 1,000 sq ft for non-residential
- Other appearance reviews (additions, facade, sign) cost $50
- Digital-only application process via email to appearance@skokie.org
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a proposal by Linder Touhy LLC to redevelop the property at 5404-5440 Touhy Avenue and 7235 Linder Avenue with a mixed-use development. The project includes 494 residential rental units, retail space, a commercial building intended for a cannabis dispensary, and parking. The applicant requests rezoning the entire property to the RX Regional Mixed-Use Shopping District. The agenda includes a land use statement from the applicant's counsel, but no decision is recorded.
- Rezoning of 5404-5440 Touhy Ave and 7235 Linder Ave to RX District
- 494 residential rental units across two phases
- Retail space totaling about 25,200 sq ft
- 5,100 sq ft commercial building for retail cannabis dispensary
- Traffic improvements along Touhy Avenue and Linder Avenue
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing a proposal for a new two-story frame addition to an existing single-family residence at 5248 Arcadia St. The project includes a 679 sq ft addition, a 223 sq ft covered porch, and demolition of an existing 135 sq ft addition. The agenda contains detailed architectural plans and zoning worksheets, indicating the commission will assess the design's compliance with local appearance standards.
- New 2-story frame addition (679 sq ft) at 5248 Arcadia St.
- Covered porch addition of 223 sq ft.
- Demolition of existing 135 sq ft brick and frame addition.
- Zoning district R-2, lot area 4,955.6 sq ft.
- Existing 1,400 sq ft residence to remain.
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will hold a public hearing to review 12 requests for additions, new residences, commercial and industrial buildings, and facade changes. The agenda includes residential additions, a new bank with a drive-through, and mixed-use buildings. No decisions are listed; the items are under public hearing and new business.
- 2022-034A: 1st floor addition at 9330 Kedvale Ave.
- 2022-032A: 1st & 2nd floor addition at 5248 Aradia St.
- 2022-033A: New detached residence at 9020 Kolmar Ave.
- 2022-036A: New bank with drive-through at 9435 Skokie Blvd.
- 2022-041A: New mixed-use buildings at 5440 Touhy Ave.
The Skokie Appearance Commission approved eight of eleven applications at its July 13, 2022 meeting. Three applicants did not appear and their requests were not considered. All approvals were granted as presented or subject to conditions, with votes ranging from 5-1-1 to 6-0-1.
- Approved 1st floor addition at 9330 Kedvale Ave. (6-0-1)
- Approved new detached residence at 9020 Kolmar Ave. (6-0-1)
- Approved 1st & 2nd floor addition at 9231 Kedvale Ave., subject to conditions (5-1-1)
- Approved 1st floor addition at 10045 Lavergne Ave. (6-0-1)
- Approved facade at 7340 Monticello Ave., subject to conditions (6-0-1)
- Approved new bank with drive-through at 9435 Skokie Blvd. (6-0-1)
- Approved industrial facade at 7300 Linder Ave. (6-0-1)
- Approved new mixed-use buildings at 5440 Touhy Ave. (6-0-1)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing 11 cases on July 13, 2022, covering residential additions, new homes, and commercial projects. Staff comments include requirements for fire sprinklers, off-street parking, and design recommendations. Several commercial projects also require additional reviews by the Plan Commission or Village Board.
- 9330 Kedvale Ave: 1st floor addition only (revised from 2021-068A); requires 2 off-street parking spaces and fire sprinklers
- 5248 Arcadia St: addition requires fire sprinklers; staff recommends hip roof
- 9020 Kolmar Ave: new home requires fire sprinklers and Illinois licensed architect stamp
- 7827 Keystone Ave: second off-street parking space and fire sprinklers required
- 7720 Austin Ave: staff recommends brick or split-face masonry; requires review of Special Use Permit No. 565
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board is meeting to approve minutes from May 9, 2022, review financial statements for April 30, 2022, and hear the PFM manager's operations report and calendar of upcoming events. Under old business, the board will discuss the management firm transition. No new business items are listed.
- Approval of minutes from May 9, 2022 board meeting
- Review of financial statements as of April 30, 2022
- PFM manager's operations report
- Calendar of upcoming events
- Discussion of management firm transition
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, July 7, 2022, due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for July 21, 2022. This agenda is only a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for July 21, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 6, 2022, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on July 20, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for July 20, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider several consent agenda items, including ordinances to rezone three residential properties on Jarlath Avenue to commercial, vacate an alley, and grant site plan and special use permits for a reconstructed Dunkin'-Baskin Robbins with a double drive-through and outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy Avenue. The board will also vote on contracts for sewer cleaning, pavement marking, and council chamber upgrades, plus appointments and ordinance amendments.
- Rezone 5149, 5153, 5157 Jarlath Ave. from R2 to B2 for Dunkin'-Baskin Robbins expansion
- Vacate alley behind 5150 Touhy Ave. for $110,000 compensation
- Site plan approval for restaurant reconstruction with double drive-through and outdoor dining
- Green Alley Program contract with Alliance Contractors, Woodstock, IL - $750,909.55
- 2022 Sewer Cleaning & Televising Program - Chicago Trenchless Rehabilitation Systems - $175,540
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a $750,909.55 contract with Alliance Contractors for the Green Alley Program, adopted several zoning ordinances for a restaurant at 5150 Touhy Avenue, and authorized drafting new fire protection codes. The board also approved a $175,540 sewer cleaning contract, a $100,000 pavement marking contract, and a $36,028.35 video system upgrade. A zoning map amendment for properties on Jarlath Avenue passed with one dissenting vote.
- Approved $750,909.55 Green Alley Program contract with Alliance Contractors (unanimous)
- Adopted ordinances for restaurant at 5150 Touhy Ave: site plan, special use for drive-through, outdoor dining, alley vacation (omnibus vote)
- Approved zoning map change for 5149-5157 Jarlath Ave from R2 to B2 (5-1, Trustee Johnson dissenting)
- Authorized drafting new fire protection codes with local amendments (omnibus vote)
- Awarded $175,540 sewer cleaning contract to Chicago Trenchless Rehabilitation Systems (omnibus vote)
- Awarded $100,000 pavement marking contract to Superior Road Striping (omnibus vote)
- Awarded $36,028.35 video system upgrade contract to Midwest Computer Products (omnibus vote)
- Approved Commercial Corridor Storefront Enhancement Program modifications (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing environmental initiatives, including a public listening session update, a solar forum, and a solid waste/recycling intern progress report. New business includes a refuse truck demo, a block party compost program, and composting at community events. The meeting also includes a guest speaker, Mayor Van Dusen.
- Guest speaker: Mayor Van Dusen
- ESP Team and Public Listening Session update
- CUB Solar forum update
- Solid Waste/Recycling Intern progress report
- Mack Electric Refuse Truck Demo
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission is meeting to discuss several programs, including a ComEd utility program, a CUB solar event, and a cybersecurity presentation. They will also review internal projects like a media campaign, webpage cleanup, and standardized brochures. The meeting includes approving minutes from April and noting that the AARP Tablet Training program is cancelled.
- Discussion of ComEd Utility Program with program lead Scott Shamberg
- CUB Grow Solar Chicagoland event partnership with SEAC
- SEC offering 30% off internet and discount laptops for qualifying families
- Cybersecurity presentation tabled until Avi returns
- AARP Tablet Training program cancelled
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear the chair's report, and discuss committee business. Key items include announcing the 2021 Block Party of the Year Award winner at the July 18 Village Board meeting, reviewing Skokie Pride expenses, and coordinating Farmer's Market volunteer sign-ups. The commission will take a summer break in July and August, with the next meeting scheduled for September 26.
- Block Party of the Year Award 2021 winner to be announced July 18 at Village Board meeting
- Skokie Pride June 26 PowerPoint presentation with total amount spent on supplies
- Farmer's Market volunteer sign-up for food (every Sunday) and clothing donations (once a month)
- Officer Richard Wilken and Co-Responder team unable to attend June meeting
- No meetings in July and August; next meeting September 26 at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
The Skokie Human Relations Commission voted on the Block Party of the Year award, with votes cast online and via paper forms. Iris will count the votes and email the winner, who will be presented at the July Board Meeting. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussions.
- Voted for Block Party of the Year (winner to be announced via email and presented at July Board Meeting)
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider resolutions to place three advisory public policy questions on the November 8, 2022 ballot: replacing a second garbage pickup with food waste pickup, banning non-recyclable plastic bags, and banning gas-powered leaf blowers. The board will also vote on a consent agenda that includes approving meeting minutes, a voucher list, appointments, a software maintenance contract, and a three-year agreement with the Chicago's North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau.
- Resolutions to put advisory questions on Nov. 8, 2022 ballot: food waste pickup, plastic bag ban, gas leaf blower ban
- CentralSquare Public Safety Software Maintenance Contract - $148,498.76
- Three-year agreement with Chicago's North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau; annual contribution $83,152 for FY2023, increasing by up to $20,788 annually
- Appointments to Consumer Affairs Commission: Jerry Kirkpatrick and Harry Litberg
- Voucher List #3-FY23 of June 20, 2022
The Skokie Board of Trustees unanimously agreed to make Juneteenth a village holiday, consistent with the federal holiday. The mayor removed three resolutions from the agenda that would have put public policy questions on the November ballot regarding food waste pickup, plastic bag ban, and gas-powered leaf blower ban. The board approved the consent agenda, including minutes, vouchers, an appointment, a visitor bureau agreement, and a software maintenance contract.
- Made Juneteenth a village holiday (unanimous)
- Removed three ballot resolutions on food waste pickup, plastic bag ban, and leaf blower ban
- Approved consent agenda including June 7 minutes and voucher list
- Appointed Jerry Kirkpatrick to Consumer Affairs Commission
- Approved 3-year agreement with Chicago's North Shore Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Awarded $148,498.76 contract to CentralSquare for software maintenance
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on June 16, 2022, due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for July 7, 2022. This agenda is purely procedural, with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 15, 2022, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on July 6, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for July 6, 2022
Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Board will continue discussions regarding the 2021 use of force reports. The agenda also includes reviewing requested information and unfinished business from the May 9th meeting.
- Continued discussion of 2021 use of force reports
- Review of requested information from May 9th meeting
- Approval of minutes from May 9th meeting
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board will approve the minutes from the May 9, 2022 meeting and review the April 30, 2022 financial statements. The agenda includes an operations report from the PFM Manager and a discussion on the transition of the management firm. No specific dollar amounts or new ordinances are listed in the provided text.
- Approval of minutes from the May 9, 2022 board meeting
- Review of financial statements for April 30, 2022
- Discussion of Management Firm Transition under Old Business
Board of Health
The Board of Health met virtually to review departmental reports and program updates. The agenda includes a report on the HHS Childhood Lead Program and the Director's monthly report.
- HHS Childhood Lead Program presentation
- Director's Monthly Report
- Review of National Bike Safety Month Event at Oakton Park
The Skokie Board of Health met and approved the agenda and minutes from March 10, 2022. The chair reported on ongoing COVID-19 concerns, including low booster rates among children aged 5-11, and raised two public health issues for future consideration: gun control and women's reproductive rights. Staff presented updates on the Childhood Lead Program and the director's monthly report, including COVID-19 rates and staff changes. No formal decisions were made beyond routine approvals.
- Approved agenda by consent
- Approved minutes from March 10, 2022 by consent
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review four applications for additions, facades, and new construction. The agenda includes two residential additions, a new commercial building for a car wash, and another new commercial building. Public comment is scheduled for non-agenda items.
- 2022-028A: 1st & 2nd floor addition and facade at 8530 Keeler Ave.
- 2022-029A: 1st & 2nd floor residential addition at 6855 Leclaire Ave.
- 2022-030A: New commercial building at 8939 Gross Point Rd for MB Car Wash Services, LLC
- 2022-031A: New commercial building at 3301-3307 Howard St. for Zaz Holdings, LLC
The Skokie Appearance Commission approved all four applications on the agenda: two residential additions, one new commercial building, and one new commercial building with conditions. All votes were 6-0-1, with one abstention each. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved addition & facade at 8530 Keeler Ave (6-0-1)
- Approved addition at 6855 Leclaire Ave (6-0-1)
- Approved new commercial building at 8939 Gross Point Rd, subject to conditions (6-0-1)
- Approved new commercial building at 3301-3307 Howard St, subject to conditions (6-0-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Appearance Commission
The Appearance Commission is reviewing several design proposals for residential and commercial properties. Staff provided recommendations regarding building elevations, tower heights, and signage for the cases presented.
