OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Joliet Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting – July 16, 2026

Meeting PortalThursday, July 16, 2026
BodyJoliet, Illinois
SessionMeeting Portal
DateThursday, July 16, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 38:09
Transcript — Verbatim
0:00

Meeting.

0:02

This is the August.

0:04

Nope, nope, it's July.

0:06

It's still July.

0:07

It's the Thursday, July 16th meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

0:13

Will we please?

0:15

Well, sorry, this is a duly advertised meeting of the Juliet Zoning Board of Appeals in the zoning board's capacity.

0:21

They hear petitions for relief from the strict provisions from the city ordinance.

0:27

In matters of this type, the decision of the zoning board is final in respect that it does not go to the mayor or city council for further action.

0:35

However, if you disagree with the decision of the zoning board of appeals, you have recourse in the court of record.

0:42

The zoning board of appeals also hears petitions for variations of land use.

0:48

In matters of this type, the zoning board of appeals acts as an advisory committee to the mayor and city council, making a recommendation either for or against them.

0:58

The final decision on land use is made by the mayor and the city council.

1:03

Secretary, will you please call the roll?

1:06

Mr.

1:07

Bias.

1:08

Mr.

1:08

Leone?

1:09

Here.

1:10

Mr.

1:10

Noctreed?

1:11

Here.

1:12

Ms.

1:12

Radakovich, here.

1:13

Ms.

1:14

Schmig?

1:14

Here.

1:15

Mr.

1:15

Stiff.

1:18

Okay.

1:19

At this time, we are going to staff is requesting a change to the order of the agenda for one agenda item.

1:29

Staff is recommending we move up number 7A under new business election of chair.

1:36

To do that, we would like a motion to move up agenda item 7A, election of chair.

1:42

Motion to accept.

1:43

Second.

1:44

Okay, we have a motion accept.

1:46

All those in favor?

1:47

Aye.

1:48

Any opposed?

1:51

Okay.

1:51

At this time, um, we do need an election a new chair for the zoning board of appeals.

1:57

Um, Mr.

1:58

Ed Hennessey is no longer on the zoning board, so this would be an action item that is needed to continue.

2:07

I would like to nominate Jane Schmig.

2:12

Okay, we have a nomination or motion to nominate Jane Schmig.

2:16

Is there a second?

2:17

I would second it.

2:19

Okay, we have a motion and a second for Ms.

2:22

Jane Schmig to be chair of the zoning board of appeals.

2:26

Is there any discussion on this?

2:31

Okay.

2:32

With that, um, let's do a roll vote for Ms.

2:36

Jane Schmig.

2:38

Do you accept?

2:39

Yes.

2:40

Okay.

2:41

For Ms.

2:41

Jane Schmig to be the chair of the zoning board of appeals.

2:47

Mr.

2:47

Bias.

2:48

Yes.

2:49

Mr.

2:49

Leone.

2:50

Aye.

2:51

Mr.

2:51

Noctreve.

2:52

Aye.

2:53

Ms.

2:53

Rudokovich.

2:54

Aye.

2:54

Ms.

2:55

Schmidt.

2:55

Aye.

2:56

All right.

2:57

With that, Ms.

2:57

Jane Schmig will be the new chair of the zoning board of appeals.

3:00

Thank you.

3:02

Okay.

3:03

This brings us back on the normal course for the agenda.

3:07

Number four, citizens to be heard on agenda items.

3:10

This.

3:12

Oh, yeah, you're right.

3:13

Thank you.

3:13

Yes, thank you.

3:16

Sorry.

3:16

Next on the agenda is approval of the June 18th, 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals minutes.

3:23

I move we approve.

3:25

Second.

3:27

Okay, we have a motion and a second.

3:29

Mr.

3:29

Bias.

3:30

Yes.

3:30

Mr.

3:31

Leone.

3:32

Aye.

3:32

Mr.

3:33

Noctreed.

3:33

Aye.

3:34

Ms.

3:34

Radakovich.

3:35

Chair Schmid.

3:36

Aye.

3:38

Okay, those are approved.

3:40

Next, we have citizens to be heard on agenda items.

3:43

This section is for anyone wanting to speak regarding items listed on the agenda, except for items listed under public hearing.

3:52

We have no agenda items that are not public hearing today.

3:56

So if you are here in attendance, um, you are welcome to speak under citizens to be heard on agenda items, but it would be more appropriate if you spoke under the public hearing item so that it's part of the court of record.

4:09

Is there anyone here who would like to speak under citizens to be heard on agenda items?

4:15

Okay.

