Village of Homer Glen PLAN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING

Transcription

1 Village of Homer Glen S. Founders Crossing Homer Glen, Illinois Phone (708) Fax (708) PLAN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Monday, April 20, :30 PM Village Council Chamber S. Founders Crossing Homer Glen, Illinois May 4, 2009

2 A. Call the Plan Commission to Order The meeting of the Homer Glen Plan Commission was called to order by Chairman Stevens at 7:30 P.M. B. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag C. Roll Call; Establish Quorum Present were Chairman Stevens, Kevin Hoffmeister, Ted Kagainas, Bill Karn, Joe Maska, Kathy Hines and Tom Bernicky. Present on behalf of the Village of Homer Glen were Lindley Ehlert, Dana Ludwig, Maura Rigoni and Paula Wallrich. The minutes were recorded and transcribed by Candace Rose. D. Approval of Minutes April 4, 2009 A motion to approve the Minutes from April 4, 2009 as written was made by Member Karn, seconded by Member Bernicky. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. E. Agenda Items 1. Text Amendment to Zoning Ordinance (Public Hearing): Consideration of a text amendment to the zoning ordinance to allow for heliports as a special use in a C-2, Local Business District, in conjunction with a medical facility. Lindley Ehlert explains that in response to the special use request from Silver Cross Hospital, staff is proposing to amend the zoning ordinance, to allow for helipads as a special use in the C-2, Local Business District, in conjunction with a medical facility. Currently, the zoning ordinance only allows heliports & airports in the A-1, Agricultural District. There is a distinct difference between the definition between a heliport and a helipad: Heliport: The Federal Aviation Administration s (FAA) definition of a heliport is any landing area used for the landing and taking off of helicopters, including all necessary passenger and cargo facilities, fueling, and emergency service facilities. Village of Homer Glen 2 of 17 May 4, 2009

3 Helipad: A facility without the logistical support provided by a heliport where helicopters take off and land. Helipads do not include facilities for maintenance, repair, fueling, or storage of helicopters. Staff has researched helipad regulations in 10 surrounding municipalities and 9 communities throughout Illinois where helipads are located. The results of our research showed that 3 out of the 10 surrounding municipalities allow for helipads as a special use (Lockport, New Lenox, and Palos Hills). These 3 municipalities only permitted a helipad as a special use in either an agricultural, estate residential, manufacturing, or industrial district. The 7 other municipalities did not address helipads in their zoning ordinances. Of the 9 communities where helipads are allowed, the bulk of them required a special use in the research district, business district, hospital & medical district, or industrial district. For example, the Village of Arlington Heights regulates heliports as a special use in all non-residential districts, subject to FAA requirements. Chairman Stevens asks Member Karn to swear in anyone wishing to speak at any of tonight s public hearings. Member Karn swears in the members of the audience wishing to speak tonight. Chairman Stevens calls for a motion to open the first public hearing on tonight s agenda. A motion to open the public hearing in the text amendment case was made by Member Karn, seconded by Member Bernicky. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. Chairman Stevens calls for questions or comments from the audience. No one in the audience has a comment on this agenda item. Member Bernicky asks if there is currently a landing strip anywhere in the Village. Chairman Stevens states that somewhere around Mallard Lakes there is a private air strip. Member Karn states that there was an air strip on the northwest corner of Smith Road and 127 th Street some time ago but he does not know if it still exists. Member Kagainas states that he does not have a problem with a helipad located in the Village. Member Maska asks if this issue would be limited to medical facilities only. Ms. Ehlert states that it is Staffs recommendation that helipads be allowed only in association with a medical facility. Chairman Stevens ask why Staff would like helipads confined to medical facilities. Ms. Wallrich states that it would give the Village greater control over where and when the Village would allow a helipad. It would not mean that a helipad would only be allowed with a medical facility, it would just require that any other applicant would have to come in and make a case for their request. Ms. Wallrich suggests that it may be appropriate for discussion of this item be tabled until after the presentation and discussion of the Silver Cross case. Village of Homer Glen 3 of 17 May 4, 2009

