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HomeMy WebLinkAboutG62-24 Ordinance No. G62-24 AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE SERVICE STATION AND A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT IN THE AB AREA BUSINESS DISTRICT AND ARC ARTERIAL ROAD CORRIDOR OVERLAY DISTRICT WITH CERTAIN DEPARTURES FROM THE ELGIN ZONING ORDINANCE (1005 North Liberty Street) WHEREAS, written application has been made requesting conditional use approval for a planned development to construct a new motor vehicle service station with a convenience food store operated on a twenty-four (24) hour basis with certain departures from the Elgin zoning ordinance at 1005 North Liberty Street; and WHEREAS, the zoning lot containing the premises at 1005 North Liberty Street is legally described herein(the "Subject Property"); and WHEREAS, the Subject Property contains less than two (2) acres of land, and is located within the AB Area Business District and ARC Arterial Road Corridor Overlay District; and WHEREAS, a motor vehicle service station, and a planned development on a zoning iot containing less than two (2) acres of land are listed as a conditional use within the AB Area Business District; and WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing concerning said application on November 4, 2024, following due notice including by publication; and WHEREAS, the Community Development Department and the Planning and Zoning Commission have submitted their Findings of Fact concerning said application; and WHEREAS, the Community Development Department and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval of said application, subject to the conditions articulated in their Findings of Fact; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Elgin, Illinois, has reviewed the findings and recommendations of the Community Development Department and the Planning and Zoning Commission; and WHEREAS,the City of Elgin is a home rule unit and as a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs; and WHEREAS,zoning,including,but not limited to.this ordinance granting a conditional use for a motor vehicle service station and a planned development in the AB Area Business District pertains to the government and affairs of the city. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ELGIN, ILLINOIS: Section 1. That the City Council of the City of Elgin hereby adopts the Findings of Fact, dated November 4, 2024, and the recommendations made by the Community Development Department and the Planning and Zoning Commission, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part hereof by reference as Exhibit A. Section 2. That a conditional use for a planned development to construct a new motor vehicle service station with a convenience food store operated on a twenty-four (24) hour basis with certain departures from the Elgin zoning ordinance is hereby granted for the property commonly known as 1005 North Liberty Street, and commonly identified by Kane County Property Index Numbers 06-12-237-012, 06-12-237-013, and 06-12-237-024, and legally described as follows: THE SOUTH 56.11 FEET OF LOTS 10 AND 11 AND ALL OF LOTS 12 AND 13 IN BLOCK 10 OF LUDLOW ADDITION TO ELGIN, IN THE CITY OF ELGIN, KANE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; (commonly known as 1005 North Liberty Street). Section 3. That the conditional use for the Subject Property as authorized by this ordinance shall be subject to the following additional conditions: 1. Substantial conformance to the Development Application submitted by Ahmed Minhaj, as applicant, and Shirin K. Marvi, as property owner, received September 18, 2024, and supporting documents including: a. Undated Conditional Use Statement of Purpose and Conformity for 1005 N. Liberty Street, received September 13, 2024; b. Undated Map Amendment for a Planned Development Statement of Purpose and Conformity for 1005 N. Liberty Street, received September 13, 2024; c. Topographic Plat of Survey, prepared by Landmark Engineering LLC, dated April 24, 2017; d. Architectural plan set for New Elgin Gas Station & Convenience Store, prepared by M2Ke Design, LLC, dated March 1, 2024, last revised October 17, 2024, with such further revisions as required by the Community Development Director; e. Site Plan sheet C101, prepared by DVG Team Inc., dated October 22, 2024, last revised November 1, 2024, with such further revisions as required by the City Engineer; f. Landscape Plan, sheet L 1.0, prepared by Hubinger Landscaping Corp., dated October 17, 2024, last revised November 1, 2024, with such further revisions as required by the Community Development Director; g. Four-page site photometrics plans, prepared by Visual, dated November 1, 2024, with such further revisions as required by the Community Development Director; h. Undated lighting specifications for ARC2 LED Architectural Wall Luminaire, by 2 Lithonia Lighting, dated received October 18, 2024; i. Undated lighting specifications for D-series Size 0 LED Area Luminaire, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received October 18, 2024; j. Undated lighting specifications for XPCNY LED LED Canopy/Ceiling Luminaire, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received October 18, 2024; k. Undated lighting specifications for LBR6NCH light fixture, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received October 18, 2024; 1. Undated lighting specifications for WPX LED Wall Packs, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received November 4, 2024;and m. Undated specifications for light post Anchor Base Poles SSA, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received November 4, 2024. In the event of any conflict between such documents and the terms of this ordinance or other applicable city ordinances, the terms of this ordinance or other applicable city ordinances shall supersede and control. 2. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the convenience store building part of the motor vehicle service station with a minimum building street yard setback of six (6) feet from the west property line. 3. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the convenience store building part of the motor vehicle service station with a minimum building transition yard setback of twenty-two (22) feet from the east property line. 4. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the vehicle use area part of the motor vehicle service station with a minimum street yard setback of five (5) feet from the west property line and a minimum of seven (7) feet from the south property line. 5. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the proposed motor vehicle service station with a minimum five-foot transition landscape yard along the east property line. 6. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of a motor vehicle service station with no proposed vehicle use area interior landscape yard. 7. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of a motor vehicle service station with a 2,700-square-foot convenience food store building on the Subject Property provided a minimum of ten (10) parking spaces are located on the Subject Property. 8. Compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 3 Section 4. That this ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its passage in the manner provided by law. Aga'r/741David J. Kap n, M or Presented: December 18, 2024 Passed: December 18, 2024 s..- Omnibus Vote: Yeas: 9 Nays: 0 /'.,. - ' Recorded: December 18, 2024 yy a ; 1. Published: December 18, 2024 , `Ya� �'�, `tom_ Att st' bi.ab( NA -: ,: fie� imberly Dewis, it Clerk 4 EXHIBIT A November 4, 2024 RECOMMENDATION & FINDINGS OF FACT OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AND THE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION CITY OF ELGIN, IL OVERVIEW Provided herein are the written findings and recommendation of the Community Development Department and the Planning & Zoning Commission regarding Petition 27-24, an application by Ahmed Minhaj, as applicant, and Shirin K. Marvi, as property owner, requesting approval of a planned development as a conditional use with departures from the Elgin Municipal Code requirements for the building street yard setback, transition yard setback, vehicle use area street yard setback, transition landscape yard, number of parking spaces, and any other departures as may be necessary or desirable, to demolish the existing structures on the property and construct a new motor vehicle service station with an approximately 2,700-square-foot convenience food store operated on a twenty-four(24)hour basis at the property commonly referred to as 1005 N. Liberty Street. GENERAL INFORMATION Petition Number: 27-24 Property Location: 1005 N. Liberty Street Requested Action: Planned development as a conditional use Current Zoning: AB Area Business District and ARC Arterial Road Corridor Overlay District Proposed Zoning: No change. AB Area Business District and ARC Arterial Road Corridor Overlay District Existing Use: Vacant(former motor vehicle service station with a car wash) Proposed Use: Motor vehicle service station with a convenience food store, operated on a 24-hour basis Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 Applicant: Ahmed Minhaj Owner Shirin K. Marvi Staff Coordinator: Damir Latinovic, AICP, Senior Planner Exhibits Attached: A. Aerial B. Zoning Map C. Parcel Map D. Site Location E. Development Application and Attachments F. Draft Ordinance BACKGROUND Ahmed Minhaj, as applicant, and Shirin K. Marvi, as property owner, are requesting approval of a planned development as a conditional use with departures from the Elgin Municipal Code requirements for the building street yard setback, transition yard setback, vehicle use area street yard setback, transition landscape yard, number of parking spaces, and any other departures as may be necessary or desirable,to demolish the existing structures on the property and construct a new motor vehicle service station with an approximately 2,700-square-foot convenience food store operated on a twenty-four(24)hour basis at the property commonly referred to as 1005 N. Liberty Street. The 18,146-square-foot property is located at the northeast corner of N. Liberty Street (IL Route 25)and Cooper Avenue.The property is zoned AB Area Business District and ARC Arterial Road Corridor Overlay District. The property was formerly a motor vehicle service station(gas station) and is improved with an approximately 3,000-square foot one-story building that included the convenience store and a one-car automatic car wash bay.The property also includes a canopy that covered six fuel pump islands.While Cooper Avenue is a two-way neighborhood Street,N.Liberty Street is a one-way northbound street with three travel lanes and no on-street parking provisions. The property was most recently occupied by a Citgo gas station,but has been vacant since at least 2016. The properties to the south,west, and north are zoned AB Area Business District. The properties -2 - Recommendation &Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 to the south across Cooper Avenue,include a one-story liquor store and a single-family home.The property to the west across N.Liberty Street is improved with a Wendy's quick service restaurant. The properties adjacent to the north include two single-family homes. And the properties adjacent to the east are zoned RC2 Residence Conservation District and are improved with single-family homes. r Fm ato+., -; 'r. Sub ect Pro,_ 4, - 1, 4 «_: ?. -,;:pito it - OS. -vitir. r .0 :ix, t ••• ; • a • Ccop.rl1 '. 6 -- f - 1 :-..._ -__4 ,_ - -- itizAF - Figure 1.Site area map with zoning overlay Proposal The applicant is proposing to demolish the existing building and canopy on the property and construct a new gas station with a convenience store. -3 - Recommendation& Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4, 2024 , --------_—— ----- The proposed gas station would ••. se i I include an approximately 2,764- ,i. b•//////////////////` j:.. square-foot convenience store `"a""`TMg .'„ A K `a! '"R"°` building that would be located on the a; v /1� north side of the property. A detached `0' v "; canopy would be located south of the • ' .. • AM convenience store building and cover L, ': E.z,z •s, {0, 1':.0. ;APR four double-sided fuel islands with a i ti[ eight(8)fueling stations.There would 4 �; ,� `"" ix ,. ti , w be no separate diesel fueling stations e. 1 for trucks. The proposed development 0 E--, •: � IQs includes ten parking spaces. v, 0 Y The proposed convenience store 70 R „� r,..4.1 ; ; 0 1 p po lb RQWn •�;..• "•'`',Y§ ` '"+�`r would be open 24 hours a day,1'iz , seven .6-4 3.:,,i ,�, ,: W ,:q. ' 4. ,,;- e, days per week. The applicant is CO .;, v it'. ::"It'?..: 51 proposing to sell typical household ~' ~P: : ', items and prepacked food and drinks, ::t '..o v -; .; _ Q�.