4:17

Next on the agenda is old business public hearing, of which we have no agenda items, which brings us to new business public hearing.

4:25

And during the public hearing, staff is going to read the staff report, and then the applicant will be asked to come up and make additional comments on their request.

4:35

And then following the staff report and applicant remarks, a public comment period will be held on each agenda item.

4:41

Um each speaker under the public comment period during this public hearing will be given four minutes to address the commission and remarks should be directed to the commissioners rather than staff, the applicant, or other members of the audience.

5:00

Okay, first on the agenda is petition 2026 29, which is a variation of use to allow administrative offices and RB restricted business use within an existing residential structure in the R2 single family zoning district, and the location is 317 South Reed Street.

5:18

The applicant in this matter is Brian Patel, representing the UCP Center for Disability Services Inc.

5:27

And the status of the applicant is property owner.

5:33

Under purpose, the applicant is requesting a variation of use to allow administrative offices for the United Cerebal Policy Center for Disability Services within the existing residential structure at 317 South Reed Street.

5:54

The subject site is within the R2 single family residential district, which does not permit office uses.

6:00

The variation of use request must be considered by the city council following the recommendation of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

6:07

For site specific information.

6:10

The subject site is 80 feet by 131 feet and contains a one-story residential house and a rear one-car detached garage.

6:19

The property is zoned R2 single family residential.

6:23

The north side of the site is adjacent to the property at 311 South Reed Street, which contains the headquarters and educational campus for the UCP Center for Disability Services.

6:34

The center's property is the former Reedwood Public School site that currently contains a school building, an outdoor playground, a cell tower, and its ground equipment, and around 65 parking spaces.

6:45

UCP Center for Disability Services provides comprehensive programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to promote independence and a high quality of life.

6:57

The center offers a therapeutic day school and community day services in the existing building.

7:03

The center also provides home-based services such as therapy, life skills training, and respite care within clients' own homes.

7:11

The school is licensed through the Illinois State Board of Education, and the day services and home-based services programs are licensed through the Illinois Department of Human Services.

7:22

The organization has been operating in Joliet since around 1955.

7:27

The center first occupied the site at 311 South Reed Street in 1985.

7:32

In 2005, City Council approved a special use permit to allow adult training and educational programming at the site in addition to the existing day school.

7:42

The main facility contains the center's administrative offices as well as classroom and programming space.

7:50

The center purchased the property at 317 South Reed Street in May of 26, 2026.

7:56

According to the petitioner, the subject property was vacant prior to their purchase and has experienced significant deterioration in deferred maintenance.

8:06

For surrounding zoning land use and character, the property is located in the Reedwood neighborhood on the west side of Reed Street between Morgan Street and Fisk Avenue.

8:15

United Cerebral Policy Center for Disability Services is located to the north of the subject property at 311 South Reed Street.

8:23

There are single family residences to the west, south, and east of the subject property.

8:28

A public alley runs along the rear, which is the west side of the subject property.

8:34

All surrounding properties are zoned R2 single family residential.

8:38

For applicable regulations, we have section 47-10.14, which is restricted business district permitted uses.

8:47

We have section 47-6, which is R2 single family residential district, and then Section 47-1728, which is variation of use.

8:59

For discussion, the petitioner, Brian Patel, on behalf of UCP Center for Disability Services is requesting a variation of use to allow administrative offices for the center within the existing residential structure at 317 South Reed Street in the R2 single family residential zoning district.

9:18

The offices would serve the main site at 311 South Reed Street.

9:22

Approximately eight non-programmatic staff members would occupy the building, which would be used for administrative functions only.

9:29

There would be no programming instruction or other client services held at 317 South Reed Street.

9:35

Employees working at 317 South Reed Street would continue to park in the employee parking area at the main site at 311 South Reed Street, which has sufficient parking for all current and projected staff.

9:47

The petitioner does not intend to use the driveway or garage at 317 South Reed Street for daily for daily employee parking, but it might use the garage to periodically store organizational vehicles.

10:01

The petitioner states that the 317 South Reed Street property will maintain its residential appearance.

10:07

There will be no exterior modifications inconsistent with the site's residential character.

10:12

The petitioner does not intend to install any exterior signage at the subject property.

10:17

The interior of the building will also retain its residential layout.

10:21

The attached floor plans show the main floor, will contain several offices, meeting and workspace, a kitchen, and two bathrooms.

10:30

The basement will contain another office, a meeting room, and a bathroom.

10:33

According to the petitioner, all interior improvements, such as rehabilitation of the bedrooms and bathrooms, will be completed in a manner that preserves the residential character of the home.

10:42

The structure will need to meet accessibility codes as part of the change of use from residential to office.