- Residential design review for 8530 Keeler Ave
- Residential design review for 6855 Leclaire Ave requiring additional elevation submissions
- Non-residential design review for car wash at 8939 Gross Point Road involving tower and facade recommendations
- Non-residential design review for car wash at 3301-3307 Howard St involving tower and signage recommendations
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing architectural plans for two proposed car wash facilities. The first project involves a 4,480 square foot building at 8939 Gross Point Road, and the second involves a facility at 3301-3327 Howard Street.
- Proposed 4,480 sq ft car wash building at 8939 Gross Point Road
- Proposed car wash facility at 3301-3327 Howard Street
- Site plans and elevations for Awesome Car Wash LLC project
- Site plans and elevations for ZAZ Holdings, LLC project
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing an application for a new 2nd floor addition and a 2-story addition at 8530 Keeler Avenue. The project involves changes to a single-family residence in the R1 zoning district.
- New 2nd floor addition and 2-story addition at 8530 Keeler Avenue
- Proposed building area of 2,061 square feet
- Proposed impermeable area of 1,147 square feet
- Project involves R1 single-family residential zoning
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider adopting the FY2023 budget, approve several routine items, and vote on site plan approvals for a congregate living facility and school additions. The agenda also includes multiple Plan Commission cases for special use permits and zoning changes on McCormick Blvd.
- Adoption of FY2023 Budget
- Site plan approval for congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp Ave
- Site plan approval for school additions at 7040 Laramie Ave
- Commercial lease agreements for 4900 and 4904 Oakton St
- Insurance renewals: Affiliated FM $95,109 and BSC $31,049.90
The Skokie Board of Trustees adopted the FY2023 budget totaling $155,019,193 across all funds, with a General Fund of $63,743,384. They also approved several development items, including a special use permit for outdoor storage at 5363 Lincoln Ave and a series of approvals for three new drive-through restaurants at 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd, including Raising Cane's and Culver's. The board awarded a contract for school crossing guard services to Andy Frain at $27.43 per hour and approved commercial leases for 4900 and 4904 Oakton Street.
- Adopted FY2023 budget totaling $155,019,193 (unanimous)
- Awarded school crossing guard contract to Andy Frain at $27.43/hour (unanimous)
- Approved commercial leases for 4900 and 4904 Oakton Street (consent agenda)
- Approved site plan for congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp Ave (consent agenda)
- Approved site plan for school additions at 7040 Laramie Ave (consent agenda)
- Approved special use permit for outdoor storage at 5363 Lincoln Ave (unanimous)
- Approved zoning map amendment for 3 drive-through restaurants at 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd (5-1, 1 abstention)
- Approved subdivision and site plan for 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd (subdivision 5-1, site plan unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not hold its scheduled meeting on Thursday, June 2, 2022, due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for June 16, 2022. This agenda is purely a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for June 16, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 1, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on June 15, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for June 15, 2022
Commission on Family Services
The Skokie Commission on Family Services is meeting to approve minutes, hear a presentation from the Early Childhood Alliance, and receive reports from the chair and staff. Old business includes updates on the Produce Initiative, Farmer's Market Food and Clothing Drive, Festival of Cultures, 4th of July Parade, and commission brochure. New business features a presentation on findhelp.org by Mike Stiehl.
- Presentation by Steve Vick, Holly Jin & Joanna Varda of Early Childhood Alliance
- Update on Produce Initiative
- Update on Farmer's Market Food and Clothing Drive
- Update on Festival of Cultures and 4th of July Parade
- Presentation on findhelp.org by Mike Stiehl
The Skokie Commission on Family Services approved the May 4, 2022 minutes by consent and heard a presentation from the Early Childhood Alliance. The chair reported two commissioner resignations. Staff reported that COVID funds were used for rehiring frozen positions, grants, and other support. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.
- Approved May 4, 2022 minutes by consent
- Noted resignations of Commissioners Josh Orlan and Bonnie Eckstein
- Discussed volunteer sign-up for produce initiative and clothing drive
- Discussed staffing for farmers market donation drives
- Discussed participation in 4th of July parade float
- Discussed Findhelp.org resource for connecting residents to services
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will hear presentations on the Environmental Sustainability Plan and the Comprehensive Plan update, then vote on proposed updates to Comp Plan Chapter 5.5 Environment. If approved, the updates go to the Plan Commission for review. The agenda also includes volunteer recruitment for Chicago River Day and the Farmers Market, and a new recycling intern.
- Vote to approve updates to Comp Plan Chapter 5.5 Environment, sent to Plan Commission if approved
- Speaker: Ted Redmond, paleBLUEdot, on Environmental Sustainability Plan data
- Speaker: Matt Brandmeyer, Director of Community Development, on Comp Plan update
- 30th Annual Chicago River Day volunteer sign-up at chicagoriver.org
- Farmers Market volunteers to promote Sustainability Plan Survey
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to approve its agenda and April minutes, hear the chair's report on upcoming community events, and discuss old and new business. Items include follow-up on the Festival of Cultures, planning for Skokie Pride, and outreach for Block Party of the Year Awards and Farmers Market sign-ups.
- Festival of Cultures held May 21-22, 11am-6pm
- Skokie Pride scheduled June 26, 1-4pm
- Block Party of the Year Awards: emails sent to 16 applicants for photos
- Farmers Market sign-up via email in June through SignUp Genius from Family Services
The Skokie Human Relations Commission held a regular meeting with no formal votes. They decided to postpone the Block Party Forum due to the June date proximity and will vote on the Block Party of the Year Award in June. The commission also agreed to participate in Skokie Pride on June 26 at Oakton Park, with members staffing a table and distributing pinwheels and flags with QR codes. Amy announced her departure from the commission due to a move, and the group discussed community safety concerns, including a hate group and coded language, with a possible future presentation by the Anti-Defamation League.
- Postponed Block Party Forum; Block Party of the Year Award vote moved to June
- Agreed to participate in Skokie Pride on June 26 at Oakton Park, with members staffing a table
- Approved ordering pinwheels and flags with QR codes for Skokie Pride
- Discussed inviting Officer Wilken and Co-Responder Program staff to June meeting (no formal action)
- Decided to keep June meeting as a regular meeting rather than a potluck
- Noted Amy's departure from HRC due to moving; her last service is June 3
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, May 19, 2022. The cancellation is due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is June 2, 2022.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The scheduled meeting for May 18, 2022, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for June 1, 2022.
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider a consent agenda and several major items, including a $400,075 contract with Axon for police body cameras and related equipment, a resolution for a joint funding agreement for the Oakton Multi-Use Path, and a zoning ordinance update. The board will also vote on routine items like meeting minutes and the voucher list.
- Axon Enterprise contract for body worn cameras, squad car cameras, and drone systems - $400,075
- Resolution approving Local Public Agency Joint Funding Agreement with IDOT for Oakton Multi-Use Path, Gross Point Road to Caldwell Avenue - $287,299 local share
- Plan Commission Case 2021-31P: Zoning Chapter Amendment - General Zoning Ordinance Update
- Facility management agreement for North Shore Center for the Performing Arts with VenuWorks
- Proclamation for 50th Anniversary of Bene Shalom Hebrew Association for the Deaf
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a five-year agreement with Axon Enterprise for body-worn cameras and related systems at an annual cost of $400,075. They also approved a facility management agreement with VenuWorks for the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, a zoning ordinance update, and several consent agenda items. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved $400,075/year Axon Integrated Systems contract (unanimous)
- Approved VenuWorks facility management agreement for North Shore Center (unanimous)
- Approved zoning ordinance update including B4 district revisions and solar requirements (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including May 2, 2022 minutes and voucher list (unanimous)
- Approved IDOT joint funding agreement for Oakton Multi-Use Path (omnibus vote)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The scheduled meeting of the Skokie Board of Health was cancelled due to a lack of quorum. No official business or decisions were conducted.
The Skokie Board of Health meeting on May 12, 2022, was cancelled because no quorum was present, so no official business was conducted. Informational updates were shared, including rising COVID-19 rates, a planned community health needs assessment, and recognition for vaccination efforts.
- Meeting cancelled due to no quorum
- Agenda not approved (no quorum)
- Minutes from March meeting not approved (no quorum)
Fine Arts Commission
The Commission is reviewing updates for the Skokie Summer Scenes program. Members are also discussing future initiatives including storytelling at Sketchbook Brewing Company and the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards.
- Skokie Summer Scenes – Spring/Summer 2022 Skokie Through the Lens update
- Storytelling project at Sketchbook Brewing Company
- 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards
- 2023 SOAR planning
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission met on May 11, 2022, and discussed updates on the Summer Scenes photo exhibit, potential venues for a storytelling program, and the 2022 Artistic Excellence Awards. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was informational and planning-focused.
- No formal decisions or votes taken at the meeting
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will hold public hearings and consider five new business items, including a facade enclosure, a residential addition, new commercial construction, window signage, and a continued application for a new commercial building. The meeting includes standard procedural items like call to order, roll call, and approval of minutes.
- Facade enclosure at 9025 East Prairie Rd. (applicant Joshua Barr, owners Kathi and Charles Sawyers)
- Residential addition at 9 Salem Lane (applicant James Walsh, owners Matt and Courtney Fitterer)
- New commercial building at 7720 Austin Ave (applicant/owner Doru Vidican)
- Commercial window signage at 8814 Niles Center Road (applicant Ezra Pollack, owner Michael Melinger)
- Continued: New commercial building at 7250 McCormick Blvd for Raising Cane's (applicant Insite Real Estate Investment Partners LLC, owner Federal Mogul-Motorsports LLC)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing a sign package for a Raising Cane's restaurant at approximately 3300 Touhy Ave. The package includes wall signs, a mural, drive-thru menu boards, and other signage, some of which may require variances. The commission will also consider a request from Chicago Jewish Funerals at 8814 Niles Center Rd for window signage.
- Raising Cane's sign package at approx. 3300 Touhy Ave includes 4 wall signs, 1 open sign, 1 neon sign, 1 painted mural, 2 menu boards, 2 speaker posts, and more
- Some Raising Cane's signage requires variance approval
- Chicago Jewish Funerals requests window signage at 8814 Niles Center Rd, citing visibility issues due to trees
- Appearance Commission approval required for all new buildings and signs; application due 12 days before meeting
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review applications for building and signage projects. One item involves a request from Ezra Pollack of The Digital Convert to add text to a window at 8814 Niles Center Rd, with a follow-up email arguing for the sign's visibility and cost-effectiveness. The agenda also includes procedural details for submitting applications and fee schedules.
- Window sign request for 8814 Niles Center Rd by Ezra Pollack
- Application fees: $100 plus $50 per unit for new residential sites
- Application fees: $100 plus $50 per 1,000 sq ft for non-residential sites
- Other appearance reviews (additions, façade, sign package): $50
- Meeting dates and submittal deadlines for 2022
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing five cases at its May 11, 2022 meeting: two residential and three non-residential requests. Staff has no objections to two residential designs and one non-residential building, but is not supportive of a new building at 7720 Austin Avenue and window graphics at 8814 Niles Center Road. The commission will decide whether to approve, deny, or request changes to these designs.
- 9025 East Prairie Road: staff requests masonry, aligned sills and windows on street-facing elevation
- 9 Salem Lane: staff requires materials to closely match existing home
- 7720 Austin Avenue: staff not supportive of proposed new building; special use permit Ordinance No. 19-2-Z-4442 may need modification; 30' easement and 8' right-of-way dedication required
- 8814 Niles Center Road: proposed 100% window graphics violate Section 82-12(6) (max 25% coverage); staff recommends one sign band at 25% per pane
- 7250 McCormick Blvd: multiple wall signs violate Sign Code; staff recommends removing One Love sign and Raising Cane's sign, granting relief for rest
Economic Development Commission
The commission will review elements and timelines for economic development branding. Members will also discuss the current Skokie development update and a draft Request for Information (RFI) regarding economic development strategy.
- Economic Development Branding discussion
- Skokie Development Update including zoning and TIF districts
- Review of Economic Development Strategy RFI draft
Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Board will discuss use of force data from the 2021 calendar year. Members will also determine what additional types of data are required for future meetings.
- Discussion of calendar year 2021 use of force data
- Review of use of force incidents, data sheets, and geographical maps added to the Box Account
- Determination of data requirements for future meetings
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board met and discussed nine redacted 2021 use of force reports, with Chief Baker answering questions on report writing, video systems, and dispatch. No formal decisions were made, but board members requested additional data, including gender/race redaction details, squad car video access, lawsuit counts, and state traffic stop race data. Abel Figueroa offered to create a format for future meetings. The board approved the minutes from the April 11 meetings.