4 A motion to table the discussion on the proposed text amendment until after discussion of agenda item 2 Case No. HG-0908-SM was made by Member Hines, seconded by Member Bernicky. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. 2. HG-0908-SM Silver Cross Heliport (Public Hearing): Consideration of a map amendment from the R-5, Single Family Residential District, to the C-2, Local Business District, and for a special use to permit a planned unit development to allow for a Free-Standing Emergency Center, a special use to permit a heliport in the C-2 district upon a text amendment to the zoning ordinance, and a special use to allow for a 24 hour emergency center for the existing Silver Cross Facility located at W. 143rd St., Homer Glen, Illinois. Lindley Ehlert asks to enter the receipt of the green cards for this case into the minutes. She then presents a summary of the case. She states that in September of 2006, Silver Cross received a Special Use to permit the operation of an urgent care center/medical facility at their 143 rd location. The conditions placed on the SUP per ordinance included the approval of the landscape and signage plan, that exterior lighting had to be fully shielded and downward directed, the landscape buffer area reduced to 25-ft in width, and maximum height of the building could not exceed 40-ft. Ms. Ehlert explains that Silver Cross received a certificate of need (CON) for the building in At that time, FEC's did not exist and Silver Cross plans for an urgent care facility did not include a helipad. However, in early 2007 the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board (IHFP) shut down other urgent care facilities because they did not meet certain criteria. In order to make sure they were fully compliant with the regulations, Silver Cross sent a request to the IHFP requesting confirmation if a new CON would be required. In August 2007, IHFP was given authorization to issue FEC licenses to qualifying facilities. It was not until June 2008 that IHFP published new rules for FECs which mandated the inclusion of helipads. Within 60 days, Silver Cross applied for a certificate of need for the newly regulated FEC's and thereafter received approval on January 27, The previous application, which was intended to offer emergency-like services, was modeled prior to the FEC regulations (circulated in 2008) requiring helipads. After Silver Cross received its certificate of need for the FEC, they applied for a special use and map amendment in March of The applicant requests approval of the installation and operation of a helipad on the subject parcel as part of the approval for a special use for a Free Standing Emergency Center (FEC). The current Silver Cross medical facility provides advanced digital diagnostic imagining services, laboratory, and other services. Silver Cross is in the process of expanding the services of the building to a Free Standing Emergency Center. Silver Cross has indicated as part of the change in services they request the installation of a helipad. The current Zoning Ordinance does not address helipads, therefore in tandem with this project the Plan Commission and Village Board will need to consider the addition of a helipad as a special use in the C-2 commercial district. Village of Homer Glen 4 of 17 May 4, 2009

5 She states that as outlined below the existing development of Silver Cross is in substantial compliance with the current bulk regulations of the C-2 with the exception of the front yard setback, green space requirement and parking requirements. A variance for the front yard setback was previously granted in Ordinance Proposed Regulation Lot area 15,000 s.f. 209,088 s.f. Lot width Front yard setback Side yard and setbacks 92 Rear yard setback F.A.R Lot Coverage 65% 42% Green Space Transition Yard Parking Ratio: Currently the subject parcel includes a 30,300 square foot medical facility, with a total of 145 parking spaces, for a ratio of 4.83 per thousand. The current Zoning Ordinance requires all medical facilities provide parking at a ratio of 6/1000; therefore the subject parcel does not meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, and will have to be noted as an exception of the PUD. It is noted the previous Zoning Ordinance did not specifically address the parking requirements for medical facilities;, rather service business was 4/1000 and primary retail was 6/1000. Therefore the urgent care facility was in conformance with the parking requirements of the ordinance at the time of its approval. Ms. Ehlert also explains that since the workshop, Silver Cross held a second neighborhood meeting where about 20 residents were in attendance. Some of their concerns included: The expedited schedule is too fast. Concerned that they were not notified when Silver Cross started the project. Who is going to take care of a helicopter crash if one occurs? What is the backup plan if the FEC is denied? Felt that Silver Cross was promoting abuse of an emergency room Has the Village completed an environmental impact analysis or a safety analysis? Will the lights be on 24 hrs since the building is proposed to be a 24 hr. facility? Their third neighborhood meeting was held on April 14 th at Victorian Village. Village of Homer Glen 5 of 17 May 4, 2009