`•r: and tobacco products. But the ': o� _ -.• applicant is not proposing to sell any m•, "' �eSfE=- 11 `: 4 alcohol products. The building «;. r Y x i r ,.;`:,v features a modern exterior with v .-. .�._ ICY '"'°� `9[ "r6�<!;ti _ 1=::s,0 primarily brick and fiber cement ?, iS4 ti re`Nt,..t '+ _ w.,,�['' c siding. The canopy support columns • ) ! '= ' `e_ s i ___ are also wrapped with the same type of i Ali- o , i*t brick to match the building. A Qi:-:..lit,.;..:'7::-.i:;?";;;.:.;.!:...-;, :..41:, ;-_t:; .. . .`'i:.•? - monument sign is proposed in the COOPER A.VF,?1't/E southwest corner of the property that would also feature the same brick Figure 2.Proposed landscape plan base. The proposed site improvements include the restoration of all existing curb cuts and installation of two new full access driveways, one on N. Liberty Street and the second on Cooper Avenue. The driveway curb cuts are situated as far away from the intersection of N. Liberty Street and Cooper Avenue as possible. The existing 1-3-foot-high retaining wall that is located along the north and east property lines would be maintained, and the applicant is proposing to construct a new six-foot-high, solid, white, PVC fence on top of the retaining wall along both the north and the east lot lines to maximize the screening from the adjacent residences. Along the north property line,the fence will end in line with the west wall of the building,while along the east property line the six-foot-high fence will end 25 feet north of the south property line. From that point a three- foot high solid fence will extend to the south property line. The three-foot high fence is the -4- Recommendation&Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 maximum permitted within the required building street yard setback to prevent any view obstructions for vehicles exiting the private III I! 1IMI11111M ::• Si' IM • r ir. ■ . 1111111111 y' ` i_ .« !:-x 1111111111117. It , ?rt I- I—. 1w nun ..� n;, l 1 = f t Figure 3. Renderings of the proposed building and the floor plan(right) ,it k',, 1 I a . • t its',, 1 1 -'— ril .. 1-...-11,4-_,_1-.-.1-4... , driveway on the property adjacent to the east. The applicant will also install extensive new landscaping throughout the site. _ This includes three new shade trees along N. Liberty Street _ r and Cooper Avenue and 21 new evergreen trees along the — proposed fence along the east property line. l -____� — 1 The proposed gas station is required to have one parking space per 250 square feet of floor area. With a 2,764-square foot convenience store building,the proposed development is required to have 11 parking spaces. With 10 parking spaces proposed,the proposed development does not meet the minimum parking requirement. Of the ten parking spaces proposed, two would be made Electric Vehicle(EV)capable for future installation of EV chargers. - 5 - Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 In addition to parking, the proposed development requires several departures from the standard requirement of the zoning ordinance.The requested departures are summarized in the table below and are further described in Planned Development Departures and Exceptions section of the staff report further below. Table 1. Detail of Departures for 1005 N. Liberty Street Requirement Proposal Building Street Yard 25 ft. 6.8 ft. from west street property line Setback Building-23 ft. from east transition Building Transition 50 property line Yard Setback Vehicle Use Area—5 ft. from east transition property line Vehicle Use Area 8 ft 5 ft. from west street property line, Street Yard Setback 7 ft. from south street property line Transition Landscape 25 ft. 5 ft. along east transition property line Yard Vehicle Use Area 633 sq. ft. 0 sq. ft. Interior Landscape (5%of vehicle use area) (0%of vehicle use area) Yard #of Parking Spaces 11 10 The Community Development Department offers the following additional information: A. Property History. The subject property was zoned G Industrial District with the first Zoning Ordinance in 1927. By 1950,the property was rezoned to E Commercial District. In 1962 the property was rezoned to B3 Service Business District. In 1992, the property was rezoned to AB Business District as part of the comprehensive amendment to the zoning ordinance. In 2001,the property became part of the ARC Arterial Road Corridor Overlay District. The existing approximately 3,000-square foot building was constructed in 1957. The building includes a one-car automatic car wash bay and a commercial tenant space. The property was used as a motor vehicle service station with a car wash since its construction. In 1994, the City approved Ordinance No. G65-94 which authorized the construction of the existing canopy for the former gas station. The property has been vacant since at least 2016. -6- Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4, 2024 B. Surrounding Land Use and Zoning. The properties to the south, west, and north are zoned AB Area Business District. The properties to the south across Cooper Avenue, include a one-story liquor store and a single-family home.The property to the west across N. Liberty Street is improved with a Wendy's quick service restaurant. The properties adjacent to the north include two single-family homes. And the properties adjacent to the east are zoned RC2 Residence Conservation District and are improved with single-family homes. C. Comprehensive Plan.The subject property is designated as Corridor Commercial by the City's 2018 Comprehensive Plan. Located along the City's heavily traveled corridors and intersection,Corridor Commercial areas provide retail services to both local and regional consumer bases. These areas contain a mix of retail from large community centers with multiple tenants to smaller stand-along businesses.Corridor Commercial areas are the most widely accommodating and ranging commercial areas within the city. Corridor Commercial areas are auto-oriented by nature but should also be enhanced to be pedestrian- friendly. D. Zoning District.The purpose of the AB Area Business District is to provide commodities and services to several neighborhoods, and in some instances to a communitywide or regional supporting population.AB zoning districts are limited by the applicable site design regulations to an intermediate scale of development relative to NB Neighborhood Business Districts and the CC 1 Center City