- Approved minutes for April 11 open and closed sessions
- Requested explanation on why gender is visible but race is redacted
- Requested redaction with clarification on subject descriptions
- Requested access to squad car video
- Requested number of use of force lawsuits filed/settled
- Requested state traffic stop race data
- Requested limited scope reports on other use of force cases
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board is meeting to approve prior minutes, review financial statements, and hear an operations report from the PFM manager. They will also discuss old business, including the search for a management firm. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Approval of April 11, 2022 board meeting minutes
- Review of financial statements as of March 31, 2022
- PFM Manager's report and calendar of upcoming events
- Discussion of management firm search
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing and voted on several items, including a special use permit for propane tank sales, a zoning map amendment, subdivision, and site plan approvals for three new drive-thru restaurants on McCormick Boulevard. All items were approved, with some amendments. The commission also approved a zoning chapter amendment to allow professional offices in mixed-use districts.
- Approved special use permit for outdoor storage at 5363 Lincoln Avenue for propane tank sales (2022-14P)
- Approved rezoning of 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd from M3 Industry to B2 Commercial for 3 drive-thru restaurants (2022-15P)
- Approved 3-lot subdivision of 7300 McCormick Blvd (2022-16P)
- Approved site plan for 3 limited service restaurants with drive-throughs at 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd (2022-17P)
- Approved special use permits for Raising Cane's and Culver's drive-thrus and outdoor dining at 7250 and 7252 McCormick Blvd (2022-18P through 2022-21P)
The Skokie Plan Commission approved a special use permit for propane tank storage at Skokie Mart, and approved a series of requests to rezone and develop three limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs at 7250-7256 McCormick Boulevard, including Raising Cane's and Culver's. The commission also recommended a zoning amendment to allow professional offices in downtown retail streets. All votes were 8-0 with one commissioner absent.
- Approved special use permit for outdoor propane tank storage at 5363 Lincoln Ave (8-0)
- Approved rezoning of 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd from M3 to B2 (8-0)
- Approved 3-lot subdivision of 7300 McCormick Blvd (8-0)
- Approved site plan for 3 drive-thru restaurants, amended to add trash receptacles and litter control (8-0)
- Approved relief for 2 ground signs for the development (8-0)
- Approved special use permit for Raising Cane's drive-thru at 7250 McCormick (8-0)
- Approved special use permit for Culver's drive-thru at 7252 McCormick (8-0)
- Recommended zoning amendment to allow professional offices in downtown retail streets (8-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a proposed zoning amendment that would permit professional offices, such as accounting, legal, and real estate services, in ground-floor spaces along designated Retail Streets in the Downtown area. The amendment also includes allowing limited building amenities, restricting office sizes and locations, and removing Main Street from the Retail Street designation. Staff recommends approval, citing rising vacancies and the difficulty of filling retail space.
- Proposal to add professional offices as permitted uses on Retail Streets, with a 2,500 sq ft size limit and no corner units
- Amendment would allow mixed-use building amenities (fitness rooms, management offices, coworking spaces, game rooms) on up to 30% of street frontage
- Main Street between Skokie & Main and CTA rail line would be removed from Retail Street designation
- Medical and dental offices are excluded from the proposed permitted uses
- Parking requirements for professional offices in CX districts would follow existing rules for other commercial uses
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by Pass 5363 LLC, operator of Skokie Mart, for a special use permit to allow outdoor storage of propane tanks at 5363 Lincoln Avenue. The proposal is for an accessory use to the convenience store, with an 18-cylinder exchange enclosure. Staff recommends approval subject to conditions, including fire safety measures and tree replacement.
- Special use permit for outdoor propane tank storage at 5363 Lincoln Avenue
- Proposed enclosure: 27" deep x 40" wide x 72" high, up to 18 cylinders (720 lbs LP)
- Fire safety conditions: no smoking signage, no tanks inside building, compliance with IFC 6100
- Two removed shade trees must be replaced; specific species recommended
- Minimum 8 parking spaces, 1 handicapped, 1 bicycle space required
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will consider a zoning map amendment to rezone 7250-7256 McCormick Boulevard from M3 Industry to B2 Commercial. The petitioner, Federal-Mogul Motorparts LLC on behalf of InSite Real Estate Investment Properties LLC, seeks the change to build three limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs and outdoor dining. Staff recommends approval despite inconsistency with the Comprehensive Plan, citing adjacent commercial zoning and arterial street location.
- Rezoning 7250-7256 McCormick Boulevard from M3 Industry to B2 Commercial
- Three new limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs proposed
- Related cases: subdivision, site plan, special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining
- Site size: 135,453± square feet
- Staff recommendation: grant rezoning subject to findings
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to subdivide 7250-7256 McCormick Boulevard into three lots for commercial development. The petitioner, Federal-Mogul Motorparts LLC on behalf of InSite Real Estate Investment Properties LLC, seeks approval for the subdivision, which is part of a larger proposal including zoning changes, site plan approval, and special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining. Staff recommends approval subject to conditions, including a dedication along McCormick Boulevard for IDOT.
- 3-lot subdivision of 7250-7256 McCormick Boulevard (part of 7300 McCormick)
- 14-foot-wide dedication along McCormick Boulevard for parkway and sidewalk relocation
- Related cases: zoning map amendment, site plan, special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining
- Petitioner: Federal-Mogul Motorparts LLC on behalf of InSite Real Estate Investment Properties LLC
- Staff recommends approval with conditions
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is considering a site plan approval for three limited-service restaurants with drive-throughs and outdoor dining at 7250-7256 McCormick Boulevard. The proposal includes Raising Cane's and Culver's, with a third restaurant to be determined. Staff recommends approval subject to conditions, including traffic and pedestrian circulation improvements. The request is part of a larger set of related cases, including a zoning map amendment and special use permits.
- Site plan for 3 restaurants: Raising Cane's (3,331 SF), Culver's (4,398 SF), and a TBD restaurant (3,175 SF) at 7250-7256 McCormick Blvd
- Request for relief from sign code to allow 2 ground signs instead of 1
- 130 parking spaces proposed (109 required), including 7 accessible spaces
- Staff recommends approval subject to conditions, including pedestrian walkway network and fire truck turning clearance
- Related cases: zoning map amendment (2022-15P), subdivision (2022-16P), and special use permits for drive-throughs and outdoor dining
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing requests for a limited service restaurant with a drive-through and outdoor dining. The proposal includes a 3,331 square foot building and a 450 square foot outdoor dining area. Staff recommends approval of these permits subject to specific conditions regarding signage and landscaping.
- Special Use Permit 2022-18P for a drive-through restaurant
- Special Use Permit 2022-19P for outdoor dining
- Request for relief to allow more than one wall sign at 7250 McCormick Boulevard
- Proposed 3,331 SF restaurant with two drive-through lanes
- Proposed 450 SF outdoor dining area
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on two special use permit requests for a proposed Culver's restaurant at 7252 McCormick Boulevard. The permits would allow a limited service restaurant with a drive-through and an outdoor dining area. Staff recommends approval with conditions, including operational limits on outdoor dining hours and dates.
- Special use permit for drive-through at 7252 McCormick Boulevard
- Special use permit for outdoor dining at 7252 McCormick Boulevard
- Proposed 4,398 SF restaurant with 1 drive-through lane and 460 SF outdoor dining area
- Relief from §82-28(b)(1) to allow more than 1 wall sign
- Outdoor dining hours limited to 8 AM–10 PM, April 1–October 31
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for May 4, 2022, has been cancelled because there are no cases to hear. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on May 18, 2022.
- May 4, 2022 ZBA meeting cancelled
- Next meeting scheduled for May 18, 2022
Commission on Family Services
The Skokie Commission on Family Services is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes the Produce Initiative, Farmer's Market Food and Clothing Drive, Festival of Cultures, and a subcommittee discussion. New business covers a commission brochure, the village budget hearing, and the Environmental Sustainability Plan Team.
- Approval of April 6, 2022 minutes
- Produce Initiative
- Farmer's Market Food and Clothing Drive
- Festival of Cultures
- Village budget hearing
The Skokie Commission on Family Services held a routine meeting with no formal votes or binding decisions. Members discussed upcoming events including the Festival of Cultures, a produce initiative, and a possible Boomers and Beyond senior event, and heard reports from two subcommittees. The agenda and prior minutes were approved by consent.
- Approved agenda by consent
- Approved April 6, 2022 minutes by consent
- Set volunteer shifts for Festival of Cultures on May 22
- Discussed but did not vote on Boomers and Beyond event format
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees is meeting to approve routine items and a consent agenda, including an ordinance to change regular board meeting start time from 8:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., effective July 18, 2022. The board will also consider contracts for services and equipment purchases.
- Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Section 2-35 to move regular board meetings from 8:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Water analytics services contract with McKim & Creed for $155,400.
- Purchase of two refuse packer trucks from R.N.O.W., Inc. for $560,026.
- Catch basin and inlet cleaning contract with A-K Underground, Inc. for $98,000.
- Resignations from Public Safety Commission: Alicia Case and Earl Nicholas.
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved the consent agenda, including contracts for school crossing guard services, water analytics, and catch basin cleaning, and separately approved a $560,026 contract for two refuse packer trucks. An item on school crossing guard services was removed from the consent agenda for further discussion, and public comments opposed privatization of crossing guards. The board also adopted an ordinance amending the village code on regular board meetings.
- Approved consent agenda with removal of Item C (school crossing guard services) (unanimous)
- Approved $560,026 contract to R.N.O.W., Inc. for two refuse packer trucks (unanimous)
- Approved $155,400 contract to McKim & Creed for water analytics services (consent)
- Approved $98,000 contract to A-K Underground, Inc. for catch basin & inlet cleaning (consent)
- Approved school crossing guard services contract to Andy Frain Services (consent, removed for discussion)
- Adopted Ordinance 22-5-C-4599 amending Chapter 2 on regular board meetings (consent)
- Accepted resignations of Alicia Case and Earl Nicholas from Public Safety Commission (consent)
- Approved minutes of April 18, 2022 meeting and Voucher List #24-FY22 (consent)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is reviewing updates to the Village Sustainability Plan, including the selection of paleBLUEdot as a consultant. The meeting also covers recent Spring Greening results and upcoming Arbor Day activities.
- Sustainability Plan update involving consultant paleBLUEdot
- Spring Greening results: 12 tons of electronics and 13 tons of paper collected
- Arbor Day event at Gleiss Park, 9301 Keystone on April 29th
- Invitation to host Grow Solar Chicagoland forum
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission is discussing and planning several community programs, including participation in next year's science fair, a cybersecurity presentation, and a possible presence at the Fourth of July parade. They are also considering internal improvements like a media campaign, webpage cleanup, and standardized brochures. Several topics, such as automation and home medical technology, are tabled for later meetings.
- ComEd Utility Program discussions to begin when program lead Scott Shamberg attends
- SEC offering 30% off internet and discount laptops for qualifying families
- Niles Township Food Pantry 'Fun Run' at Old Orchard Junior High on May 14 seeking volunteers
- Exploring free .gov website switch for government organizations
- STATus Updates media campaign proposed for Village website and Enews
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission met on April 26, 2022, but took no formal votes or decisions. Members discussed upcoming programs, including a science fair award, a ComEd utility program, a CUB solar event, and drone technology, and tabled several items for future meetings.
- Tabled cyber security program discussion until next meeting
- Tabled TED talk discussion until commission is stabilized
- Agreed to review science fair student papers and select a winner
- Agreed to update STAT Commission webpage and add minutes/agendas
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear the chair's report, and discuss upcoming community events including the Festival of Cultures, Skokie Pride, and volunteer needs for the Farmers Market. The agenda is largely procedural and event-planning focused, with no major policy decisions or financial items.
- Festival of Cultures scheduled for May 21-22, 11am-6pm
- Skokie Pride set for June 26, 1-4pm
- Farmers Market volunteer recruitment: 2 per table, 2 for pickup, sign-up from June 26-October 2022
- Approval of March 28, 2022 minutes
- Next meeting: May 23, 2022 at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
The Skokie Human Relations Commission met on April 25, 2022, and discussed upcoming community events, including the Stand Against Racism pledge, Block Party Forums, Festival of Cultures, and Skokie Pride. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.
- Agreed to meet at 10:15am on April 27 for Stand Against Racism event
- Block Party Forums pushed back to avoid Father's Day weekend, possible date June 5
- HRC members will not volunteer at Festival of Cultures; only Skokie Park District staff will
- Discussed providing rainbow pin-wheels and QR codes at Skokie Pride
- Members expressed interest in volunteering with Farmers Market food pickup
- No formal votes or resolutions were taken
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on April 21, 2022, due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for May 5, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for May 5, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees is meeting to consider several items, including approving construction agreements for the Oakton Multi-Use Path, a roof rehabilitation contract, and a first reading of an ordinance to change board meeting times. The board will also vote on consent agenda items such as vouchers, proclamations, and personnel changes. Plan Commission recommendations for parking and site plan approvals at two locations are also on the agenda.