6 Silver Cross anticipates 8,850 visits to the FEC in year one. Ms. Ehlert states that for the Helicopter Flight Path: FAA and IDOT require 2 approaches, 90 degrees apart. The primary approach will be from the NE and the secondary approach is from the SE, depending on the weather conditions. Jeffrey Marks, Illinois Dept of Public Health Facilities Planning Board, verified that the deadline for occupancy of any proposed FEC is June 30, 2009, which is statutorily regulated. However, staff has learned about House Bill 1327 that has already passed the House and is expected to pass the Senate by May 1, which extends the deadline to March Bill Bell, Deputy Director of the Illinois Public Health, who issues the licenses for FEC, explained that if the Village has provided the necessary approvals and the helipad is near completion, then he would issue a temporary occupancy. Mr. Bell also mentioned he anticipates the House Bill passing as well. Right now the project is tentatively scheduled for VB review on April 28, which gives Silver Cross 9 weeks to complete the detention and helipad if the Board approves the request. They have stated they only need 6 weeks. Silver Cross continues to request permission to begin work on the helipad and underground detention prior to Board approval, however in light of the new information stated above, the Board may feel comfortable restricting work until zoning approvals and not jeopardize the project. In the event the FEC request is denied, Silver Cross would therefore not be able to operate an urgent care center with Certified Emergency Room Physicians. Silver Cross representatives have stated they would need to consider their options including converting the FEC into a leased physician office space. Ms. Ehlert also states that she has received a letter from the Fire Department stating that they have no objections to the proposed plans. Present to speak tonight for Silver Cross are Rebecca Froeter Mathis, Dan Shapiro, Mark England, David Weber, Ruth Colby, Brian Dick, Terry Obrien, Gary Stevens, Dave Maher and the CFO of Silver Cross Mr. Bill Brownlow. Attorney Doan Shapiro explains that the site is about 5-acres with 145 parking spaces and two detention areas. The proposed helipad will be place over one of the existing detention ponds. The facility is already built and is an attractive building. The facility offers the typical medical services plus much more, there is an MRI, CT Scanner, and X- ray machines. Silver Cross is asking for a Special Use Permit (SUP) for a helipad, a SUP for a Planned Unit Development (as required by the Village), and a SUP for extended business hours. Ruth Colby, the senior vice president of business development for the Joliet-based hospital, states that the helipad as a required feature that will be used rarely, if ever. No patients will arrive at the center at 143rd Street and Bell Road, by helicopter, she said, and only specialized patients such as burn victims or seriously ill children would be Village of Homer Glen 6 of 17 May 4, 2009

7 flown out. She states that Homer Glen maybe the very first Village to have this very unique type of health care system. She states that Free Standing Emergency Centers a very new and they have been developed because of the crisis that exists in the emergency rooms across America. The average wait in most any emergency room is 8-hrs and patients are taken based on the degree of severity of their injury. This Center will help reduce the crowding in those emergency rooms and patients with injuries that are not life threatening can choose to walk in this Center rather than go to the emergency room at the nearest hospital. Ambulances will still take patients to the nearest hospital but if you drive yourself you can opt to come here. The facility will be staffed with fully certified emergency room physicians. The need to use the helicopter will be very, very low but having the ability to use one is a requirement by the State of Illinois in order to open a FEC. Ms. Colby states that there are only 200 FECs in the United States and the State of Illinois is controlling both the time line as well regulating the operation of this facility. Dave Maher is the EMS supervisor for Silver Cross and is responsible for training all EMTs and paramedics in the Will and Grundy Counties area. He works with the fire departments and ambulance services from these areas and has been around for sometime. He also agrees with Ms. Colby that the need to use the Helipad will be very low. They expect that less than 5% of the total patient population would need to be transferred out of the facility and with this 5% most will be transferred by ambulance services. In very extreme cases the helicopter maybe used. He explains that a helicopter will take as long to get to the FEC from Silver Cross as it would to transport a patient by ambulance to the nearest facility. It would only be used when transport is needed to a facility further than the nearest hospital. Mr. Gary Stevens with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) out of Springfield, IL is here to discuss helicopter operations for medical facilities in general. He has been a pilot for over 40-yrs and a flight instructor. He addresses issues such as the different types of helicopters as well a helipads, the noise levels, the safety issues, and the basic reason emergency centers may need a helicopter. He states that since many hospitals are in large cities traffic makes the transfer of some critical cases by helicopter necessary to reduce the transfer time. He states that in order to have a helipad for patient transfers there are three steps in Illinois. First the local zoning approvals must be acquired, second FAA airspace determination needs to be done and then IDOT needs to issue a certificate of approval. Mr. Stevens also explains that the distance to a hospital needs to be considered and there must be two approaches that are a least 90 degrees apart and minimum and maximum obstacle clearance must be defined. He states that this helipad will not require a beacon light; there will be a windsock and a flood light that would be used for loading or unloading patients only. Other wise small green perimeter lights will be used around the pad for landing lights. Generally these lights are 40 to 60-wt bulbs. Mr. Dave Weber from Ruettiger, Tonelli & Associates explains that the helipad will be made of concrete that will overlay pipes in the detention pond. They will likely add grid separators and a mechanical system in order to remove sediments. Village of Homer Glen 7 of 17 May 4, 2009