District. E. Trend of Development. The subject property is located along N. Liberty Street north of Chester Avenue in the northeast portion of the City. Properties along this stretch of N. Liberty Street north of Chester Avenue have historically been developed with commercial, auto-oriented uses, similar to the developments along Dundee Avenue. There has been no new development in recent years in the immediate area. Since both N. Liberty Street and Dundee Avenue are designated as arterial roadways and since they carry a substantial amount of vehicular traffic, the Comprehensive Plan designates the properties along N. Liberty Street for corridor commercial uses in the future. Staff anticipates commercially- zoned properties in the area will continue to be used and potentially redeveloped with auto- oriented commercial uses, such as quick service restaurants, and other retails service uses. FINDINGS After due notice as required by law, the Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing in consideration of Petition 27-24 on November 4, 2024. Testimony was presented at the public hearing in support of the application.The Community Development Department submitted a Development Application Review and Written Findings and Recommendation to the Planning and Zoning Commission dated November 4,2024. -7- Recommendation&Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 The Community Development Department and the Planning and Zoning Commission have made the following findings regarding this application against the standards for planned developments outlined in § 19.60.040,and standards for conditional uses outlined within § 19.65.030: STANDARDS FOR PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS A. Site Characteristics Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to its size, shape, significant natural features including topography, watercourses and vegetation and existing improvements. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to its size, shape, significant features including topography, watercourses, vegetation, and existing improvements. The approximately one half-acre property is improved with a vacant approximately 3,000-square-foot building previously home to a one-bay car wash and a gas station convenience store,and a detached canopy that covered fuel station pumps. The remainder of the site is entirely paved. The applicant is proposing to demolish the existing structures and construct a new gas station with the convenience store along the north property line. The proposal will result in less impervious area, improved landscaping, particularly along the perimeter of the site, and improved access with only two full access driveways. No existing site features including topography, watercourses, vegetation, and property improvements exist that would have a negative impact on the proposed building and site improvements. B. Sewer and Water Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to the availability of adequate Municipal water, wastewater treatment and stormwater control facilities. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to the availability of adequate water, sanitary treatment, and storm water control facilities.The applicant is proposing to remove existing utility connections and install new water and sanitary sewer service lines connecting to the existing water and sanitary sewer utilities in Cooper Avenue.The applicant would also install new underground storm sewer utilities connecting to the existing underground storm sewer utilities in Cooper Avenue. All existing water and sewer facilities can adequately serve the proposed development. C. Traffic and Parking Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to the provision of safe and efficient on-site and off-site vehicular circulation designed to minimize traffic congestion. 1. Nonresidential land uses should be located central and accessible to the area or population served without requiring traffic movements through or into a residential neighborhood. Nonresidential land uses should not be located within residential neighborhoods, but on their periphery as defined by the "arterial street"[SR]system. 2. The number of locations for vehicular access to or from a public right of way should be - 8 - Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 limited to those which are necessary for the reasonable use of the property and consistent with current traffic engineering standards. Property with two (2) street frontages should not be permitted access to or from the street with the higher degree of continuity within the overall street system or with the higher traffic volume. With the exception of residential driveways, locations for vehicular access to or from a public right of way should be aligned directly opposite existing or approved locations across the street. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to the provision of safe and efficient on-site and off-site vehicular circulation designed to minimize traffic congestion. The property currently has two very wide access driveways to N. Liberty Street, and one very large full access driveway to Cooper Avenue. Essentially the entire property frontage along Cooper Avenue is a depressed curb providing unobstructed access to Copper Avenue. While Cooper Avenue is a two-way neighborhood Street,N. Liberty Street is a one-way northbound street with three travel lanes and no on- street parking provisions.The applicant is proposing one full access driveway to N.Liberty Street, and one full access driveway to Cooper Avenue. All other curb cuts would be restored.The proposed gas station would have four double-sided fuel islands with adequate space for vehicle circulation around the site. The proposed property improvements will improve on-site traffic circulation, and will improve the access to and from the site. As a result, the proposed development will have a positive impact on the existing traffic circulation in the immediate area. The proposed gas station is required to have one parking space per 250 square feet of convenience food store floor area. With a 2,764-square-foot convenience store building, the proposed development is required to have 11 parking spaces. With 10 parking spaces proposed,the proposed development does not meet the minimum parking requirement. The requested departure from the parking requirement is due to the limited size of the property. The applicant is making substantial improvements to the former gas station to make the new gas station more successful. The new site layout leaves enough room for only ten parking spaces while 11 are required. The ten proposed parking spaces can adequately serve the proposed gas station as most customers visiting the convenience store are those who use the fuel pumps, and therefore use one of eight fueling spots for parking. The proposed development will not have any negative effect on the surrounding area.