- Intergovernmental agreement with Morton Grove and Niles for Oakton Multi-Use Path construction (est. $4.1M total, ~$815K local match)
- Phase III engineering services agreement with Christopher B. Burke Engineering for Oakton path ($130,590)
- NSCPAS Roof Rehabilitation contract with CSR Roofing Contractors ($847,400)
- SAN Replacement contract with CDW Government ($108,011)
- First reading of ordinance to change board meeting time from 8:00 PM to 7:30 PM
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a $39,430 contract with paleBLUEdot LLC to develop the Village's next Sustainability Plan. The board also approved a consent agenda including routine items, and approved site plan approvals for a congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp Avenue and school additions at 7040 Laramie Avenue. An ordinance amending board meeting rules was introduced for first reading, with adoption scheduled for May 2, 2022.
- Approved $39,430 contract with paleBLUEdot LLC for sustainability plan (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda including vouchers, proclamations, and appointments (6-0)
- Approved site plan for 6-bedroom congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp Avenue (6-0)
- Approved site plan for school additions at 7040 Laramie Avenue (7-0)
- Approved executive session for pending litigation discussion (6-0)
- Introduced ordinance amending board meeting rules for second reading on May 2, 2022
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will hear a presentation on the Skokie Environmental Sustainability Plan from Public Works officials. The meeting also includes the Director of Health & Human Services' monthly report.
- Presentation on Skokie Environmental Sustainability Plan
- Director's Monthly Report from Mike Charley
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review six applications for residential additions, facade changes, and new commercial buildings. The agenda includes two new fast-food restaurants on McCormick Blvd and two residential additions. Public comment is also scheduled for non-agenda items.
- 2022-019A: 1st and 2nd floor residential addition at 7525 Lowell Ave
- 2022-021A: 2nd floor residential addition at 8120 Lorel Ave
- 2022-018A: Facade change for industrial building at 7620 Gross Point Rd (Orchard Village)
- 2022-020A: Facade change for commercial building at 7909 Lincoln Ave
- 2022-022A/023A: New commercial buildings for Raising Cane's and Culver's at 7250/7252 McCormick Blvd
The Skokie Appearance Commission approved five of six applications at its April 13, 2022 meeting, all by 7-0 votes. Approvals included residential additions at 7525 Lowell Ave and 8120 Lorel Ave, a façade change at 7620 Gross Point Rd, a façade change at 7909 Lincoln Ave (subject to conditions), and a new Culver's building at 7252 McCormick Blvd (subject to conditions). The new Raising Cane's building at 7250 McCormick Blvd was continued.
- Approved residential addition at 7525 Lowell Ave (7-0)
- Approved residential addition at 8120 Lorel Ave (7-0)
- Approved façade change at 7620 Gross Point Rd (7-0)
- Approved façade change at 7909 Lincoln Ave subject to conditions (7-0)
- Continued new building at 7250 McCormick Blvd (Raising Cane's)
- Approved new building at 7252 McCormick Blvd (Culver's) subject to conditions (7-0)
Fine Arts Commission
The commission will hear from guest speaker Gary Newhouse regarding the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park. The meeting also includes a recap of SOAR and Skokie Summer Scenes programs, and a discussion on upcoming storytelling projects.
- Guest presentation by Gary Newhouse (Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park)
- Program recap for SOAR
- Program recap for Skokie Summer Scenes – Spring/Summer 2022
- Discussion of upcoming storytelling project with Sketchbook Brewing Company
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission heard a presentation from Gary Newhouse of the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park about its history, funding, and maintenance needs. Members expressed support for approaching Oakton Community College about hosting the 2023 SOAR exhibit in the same space as 2022. The commission also discussed a potential storytelling partnership with Sketchbook Brewing Company and planned a brainstorming session for the May 11 meeting.
- Supported approaching OCC about 2023 SOAR exhibit in same space
- Agreed to include brainstorming session at May 11 meeting about commissioner visits to arts organizations
- Invited Newhouse to send park news and summer tour schedule for SkokieNews
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing two proposals: a gut-rehab of a 7,000 sq.ft. building at 7620 Gross Point Rd. for an Adult Day Program and Behavioral Health Clinic, and a commercial subdivision with drive-thru restaurants at 7300 McCormick Blvd. The commission will decide on appearance approvals for these projects.
- Proposed ~7,000 sq.ft. Adult Day Program & Behavioral Health Clinic at 7620 Gross Point Rd., requiring 22 parking spaces including 1 accessible
- Exterior renovations include new glazed entries, storefront windows, and an Orchard Village sign (~58 sq.ft.)
- Commercial development proposal at 7300 McCormick Blvd. for a three-lot subdivision with two drive-thru restaurants, requiring zoning amendment to B2
- Application fees: $100 plus $50 per 1,000 sq.ft. for non-residential sites; $50 for other reviews
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to review an application for the Meyer residence at 7525 N Lowell Avenue, which includes a second-floor addition, a one-story addition, a covered front porch, and a new detached garage. The agenda includes the application form, zoning worksheet, site plans, and photographs. The commission will decide whether to approve the project's appearance.
- Application for 7525 N Lowell Avenue: second-floor addition, one-story addition, covered front porch, new detached garage
- Zoning worksheet for R-2 district: proposed building area 2,363.21 sq ft, impermeable area 3,643.01 sq ft, floor area 3,843.80 sq ft
- Fee schedule: $100 plus $50 per unit for new residential sites; $50 for other appearance reviews
- Meeting dates for 2022 listed, including April 13, 2022 at 7:30 PM at Skokie Village Hall
- Digital-only application process: PDFs submitted to appearance@skokie.org
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will review several residential and non-residential design cases, including additions, facade changes, and signage. Staff comments address design details, PIN consolidation requirements, and sign code relief. The meeting also covers a larger development proposal with restaurants at 7250 McCormick Blvd.
- 2022-019A: 7525 Lowell Ave – front window alignment and brick feature
- 2022-021A: 8120 Lorel Ave – addition design, PIN consolidation required
- 2022-018A: 7620 Gross Point Rd – stucco color recommendation
- 2022-020A: 7909 Lincoln Ave – sign relief and artwork signage concerns
- 2022-022A/023A: 7250/7252 McCormick Blvd – restaurants (Raising Cane's, Culver's) with drive-throughs, sign relief, parking trees
Economic Development Commission
The commission will discuss updates to the economic strategy, including its elements and timeline. Members will review zoning, TIF districts, and incentive overviews from the Village and Cook County. Staff will provide development updates for the Old Orchard Center Business District, Downtown Skokie, and village-wide projects.
- Economic strategy timeline and engagement
- Zoning and TIF District updates
- Village and Cook County incentive overviews
- Old Orchard Center Business District developments
- Downtown Skokie developments
Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Board will discuss the dissemination of 2021 use of force data at a future meeting. Members will also determine what additional types of data are required for upcoming meetings.
- Approval of March 14th meeting minutes
- Update on Box Account access and addition of Crowd Control policy document
- Request for an Executive Session under Section 2, Paragraph c. 1 of the Illinois Open Meetings Act
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board met on April 11, 2022, but took no substantive actions. They approved the minutes from the March 14 meeting and received a document on use of force incidents for discussion at the next meeting. The meeting adjourned to executive session.
- Approved meeting minutes from March 14, 2022
- Received use of force incidents document for next meeting review
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes, review financial statements as of February 28, 2022, and hear operations and marketing reports from PFM. The board will also continue old business regarding the search for a management firm. No new business items are listed.
- Approval of March 14, 2022 board meeting minutes
- Review of February 28, 2022 financial statements
- PFM manager's report, marketing report, and calendar of upcoming events
- Update on management firm search
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing on April 7, 2022, to review two items: a site plan approval for a mixed-use building at 8143 Skokie Boulevard and a zoning ordinance amendment. Both items were approved, with the site plan approved as presented and the zoning amendment approved as amended to include language protecting existing commercial development in the B4 district.
- Site plan approval for 8143 Skokie Boulevard (mixed-use building with enclosed parking) approved 5-0-4
- Zoning Chapter Amendment (2021-31P) to Section 118 of the Skokie Village Code approved as amended 5-0-4
- Amendment includes revisions to B4 Regional Shopping District and addition of Solar Requirements
- Public hearing held at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL
The Skokie Plan Commission approved site plan approval for a demonstration planned development at 8143 Skokie Boulevard, a 4-story mixed-use building with 95 residential units and enclosed parking, and separately accepted the requested relief items. The commission also approved a zoning ordinance amendment updating Section 118, including changes to regional shopping districts, solar requirements, and other revisions. Both votes were 5-0.
- Approved site plan for 8143 Skokie Boulevard mixed-use TOD (5-0)
- Accepted relief items for 8143 Skokie Boulevard (5-0)
- Approved zoning ordinance amendment to Section 118 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing a site plan approval request for a demonstration development project by General Capital Group. The proposal includes a 95-unit residential building with ground-floor commercial space and 114 parking spaces.
- Site plan approval for 81-story mixed-use building at 8143 Skokie Boulevard
- Proposed 2,440 square feet of ground-floor commercial space
- Request for relief regarding FAR, setbacks, and first-floor height
- Plan to reserve 5% of units as affordable housing
- Construction of a 'green alley' for stormwater management
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will review a proposed amendment to the Village's zoning ordinance (Case 2021-31P) that includes several changes: adding solar energy system regulations, allowing mixed-use buildings in the B4 Shopping District, prohibiting window trim lighting, and removing public hearing requirements for parking determinations and subdivision plats. The commission will also consider allowing up to 20% of residential parking to be shared with commercial uses in mixed-use buildings.
- Adds solar energy system regulations (roof- and ground-mounted) with height and setback limits
- Allows mixed-use buildings in B4 Shopping District, including multifamily and cannabis dispensary as permitted uses
- Prohibits window trim lighting visible from public ways
- Removes public hearing requirement for parking determinations and subdivision plats
- Allows up to 20% of required residential parking to be shared with commercial uses in mixed-use buildings
Commission on Family Services
The Commission will hold a meeting to discuss ongoing community initiatives and receive a health and human service report. The agenda includes updates on the 4th of July Parade, the Produce Initiative, and a food and clothing drive.
- 4th of July Parade discussion
- Produce Initiative update
- Farmer’s Market Food and Clothing Drive update
- Health and Human Service Report from Staff Liaison Brian McHugh
The Skokie Commission on Family Services approved participating in the Festival of Cultures on May 21-22, with Melissa Versch to secure a table and Jo and Arnie volunteering. The commission also approved the agenda and March 2 minutes, and noted Melissa Versch's hiring as the new Human Services Liaison.
- Approved participation in Festival of Cultures (unanimous)
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved March 2, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The April 6, 2022 Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting is cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for April 20, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for April 20, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will consider consent agenda items including ordinances for a Chick-Fil-A restaurant with a drive-through at 3720 Touhy Avenue, plus a $5.5 million street resurfacing contract. The board will also hear Plan Commission cases for a Dunkin'-Baskin development at 5150 Touhy and nearby Jarlath properties. Several appointments and resignations to village commissions are on the agenda.
- Ordinances for Chick-Fil-A at 3720 Touhy Ave: site plan amendment, special use permit for drive-through, and outdoor dining permit
- 2022 Non-Arterial Street Resurfacing Program contract with Schroeder and Schroder Inc. for $5,500,436.08
- Riding lawn mower purchase from Halloran Power Equipment for $27,392.82
- Plan Commission cases for Dunkin'-Baskin at 5150 Touhy & 5149, 5153, 5157 Jarlath (zoning map amendment, alley vacation, site plan, drive-through, outdoor dining)
- Appointments: Erica Minchella to Plan Commission; resignations from Consumer Affairs and Economic Development Commissions
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)
The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission met on March 29, 2022, and approved the January 28, 2020 meeting minutes (waived). The commission welcomed new liaison Alex Franz and new Commissioner Syed Mahmood, and noted the departure of Commissioner Randall Cling due to illness. Members discussed past and future programming ideas, including a TED Talk sub-committee, and set the next meeting for April 26, 2022. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.