8 Brian Dicks from Hitchcock Designs explains that they will be relocating the shade trees along Mustang Drive but none will be removed. He also states that two ornamental and one evergreen tree will be moved and they will be adding 30 additional evergreen shrubs as well as native plantings to the site. Terrence O Brien is a real estate consultant for Silver Cross and distributed his report that researched the standards for a map amendment (re-zoning) within the Village of Homer Glen and the Special Use Standards. The following is a summary of his findings. Village Standards for Map Amendments: The majority of existing uses for property on 143 rd Street and Bell Road are commercial. The current zoning for the majority of the property 143 rd Street and Bell Road is commercial, C-1 or C-2. The proposed use for the existing property is well suited. The trend of development along 143 rd Street and Bell Road is for commercial. The Homer Glen Comprehensive Plan designates the property for commercial purposes. The fact that the current owner of the property has spent in excess of 10 million dollars the property should not diminish the surrounding property values. Village Standards for Special Use The operation of the SUP will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, morals, comfort or general welfare. The proposed use will not have an undue or substantial adverse effect on the surrounding area as it is already mostly commercial. The SUP will not be injurious to the other properties, ambulance will not use sirens and emergency lights on Mustang Drive and a berm and other buff material will protect residents from the helipad. The proposed use will provide a service in the interest of the public beyond any hardship that may be realized. The proposed use is suitable for the location. The SUP will not impede the normal development or improvements of the surround property. The structure is attractive and in keeping with the surrounding character and will not cause depreciation of surrounding properties. There exist adequate utilities, roads, drainage and other necessary facilities to support the proposed use. The egress and ingress have been designed as to minimize traffic congestion. The proposed use is in keeping with the Village s Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives. Mr. O Brien states that in his opinion this proposed use will not adversely impact the surrounding real estate values. Village of Homer Glen 8 of 17 May 4, 2009

9 Dr. Dave Mikolajezak, a Doctor from Silver Cross Hospital, states that he has been a resident in Homer Glen for a number of years and is raising his family here. He believes the proposed FEC will be a great benefit for the Village. He states that Silver Cross admits 68,000 patients a year and the have about 75 helicopter transfers a year. This facility will have about 10,000 patients a year and will like not require 1 helicopter transfer a year. Member Hines asks about the general safety of helicopter flights in and around the Village. She asks if there are statistics on how many crashes are associated with this type of operation. Mr. Stevens states that he is sure every one knows about the tragic accident by Air Angels this year but until that time there was not one fatal accident in a medical helicopter in Illinois since they have been approved in the state for medical transport. Resident Janet Mazur from W. Hank Court came armed with copies of a Wall Street Journal article published this week that detailed the rapidly rising number of medical helicopter accidents. She states that she finds some of the safety concerns of the helipad disturbing. She has been a school teacher in Homer s 33C district for 20-yrs and hopes the Village is a concerned for the safety of the residents as she is for the safety of her students. She is opposed to the helipad as well as the 24-hr emergency care being proposed. John Rosenstein from Hank Court states that he is against the proposed helipad. He believes it is in the wrong area between two very busy streets. He also states that the berm is only 2-ft high near his home and does very little to buffer his home from the existing facility. Rose Sherry from Meader Road states that she has been a resident of Homer Glen 23-yrs and is an employee of Silver Cross. She supports the proposed helipad construction stating that a little inconvenience for the 1 or 2 times it may be used in a year is worth the life it may save. Richard Modelski from 2641 W 143 rd Street states that he has the business and residence across from the facility. He opposes the proposal and states that the residents did not know what they were getting into with this facility. There are traffic and flooding issues, the noise pollution associated with a helicopter is significant. He asks if an environmental impact study has been done, he states that the notification of surrounding residents was not done well, and helicopters are dangerous. Anyone seriously hurt or sick will go to Silver Cross Hospital or Palos Community not to this facility. Bill Hoffman from Meader Road does not oppose the proposed emergency center and is in fact very encourage to have such a facility to go to should he need it. He does object to the proposed helipad. Anyone needing to be airlifted to a different facility would not likely come to this location to begin with; they would go to a hospital with full service. Steven Greggs from W Hank Court states that there is no sound barrier for the people north of Mustang Drive and east of the facility. He states that the property values Village of Homer Glen 9 of 17 May 4, 2009