10:48

The petitioner plans to install an ADA compliant entrance ramp at the front of the building for access to the main entrance.

10:54

A plat of survey and floor plans are included in the staff report packet.

10:59

The center wishes to use the property at 317 South Reed Street because of its specific location adjacent to the main campus.

11:06

By moving administrative functions to the subject site, the center will be able to convert some of the office space at the main facility into an ad into additional special education classrooms, therapeutic programming areas, and disability related service space, thus increasing their service capacity to individuals within Joliet and the surrounding area.

11:27

The petitioner's description of the proposal and in-depth response to the variation of use criteria is included in the staff report packet.

11:36

The petitioner is willing to include conditions of the proposed variation of use that address the site's location within a residential neighborhood, including limiting the use of the site to office functions only, maintaining the exterior residential appearance of the structure and property, and retaining an interior residential layout.

11:54

The petitioner also states that there will be no more than eight employees at the site and that these employees will continue to park at the adjacent main facility.

12:04

For recommended action, staff finds that the request does not include an exceptional hardship, but it does meet the following variation of use criteria.

12:13

The site has the unique circumstance of being adjacent to the main campus of the center, which is an existing institutional use that has been located in the middle of a residential neighborhood for around 40 years.

12:26

The subject site is one of two lots directly adjacent to the center property.

12:30

The petitioner is proposing the office use at the subject site specifically due to the site's adjacency to the main campus, which will allow access between the sites without disrupting other properties.

12:43

The granting of the variation of use will not alter the essential character of the area if the proposed conditions are met.

12:50

The petitioner has stated that they will not alter the exterior appearance of the property in a way that affects its residential character, nor will they reconfigure the interior into a commercial style layout.

13:02

They also do not plan to use 317 South Reed Street or the adjacent street for employee parking, but will continue to supply off-street parking for all employees at the main facility.

13:15

Approval of the variation of use would allow administrative offices for an adjacent institutional use within an existing residential structure.

13:24

The office use would be an expansion of an existing institutional use within the neighborhood and would not alter the essential character of the area since the structure will remain residential in appearance.

13:36

For recommended conditions, if the zoning board desires to approve this variation of use to allow administrative offices and RB restricted business use within an existing residential structure in the R2 single family residential zoning district at 317 South Reed Street, staff recommends that the following conditions be included.

13:57

One, that the use of the site shall be limited to administrative office functions and shall not include client services or programmatic activities.

14:06

Two, that the exterior of the property shall maintain its residential character and no exterior modifications shall be made to the structure that are not residential in style.

14:18

Three, that the interior of the property shall maintain a layout typical to a residential use, and four that the use of the property shall not be expanded in the future, and then five uh should the property be declared a public nuisance, the property may be subject to a rehearing and possible revocation of the variation of use.

14:40

And that concludes staff's report.

14:43

Is Mr.

14:44

Patel present?

14:46

Please come forward to the podium.

14:50

Do you swear your statements to be true?

14:53

I do.

14:53

Could you please state your name and address for the record?

14:57

Brian Patel.

14:58

Home or work address.

15:00

No, works fine.

15:01

311 South Reed Street, Joliet, Illinois.

15:04

Okay.

15:05

Do you have any questions or comments for the board?

15:08

Um I don't have any questions for the board.

15:11

Uh I just have a comment.

15:12

Um thank you for the staff report.

15:14

That was very detailed and thorough.

15:16

Um it captured everything that we had talked with the planning commission about.

15:21

Um so I just want to thank the staff for that report.

15:25

Thank you.

15:26

Are there any comments or questions from the board?

15:30

I I have one.

15:32

Um have you had any uh communication with the owner of 319 or 32?

15:40

The I guess their residential properties right next to we haven't had any direct communication with those uh individuals directly.

15:49

Um we did engage with the Reedswood Neighborhood Community Community Association to speak to that group as well.

15:56

So I just don't know if someone in that group lives at that address, but I did meet with their uh monthly meeting um last month and talked to that whole group as a whole.

16:08

Okay.

16:12

Are there any other questions?

16:16

Are there any questions or comments from the audience?

16:26

Hi.

16:28

Can you please state your name and address for the record?

16:30

Gianna Barone.

16:32

Um I'm a resident and I'm also co-chair of the Reedswood neighborhood group that he's talking about.

16:40

And um I did poll, I have like 30 people on my database, and I polled up last night.

16:46

They were all for it.

16:48

Very happy.

16:49

Um five of them wrote letters.

16:51

Can I read them?

16:52

There's it's short.

16:53

You have four minutes.

16:54

They're not long at all.

