PZC Briefs: Solar Farm in Crete, Post-Fire Permit for Troy Business, and More

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission handled several other cases during its July 1 meeting, including a new solar farm, a temporary permit for a fire-damaged business, and routine residential variances.

Crete Township solar farm gets green light
The commission recommended a special use permit for a 3.5-megawatt commercial solar facility on a 21-acre property on Bemes Road in Crete Township. The applicant, RPIL Solar 17, LLC, received the recommendation despite written opposition from the Crete Township board, which stated its objection to any further solar development in the area. No residents spoke against the project at the hearing. The commission also approved variances to allow for taller, pollinator-friendly native plants and to reduce the required number of mowings from five times per year to one.

Troy Township business gets permit for temporary office after fire
In a final action, the commission granted a temporary use permit to Rovanco Piping Systems to use a mobile trailer as an office on its Southeast Frontage Road property in Joliet. The permit was requested after a “devastating fire” in April destroyed one of the company’s main manufacturing buildings. The temporary office will house displaced employees while the company rebuilds. The permit will remain valid until construction of the new building is complete.

Wilmington property rezoned for division
A property on West Manteno Road in Wilmington was recommended for a rezoning from A-1 (Agricultural) to E-1 (Estate Residential). The change allows the owner, Brian Milton, to legally split the parcel, which was physically divided in 2010 by the realignment of Manteno Road, into two conforming lots of approximately 5.5 and 6.5 acres.

Homer Township restaurant to add liquor service
Neel Properties LLC received a recommendation for a special use permit for ancillary liquor service at a future restaurant in a commercial strip mall at Archer Avenue and Smith Road in Homer Township. The unit previously operated as a package liquor store. The permit would allow the new restaurant to serve alcohol on-site.

Green Garden homeowner gets variances for new garage
The commission recommended two variances for a property on South 80th Avenue in Monee. The variances for a reduced side yard setback and a smaller lot frontage will bring a historically non-conforming lot into compliance, allowing the owner, Roy F. Erikson, to construct a new detached garage. The case had no objectors.