10 of the homes in the R-5 district will decrease with this helipad and the whole idea of a FEC is overkill and not necessary in this location. Dan Hir from Glen Crest Lane states that he has lived in Homer for 33-yrs and this kind of facility is been a long time coming. He states that the real estate market has been dead for a long time and not because of this facility. The clinic should be brought here and he is glad to see it. It (FEC) is an asset to the community. Cheryl Hoban from Mallard Drive has lived in Homer for 22-yrs and states that she thinks this proposed FEC is a total necessity. She states that they are not proposing a national airport here just a helipad. She states that she is not in the proposed flight path but believes this will be a real asst to the community. She believes anyone would opt to go here rather than an emergency room if they could. Ed Boyle from Potawatomi states that he has lived here 33-yrs and he is also for the proposed FEC. He has used the facility and it is convenient, quick and has the quality you would find at Silver Cross. Silver Cross has been a great neighbor and they are spending a lot of money in the community. Lisa Mikolajezak from Hunt Club Drive states that she is a resident of Homer Glen and is married to Dr. Dave from Silver Cross. She was a paramedic in the city of Chicago and she states that we need to realize how compassionate these people (emergency medical) are at Silver Cross. They are a vital asset to Homer Glen and provide wonderful health care. Rosella Trotter from Bell Road states that she is the ex-director of the Chamber of Commerce for Homer Glen and has been asked by the Chamber Board to represent them. The strongly support the proposed facility with a helipad. They believe it will be a great asset. It will be a state of the art health care facility and they hope the Village will act now. Wayne Felgenhew from W 143 rd Street states that he was in law enforcement for 40-yrs and through his life experiences he is for the proposed FEC. Some people do not have the time to travel any distance to obtain emergency care, this will be a great asset to the Village. Mike McCarthy from W Hank Court states that is house is directly south of the facility and he was a medic in the army. He states that no one is against the medical facility but he thinks the helipad is overkill. He states the berm is a joke it does not exist and will do nothing to stop the noise of a helicopter. Tim Stevens from Tara Drive in Erin Hills states that he is not in the proposed flight path but he is for the facility with the helipad. He has used the current facility and loved it. He states he is a cop and has spent many hours in emergency rooms; this place will be a great community asset. Michael Rodriguez from W Hank Court states that he is in the flight path right next to Mr. Modelski s. He has a problem with the traffic congestion and thinks it will have a negative impact on the surrounding residential property values. Village of Homer Glen 10 of 17 May 4, 2009

11 Brian Burian from W Hank Court states that there seems to be some misinformation floating around. He thinks access to health care is a great thing but this facility already exists and is not moving if this is not approved. The proposed helipad is overkill. It will be there every day and people will have to look at this elevated pad every day, 7 to 10 ft above the street level. The traffic in the area is a big problem, traffic safety, the real estate impact are all negatives. He states that the subject parcel is too small for the proposed use. Chairman Stevens states that he will be closing the public hearing so he asks if anyone else would like to talk before he does. Mary Ellen from W Hank Court states that there is no berm behind her house. They have lied about there being a berm on the south side, the lights from the parking lot currently light up her whole house, she states they need bigger berms and she is against it being a 24-hr facility. Mr. Brownlow asks that the people consider that this facility will be for all the residents of Homer Glen not just those living behind the facility. He states that they project 10,000 visits for the first year or two growing to 20,000 visits. That translates to 1 or 2 helicopters used per year, to have a states of the art emergency facility with the ability to see 20,000 patients a year is a great asset. Carl Mazur from W Hank Court states that the number cars that will be coming and going with 20,000 patients a year will be a real traffic nightmare. He also says that there is no berm blocking his view of the facility and he is concerned about the negative impact on the real estate values. Chairman Stevens asks what is the distinction between urgent and emergency care? Mr. Dave Maher states that urgent care does not require emergency certified physicians and has no licensing requirements. Chairman Stevens asks if they would still build the FEC without a helipad if it were allowed. Ms. Colby states yes, they would build it without the helipad but the State requires a helipad for a FEC. Chairman Stevens asks what the advantages are to Silver Cross to have this facility. Mr. Maher states that Silver Cross is extremely busy and this facility could help ease the over crowding in their emergency room. Chairman Stevens asks if the new hospital in New Lenox would ease the over crowding. Ms. Colby states that that it will help but will no way meet the demand. Bob Schmidt from Wheel Go Camping at Parker states that he is alive because of the people at Silver Cross. He wants the facility in Homer Glen and it is time for the Village to grow up and embraces the growth. We have a responsibility to our children and neighbors and the emergency room at Silver Cross is too crowded. Mr. Carl Mazur from W Hank Court states that he is glad Bob is here too but Silver Cross is spending 10 million dollars to make money and this FEC may get just as crowded and too busy just like their hospital. Village of Homer Glen 11 of 17 May 4, 2009