• D. Zoning History Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to the length of time the property has remained undeveloped or unused in its current zoning district. Findings. The property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to the length of time the property has remained undeveloped or unused in its current zoning district. The subject property was zoned G Industrial District with the first Zoning -9- Recommendation& Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4, 2024 Ordinance in 1927. By 1950, the property was rezoned to E Commercial District. In 1962 the property was rezoned to B3 Service Business District. In 1992, the property was rezoned to AB Business District as part of the comprehensive amendment to the zoning ordinance. In 2001,the property became part of the ARC Arterial Road Corridor Overlay District. The existing approximately 3,000-square foot building was constructed in 1957. The building includes a one-car automatic car wash bay and a commercial tenant space. The property was used as a motor vehicle service station with a car wash since its construction. In 1994, the City approved Ordinance No. G65-94 which authorized the construction of the existing canopy for the former gas station. The property has been vacant since at least 2016. E. Surrounding Land Use and Zoning Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to consistency and compatibility with surrounding land use and zoning. Findings. The property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to consistency and compatibility with surrounding land uses and zoning.The properties to the south, west, and north are zoned AB Area Business District. The properties to the south across Cooper Avenue, include a one-story liquor store and a single-family home. The property to the west across N. Liberty Street is improved with a Wendy's quick service restaurant. The properties adjacent to the north include two single-family homes. And the properties adjacent to the east are zoned RC2 Residence Conservation District and are improved with single-family homes. F. Trend of Development Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to consistency with an existing pattern of development or an identifiable trend of development in the area. Findings.The subject property is suited for the intended planned development with respect to consistency with an existing pattern of development or an identifiable trend of development in the area. The subject property is located along N. Liberty Street north of Chester Avenue in the northeast portion of the City. Properties along this stretch of N. Liberty Street north of Chester Avenue have historically been developed with commercial, auto-oriented uses, similar to the developments along Dundee Avenue.There has been no new development in recent years in the immediate area. Since both N. Liberty Street and Dundee Avenue are designated as arterial roadways and since they carry a substantial amount of vehicular traffic, the Comprehensive Plan designates the properties along N. Liberty Street for corridor commercial uses in the future. Staff anticipates commercially zoned properties in the area will continue to be used and potentially redeveloped with auto- oriented commercial uses, such as quick service restaurants, and other retails service uses. - 10- Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 G. Planned Development District Standard: The suitability of the subject property for the intended planned development district with respect to conformance to the provisions for the purpose and intent, and the location and size of a zoning district. Findings. This standard is not applicable. The applicant is not seeking approval of a planned development district as a map amendment. H. Comprehensive Plan Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the planned development with respect to conformance to the goals, objectives, and policies of the Official Comprehensive Plan Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to conformance to the goals,objectives,and policies of the Official Comprehensive Plan. The subject property is designated as Corridor Commercial by the City's 2018 Comprehensive Plan. Located along the City's heavily traveled corridors and intersection, Corridor Commercial areas provide retail services to both local and regional consumer bases. These areas contain a mix of retail from large community centers with multiple tenants to smaller stand-along businesses. Corridor Commercial areas are the most widely accommodating and ranging commercial areas within the city.Corridor Commercial areas are auto-oriented by nature but should also be enhanced to be pedestrian-friendly. Conditional Use for a Planned Development: Where applicable, the suitability of the subject property for the intended conditional use for a planned development with respect to the provision for the purpose and intent of planned developments and with respect to the provisions of section 19.65.010 of the zoning ordinance. No conditional use for a planned development should be granted for the sole purpose of introducing a land use not otherwise permitted on the subject property. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended conditional use for a planned development with respect to the provision for the purpose and intent of planned developments and with respect to the provisions of section 19.65.010 of the zoning ordinance.The applicant is proposing a planned development as a conditional use to allow for several departures from the requirements of the zoning ordinance. The on half-acre property is less than two acres, which is necessary to establish a Planned Development District. The proposed conditional use for a planned development would allow the redevelopment of the property into a new,modern gas station with a convenience store that would replace a vacant, blighted building. The proposed development will result in better site layout, improved access to the site,and enhanced screening for the adjacent properties with a six-foot-high solid fence and landscaping. The proposal would enhance the appearance of the property with a positive effect on the surrounding properties. .1. Natural Preservation Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the intended planned development with respect to the preservation of all significant natural features - 11 - Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 including topography, watercourses, wetlands, and vegetation. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to the preservation of all significant natural features including topography, watercourses,wetlands,and vegetation.The subject property is fully improved and entirely impervious The applicant's proposal will result in less impervious area on the property with new landscaping, particularly along the north and east property lines to enhance the screening for adjacent properties. The applicant would install three new shade trees along N. Liberty Street and Cooper Avenue, and 21 new evergreen trees along the east property line. K. Internal Land Use. The suitability of the subject property for the intended planned development with respect to the land uses permitted within the development being located, designed, and operated so as to exercise no undue detrimental influence on each other or on surrounding property. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended planned development with respect to the land uses permitted within the development being located, designed, and operated so as to exercise no undue detrimental influence on each other or on surrounding properties. The existing property has been improved and occupied with a gas station since its construction in 1957. The building also included a one-bay car wash. However, the property has been vacant since at least 2016 and the existing building has deteriorated and has a negative effect on the surrounding properties. The applicant is proposing to demolish the existing structures and construct a new gas station with an improved layout. The new modern convenience store building would be located on the north side of the site allowing for better on-site circulation. The proposed development would also enhance the screening for adjacent residences along the north and east property lines. Overall, the proposed improvements will have a positive effect on the surrounding properties. PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DEPARTURES AND EXCEPTIONS The applicant is requesting the following departures from the requirements of the zoning ordinance: 1. Sections 19.35.435,"Site Design".The minimum required building street yard setback on the subject property is 25 feet. The applicant is proposing a 6.8-foot building street yard setback from the west property line along N. Liberty Street. 2. Sections 19.35.435, "Site Design". The required transition yard building setback on the subject property is 50 feet from the east property line. The applicant is proposing a 22.9- foot building transition yard setback from the east property line. - 12 - Recommendation& Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 3. Sections 19.35.435, "Site Design". The minimum required vehicle use area street yard setback is eight feet. The applicant is proposing to construct the vehicle use area with a five-foot setback from the west property line and a seven-foot setback from the south property line. 4. Sections 19.35.435,"Site Design".The minimum required transition landscape yard along the east property line is 25 feet. The applicant is proposing a five-foot-wide transition landscape yard along the east property line. 5. Sections 19.12.700, "Site Design". The minimum required vehicle use area interior landscape yard is 633 square feet, or five percent of the vehicle use area. The applicant is not proposing any vehicle use area interior landscape yard. 6. Section 19.45.080,"Table of Required Parking".The proposed gas station with a 2,700- square foot convenience store building is required to provide eleven parking spaces. The applicant is proposing a parking lot with ten parking spaces. Staff finds the proposed departures are appropriate and necessary for a desirable redevelopment of a long vacant and blighted property. The applicant is proposing to demolish all existing structures,remove existing underground tanks, and construct a new gas station with a 2,700-square-foot convenience store.The convenience store building is situated on the northern portion of the site, while the canopy with fuel gas islands is located south of the building. The proposed layout allows for better site circulation, improved screening for adjacent neighbors and will hopefully result in a more successful long-term development. The site design departures for the location of the building and vehicle use area are a direct result of site constrains of a small property. The applicant is proposing to install a new 6-foot-high privacy fence along the north and east property lines adjacent to single-family homes and extensive evergreen trees along the east fence. The building-mounted light fixtures and the parking lot light fixtures would include shields to prevent any light spill-over onto the adjacent properties. The applicant would also install new shade trees along N. Liberty Street and Cooper Avenue and new shrubs along the perimeter of the site to enhance the appearance of the property. The requested departure from the minimum number of parking spaces required is also a direct result of the small property. The ten proposed parking spaces can adequately serve the proposed use. Most customers use the fuel pump stations, and as such will not need to use the proposed parking spaces. The proposed development represents a desirable redevelopment of a long-vacant and blighted property that will have a positive impact on the surrounding properties and the immediate area in - 13 - Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 general. STANDARDS FOR CONDITIONAL USE A. Site Characteristics Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the intended conditional use with respect to its size, shape, significant features including topography, watercourses, vegetation, and existing improvements. Findings.The subject property is suitable for the intended conditional use with respect to its size, shape, significant features including