- Approved January 28, 2020 meeting minutes (waived)
- Welcomed new liaison Alex Franz and new Commissioner Syed Mahmood
- Noted departure of Commissioner Randall Cling due to illness
- Scheduled next meeting for April 26, 2022
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting to approve its agenda and February minutes, hear a presentation from the YWCA Evanston North Shore about the Stand Against Racism event, and receive the chair's report including a slideshow from the Douglas Center Abilities Lab event. The meeting is largely routine with informational updates and no major decisions on the agenda.
- Presentation by Eileen Hogan Heinemain from YWCA Evanston North Shore on Stand Against Racism
- Village of Skokie Stand Against Racism event on April 27, 2022 at 10:30am
- Slideshow on March 25 Douglas Center Abilities Lab event
- Approval of February 28, 2022 meeting minutes
The Skokie Human Relations Commission met on March 28, 2022, and discussed upcoming events and community issues. They planned the Stand Against Racism event on April 27, 2022, at Village Hall, and discussed a potential block party on May 15. The Commission also discussed discriminatory appraisal practices, the Douglas Center's Abilities Lab, and ongoing conversations about the Village seal and Native American history. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded.
- Scheduled Stand Against Racism for April 27, 2022, at Village Hall (no vote recorded)
- Discussed potential block party date of May 15 (no vote recorded)
- Discussed inviting Neil King to share history of Village name change (no vote recorded)
- Discussed adding article about Abilities Lab visit to Village newsletter (no vote recorded)
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The commission will review the Waste sub-committee final report and provide an update on the Sustainability Plan RFP. The meeting also includes discussions regarding upcoming community events like Earth Day and Spring Greening.
- Approval of the Waste sub-committee final report
- Sustainability Plan RFP update
- Discussion on Land Use Development with Community Development Director Matt Brandmeyer
- Planning for Spring Greening on April 3rd
- Planning for Earth Day on April 22nd
The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission unanimously approved the February meeting minutes and endorsed the Waste Sub-committee Final Report. Staff reported that the Village Board endorsed the Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region on March 7. The RFP submission window for the next Sustainability Plan closed with four submittals received, and review is expected to take two to three weeks. The commission also discussed upcoming events including Spring Greening, Earth Day, and Chicago River Day, and heard from Community Development Director Matt Brandmeyer about incorporating sustainability into the Comprehensive Plan.
- Approved February 23, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Endorsed Waste Sub-committee Final Report (unanimous)
- Noted Village Board endorsement of Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region (March 7)
- Received four RFP submittals for next Sustainability Plan; review pending
- Discussed volunteer opportunities for Spring Greening (April 3), Earth Day (April 22), and Chicago River Day (May 14)
- Heard presentation on land use and development; sustainability chapter to be added to Comprehensive Plan
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission is meeting to review the Downtown Skokie Homewood Suites Hotel project. Members will also discuss potential changes to the Village's retail street requirements and receive development updates for the Old Orchard Center Business District and other areas.
- Downtown Skokie Homewood Suites Hotel Project
- Proposed changes to Village retail street requirements
- Old Orchard Center Business District development updates
- Downtown Skokie and village-wide development updates
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Board of Trustees will vote on consent agenda items including a site plan approval for a 42,835-square-foot addition to Niles North High School and a redevelopment agreement with Old Orchard Urban Limited Partnership for Westfield Old Orchard Center. The board will also hear a presentation on a workforce training initiative and consider a sewer lining contract.
- Site plan approval for Niles North High School addition at 9800 Lawler Avenue (42,835 sq ft, three-story)
- Redevelopment agreement with Old Orchard Urban Limited Partnership for Westfield Old Orchard Center
- 2022 Sewer Lining Program contract with Granite Inliner, Bedford Park, IL - $1,059,182
- Swearing in of three new police officers: Maite Castillo, Anjam Gulati, Mark Canizares
- Appointment of Dr. Edward Linn as Interim Chair of Board of Health
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a $1,059,182 contract with Granite Inliner for the 2022 sewer lining program, and adopted an ordinance granting site plan approval for an addition to Niles North High School. The board also approved a redevelopment agreement with Old Orchard Urban Limited Partnership for Westfield Old Orchard Center, with Trustee Johnson voting no. All other items, including the consent agenda, were approved unanimously.
- Approved $1,059,182 sewer lining contract with Granite Inliner (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 22-3-Z-4595 for Niles North High School addition site plan (unanimous)
- Approved redevelopment agreement with Old Orchard Urban Limited Partnership (6-1, Johnson no)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, vouchers, appointments, resignations (unanimous)
- Approved executive session request (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Plan Commission
The Commission is reviewing a request from Skokie Property, LLC to allow a 3,973 square foot limited-service restaurant with outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy Avenue. The proposal includes adding two new drive-thru lanes and a 10-seat rear patio.
- Special Use Permit for outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy Avenue
- Zoning Map Amendment (2022-8P) related to the site
- Alley Vacation (2022-9P) for a portion of the public alley
- Site Plan Approval (2022-10P) for the redevelopment
- Special Use Permit for a drive-through (2022-11P)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will hold public hearings on several requests, including a zoning map amendment and site plan approvals for a proposed Dunkin'–Baskin-Robbins restaurant, as well as parking determinations and site plans for a congregate living facility and school improvements. The commission will also consider an alley vacation and special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining.
- Rezoning 5149, 5153, 5157 Jarlath from R2 to B2 for Dunkin'–Baskin-Robbins
- Site plan approval for 6-bedroom congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp
- Parking determination and site plan for school additions at 7040 Laramie (Fairview South School District 72)
- Alley vacation behind 5150 Touhy between Laramie and intersecting alley
- Special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission will consider several development requests, including a rezoning and special use permits for a restaurant at 5150 Touhy. Other items include site plan approvals for a congregate living facility and school improvements.
- Rezoning 5149, 5153, and 5157 Jarlath from R2 to B2 for a Dunkin’–Baskin-Robbins
- Site plan approval and parking determination for a six-bedroom facility at 9701 Tripp
- Site plan approval and parking determination for school building additions at 7040 Laramie
- Special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy
- Alley vacation behind 5150 Touhy and Jarlath properties
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is deciding whether to require 2 on-site parking spaces for a proposed 6-bedroom congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp Avenue, operated by Orchard Village as a group home for up to 8 adults with developmental disabilities. Staff recommends 2 spaces, based on a parking study showing no resident vehicles and adequate on-street parking for worst-case scenarios. The decision is tied to this specific use and location.
- Parking determination for 6-bedroom congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp Avenue
- Petitioner: Orchard Village, an Illinois Corporation
- Staff recommends 2 on-site parking spaces
- Parking study by KLOA, Inc. cited
- Related case 2022-05P: Site Plan Approval
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a request by Orchard Village to approve a site plan for a congregate living facility. The proposal seeks to use an existing single-family home to house up to eight adults with developmental disabilities.
- Site plan approval for 6-bedroom Congregate Living Facility at 9701 Tripp Avenue
- Request to utilize a residential property in an R1 Single-Family zoning district
- Requirement for 2 on-site parking spaces in the garage
- Proposed use of the home as a group home for up to 8 unrelated adults with developmental disabilities
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will determine the off-street parking requirement for an auditorium use within the school building at 7040 Laramie Avenue, as part of a proposal by Fairview South School District 72 to construct two additions. The district plans to add classrooms, a library, and Pre-K facilities. Staff recommends requiring 114 on-site parking spaces, with additional parking for the auditorium to be coordinated with neighboring schools.
- Parking determination for auditorium use at 7040 Laramie Avenue
- Proposed two additions to Fairview South School: two-story east addition and single-story south addition
- New Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms, redesigned library, STEM classrooms
- Staff recommends 114 required on-site parking spaces; 129 proposed
- Fire Prevention Bureau requests only 28 guest parking spaces instead of 45
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing a request for two building additions and ground improvements at 7040 Laramie Avenue. The proposal includes new classrooms, a redesigned library, and the addition of Pre-K services to the existing elementary and middle school.
- Two building additions: a two-story east addition and a single-story south addition
- Proposed use of child day care (Pre-K) at the school site
- Requirement for 83 bicycle parking spaces (42 bike racks)
- Tree removal bond payment of $11,700 (or $10,500 if tree #22 is saved)
- Proposed 129 full-time off-street vehicle parking spaces
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a request to change the zoning of 5149, 5153, and 5157 Jarlath Avenue from R2 Single Family to B2 Commercial. The petitioner, Skokie Property, LLC, intends to construct a new Dunkin’/Baskin store on the assembled site.
- Zoning map amendment for 5149, 5153, and 5157 Jarlath Avenue
- Proposed change from R2 Single Family to B2 Commercial
- Related alley vacation request (2022-09P)
- Proposed site plan approval (2022-10P)
- Special use permit requests for a drive-through and outdoor dining
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a request by Skokie Property, LLC to vacate a 2,000 square foot section of the alley located behind 5150 Touhy. Staff recommends granting the vacation subject to specific conditions regarding utility easements and drainage. The proposal involves an area approximately 125 feet long and 16 feet wide.
- Alley vacation request for the area behind 5150 Touhy between Laramie and Jarlath
- Proposed vacation of approximately 2,000 square feet of public alley
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing a site plan approval for a new 3,973 square foot restaurant. The proposal includes adding two drive-thru lanes, outdoor dining, and the assembly of three residential properties.
- Site plan approval for a 3,973 square foot limited-service restaurant at 5150 Touhy Avenue
- Request for relief to reduce required parking from 34 spaces to 29 spaces
- Proposed assembly of three residential properties on Jarlath Avenue and a portion of a public alley
- Special use permit requests for a drive-through and outdoor dining
- Zoning map amendment (Case 2022-8P) related to the project
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing on March 17, 2022, and voted on several items, including parking determinations, site plan approvals, a zoning map amendment, alley vacation, and special use permits. All items were approved, with some conditions. The most consequential action was approving a rezoning and related permits for a new Dunkin'–Baskin-Robbins restaurant at 5150 Touhy.
- Approved parking determination for 6-bedroom congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp (2 on-site spaces).
- Approved site plan for additions to Fairview South School at 7040 Laramie, requiring lot merger.
- Approved rezoning of 5149, 5153, 5157 Jarlath from R2 to B2 for Dunkin'–Baskin-Robbins.
- Approved alley vacation behind 5150 Touhy and adjacent Jarlath properties.
- Approved site plan, special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy Dunkin'–Baskin-Robbins.
The Skokie Plan Commission approved all requests for a new Dunkin'-Baskin-Robbins at 5150 Touhy, including rezoning three residential parcels to commercial, vacating an alley, site plan approval with conditions, and special use permits for a drive-through and outdoor dining. The commission also approved parking determinations and site plans for a congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp and school additions at 7040 Laramie. All votes were 5-0.
- Approved rezoning 5149, 5153, 5157 Jarlath from R2 to B2 for Dunkin'-Baskin-Robbins (5-0)
- Approved alley vacation behind 5150 Touhy (5-0)
- Approved site plan for Dunkin'-Baskin-Robbins with conditions on landscaping, trash policing, and pickups (5-0)
- Approved parking and signage relief for Dunkin'-Baskin-Robbins (5-0)
- Approved special use permit for drive-through at 5150 Touhy (5-0)
- Approved special use permit for outdoor dining at 5150 Touhy (5-0)
- Approved parking determination of 2 spaces for congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp (5-0)
- Approved site plan for congregate living facility at 9701 Tripp (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Community Development Department is reviewing a special use permit for a 3,973 square foot limited-service restaurant at 5150 Touhy Avenue. The proposal by Skokie Property, LLC includes adding two new drive-through lanes and the assemblage of three residential properties.
- Special Use Permit for a drive-through restaurant at 5150 Touhy Avenue
- Zoning Map Amendment (Case 2022-8P) related to the site
- Alley Vacation (Case 2022-9P) for a portion of the public alley
- Site Plan Approval (Case 2022-10P) for the redevelopment
- Special Use Permit for outdoor dining (Case 2022-12P)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals is considering a request from Majeed and Ruba Maatouk for a variation to build a second-floor addition at 4225 Lyons Street. The addition would continue the existing 24.35-foot front yard, which is about 8 inches less than the 25-foot minimum required in the R1 single-family zoning district. Staff recommends approval, noting the building predates the current setback requirement and the variance is the minimum needed.
- Variation request for 4225 Lyons Street to allow second-floor addition with 24.35-foot front yard (25-foot minimum required)
- Petitioners: Majeed and Ruba Maatouk
- Existing residence constructed in 1955
- Appearance Commission approved the request on December 8, 2021
- Staff recommends granting the variance
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variation request from Nicole and Kendall Meyer to build a first- and second-floor addition at 7525 Lowell Avenue. The proposal would reduce side and front yard setbacks below zoning minimums. Staff recommends granting the front yard variation but denying the side yard variations, citing concerns about the addition being too close to the property line.