12 Chairman Stevens calls for any final comments, hearing none he asks for a motion to close the public hearing for public comment and addresses the Commissioners. A motion to close the public hearing in Case No. HG-0908-SM was made by Member Karn, seconded by Member Hoffmeister. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. Member Hines asks if there will be doctors other than the emergency personnel present at the facility. Yes, the facility is currently staffed with other medical personnel and they will continue to practice out of the facility. Silver Cross will be adding the board certified emergency personnel. Member Kagainas states that he is in for of the FEC and points out that no one ever really knows when they may need a facility like this one. He believes it is an asset. Member Maska states that he believes this facility is largely beneficial but thinks there are things that need to be better worked out. He cites the traffic flow and the limited egress and ingress need to be researched. He does not believe the helipad will be a problem. Member Karn states that there will be problems with a second entrance on 143 rd Street. Will County owns that road and will allow only so many entrances and exits. He has been in Homer Glenn 55 years even before there was a fire department and he is all for an emergency facility. He believes it will not be a problem for the community but an asset. Member Bernicky states that if Silver Cross has 65,000 admissions and about 75 helicopter flights per years that is less than ½ of 1%. He thinks that the benefits will out way the disadvantages here and that this proposal is a good thing for the Village. Member Hoffmeister wants to see the neighbors across (south) from the facility get some buffering. He states that Silver Cross has spent 10 million so far they should be able to spend some more to help buffer these people with some landscaping. Member Karn agrees, better landscaping and buffers need to be added. Chairman Stevens asks Staff if they will work with the applicant on the issue of landscaping and the egress/ingress for the site on 143 rd Street. Ms. Ehlert states that these issues can be added as a condition of the recommendation for approval. Ms. Wallrich states that the road access issues are not within the Villages jurisdiction. Dana Ludwig states that she will call Will County tomorrow and discuss the traffic issues with them. She points out that changing the egress/ingress will likely change the internal circulation of traffic and that will have to be considered as well. Chairman Stevens asks if anything can be done on Mustang Drive. Ms. Ludwig states that they did a traffic study and it showed that there was not enough traffic to warrant more improvements to Mustang Drive. Ms. Wallrich states that the Commission could suggest that Staff revisit the issue and they will look at the traffic pattern again. Village of Homer Glen 12 of 17 May 4, 2009