topography, watercourses, vegetation, and existing improvements. The approximately one half-acre property is improved with a vacant approximately 3,000-square-foot building previously home to a one-bay car wash and a gas station convenience store,and a detached canopy that covered fuel station pumps. The remainder of the site is entirely paved. The applicant is proposing to demolish the existing structures and construct a new gas station with the convenience store along the north property line.The proposal will result in less impervious area,improved landscaping, particularly along the perimeter of the site, and improved access with only two full access driveways. No existing site features including topography, watercourses, vegetation, and property improvements exist that would have a negative impact on the proposed building and site improvements. B. Sewer and Water Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the intended conditional use with respect to the availability of adequate water, sanitary treatment, and storm water control facilities. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended conditional use with respect to the availability of adequate water, sanitary treatment, and storm water control facilities. The applicant is proposing to remove existing utility connections and install new water and sanitary sewer service lines connecting to the existing water and sanitary sewer utilities in Cooper Avenue. The applicant would also install new underground storm sewer utilities connecting to the existing underground storm sewers in Cooper Avenue.All existing water and sewer facilities can adequately serve the proposed development. C. Traffic and Parking Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the intended conditional use with respect to the provision of safe and efficient on-site and off-site vehicular circulation designed to minimize traffic congestion. Findings. The subject property is suitable for the intended conditional use with respect to the provision of safe and efficient on-site and off-site vehicular circulation designed to minimize traffic congestion.The property currently has two very wide access driveways to N. Liberty Street, and one very large full access driveway to Cooper Avenue. Essentially the entire property frontage along Cooper Avenue is a depressed curb providing - 14- Recommendation & Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4,2024 unobstructed access to Copper Avenue. While Cooper Avenue is a two-way neighborhood Street,N. Liberty Street is a one-way northbound street with three travel lanes and no on- street parking provisions.The applicant is proposing one full access driveway to N.Liberty Street, and one full access driveway to Cooper Avenue. All other curb cuts would be restored.The proposed gas station would have four double-sided fuel islands with adequate space for vehicle circulation around the site. The proposed property improvements will improve on-site traffic circulation, and will improve the access to and from the site. As a result, the proposed development will have a positive impact on the existing traffic circulation in the immediate area. The proposed gas station is required to have one parking space per 250 square feet of convenience food store floor area. With a 2,764-square-foot convenience store building, the proposed development is required to have 11 parking spaces. With 10 parking spaces proposed,the proposed development does not meet the minimum parking requirement. The requested departure from the parking requirement is due to the limited size of the property. The applicant is making substantial improvements to the former gas station to make the new gas station more successful. The new site layout leaves enough room for only ten parking spaces while 11 are required. The ten proposed parking spaces can adequately serve the proposed gas station as most customers visiting the convenience store are those who use the fuel pumps, and therefore use one of eight fueling spots for parking. The proposed development will not have any negative effect on the surrounding area. D. Location, Design, and Operation Standard. The suitability of the subject property for the intended conditional use with respect to it being located, designed, and operated so as to promote the purpose and intent of this title and chapter. Findings.The subject property is suitable for the intended conditional use with respect to it being located, designed, and operated so as to promote the purpose and intent of the zoning ordinance. The applicant is proposing to construct a new gas station with a convenience store that would replace a vacant, blighted property. The proposed gas station would have an improved layout with the convenience store located along the north property line and fuel pump islands located south of the building. The proposed building would feature modern exterior, and the proposed site improvements would result in more efficient on-site circulation.The applicant would also install a new six-foot-high solid fence along the north and east property lines and new landscaping throughout the site, all of which will have a positive impact on the surrounding properties. E. Historic Preservation Standard. Where applicable, the conditional use shall make possible an efficient contemporary use of or a compatible improvement to a designated landmark or property located in a designated historic district while preserving those portions and features of the property which are significant to its historic, architectural, - 15- Recommendation& Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4, 2024 and cultural values to an historic preservation plan. Findings.This standard is not applicable. The subject property is neither designated as a local historic landmark nor is it located within a locally designated historic district. RECOMMENDATION The Community Development Department and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval of Petition 27-24, subject to the following conditions: 1. Substantial conformance to the Development Application submitted by Ahmed Minhaj,as applicant, and Shirin K. Marvi, as property owner, received September 18, 2024, and supporting documents including: a. Undated Conditional Use Statement of Purpose and Conformity for 1005 N. Liberty Street,received September 13,2024; b. Undated Map Amendment for a Planned Development Statement of Purpose and Conformity for 1005 N. Liberty