16:55

So one's mine.

16:57

So mine is I'm a Reesewood resident, and I'm really excited when I heard UCP was buying the vacant house next door.

17:05

The house has been empty for years, and I think squatters were even even staying there.

17:11

Brian Patel has already done so much good for our community.

17:15

He upgraded the center, and we're all thrilled to have it in our neighborhood.

17:20

I'm just really grateful he's taking the next step to clean things up, make the area safer, and make our neighborhood better overall.

17:28

Please vote yes for his petition.

17:30

Okay, that's me.

17:32

Approving this zoning change lets us turn a long-neglected previously squatted in-home into a safe, productive office space for UCP.

17:42

Instead of remaining a problem property, it can become a place where they can better organize services, support families, and strengthen our neighborhood.

17:52

This is a chance to replace Blight with purpose and create a space that truly serves our community.

17:58

Sherry Brown.

18:00

As a resident and neighbor in the Reederwood uh area, I am writing to express my strong support for Mr.

18:07

Patel's acquisition of the property next door for office space.

18:11

This project will be a positive addition to our neighborhood and will benefit all of us.

18:17

The new center is a welcome improvement.

18:19

Thank you for your consideration.

18:21

I respectfully ask that you vote in favor of this proposal.

18:24

Peggy Johnson.

18:26

Dear Planning Board, I think this will be an asset to our neighborhood.

18:31

For many years, the home's yard was neglected.

18:34

I recall years back during the pandemic, we held one of our meetings outside the center, and the grass and weeds were a foot high at the home next door.

18:44

UPS CD U UPS, I'm sorry.

18:48

UCP CDS Center, keep their property in immaculate condition.

18:53

They have also they have also been very welcoming to our neighborhood, and we appreciate them.

18:59

If there is anything we can do to support Mr.

19:02

Patel in acquiring this property, please let us know.

19:05

Sincerely, Kathy Speeler, she's also my co-chair for our group.

19:10

To the members of the zoning board, I would like to state my support for the request for zoning of the property by the UCP Center in the Reedwood neighborhood.

19:18

Ever since the closing of the elementary school, UCP has been a valued part of Joliet and our neighborhood.

19:25

I believe the use of the property to continue the good work of UCP is worthy of your support.

19:32

Margie Court.

19:33

So these time.

19:35

Thank you.

19:36

Thank you.

19:36

Thank you.

19:37

Thanks.

19:37

Thank you.

19:38

Are there any other comments or questions from the audience?

19:42

Any other comments from the board or questions?

19:46

Hearing none, then is there a motion to in order for petition 2026-29?

19:54

I so move motion.

19:55

Second.

19:57

So approved.

19:59

We have a motion and a second.

20:00

So then we're going to roll.

20:02

And just to be clear, that was a motion to approve the position the position.

20:06

Okay.

20:06

Thank you.

20:07

Thank you for helping me learn.

20:09

Mr.

20:09

Leon.

20:10

Aye.

20:11

Mr.

20:11

Noctreet.

20:12

Aye.

20:13

Ms.

20:13

Radakovich.

20:14

Mr.

20:15

Bias.

20:15

Aye.

20:16

Chair Wilman Schmidt.

20:18

Aye.

20:19

Okay.

20:19

This request for a variation of use will move on to the city council with a recommendation of approval.

20:27

The staff planner you've been working with will let you know what council meeting it will be scheduled for.

20:32

Thanks.

20:39

Okay.

20:42

All right.

20:42

Next on the agenda is petition 2026 30, which is a special use permit to allow a resale boutique within an existing tenant space at the location of 124 North Ottawa Street.

20:59

The applicant in this matter is Savannah Wilhelmy.

21:03

The status of the applicant is a future tenant, and the owner of the building is 26 West Jefferson.

21:08

Sorry, 26 West Clinton Street Building LLC.

21:13

Under purpose.

21:14

The applicant is requesting a special use permit to allow a resale boutique within an existing tenant space located at 124 North Ottawa Street.

21:23

The City Council makes the final decision on this special use permit request upon the recommendation of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

21:31

For site-specific information, the four-story brick building sits at the southeast corner of Ottawa and Clinton Streets on a quarter acre lot.

21:40

The circa 1909 mixed use building was built for Hobbes family who ran the Hobbs Hotel for many years, after which it became known as the Hotel Plaza.

21:50

The proposed business will occupy one ground floor tenant space in this building at 124 North Ottawa Street, which is at the southeast corner of Ottawa and Clinton Streets.

22:00

For surrounding zoning, land use and character, this property as well as all properties in the general vicinity are zone B2 Central Business District.