- Variation request for 7525 Lowell Avenue to allow side yards of 2.53, 2.87, and 2.59 feet (zoning requires 4 feet) and front yard of 19.998 feet (requires 23.11 feet)
- Staff recommends granting the front yard variation for a second-floor addition above the garage
- Staff recommends denying the side yard variations for the first- and second-floor additions
- Forestry Division requires a tree survey, tree removal permit, and tree protection
- Windows on south elevation less than 3 feet from property line would need removal per 2012 IRC
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on March 16, 2022, and approved two requests for zoning variations. Both approvals passed 6-0-3 and require covenants. The first allows a second-floor addition at 4225 Lyons Street with a reduced front yard, and the second permits additions at 7525 Lowell Avenue with reduced side and front yards.
- Approved variation for 4225 Lyons Street: second-floor addition with 24.35-foot front yard (25-foot minimum required) in R1 district
- Approved variation for 7525 Lowell Avenue: first and second-floor additions with side yards of 2.53-2.87 feet and front yard of 19.998 feet in R2 district
- Conditions for Lowell Avenue: front porch must remain open, easternmost 5 feet of rear addition must be setback at least 3 feet
- Both approvals passed 6-0-3 and require covenants
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two variance requests for residential additions. One request, for 4225 Lyons Street, is recommended for approval, while the other, for 7525 Lowell Avenue, is recommended for partial denial due to proposed side-yard setbacks that are too small.
- 4225 Lyons Street: variance to build second-floor addition with 24.35-foot front yard (25-foot minimum)
- 7525 Lowell Avenue: variance for first/second-floor addition with side yards of 2.53, 2.87, and 2.59 feet (4-foot minimum) and front yard of 19.998 feet
- Staff recommends granting the Lyons Street variance
- Staff recommends denying the Lowell Avenue side-yard variances but granting the front-yard variance
- Appearance Commission approved the Lyons Street request on Dec. 8, 2021
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals approved two variations for residential additions. Both approvals passed 6-0-3 and require covenants. The first allows a second-floor addition at 4225 Lyons Street with a reduced front yard. The second allows first- and second-floor additions at 7525 Lowell Avenue with reduced side and front yards, subject to conditions.
- Approved variation for 4225 Lyons Street (6-0-3), covenant required
- Approved variation for 7525 Lowell Avenue (6-0-3), covenant required, with conditions: front porch must remain open, 2nd story side yard at 2.59 ft setback, rear addition with 2.53 ft setback (easternmost 5 feet must be at least 3 ft from lot line)
Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board is meeting to receive a presentation on use of force laws and department policy, and to discuss procedures for conducting reviews. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and set up a shared folder for document review. No new business is listed.
- Presentation on use of force laws and Department Policy
- Discussion on procedures to conduct reviews
- Approval of minutes from February 15th meeting
- Box Account set up for shared document review
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board met on March 14, 2022, and approved the minutes from its February 15 meeting. Chief Brian Baker presented an overview of use-of-force policies, procedures, and training, referencing federal and state statutes. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; several requests were raised for future consideration, including a crowd control policy, document downloads, equipment use, and a Virtra demonstration.
- Approved meeting minutes from February 15, 2022
- Noted requests for crowd control policy, Box document downloads, equipment use, and Virtra demonstration (no action taken)
Performing Arts Center Board
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board is meeting to approve minutes from December 2021, review financial statements from January 2022, and hear operations reports from PFM, including marketing and upcoming events. The board will also discuss old business regarding the search for a management firm. No new business items are listed.
- Approval of December 13, 2021 board meeting minutes
- Review of January 31, 2022 financial statements
- PFM manager's report and marketing report
- Calendar of upcoming events
- Discussion of management firm search
The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board held a regular meeting on March 14, 2022, approving the previous meeting's minutes. The board received updates on operations, COVID-19 policies, programming, and finances, but took no substantive votes on new business. The meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Layfer, second by Siegel)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:12 p.m. (motion by Reeder, second by Layfer, unanimous)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will review an overview of the Northshore University HealthSystem Community Health Assessment Process. The meeting also includes a report from the Director of Health & Human Services and discussion regarding a bicycle safety event scheduled for May 14.
- Northshore University HealthSystem Community Health Assessment Process Overview
- Bicycle Safety Event on May 14, 2-4 pm
- Director’s Monthly Report from Mike Charley
The Skokie Board of Health met virtually and received updates on the NorthShore University HealthSystem community health needs assessment process, the COVID-19 situation, and departmental activities. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural. Members volunteered for the upcoming bicycle safety event.
- Approved agenda by consent
- Approved February 10, 2022 minutes by consent
- Dr. Linn and Dr. Kumar volunteered to participate in May 14 bicycle safety event
- Adjourned at 7:55 PM
Appearance Commission
The commission is reviewing plans for a new construction project at 5315 Monroe Street and a two-story frame addition at 5034 Birchwood Avenue. The meeting includes review of materials, elevations, and site plans for these residential developments.
- New construction application for 5315 Monroe Street
- Two-story frame addition and material changes for 5034 Birchwood Avenue
- Proposed use of asphalt shingles, vinyl siding, and composite decking at 5034 Birchwood Avenue
Appearance Commission
The Appearance Commission will hold hearings for several property modification requests. These cases include residential additions, a commercial facade and signage update, and new building proposals.
- Residential 1st floor addition at 5315 Monroe St.
- Residential 1st and 2nd floor addition at 9053 Tamaroa Terr.
- Residential 1st floor addition at 9237 Ewing Ave.
- Residential 1st and 2nd floor addition at 5034 Birchwood Ave.
- Commercial facade and signage for Bloomie’s at 4999 Old Orchard B10
Appearance Commission
The commission is reviewing applications for a new mixed-use multifamily development at 8143 Skokie Blvd and a proposed Dunkin' site at 5150 Touhy Ave. These items involve architectural reviews of exterior elevations, materials, and site plans.
- Mixed-use multifamily development at 8143 Skokie Blvd
- Proposed Dunkin' site at 5150 Touhy Ave
- Exterior elevation review for 8143 Skokie Blvd featuring brick and metal panels
- Site plan review for 5150 Touhy Ave including drive-thru and parking
Appearance Commission
The Appearance Commission is reviewing several staff reports regarding building designs and site plans. The items include residential additions, new single-family home requirements, and non-residential signage or structural modifications.
- Residential design review for 5315 Monroe St
- Porch and elevation adjustments for 9053 Tamaroa Ter
- Brick wainscoting recommendation for 9237 Ewing Ave
- New single-family home fire sprinkler requirements for 5034 Birchwood Ave
- Signage and design reviews for 4999 Old Orchard Road, 8143 Skokie Blvd, and 5150 Touhy Ave
Fine Arts Commission
The commission will host a guest speaker from Music Theater Works and review recent programs including the Artistic Excellence Awards and SOAR. The agenda also includes discussions regarding upcoming projects such as Skokie Through the Lens.
- Guest presentation by Kyle Dougan of Music Theater Works
- Program recap of Artistic Excellence Awards and SOAR
- Discussion of Spring/Summer 2022 Skokie Through the Lens project
The Skokie Fine Arts Commission discussed upcoming projects, including a spring/summer 2022 'Skokie Through the Lens' community photo exhibit and a storytelling initiative possibly at Sketchbook Brewing or Take Flight Spirits. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational and planning-focused.
- Agreed to launch 'Skokie Through the Lens' online photo exhibit in early April through late July 2022
- Commissioners to send theme/name ideas for photo exhibit to staff liaison by March 15
- Agreed to develop a storytelling initiative project plan and approach Sketchbook Brewing about a partnership
- Trustee Klein agreed to speak to developer about displaying art in empty first-floor space at 8000 North
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Village Board will meet in person on March 7, 2022, to consider several items, including a resolution endorsing the 2021 Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region, ordinances establishing a PACE area and a business district for Old Orchard Center with related taxes, and a presentation of the 2021 Community Survey results. The board will also vote on routine consent agenda items such as minutes, vouchers, appointments, and contracts for food inspection and mowing services.
- Resolution endorsing the 2021 Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region
- Ordinance establishing a PACE area for energy project financing
- Ordinance designating Old Orchard Center Business District and approving a blighted area finding
- Ordinance imposing business district retailers' and service occupation taxes in Old Orchard Center
- Mowing services contract with Langton Group, Woodstock, IL - $59,332.26
The provided document is not the actual meeting minutes. It is a website error page (Custom404) from the Village of Skokie, stating 'An error has occurred in this application' with reference number f49bf996-4c11-40b6-9223-edcf42b83680. No board actions, votes, or decisions are recorded.
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, March 3, 2022, because there are no cases to consider. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for March 17, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no substantive items.
- Meeting cancelled for March 3, 2022
- Next meeting scheduled for March 17, 2022
Commission on Family Services
The Skokie Commission on Family Services is meeting to hear a presentation from Debi Morganfield, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels Northeastern Illinois, and receive a Health and Human Service report from staff liaison Brian McHugh. The commission will also discuss old business including creating subcommittees, a produce initiative, and a farmer's market food drive, and plan for the April meeting.
- Speaker: Debi Morganfield, Executive Director, Meals on Wheels, Northeastern Illinois
- Health and Human Service Report by Staff Liaison Brian McHugh
- Discussion of creating subcommittees
- Produce Initiative update
- Farmer's Market Food Drive discussion
The Commission on Family Services approved the agenda and February minutes, and formed two subcommittees: Seniors, and At Risk Youth and Families. They heard a presentation from Meals on Wheels and discussed ongoing initiatives like the produce drive and food drive. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy items.
- Formed Seniors subcommittee
- Formed At Risk Youth and Families subcommittee
- Approved agenda with added Fourth of July Parade item
- Approved February 2, 2022 minutes
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 2, 2022, has been cancelled because there are no cases to hear. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on March 16, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no substantive items.
- Cancellation of the March 2, 2022 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting
- Next meeting scheduled for March 16, 2022
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission is meeting virtually to approve minutes, hear a presentation on Native American and Indigenous initiatives from Northwestern University and the Mitchell Museum, and receive committee reports. Public comments must be submitted in writing due to COVID-19.
- Presentation by Jasmine Gurneau (Northwestern) and Kim Vigue (Mitchell Museum) on Native American initiatives
- Approval of January 24, 2022 minutes
- Chair's report and sub-committee updates
- Public comments accepted via email or mail
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting virtually to discuss endorsing the Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region, approve a final report from its waste sub-committee, and review an RFP for the next Sustainability Plan. The commission will also hear from Village Manager John Lockerby on sustainability in economic development. Public comments must be submitted in writing due to COVID-19 precautions.
- Endorsement of Climate Action Plan for Chicago Region ahead of March 7th Board meeting
- Waste sub-committee final report approval
- Review of RFP for next Sustainability Plan
- Spring Greening website volunteer form; volunteer event Sunday April 3rd
- Guest speaker: Village Manager John Lockerby on sustainability in economic development
The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission unanimously approved the January meeting minutes and endorsed the final Waste Sub-committee report, which includes recommendations for curbside food scrap composting and reducing refuse pick-up to once weekly, with implementation targeted for May 2023. The Commission also reviewed the draft RFP for the next Environmental Sustainability Plan, with members providing feedback on scope, including adding housing and equity considerations, and agreed to move forward without delay. No formal votes were taken on the report or RFP; the report will be presented to the Village Board.
- Approved January 25, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Endorsed final Waste Sub-committee report for presentation to Village Board
- Reviewed draft RFP for next Environmental Sustainability Plan; feedback to be incorporated
- Agreed to keep RFP timeline; no delay for additional review
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Village Board is meeting in person to vote on several items, including establishing a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program to finance energy efficiency and water use improvements, amending zoning rules for car and marine craft dealers, and granting site plan approval for a car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive. The board will also consider consent agenda items such as vouchers and a resignation, and receive reports on fire hydrant replacement and landscaping contracts. Plan Commission cases for a Chick-Fil-A at 3720 Touhy Avenue are on the agenda for discussion.
- Ordinance establishing PACE area and program, designating CastleGreen Services as administrator
- Second reading of ordinance amending car dealer and marine craft dealer zoning (2021-24P)
- Second reading of site plan approval for car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive (2021-25P)
- Fire hydrant replacement contracts: Core and Main ($62,656), Ziebell Water Service Products ($62,656), Water Products Company ($9,630)
- Plan Commission cases for Chick-Fil-A at 3720 Touhy: site plan amendment, special use permits for drive-through and outdoor dining
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved an ordinance amending the village code to allow car dealers and marine craft dealers, and granted site plan approval for a car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive (to be known as 9757 Woods Drive). The board also approved site plan amendments and special use permits for a Chick-fil-A restaurant with a drive-through and outdoor dining at 3720 Touhy Avenue. All motions passed, with Trustee Johnson voting against the car dealership items.