Street,received September 13,2024; c. Topographic Plat of Survey, prepared by Landmark Engineering LLC,dated April 24, 2017; d. Architectural plan set for New Elgin Gas Station & Convenience Store, prepared by M2Ke Design, LLC, dated March 1, 2024, last revised October 17, 2024, with such further revisions as required by the Community Development Director; e. Site Plan sheet C101,prepared by DVG Team Inc.,dated October 22,2024,last revised October 31, 2024,with such further revisions as required by the City Engineer; f. Landscape Plan, sheet L 1.0, prepared by Hubinger Landscaping Corp., dated October 17,2024, last revised October 22,2024, with such further revisions as required by the Community Development Director; g. Four-page site photometrics plans, prepared by Visual, dated October 30, 2024, with such further revisions as required by the Community Development Director; h. Undated lighting specifications for ARC2 LED Architectural Wall Luminaire, by Lithonia Lighting,dated received October 18,2024; i. Undated lighting specifications for D-series Size 0 LED Area Luminaire, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received October 18,2024; j. Undated lighting specifications for XPCNY LED LED Canopy/Ceiling Luminaire, by Lithonia Lighting,dated received October 18,2024; and k. Undated lighting specifications for LBR6NCH light fixture, by Lithonia Lighting, dated received October 18,2024; In the event of any conflict between such documents and the terms of this ordinance or other applicable city ordinances, the terms of this ordinance or other applicable city ordinances shall supersede and control. - 16- Recommendation& Findings of Fact Petition 27-24 November 4, 2024 2. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the convenience store building part of the motor vehicle service station with a minimum building street yard setback of six(6)feet from the west property line. 3. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the convenience store building part of the motor vehicle service station with a minimum building transition yard setback of twenty-two(22) feet from the east property line. 4. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the vehicle use area part of the motor vehicle service station with a minimum street yard setback of five(5) feet from the west property line and a minimum of seven(7)feet from the south property line. 5. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of the proposed motor vehicle service station with a minimum five-foot transition landscape yard along the east property line. 6. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of a motor vehicle service station with no proposed vehicle use area interior landscape yard. 7. A departure is hereby granted to allow the construction of a motor vehicle service station with a 2,700-square-foot convenience food store building on the Subject Property provided a minimum of ten(10)parking spaces are located on the Subject Property. 8. Compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The vote of the Planning and Zoning Commission on the motion to recommend approval, subject to the conditions outlined by the Community Development Department,was five(5)yes, zero(0) no,and zero(0)abstentions. Two members were absent. Respectfully Submitted, s/Jay Cox Jay Cox,Chairman Planning&Zoning Commission s/Damir Latinovic Damir Latinovic,AICP; Secretary Planning&Zoning Commission - 17- 1 / / / r. /7 gr'71. '?' fr i., .. .,,,L4,4, - , t , . , . " • a .., , _., _ Y ., ....tilit . , . • . ,.f .v U .: , r4, , - , ' i. r , ,. ,. • . if - e .. : Subject Property ' J p Y IP Petition 27-24 == ni. eza .1116r, : e Keep,Ave � . a --� Jr j . '1.::1K. lima' uy 44 , , a -t I el 1 I. ,. bS III - 110 11! ki _ ,. -Lo...._. . . . , . . ". . _ Cooper Ave grr it,,-*AM!. - ON 11 t Aliolif414-- :il .. . . _ `,ti1� r c`3:'i' 6 it . tilav . . I R EXHIBIT Aerial/Location Map 0 20 40 80 120 160 Map prepared by City of Elgin Feet Department of Community Development "7 m f I I — PMFR l CF Subject Property Petition 27-24 Congdon Ave RC2 F 8 Qa Keep Ave Legend ZONING ORC1-Residence Conservation 1 QRC2-Residence Conservation 2 RC3-Residence Conservation 3 RC2 QPRC-Planned Residence Conservation �� I=ISFR1-Single Family Residence 1 Cooper Ave SFR2-Single Family Residence 2 OPSFR1-Planned Single Family Residence 1 PSFR2-Planned Single Family Residence 2 TFR-Two Family Residence PTFR-Planned Two Family Residence QMFR-Multiple Family Residence QPMFR-Planned Multiple Family Residence ORB-Residence Business QPRB-Planned Residence Business IMNB-Neighborhood Business 11111 QPNB-Planned Neighborhood Business -AB-Area Business PAB-Planned Area Business Page AYe -CC1-Center City 1 CC2-Center City 2 PCC-Planned Center City PCC2-Planned Center City 2 ORI-Office Research Industrial 111.1 PORI-Planned Office Research Industrial -GI-General Industrial 11.1 PGI-Planned General Industrial -CI-Commercial Industrial CF-Community Facility PCF-Planned Community Facility ) NB EXHIBIT B Zoning Map W - r E S Map prepared by City of Elgin 0 40 80 160 240 320eet Department of Community Development Subject Property 1005 N. Liberty St. Petition 27-24 0612237024 y 0612237012 .Q J 0612237013 Cooper Ave EXHIBIT C Parcel Map A City of Elgin 0 5 10 20 30 40 Department of Community Development Feet EXHIBIT D SITE LOCATION 1005 N. Liberty Street Petition 27-24 `� ' f o°e r ,( III ; ail_ iF_ eep S Y. OJcaee Subject Property , ', +- ��"" *--Nalli �" °°" .111) 1 a _ _ _11 `1 it Y 1 -• . ,. lh _ `' . 'i+ f 4 t rae,J444 , ___ anew IIIAI. .. cooper` nue . - re w s�. I _.. i4 .. Bird's eye view looking north : - -:-.- • , ----Nor / '' .Sub,.ct Prom ert - f ,,C A i . . i 1 ,. i ....... IA%Afar I +. Y o + h r is North l25) al"' '�-__ e4 yy Liberty Street(IL 25 ` l r' 4....., i /f -air _`t-- r .1116 FI Bird's eye view looking east I EXHIBIT D SITE LOCATION 1005 N. Liberty Street Petition 27-24 Le:#47°17.* 48s x we. _ ,.4. •'. • --;)- --4"'"arlift- ^38311 _'_ -..._ �� '' r The view of the property in 2012 The view of the property in 2024 EXHIBIT D SITE LOCATION 1005 N. Liberty Street Petition 27-24 - .. ,. .�� . �t•"_, a . .`` .air-: R t k:+`QtL�� 1 ii i #. x'" ter.. 7 . H s. r n7re r/r�1 .y} .It • ,▪ ~..,31'14. ' View of the property from N. Liberty Street � 4.4, 1 �N Y •4 ....t....;„, , • , _.10) $0,,, .. . . . , P to 4 ,4 4. y_ % it •�''' 'i: ' 1 C, : 1 ' �`T Existing retaining wall and fence along east property line