22:10

This is a mixed-use building that is surrounded by a mix of uses that include retail office, food and beverage service, banking, and residential.

22:18

For applicable regulations, we have section 47-12.2A special uses in the B2 Central Business District, and Section 47-5.2C special use permit criteria.

22:33

Under discussion, the applicant seeks to open a resale boutique to be known as Maison Mariana that would feature secondhand merchandise, including bridal excuse me, including apparel, bridal wear, tuxedo rental, special occasion wear, accessories, jewelry, home accents, and giftable keepsakes.

22:54

Hours of operation for the business are still being finalized, but the applicant has expressed interest in staying open while downtown events occurred during nighttime and weekend hours.

23:06

The city does require a special use permit for businesses where the majority of the merchandise is second hand.

23:14

For recommended action, staff recommends that the zoning board of appeals recommend approval of the special use permit to allow a resale boutique within an existing tenant space located at 124 North Ottawa Street.

23:27

The business would be situated within an existing mixed-use building that has hosted comparable retail businesses over the years.

23:35

Staff has no reason to believe that the proposed business will produce negative public health, safety, or welfare issues, or would impede normally normal and orderly development of surrounding properties in any way.

23:49

For suggested conditions of approval, if the zoning board of appeals desires to recommend approval of the special use permit request, staff recommends the following conditions be included.

24:00

One that the special use granted shall herein terminate and lapse unless a building permit or certificate of occupancy is obtained not later than 180 days of the effective date of this ordinance and the erection or alteration of a building is started or the use is commenced within such period.

24:20

And two, should the property be declared a public nuisance, it shall be subject to a rehearing and possible revocation of the special use permit.

24:27

And that concludes staff's report.

24:30

Thank you.

24:32

A question, please.

24:33

Umbe you said and maybe I was daydreaming.

24:37

The upper floors are residential or business.

24:42

I don't know if I actually said it in the we said it in the staff report, but the the upper three levels are residential.

24:48

Yep, and the lower level is main level is um commercial space.

24:52

Okay, thank you.

24:54

Miss Wilhelmie, would you like to come to the podium?

25:01

Good afternoon.

25:02

Do you swear your statements to be true?

25:04

I do.

25:04

Could you please state your name and address for the record?

25:07

Savannah Wilhelmy, 414 Buell Avenue, Joliet, Illinois.

25:12

And do you have comments or questions for I'll just go ahead and introduce myself here?

25:17

Thank you all for being here.

25:18

My name's Savannah Wilhelmy.

25:20

I'm a lifelong Joliet resident and have proudly owned and operated a successful salon on the west side of Joliet the past seven years.

25:30

I've always had a passion for making people look and feel beautiful, and now I'd like to bring my attention to downtown Joliet.

25:41

I've always believed downtown Joliette is the heart of the city, and I would love the opportunity to be a part of its continued growth and development.

25:51

Um we did finalize some of the hours of operation.

25:56

They'll be Monday through Friday, 11 to 5 p.m.

25:59

and extended hours during downtown Joliet events.

26:03

As mentioned, Mason Mariano is located at 124 North Ottawa Street, corner of Clinton and Ottawa.

26:11

It's approximately 650 square feet.

26:15

Our primary focus will be secondhand bridal selection.

26:20

And it's actually among the few, if not only, secondhand bridal boutique in Joliet, so that'd be super exciting.

26:29

And yes, as business uh grows, I'd also hope to introduce suite suit rentals for Will County courtgoers.

26:39

I'd like to conclude and close by just saying that downtown Joliette is home to many outstanding business owners, and I would be honored to be one of them.

26:49

I've watched my mother play a huge role the last 20 years owning Jitter's Coffee House, and I hope to bring my experience as a small business owner alongside with my passion of collecting beauty and competence to the downtown Joliet community.

27:06

Thank you for your time and considering my request.

27:09

Thank you.

27:10

Are there any comments or questions from the board?

27:16

Okay.

27:17

Are there any comments or questions from the audience?

27:22

Hearing none, is there a motion for the petition to approve 26 2026 30?

27:29

Motion to approve.

27:30

Second.

27:32

Can you call the roll?

27:34

Mr.

27:34

Naktree, I.

27:36

Ms.

27:36

Rudakovich.

27:37

Aye.

27:37

Mr.

27:37

Bias.

27:38

Aye.

27:38

Mr.

27:39

Leone.

27:39

Aye.

27:40

Chairwoman Schmidt.

27:41

Aye.

27:42

Thank you.

27:42

Good luck.

27:43

Okay.

27:43

Thank you so much.