13 Chairman Stevens suggests that something also needs to be done to buffer the noise from the traffic and lights at this site. Ms. Ehlert states that it can be addressed by improvements to the buffering. Chairman Stevens states that the Village is very concerned with safety and asks Mr. Stevens if this site provide adequate space and clearance for the requested helipad. Mr. Stevens states that the site meets all the minimum criteria for the proposed helipad. Chairman Stevens asks about the high tension wires surrounding the area. Mr. Stevens states that there is a directory of all tension wire locations relative to any flight path. These wire location will be added to the directory and all pilots will have access to the information. Chairman Stevens asks if any will need to be lit up or have beacons. Mr. Stevens states no lights will be necessary but orange warning balls will be added to the wire. Ms. Wallrich comments that Staff did discuss burying those lines near this location. Ms. Ehlert states that a sign was posted on the property relative to this public hearing and she does have a photo of it. She also comments that the Commissioners could ask the applicant to reduce the current lighting as a condition of approval and she comments that although the proposed helipad is elevated, it will be even with the current parking lot. It will not just be a concrete helipad floating 7 to 10-ft above the surrounding area. It is a 5 to 1 slope down from the parking lot to 143 rd Street. Ms. Ehlert reminds the Commissioners that they need to vote on the recommended zoning text amendment before voting on the Silver Cross application. Chairman Stevens calls for a motion to address the proposed text amendment. Motion to recommend to the Village Board a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to allow for helipads as a special use in C-2, Local Business District, in conjunction with a medical facility was made by Member Hines, seconded by Kagainas. Roll call vote taken. In favor (6) Hoffmeister, Karn, Maska, Hines, Kagainas, and Bernicky. Opposed (0) none. Absent (0) none. Abstained (0) none. The Chairman did not vote. Motion Carried. Ms. Ehlert asks that the Draft findings of fact on the request for the map amendment be entered into the minutes. Draft SILVER CROSS MAP AMENDMENT- FINDINGS OF FACT-(for Plan Commission Consideration) Plan Commission provides the following findings (in italicized bold) Section of the Zoning Ordinance indicates that the Village of Homer Glen may not grant a Map Amendment unless the Plan Commission shall make written findings of fact based upon the following standards: (1) Existing uses of property within the general area of the property in question; The existing uses surrounding the subject parcel with frontage on 143rd Street are commercial. The Comprehensive Plan indicates commercial uses for adjacent properties. Village of Homer Glen 13 of 17 May 4, 2009

14 (2) The zoning classification of property within the general area of the property in question; The zoning classifications in the general area are consistent with the proposed rezoning of the subject parcel. Surrounding zoning includes C-2 to the west and northwest of the property. (3) The suitability of the property in question to the uses permitted under the existing zoning classification; The existing development is considered a special use in the C-2 zoning classification (4) The trend of development, if any, in the general area of the property in question, including changes, if any, which have taken place in its present zoning classification; and The trend in development in this area, and as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan, is commercial, which is consistent with the current proposed land use. (5) The change in zoning is in conformance with the comprehensive plan of the Village and its official map. The Comprehensive Plan identifies the area as commercial. The C-2 zoning district request will be consistent, with respect to lot size and width, of parcels in the vicinity. (6) The length of time the property has been vacant as zoned, considered in the context of the land development in the area surrounding the subject property. The property is located on a major commercial corridor and is consistent with the future plans for the area as defined in the Comprehensive Plan. (7) The extent to which property values are diminished by particular zoning restrictions. The proposed zoning classification is consistent with the expectations of the real estate profession and those properties in the area currently zoned commercial. Motion to recommend the map amendment for Silver Cross from R-5, Single Family Residential to C-2, Local Business District, to the Village Board for the subject parcel located at W. 143 rd Street was made by Member Kagainas, seconded by Hines. Roll call vote taken. In favor (6) Hoffmeister, Karn, Maska, Hines, Kagainas, and Bernicky. Opposed (0) none. Absent (0) none. Abstained (0) none. The Chairman did not vote. Motion Carried. Ms. Ehlert asks that the Draft findings of fact on the request for the request special use be entered into the minutes. DRAFT SILVER CROSS - SPECIAL USES FINDINGS OF FACT: (for Plan Commission Consideration) To permit a Planned Unit Development To permit a helipad in conjunction with a medical facility To permit a hours of operation outside the limits of normal business hours Plan Commission provides the following findings (in italicized bold) Village of Homer Glen 14 of 17 May 4, 2009

