Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting - July 15, 2026

The Naperville Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 6:46 PM in Council Chambers. The commission considered two public hearings: a variance request for an eight-foot fence at a public utility facility and a major redevelopment proposal for a vacant downtown property. Both items received unanimous recommendations for approval. The meeting also included approval of the June 17, 2026 minutes and recognition of student representatives.

Public Hearing 1: 1800 S. Washington Street – Fence Variance (DEV-0033-2026)

Staff Presentation: Therese Egner, Community Planner, presented the request for a major change to a conditional use to allow an eight-foot privacy fence in the front yard of a wastewater pump station operated by the Naperville Department of Public Utilities Water. The existing fence is a four-foot chain-link; the proposed eight-foot fence would screen a new generator. Staff supported the request for security and screening purposes. Public Testimony: No members of the public signed up to speak. Commission Discussion: Commissioners asked about fence location and potential impact on traffic sight lines. Kellyn Powers from Public Utilities responded that the fence is far from the driveway and that engineering reviewed and had no concerns. Outcome: The public hearing was closed at 6:07 PM. A motion to adopt findings of fact and recommend approval passed unanimously (8-0).

Public Hearing 2: 115 Aurora Avenue and 405 S. Main Street – John Greene Commercial (DEV-0029-2026)

Staff Presentation: Anna Franco presented the request on behalf of Sara Kopinski. The petitioner, John Greene Enterprises Inc., seeks to demolish two vacant buildings and construct a 24,800-square-foot office building with 25 parking spaces. The requests include rezoning from R2 to TU (Transitional Use), variances for height (43 ft 8 in vs. 35 ft max), building design (non-residential style), and parking setback reduction along the alley (3 ft 7 in vs. 5 ft). Staff supported all requests, citing consistency with the Downtown 2030 Plan and design guidelines. Petitioner Presentation: Attorney Vince Rosanova presented the case, highlighting John Greene's 50-year history, the building's design, height comparisons, alley access, parking synergy with the adjacent Water Street deck, and letters of support from the Downtown Naperville Alliance and Naperville Development Partnership. Public Testimony: One speaker, Toby Hayer, opposed the project and commented specifically on the narrowing of the public alley access at Main Street. He requested that the commission include a condition in the motion to maintain the existing alley configuration, noting that the alley is busy and the extra width is useful. Commission Discussion: Commissioners posed questions about the alley width, parking capacity, building use, and the variance process. Engineering staff (Katie Rubush) and petitioner's engineer (Madeline Larmon) confirmed that turning movements for fire trucks and emergency vehicles meet standards, and that the proposed 20-foot alley width is similar to other nearby drive aisles. Commissioners also inquired about after-hours use of the parking lot; petitioner indicated potential valet use. Several commissioners expressed strong support for the project, noting it is a positive redevelopment of a vacant site, and appreciated the collaborative process. Commissioner Longenbaugh acknowledged the variance request is appropriate on a case-by-case basis. Outcome: The public hearing was closed at 6:43 PM. A motion to adopt findings of fact and recommend approval passed unanimously (8-0).

Reports and Recommendations

• Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the June 17, 2026 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes was made and carried by voice vote.

New Business

• Recognition of Student Representatives: Chair Robbins presented certificates of recognition to the PZC student representatives for their service.

Key Outcomes

• The commission unanimously recommended approval of DEV-0033-2026 (fence variance) and DEV-0029-2026 (John Greene Commercial rezoning and variances), each by an 8-0 vote.
• The June 17, 2026 minutes were approved.
• The meeting adjourned at 6:46 PM.