27:44

This request will move on to City Council with a recommendation for approval.

27:49

Um, the staff planner will reach out to you and let you know which uh meeting it'll be scheduled for.

27:54

Thank you.

27:54

See you guys then.

27:59

Okay.

27:59

Next on the agenda is petition number 2026 31, which is a special use permit to allow a truck repair facility within an existing maintenance and repair facility.

28:12

The location is 608 Railroad Street.

28:16

The applicant in this matter is TFR Fleet Parts and Services LLC, and the property owner is Trust 1361.

28:25

Under purpose, the applicant is requesting a special use permit to open and operate a truck repair facility in an I2 General Industrial Zoning District located at 608 Railroad Street.

28:37

This request must be considered by the city council following the recommendation from the zoning board of appeals.

28:44

Under site specific information.

28:47

The petition includes two parcels.

28:50

The subject property, 608 Railroad Street, and the parcel to the north.

28:55

The parcel subject to this request includes a single story warehouse and is approximately 3,011 square feet in size, and the lot is 0.47 acres in size.

29:09

The second parcel is approximately 0.47 acres in size.

29:15

The proposed truck repair facility will consist of a storage area in the rear, on say parking, and the warehouse where repairs will take place.

29:25

For surrounding zoning, land use and character.

29:27

To the north, we have I2 General Industrial, and it's an industrial use.

29:33

To the south is I to General Industrial with industrial use.

29:37

To the east is the Splanes River, and then to the west is an I-1 light industrial zoning with a vacant industrial uses.

29:47

For applicable regulations, we have section 47-13.2AG special uses and section 47-5.2C criteria for issuance of a special use permit.

30:06

For discussion, the applicant seeks to re-establish a truck repair facility at 608 Railroad Street.

30:12

Truck repair facilities are allowed in the B3 General Business and Industrial Zoning Districts by special use permit approval by the mayor and city council.

30:21

A previous special use permit was applied for in 2017 and granted.

30:27

And this was to allow an auto and diesel truck repair shop.

30:31

Special use permits lapse if the permitted special use ceases after one year, and uh in this case it did lapse, and therefore a new special use permit is required.

30:43

The proposed hours of operation would be approximately 9 a.m.

30:46

to 5 p.m.

30:47

The facility would employ approximately three people.

30:51

Adequate off-street parking is provided with five spaces.

30:55

The current building has three repair bays, and all work would take place inside.

30:59

The existing storage area in the rear will be used for storing vehicles that are awaiting parts or awaiting repair.

31:07

Floor plans indicate an open shop with facilities for the employees to use.

31:12

Floor plans and site plans are included in the packet.

31:16

For requested action, staff finds that the proposed truck repair facility would not alter the essential character of the area.

31:22

This is in an industrial area of the city in zoned I2 general industrial.

31:28

The establishment of a truck repair facility would not be detrimental to the health or general welfare of the public.

31:35

Additionally, the proposed use will not impede the use and enjoyment of surrounding properties.

31:41

The repairs will take place indoors and minimal traffic will be generated.

31:47

For conditions of approval.

31:49

If the zoning board desires to approve the special use permit to allow a truck repair facility, the following conditions should be included.

31:59

One that a business license shall be obtained prior to the use commencing.

32:03

Two, a paved parking area with five striped spaces shall be re-established just south of the entry drive for the employee and vehicular visitor parking.

32:14

No three, no temporary or long-term outdoor storage of truck truck trailers, trucks, sorry, trucks and trailers, inoperable vehicles, boats, recreational vehicles or parts, including tires, shall be permitted.

32:29

Three, that the special use granted herein shall terminate and lapse unless a building permit or certificate of occupancy is obtained not later than 180 days of the effective date of this ordinance, and the erection or alteration of a building is started or the use is commenced within such a period.

32:48

And five, should the property be declared a public nuisance, it may be subject to a rehearing and possible revocation of the special use permit.

32:56

And that concludes staff's report.

32:58

Thank you.

32:59

Do we have the petitioner present on this item?

33:05

Hello.

33:06

Do you swear to that your statements to be true?

33:09

I do.

33:09

Could you please state your name and address?

33:12

My name is Kutaikur Dikin.

33:13

And the others is 608 Railroad Street, Juliet Illinois.

33:18

We are the new tenant of the property.

33:21

It's being used as truck maintenance shop, and they were missing their license renewed for I don't know for some times.

33:33

And for the older uh property tenants.

33:38

So we try to make it everything perfect.

33:41

Uh we have our own trucks and trailers, and we have other businesses that we are providing.

33:50

This is our kind of family business.

33:52

Mr.

