Cook County Zoning and Board of Committee Meeting Summary

Date: June 10, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM (call to order)
Location: Virtual (remote participation)
Quorum: Present (11 ayes, 2 present, 4 absent)

The meeting was called to order with roll call. A procedural issue arose regarding remote participation: the notice for remote participation was not received within the required 24-hour period, prompting a vote to allow remote participation despite the deficiency. The motion to allow remote participation was moved by Commissioner Vasquez and seconded by Commissioner Scott.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Taiwan Sims testified about an incident on May 19, 2026, at the Cook County Courthouse (555 West Harrison). He stated that after a court hearing for a motion to vacate, he woke up in chains at Stroger (Cook County) Hospital without recollection of events. He alleged that he was forcibly administered medication (Adaban, for seizures) despite his refusal, and that he received a genital and anal exam which he considered sexual assault. He requested oversight of treatment for citizens in public buildings, but did not attribute any position to the Board's current agenda.
• Jessica Jackson criticized Commissioner Scott Britton, accusing him of lying about a judicial inquiry board manual and of being unqualified. She referenced prior conversations with Commissioner Frank Aguilar and others regarding theft and generational wealth, and alleged that Commissioner Britton is protected by JB Pritzker. She called for Commissioner Britton's removal. Her comments were directed at the commissioner personally, not at any specific agenda item.

Discussion Items

• Approval of Minutes (Item 261683): A motion to approve the minutes from the March 11, 2026 meeting was moved by Commissioner McCaskell and seconded by Commissioner Scott. The motion passed by voice vote with no dissent.
• Variance Request (Item 261654): Applicants sought a variance for a property at 8117 West 113rd Street, Palos Park, IL, to reduce the left interior side yard setback from the minimum required 15 feet to an existing 14.4 feet (first element) and from 15 feet to an existing 13.1 feet (second element). The variance is required for a second-story addition to a single-family residence. The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended granting the application. No questions or opposition were raised. A roll call vote resulted in 14 ayes, three excused absences (Commissioners Gaynor, Sean Morrison, and Stamps). The variance was granted.

Key Outcomes

• Remote participation allowed despite late notice, motion passed with vote.
• Minutes of March 11, 2026 approved.
• Variance for 8117 W 113rd Street (Palos Park) granted, with 14 ayes and three excused.
• Meeting adjourned with motion by Commissioner Anaya and second by Commissioner Britton; all in favor.