15 Section of the Zoning Ordinance indicates that the Village of Homer Glen may not grant a Special Use Permit unless the Plan Commission shall make written findings of fact based upon the following standards: i. That the establishment, maintenance, or operation of the special use will not be detrimental to or endanger the public s health, safety, morals, comfort, or general welfare. The proposed development is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan which identifies 143rd as a commercial corridor. The special use is conditioned upon FAA approval. ii. The proposed use at the proposed location will not have an undue or substantial adverse effect, above and beyond that inherently associated with such use, irrespective of the location in the particular zoning district, upon adjacent property, the character of the neighborhood, or other matters affecting the public health, safety and welfare of the community. This development will operate in conformance with the Village ordinance. The helipad proposed meets all setback requirements of the C-2 district and the medical facility will provide 24 hour emergency services to the area. iii. That the special use will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity for the purposes already permitted, nor substantially diminish and impair property values within the neighborhood. The adjoining properties to the east and west are zoned commercial. The proposed helipad meets all setback requirements of the C-2 district. Landscape materials have been implemented to maintain the existing buffer between the residential and commercial properties. During the public hearing testimony was provided on the public benefit of a FEC. iv. The proposed use at the particular location is desirable to provide a service or facility in the interest of public convenience and the gain to the public and all or a part of the community exceeds the hardship imposed upon the property owner. The development will provide support to the Homer Glen community through providing an emergency department 24/7 and ability to offer heliport transfers as an ER facility. v. The proposed use is generally suitable for the particular zoning district and will not adversely affect development of adjacent properties in accord with the applicable district regulations. Helipads, 24 hour operations, and PUDs are allowable special uses in the C-2 district. Surrounding uses are zoned commercial. vi. vii. That the establishment of the special use will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding properties for uses permitted in the district. The proposed development is consistent with the Village s comprehensive plan. The helipad proposed meets all setback requirements of the C-2 district. That the exterior architectural appeal and functional plan of any proposed structure will not be so at variance with either the exterior architectural appeal and functional plan of the structures already constructed, or in the course of construction in the immediate neighborhood or the character of the applicable district, as to cause a substantial depreciation in the property values within the neighborhood. N/A, the building has already been constructed. viii. That the adequate utilities, access roads, drainage, and /or other necessary facilities have been provided. Final approval is conditioned upon final engineering.. ix. That adequate measures have been taken to provide ingress and egress so designed as to minimize traffic congestion in the public streets. The proposed use has been considered in relation to the location, goals, and objectives of the Village s Comprehensive Plan and is in general accord with the guidelines of the plan. The Comprehensive Plan identifies the need to keep commercial growth and development on our commercial corridors, 143rd being one of our major commercial corridors. x. The proposed use has been considered in relation to the location, goals, and objectives of the Village s Comprehensive Plan and is in general accord with the guidelines of the plan. The proposed development is consistent with the Village s comprehensive plan. Village of Homer Glen 15 of 17 May 4, 2009

16 Motion to recommend approval of the following special use permits: planned unit development, helipad in the C-2 district, and a special use to permit hours of operation outside the limits of normal business hours, located at W. 143 rd Street, consistent with the preliminary plat by Ruettiger, Tonelli, and Associates dated March 5, 2009 with a revision date of April 4, 2009 conditioned upon the following: Engineering plans - to include looking at traffic patterns on 143 rd Street and Mustang Drive. Landscape plans - to include buffers to be added for properties south of the facility and include sound as well as light buffers. Photometric Plans IDOT Approval Was made by Member Hines, seconded by Member Bernicky. Roll call vote taken. In favor (6) Hoffmeister, Karn, Maska, Hines, Kagainas, and Bernicky. Opposed (0) none. Absent (0) none. Abstained (0) none. The Chairman did not vote. Motion Carried. 3. HG-0907-M Nocon (Public Hearing-open and table to the May 4 th agenda): Consideration of a map amendment from the E-1, Estate Residential to R-2, Single Family Residential upon annexation for the subject property located at W. 139th Street, Homer Glen, Illinois. Ms. Ehlert states that Case No. HG-0907-M was scheduled for a public hearing tonight but asks the Commission to open the public hearing and then tabled the item until May 4, A motion to open the public hearing and table Case No. HG-0907-M was made by Member Karn, seconded by Member Maska. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. 4. Zoning Ordinance Revisions (workshop): Consideration on the amendment to the Village s Zoning Ordinance regarding accessory structures, amendment to the authorized variations section, wireless communication facilities, and the temporary use permit section. Chairman Stevens suggests that this item be moved to the May 4, 2009 agenda. A motion to move agenda item number 4 until May 4, 2006 was made by Member Kagainas, seconded by Member Hines. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. F. Adjournment A motion to adjourn at 11:00 was made by Member Karn, seconded by Member Kagainas. Voice vote taken, all in favor, none opposed. Motion Carried. Village of Homer Glen 16 of 17 May 4, 2009

17 Approved May 4, 2009 Chairman Brian Stevens Village of Homer Glen 17 of 17 May 4, 2009