33:53

Sarder, he's the 100% owner of the uh company, but he's in a work right now, and I'm the family member and also the operation manager for this business.

34:02

But other than that, I do uh food distribution, import and export.

34:07

So specifically for this area, uh C SP move, we try to improve the surrounding areas, outside parking nuts, the building inside and interior and exterior.

34:21

We try to make it look better, but due to difficulties because of the road and the passing in front of it has some uh I think leveling problem being cleaned in the front of the building, but once it's ranked uh two weeks ago, maybe three weeks ago.

34:42

It's bringing all the standards in front of the area.

34:48

So uh we will operate this area for our trucks mostly.

34:53

Uh we just want to make it things quick because uh we are always on the road and we provide our drivers and owner operators, a better service, no waiting time.

35:04

So therefore we decide to have uh this building and this uh business.

35:10

We are not doing any uh overnight parking or for the the rest of the area.

35:17

We don't prefer to do any parking for them.

35:20

It just trucks to wait there fixed and then leave the area.

35:25

And other than that, if you have any questions, I would like to ask for.

35:30

Thank you.

35:31

Are there any questions or comments from the board?

35:34

You say you have a fleet if you're not parking them here.

35:37

What or else are they be a part?

35:39

They will be on the road.

35:40

The fleet that we use, uh we have our own uh people that they are finding load to them, and they never come here.

35:49

They are just visiting tire change, oil chain, and then they continue to drive.

35:55

We don't keep fleet for local uh deliveries or local operations, it's on interstate.

36:01

How many of how many own mobiles in your fleet?

36:04

Uh currently we have 50 owner operators, and also we have our own trucks that they are on the drivers.

36:12

So total of 65 trucks.

36:14

How long have you been in this business?

36:16

So we have been in this business as a trucking business since 2020, and for the food distribution and those kind of businesses that food related business since 2015.

36:30

Okay.

36:32

Any other questions?

36:35

Okay, thank you.

36:36

Are there any questions from the audience?

36:41

Hearing none.

36:43

And there's motion in order for petition 2026 31.

36:49

So move.

36:51

Second.

36:54

Can you call the roll?

36:56

Ms.

36:56

Rudokovich.

36:57

Aye.

36:58

Mr.

36:58

Bias?

36:59

Aye.

37:00

Mr.

37:00

Leon.

37:01

Aye.

37:02

Mr.

37:02

Noctreed.

37:03

I.

37:04

Chairwoman Schmidt.

37:05

Aye.

37:06

Okay.

37:07

This uh request will move on to the city council with a recommendation for approval.

37:13

The staff planner that you've been working with will let you know what date that'll be scheduled for.

37:18

Thank you.

37:18

Thank you.

37:19

Thank you.

37:20

Okay, next on the agenda, um, we have already moved up, which was new business election of chair, which brings us to number eight, old business or new business, not for final action or recommendation.

37:34

We have no agenda items.

37:36

And that brings us to public comments.

37:39

Um section is for anyone wanting to speak regarding non-agenda items.

37:43

Is there anyone here who would like to address the zoning board of appeals under public comments?

37:50

Okay, and that brings us to adjournment.

37:53

Is there a motion to adjourn?

37:55

Motion second.

37:59

Roll call.

38:00

Mr.

38:00

Bayas?

38:01

Aye.

38:02

Mr.

38:02

Leon?

38:03

Aye.

38:03

Mr.

38:04

Nakee.

38:04

Aye.

38:05

Ms.

38:05

Radakovich.

38:06

Chairwoman Shmey.

38:07

Aye.

38:08

Meeting is adjourned.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Zoning And Land Use██████████████████████████████████████38%
Engineering And Infrastructure████████████████████20%
Procedural██████████████████18%
Public Engagement████████████12%
Economic Development█████████9%
Disability Rights███3%
Summary of Proceedings

Joliet Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting – July 16, 2026

The Joliet Zoning Board of Appeals met on July 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board unanimously approved three petitions related to a variation of use and two special use permits, all recommended for final action by the City Council. The meeting also included the election of a new Chair, Jane McGrath Schmig. Board member Jesse Stiff was absent.

Election of Chair

  • The board voted unanimously (5-0) to move up agenda item 7A, Election of Chair, to the beginning of the meeting. Following nominations, Jane McGrath Schmig was elected as the new Chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals by a 5-0 vote.

Approval of Minutes

  • The minutes from the June 18, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (5-0).

