Will County Land Use and Development Briefs: Minor Subdivision, Extension Approved, Tiny Homes Advocate Returns

Committee Approves Minor Subdivision to Correct Illegal Land Division: The Land Use and Development Committee unanimously approved a minor subdivision plat for the Crown Holm Family Trust in Lockport Township, correcting an illegal land division performed by a previous owner about five years ago. Current owner Robert Crown discovered the issue when applying for a building permit for a new home. “The staff over at Will County Land Use were invaluable. They gave me all kinds of information and all kinds of opportunity to get this thing done so fast,” Crown told the committee. Land Use Director Brian Radner noted that this was completed in record time, taking only about one month, compared to the typical subdivision process. Crown thanked staff for their efficiency, noting he hopes to begin construction soon once his building permit is issued.

Special Use Extension Granted for Wildflower Farm: The committee unanimously approved a one-year extension of a special use permit for Benson Land Management LLC/The Wildflower Farm LLC located at 11332 West Jolley Road in Monee. Land Use Director Brian Radner explained that special use permits expire after two years if not implemented, but the ordinance allows for up to four 180-day extensions. This was the first extension request for the project, which has been delayed due to site development issues.

Land Resource Management Plan Update Progresses: Land Use staff reported progress on the county’s Land Resource Management Plan update, announcing that two proposals have been received in response to the county’s Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Staff characterized both responding companies as “excellent” and will be reviewing the proposals. Additionally, staff member Nicholas Hernandez reported that work continues on the Fairmont Neighborhood Plan, with an additional community outreach event scheduled for Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to noon at Shiloh Baptist Church. The “listening session” will include presentations from county officials, the City of Joliet, Habitat for Humanity, Lockport Township, Lockport Township Park District, and Fairmont School.

Solar Status Report Distributed: The committee received an updated atlas of solar projects in Will County. Staff member Colin noted that hard copies had been distributed to committee members and that digital versions would be included in next month’s agenda packet. Committee member Judy Ogala reported on her attendance at a United Counties Council of Illinois legislative conference, noting increased legislative activity around solar and wind siting authority. “There’s been a lot of legislation that’s been submitted this year, more than in the past,” Ogala said, adding that changes to state law might come later in the legislative session as part of an energy omnibus bill.

Tiny Homes Advocate Returns to Committee: Lauren Herrera appeared before the committee for the third time to advocate for allowing tiny homes in Will County. Herrera reported that nearly 500 people have signed a petition supporting the initiative. “These homes can help alleviate the growing need for affordable housing here in Will County,” Herrera told the committee. “With escalating housing prices, a lack of affordable rental units, and the burden of traditional housing costs, tiny homes offer a practical solution that can benefit everyone.” No action was taken on Herrera’s request, but she urged the committee to consider revising zoning laws to allow tiny homes as a viable housing option.

Proposed Liquor License Special Use Withdrawn: A request for a special use permit for a bar/tavern by LMD Liquor LLC at 1619 East C Street in Joliet was withdrawn prior to the committee meeting. The request was removed from the agenda with no discussion.