- Approved ordinance 22-2-C-4590 amending code for car dealers and marine craft dealers (6-1, Johnson nay)
- Approved site plan for car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive (6-1, Johnson nay)
- Approved site plan amendment for Chick-fil-A at 3720 Touhy (unanimous)
- Approved special use permit for drive-through restaurant at 3720 Touhy (unanimous)
- Approved special use permit for outdoor dining at 3720 Touhy (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, vouchers, and appointments (unanimous)
- Approved PACE program ordinance (unanimous)
- Awarded contracts for fire hydrants and landscaping (consent agenda)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 17, 2022, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for March 3, 2022.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its February 16, 2022 meeting due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on March 2, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for March 2, 2022
Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board is holding its initial meeting virtually due to COVID-19. The agenda includes an ice breaker for members to get to know each other and a discussion of board responsibilities. No old or new business items are listed. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 14, 2022.
- Initial meeting of the Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
- Virtual meeting due to COVID-19 surge
- Public comments must be submitted in writing to Cindy Pechter
- Discussion of board responsibilities
- Next regular meeting: Monday, March 14, 2022
The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board held its initial meeting via Zoom on February 15, 2022, establishing a quorum and introducing members. Chief Baker explained the board's purpose under ordinance 21-12-C- to review use-of-force statistics and advise the mayor on policy recommendations. No minutes, reports, or motions were considered. The board requested a use-of-force presentation, training overview, data collection methods, and a Box account for document sharing.
- Established a quorum and convened the first meeting of the Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board.
- Heard Chief Baker's explanation of the board's purpose under ordinance 21-12-C- to review use-of-force statistics and advise the mayor.
- Requested a use-of-force presentation to be sent to board members.
- Requested an overview of training provided to police officers.
- Requested information on data collection methods.
- Requested a Box account for document sharing.
Board of Health
The Board of Health will hold a virtual meeting to review recent COVID-19 pandemic developments and the Village of Skokie Smart911 program. The agenda also includes the Director's monthly report and approval of previous minutes.
- Review of COVID-19 pandemic developments
- Discussion regarding Village of Skokie Smart911
- Director's Monthly Report
The Skokie Board of Health discussed ending its mask and proof-of-vaccination orders on or around February 28, contingent on declining COVID-19 cases and hospital data. The board approved the agenda and January minutes via consent. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the meeting was informational and procedural.
- Approved agenda via consent
- Approved January 13, 2022 minutes via consent
- Discussed ending mask and proof-of-vaccination orders on/around Feb. 28, contingent on COVID-19 metrics
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is scheduled to review 11 residential requests for design compliance with the Village Code. Staff reports indicate that several projects require modifications, such as adding fire sprinklers, adjusting window placement, or matching existing brick and siding colors. One case at 4029 Suffield Ct may be unbuildable if the addition cannot meet the required 25-foot front yard setback. All residential requests are subject to a final review of the Zoning Information Worksheet.
- 2021-089A at 7812 Karlov Ave requires sprinklers and two off-street parking spaces
- 2022-005A at 4029 Suffield Ct may be unbuildable due to front yard setback rules
- 2022-006A at 8048 Crawford Ave requires fire sprinklers for the new home
- 2022-007A at 9101 Kolmar Ave requires sprinklers for the entire home due to addition size
- 2021-049A at 8445 Latrobe is a revision to a previously approved case
Appearance Commission
The Village of Skokie Appearance Commission is scheduled to hear 11 cases on February 9, 2022. The agenda consists entirely of residential applications for first or second-floor additions, new construction, and facade revisions. No specific decisions, dollar amounts, or ordinances are listed in the provided text, only the pending case descriptions.
- Case 2021-089A: 2nd floor addition at 7812 Karlov Ave.
- Case 2022-001A: 1st floor addition at 8310 Keystone Ave.
- Case 2022-006A: New construction at 8048 Crawford Ave.
- Case 2021-049A: Revised facade at 8445 Latrobe Ave.
- Case 2022-010A: 1st & 2nd floor addition at 8729 St. Louis Ave.
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is reviewing a proposed rear master suite addition for the single-family home at 8310 Keystone Avenue. The agenda includes architectural plans, a plat of survey, and a zoning information worksheet confirming the property is in the R2 district. The document provided contains only the application materials and does not list a vote or final decision.
- Proposed rear master suite addition at 8310 Keystone Ave
- Zoning Information Worksheet for R2 Single-Family district
- Architectural drawings by Airoom Architects and Builders, LLC
- Plat of survey for the property
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Village Board will consider several items, including a zoning amendment to allow auto dealers in the Office Research district, which would enable a Carvana dealership at 9801 Woods Drive. The board will also hold a public hearing on the 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant and vote on consent agenda items, including the addition of Gross Point Road to the municipal street system and a plat of dedication for 3320-3340 Dempster Street.
- Zoning amendment to allow auto dealers and marine craft dealers in OR district (Plan Commission case 2021-24P)
- Site plan approval for Carvana at 9801 Woods Drive (new address 9757 Woods Drive)
- Ordinance to add Gross Point Road (Gold Road to Old Orchard Road) to municipal street system
- Ordinance approving plat of dedication for 3320-3340 Dempster Street
- Purchase of one Public Works hybrid vehicle from Currie Motors for $36,186
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved a site plan for a Carvana auto dealership at 9801 Woods Drive (new address 9757 Woods Drive), subject to conditions, and approved a zoning amendment to allow auto dealers in the OR Office Research District. The board also approved a site plan for an addition to Niles North High School, and directed staff to draft ordinances for the Old Orchard Center Business District. The board approved the 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) budget of $712,200.
- Approved Carvana site plan at 9801 Woods Drive (new address 9757 Woods Drive) (6-1)
- Approved zoning amendment to allow auto dealers in OR Office Research District (6-1)
- Approved Niles North High School addition site plan (7-0)
- Directed staff to draft ordinances for Old Orchard Center Business District (6-1)
- Approved 2022-2023 CDBG budget of $712,200 (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, vouchers, and appointments
- Approved $36,184 contract for one public works hybrid vehicle
- Approved ordinances for Gross Point Road addition and Dempster Street plat of dedication
🗳️ How they voted — 3 divided votes
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing a special use permit request for a 4,447 square foot limited-service restaurant. The proposal by Skokie Development, LLC includes a double drive-through lane and an outdoor dining area.
- Special Use Permit for a 4,447 square foot Chick-fil-A restaurant
- Proposed double drive-through lane at 3720 Touhy Avenue
- Staff recommendation for approval subject to specific conditions
- Site plan amendment and outdoor dining permit related cases
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing a site plan amendment for a 4,447-square-foot Chick-fil-A restaurant with a drive-through and outdoor dining at 3720 Touhy Avenue. The proposal requires special use permits for the drive-through and outdoor dining, and staff recommends approval subject to conditions. The commission will decide whether to approve the plan at this meeting.
- Site plan amendment for 4,447 sq ft Chick-fil-A at 3720 Touhy Avenue
- Special use permit for drive-through
- Special use permit for outdoor dining
- 32 on-site parking spaces, with 13 provided on adjoining lot
- Staff recommends approval with 30 conditions
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing a request from Skokie Development, LLC for a 4,447 square foot limited-service restaurant. The proposal includes a drive-through and 20 outdoor dining seats at the back of the building. Staff recommends approval of the permit subject to specific operational conditions.
- Special Use Permit 2022-03P for a limited-service restaurant with outdoor dining
- Proposed 4,447 square foot restaurant building at 3720 Touhy Avenue
- Plan for 20 outdoor dining seats located at the north building elevation
- Staff recommendation for approval based on proposed findings of fact
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission met to consider site plan amendments and special use permits for a new restaurant. The commission approved the site plan, a drive-through permit, and an outdoor dining permit for Skokie Development, LLC.
- Site Plan Amendment: 4,450 sf Chick-Fil-A restaurant at 3720 Touhy
- Special Use Permit: Drive-through for Chick-Fil-A at 3720 Touhy
- Special Use Permit: Outdoor dining for Chick-Fil-A at 3720 Touhy
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a virtual public hearing on February 3, 2022, to consider three requests from Skokie Development, LLC for a new Chick-Fil-A restaurant at 3720 Touhy. The commission approved a site plan amendment, a special use permit for a drive-through, and a special use permit for outdoor dining, each by a 6-0-2 vote with one vacancy. The site plan approval included a modification to add trash receptacles in the shared parking area of Lot 2.
- Site plan amendment approved for 4,450 sq ft Chick-Fil-A at 3720 Touhy
- Special use permit approved for drive-through at 3720 Touhy
- Special use permit approved for outdoor dining at 3720 Touhy
- All items approved 6-0-2 with one vacancy
- Modification added trash receptacles in shared parking area of Lot 2
The Skokie Plan Commission unanimously approved three related requests for a new Chick-Fil-A restaurant at 3720 Touhy Avenue: an amendment to the existing site plan ordinance, a special use permit for a drive-through, and a special use permit for outdoor dining. All three motions passed 6-0, with two commissioners absent. The approvals include conditions for trash receptacles and debris monitoring in the shared parking lot.
- Approved site plan amendment for Chick-Fil-A restaurant at 3720 Touhy Ave (6-0)
- Approved special use permit for drive-through at 3720 Touhy Ave (6-0)
- Approved special use permit for outdoor dining at 3720 Touhy Ave (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Commission on Family Services
The Commission on Family Services approved its agenda and December minutes, heard a presentation on demographic changes, and discussed forming subcommittees. It agreed to organize a monthly food drive at the Farmer's Market, with Commissioner O'Donnell leading the effort. No formal votes were taken on these items.
- Approved agenda with added Food Drive item
- Approved December 1, 2021 minutes with spelling correction
- Agreed to organize monthly food drive at Farmer's Market (no formal vote)
- Commissioner O'Donnell volunteered to lead food drive initiative
Zoning Board of Appeals
The February 2, 2022 Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting is cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on February 16, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for February 16, 2022
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission is meeting virtually to review the final greenhouse gas inventory report, hear a status update on endorsing the Climate Action Plan for Chicago Region, and receive a presentation on recycling and refuse audit results. They will also discuss the Spring Greening Sunday event, sustainability plan update, and village fleet electrification including a ComEd grant opportunity. Public comments must be submitted in writing due to the virtual format.
- Final GHG inventory report
- Endorsement of Climate Action Plan for Chicago Region – status update
- Recycling and refuse audit results – presentation
- Spring Greening Sunday, April 3rd, 10:00 am–2:00 pm at Westfield Old Orchard
- Village fleet update – charging station, EVs, ComEd grant opportunity
The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission met virtually and approved the November meeting minutes. They discussed the final Greenhouse Gas Inventory report, endorsed the regional Climate Action Plan, and reviewed recycling/refuse audit results. The main topic was the proposed Carvana tower on Woods Drive, with many commissioners expressing opposition, but no formal vote or letter was issued because the item was not on the agenda. The next meeting was rescheduled to February 23, 2022.
- Approved November 30, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Endorsed Climate Action Plan for the Chicagoland Region (status update, no vote)
- Discussed recycling/refuse audit results, no action taken
- Rescheduled next meeting to February 23, 2022 via Doodle poll
- No formal action on Carvana tower; individual comments encouraged
Human Relations Commission
The Skokie Human Relations Commission reviewed minutes, discussed updates on the SEED program, and voted unanimously to sponsor the Douglas Center's Abilities Lab with $200. They also discussed inviting Native American community members to talk about the Village logo and confirmed a use-of-force review meeting had occurred.
- Unanimous vote to approve $200 sponsorship for Douglas Center Abilities Lab
- Discussion on inviting Native American representatives to discuss Village logo
- Confirmed use-of-force review meeting took place with commission members on committee
- SEED program noted as 9-month program; commissioners encouraged to participate
- Upcoming meeting dates listed: 02/28, 03/28, 04/25, 05/23, 06/27
The Skokie Human Relations Commission met virtually and heard a presentation from the Douglas Center about its services and upcoming Coming Together event. The commission approved the previous meeting's minutes after correcting a misspelled name. No formal policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and planning for upcoming events.