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Petition 2026-29 (317 S. Reed Street): Gianna Barone, a resident and co-chair of the Reedwood Neighborhood Group, spoke in support. She stated that she polled approximately 30 people in her database and all were in favor. She read five letters of support from community members (Sherry Brown, Peggy Johnson, Kathy Speeler, Margie Court, and herself). The letters cited the property's long vacancy, previous squatters, and the positive impact of the UCP Center.
  • No public comments were made on Petitions 2026-30 or 2026-31.

Discussion Items

  • Petition 2026-29 – Variation of Use for Administrative Offices (317 S. Reed Street): Staff planner Jayne Bernhard read the staff report into the record. Petitioner Brian Patel, representing UCP Center for Disability Services, appeared. The request was to allow administrative offices (R-B restricted business use) within an existing residential structure in an R-2 single-family residential district, adjacent to the UCP Center's main campus at 311 S. Reed Street. The site would house up to eight non-programmatic staff, with no exterior changes to residential appearance, no signage, and employee parking at the main campus. Board member Bob Nachtrieb asked about neighbor outreach; Patel stated he had met with the Reedwood Neighborhood Group. A resident spoke in support.
  • Petition 2026-30 – Special Use Permit for Resale Boutique (124 N. Ottawa Street): Staff read the report. Petitioner Savanna Wilhelmi, a lifelong Joliet resident and owner of a salon, introduced her business, Maison Mariana. The boutique would offer secondhand bridal wear, tuxedo rentals, special occasion wear, accessories, and home accents within an existing mixed-use building in the B-2 Central Business District. Hours would be Monday–Friday 11 AM–5 PM with extended hours during downtown events. Board member Ralph Bias asked about upper floor uses; staff confirmed upper three levels are residential. No board or public questions followed.
  • Petition 2026-31 – Special Use Permit for Truck Repair Facility (608 Railroad Street): Staff read the report. Petitioner Kutaikur Dikin, Operations Manager of TFR Fleet Parts and Services LLC, appeared. The request was to re-establish a truck repair facility in an I-2 General Industrial District. The facility would employ three people, operate 9 AM–5 PM, and perform all work indoors. The previous special use permit from 2017 had lapsed. Board member Bias inquired about the fleet size (65 trucks total, 50 owner-operators) and noted that trucks would be on the road, not parked overnight. No public comments.

Key Outcomes

  • Petition 2026-29: Motion to approve the variation of use (5-0). The request will proceed to City Council with a recommendation of approval. Conditions include limiting use to administrative offices, maintaining residential exterior and interior, no future expansion, and potential revocation if the property becomes a public nuisance.
  • Petition 2026-30: Motion to recommend approval of the special use permit (5-0). Conditions include obtaining a building permit or certificate of occupancy within 180 days and potential revocation for public nuisance. The request moves to City Council.
  • Petition 2026-31: Motion to recommend approval of the special use permit (5-0). Conditions include obtaining a business license, re-establishing paved parking with five striped spaces, no outdoor storage of trucks/trailers/inoperable vehicles, and the 180-day permit requirement. The request moves to City Council.
  • No items were discussed under Old/New Business not for final action, and no public comments on non-agenda items were made. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote.

Meeting Transcript

Meeting. This is the August. Nope, nope, it's July. It's still July. It's the Thursday, July 16th meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Will we please? Well, sorry, this is a duly advertised meeting of the Juliet Zoning Board of Appeals in the zoning board's capacity. They hear petitions for relief from the strict provisions from the city ordinance. In matters of this type, the decision of the zoning board is final in respect that it does not go to the mayor or city council for further action. However, if you disagree with the decision of the zoning board of appeals, you have recourse in the court of record. The zoning board of appeals also hears petitions for variations of land use. In matters of this type, the zoning board of appeals acts as an advisory committee to the mayor and city council, making a recommendation either for or against them. The final decision on land use is made by the mayor and the city council. Secretary, will you please call the roll? Mr. Bias. Mr. Leone? Here. Mr. Noctreed? Here. Ms. Radakovich, here. Ms. Schmig? Here. Mr. Stiff. Okay. At this time, we are going to staff is requesting a change to the order of the agenda for one agenda item. Staff is recommending we move up number 7A under new business election of chair. To do that, we would like a motion to move up agenda item 7A, election of chair. Motion to accept. Second. Okay, we have a motion accept. All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Okay. At this time, um, we do need an election a new chair for the zoning board of appeals. Um, Mr. Ed Hennessey is no longer on the zoning board, so this would be an action item that is needed to continue. I would like to nominate Jane Schmig. Okay, we have a nomination or motion to nominate Jane Schmig. Is there a second? I would second it. Okay, we have a motion and a second for Ms. Jane Schmig to be chair of the zoning board of appeals. Is there any discussion on this?

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