- Approved January minutes with correction of Jonathan Lavin's name (motion by Chaparro, second by Pahan)
- Scheduled next meeting for February 28, 2022, virtual
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, January 20, 2022. Cases scheduled for this meeting will be re-advertised and heard at a future meeting. The next regularly scheduled meeting is February 3, 2022. This agenda is only a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled for January 20, 2022
- Scheduled cases to be re-advertised and heard later
- Next regular meeting: February 3, 2022
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for January 19, 2022, has been cancelled due to lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on February 2, 2022.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of cases
- Next meeting scheduled for February 2, 2022
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Village Board is meeting in person on January 18, 2022, to vote on a consent agenda that includes several major contracts and ordinances. Key items include a $1.45 million tower ladder truck purchase, engineering agreements for the Gross Point Road reconstruction project, and zoning changes for properties on Mulford Street and Lincoln Avenue. The board will also hold a public hearing on the proposed Old Orchard Center Business District.
- Tower ladder truck purchase from Pierce Manufacturing/Macqueen Emergency for $1,449,361
- Gross Point Road reconstruction: Phase II engineering with TranSystems ($88,475) and Phase III with Christopher B. Burke Engineering ($529,942)
- Employee benefit consulting contract with The Horton Group for $65,520
- Traffic signal and street lighting maintenance contract with H&H Electric for $82,382.52
- Zoning map amendment for 5050 Mulford Street from R2 to NX district
Board of Health
The Skokie Board of Health is meeting virtually due to the COVID-19 surge. The agenda includes a COVID-19 presentation by Dr. Vishnu Chundi and a specific talk on COVID-19 and pregnancy by Dr. Edward Linn, along with routine reports and approval of prior minutes. Public comments must be submitted in writing.
- COVID-19 presentation by Dr. Vishnu Chundi, Chair of Chicago Medical Society COVID-19 Task Force
- COVID-19 and Pregnancy presentation by Dr. Edward Linn
- Director's Monthly Report by Bruce Jones, HHS Environmental Health Supervisor
- Approval of minutes from December 9, 2021
- Public comments accepted via email or mail to Michael Charley
The Skokie Board of Health met on January 13, 2022, and approved the agenda and previous minutes by consent. The board discussed mask effectiveness against the Omicron variant, with the 3M Aura N95 mask recommended. Presentations covered COVID-19 updates, vaccination, and pregnancy, and the director's report noted new grants and vaccination data.
- Approved agenda by consent vote
- Approved December 9, 2021 minutes by consent vote
Appearance Commission
The Appearance Commission is reviewing several staff reports regarding building additions and design modifications. The items include evaluations of height, setbacks, masonry requirements, and architectural details for various properties.
- Review of 7812 Karlov Ave residential addition involving height and parking requirements
- Design review for 9357 Springfield Ave regarding garage door details and masonry percentages
- Review of 5319 Crain St design with potential roofline drainage adjustments
- Evaluation of 5053 Jerome St massing and impermeable surface requirements
- Non-residential design review for 7040 Laramie Ave regarding brick wainscot height
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission is meeting to decide on six cases involving residential and school building additions. Five applications were approved with conditions, and one case was continued to a future meeting.
- Approved 2nd floor addition at 7812 Karlov Ave. (continued to Feb 9, 2022)
- Approved 1st & 2nd floor addition at 9357 Springfield Ave. (5-0-2)
- Approved 2nd floor addition at 5319 Crain St. (5-0-2)
- Approved 1st & 2nd floor addition at 5053 Jerome St. (5-0-2)
- Approved 1st & 2nd floor addition at 7040 Laramie Ave. (Fairview South School) (5-0-2)
Appearance Commission
The Skokie Appearance Commission will meet on January 12, 2022, to review several applications for residential floor additions. The meeting includes hearings for various properties regarding first and second-floor expansions.
- Residential 2nd floor addition at 7812 Karlov Ave.
- Residential 1st & 2nd floor addition at 9357 Springfield Ave.
- Residential 2nd floor addition at 5319 Crain St.
- Residential 1st & 2nd floor addition at 5053 Jerome St.
- Residential 1st & 2nd floor addition at 7417 Kilbourn Ave.
Plan Commission
The Plan Commission is reviewing Carvana's plan to resolve outstanding concerns about its proposed facility at 9801 Woods Drive. The plan includes moving truck routes away from the Optima building, limiting delivery hours to 7am-10pm, dimming lights at night, and applying bird-strike decals. The commission will decide whether to approve these modifications.
- Truck route moved to northernmost driveway, with right-turn-only sign onto Woods Drive
- Delivery hours restricted to 7am-10pm
- Signage and building lights dimmed 11pm-6am; parking lot lights dimmed earlier than code
- Bird strike mitigation decals applied to all four glass facades up to 54' 10"
- Two additional landscape islands added in southern portion of site
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission held a public hearing on January 6, 2022, to review and vote on several site plan and parking requests. They approved a site plan for a 52,525 sq ft addition to Niles North High School and a parking determination for its auditorium. They also voted on a site plan for a proposed Carvana car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive, approving it with modifications. A public request for cross-examination of Carvana witnesses was terminated by the chairman, with written questions allowed.
- Approved site plan for 3-story, 52,525 sq ft addition to Niles North High School at 9800 Lawler Ave (6-0-3)
- Approved parking determination for Niles North auditorium: 1 space per 3 attendees (6-0-3)
- Approved Carvana dealership site plan at 9801 Woods Drive with modifications (5-1-3)
- Cross-examination of Carvana witnesses terminated; written questions permitted
- Public hearing held electronically due to COVID-19
The Skokie Plan Commission approved a site plan for a 3-story addition to Niles North High School and a parking determination for auditorium use, both by 6-0 votes. It also approved four additional conditions for the Carvana dealership site plan, including lighting dimming and bird strike mitigation, by a 5-1 vote. A stricter alternative motion to follow American Bird Conservancy recommendations failed 2-4. The commission also held a cross-examination session for Carvana witnesses, but no vote was taken.
- Approved site plan for 3-story addition at Niles North High School (6-0)
- Approved parking determination of 1 space per 3 attendees for gym/auditorium (6-0)
- Approved 4 additional conditions for Carvana site plan: lighting dimming, bird markings, delivery hours, truck route (5-1)
- Rejected stricter conditions: full building markings, lights off midnight-7am, engine-off during loading (2-4)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Plan Commission
The Skokie Plan Commission is reviewing additional conditions for the site plan approval of a proposed Carvana car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive. The commission previously voted to recommend approval in November. This meeting will clarify four conditions: delivery truck route, delivery hours, lighting and sign control, and bird strike mitigation.
- Carvana Vending Machine car dealership at 9801 Woods Drive
- Lighting limited to 50% of ordinance standard from 11pm to 6am
- Bird strike mitigation: American Bird Conservancy-approved window markers up to 54' 10" high
- Multi-car hauler deliveries only between 7:00 am and 10:00 pm
- Truck route revised to use northernmost driveway, with right-turn-only sign onto Woods Drive
Plan Commission
This agenda provides instructions for participating in the Skokie Plan Commission's virtual meeting on January 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m. It details how to register for public comment by video or phone, with a maximum speaking time of three minutes. No substantive agenda items are listed.
- Public comment registration by email or phone (847-933-8219) required by 7:00 p.m.
- Video attendees receive Zoom link 15 minutes before meeting; unregistered not admitted.
- Phone attendees dial (312) 626-6799, webinar ID 820 1855 8357.
- Speakers limited to 3 minutes each.
- Meeting viewable on YouTube or Skokie Cable channels 17 (Comcast) and 25 (RCN).
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two parking variation requests. The first, from Linda Z Neiman for 4113-4125 Main Street, seeks to build a commercial addition for a caterer with 18 parking spaces instead of the required 23; staff recommends denial. The second, from Main Keeler LLC for 4147 Main Street, requests a variation to open a hair salon with a two-space parking deficit. The board will also hear public comments, including resident concerns about employee parking and truck traffic.
- Parking variation 2021-07Z for 4113-4125 Main Street: 18 spaces provided vs. 23 required; staff recommends denial
- Parking variation 2021-08Z for 4147 Main Street: hair salon with two-space parking deficit
- Resident emails cited regarding Zelda's Catering employee parking on residential streets and truck concerns
- Appearance Commission approved the 4113-4125 Main Street request on November 10, 2021
- Public hearing at 7:30 PM, January 5, 2022, at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals approved two parking variations. The first allows a commercial addition for a caterer at 4113-4125 Main Street with conditions, and the second permits a hair salon at 4147 Main Street without conditions. Both approvals require a covenant.
- Approved parking variation for caterer at 4113-4125 Main St. with conditions (6-2-0, 1 vacancy)
- Approved parking variation for hair salon at 4147 Main St. without conditions (8-0-0, 1 vacancy)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two parking variation requests for commercial properties on Main Street. The board will consider whether to grant the variations, which would allow a caterer's addition and a hair salon to operate with fewer parking spaces than the village code requires.
- 2021-07Z: Parking variation for commercial addition for caterer at 4113-4125 Main Street; 18 spaces provided vs. 23 required
- 2021-08Z: Parking variation for hair salon at 4147 Main Street; deficit of two parking spaces
- Both properties are in B1 Service Commercial district
- Public hearing scheduled for January 5, 2022 at 7:30 PM at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals is considering a request from Linda Z Neiman for a parking variation to build an addition at 4113-4125 Main Street, which would result in 18 off-street parking spaces instead of the required 23. Staff recommends denial, citing concerns about employees parking on residential streets and the loss of three existing spaces. The board will also hear public comments from residents who have raised issues about parking, trucks, and dumpsters.
- Parking variation for 4113-4125 Main Street to allow 18 spaces instead of required 23
- Proposed addition of about 696 square feet, removing three existing parking spaces
- Staff recommends denial of the variation
- Appearance Commission approved the request on November 10, 2021
- Resident emails express concerns about employee parking, trucks, and rats
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on January 5, 2022, to consider two parking variation requests for commercial properties on Main Street. Both requests were approved, one with conditions and one without. The meeting was held electronically, and public comments were accepted via email.
- Approved 2021-07Z: parking variation for 4113-4125 Main St. (caterer addition) with conditions (employees park on site, trucks in rear, applies to Zelda's only), vote 6-2-0
- Approved 2021-08Z: parking variation for 4147 Main St. (hair salon) without conditions, vote 8-0-0
- Both approvals require a covenant
- Public comments submitted to marlene.bargamian@skokie.org were read during the meeting
Commission on Family Services
The January 5, 2022 meeting of the Skokie Commission on Family Services has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for February 2, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. at Village Hall.
- Meeting cancelled
- Next meeting: February 2, 2021, 7:00 p.m., Village Hall
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a request by Main Keeler LLC for a variation to open a hair salon at 4147 Main Street. The variation would allow a parking deficit of two spaces, as the new use requires more parking than the previous vacant store. Staff recommends approval, citing minimal impact and the applicant's ability to manage parking. The board will decide whether to grant the variation.
- Variation request for hair salon at 4147 Main Street
- Parking deficit of two spaces
- Staff recommendation to grant the variation
- Property built prior to 1964
- No Appearance Commission review required
Board of Trustees
The Skokie Village Board is meeting in person on January 3, 2022, to consider a consent agenda that includes issuing up to $160 million in taxable pension obligation bonds and $27 million for a parking garage and TIF project costs. The board will also hear a presentation on the village's annual financial report, receive a COVID-19 update, and consider a grant for a new café and a fire gear purchase.
- Ordinance to issue up to $160,000,000 in pension bonds and $27,000,000 for a parking garage and TIF costs
- Presentation of Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for fiscal year ending April 30, 2021
- Proposed $44,353 TIF rehabilitation grant for Complimentary Café at 4933 Oakton Street
- Proposed $43,360 purchase of 17 sets of fire safety gear from W.S. Darley & Company
- Appointments to the Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
The Skokie Board of Trustees approved an ordinance authorizing up to $160 million in Taxable General Obligation Pension Bonds (Series 2022A) and $27 million in Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Series 2022B), with Trustee Johnson abstaining. The board also approved appointments to the Police Use of Force Review Board, a $44,353 TIF rehabilitation grant for Complimentary Café, and a $43,360 contract for fire safety gear. A public hearing on the FY23 Community Development Block Grant proposals was held, with budget recommendations to be presented on February 7.
- Approved $160M pension bonds Series 2022A and $27M Series 2022B (6-0, Johnson abstained)
- Approved appointments to Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board (7-0)
- Approved $44,353 TIF rehab grant for Complimentary Café at 4933 Oakton St (7-0)
- Approved $43,360 proprietary purchase of fire safety gear from W.S. Darley & Company (consent agenda)
- Approved consent agenda with removal of two items (7-0)
- Approved minutes of Dec. 20, 2021 meeting (consent agenda)
- Approved Voucher List #16-FY22 (consent agenda)
- Accepted resignation of Jacqueline Moses from Fine Arts Commission (consent agenda)