Will County Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting | December 2, 2025

Overall Meeting Summary
The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission met on December 2, 2025, to consider a variety of zoning map amendments, special use permits, and variances. The meeting was highlighted by the approval of a new women’s rehabilitation facility in Joliet and a controversial fill operation near the Des Plaines River that drew environmental concerns. Additionally, the commission moved forward with text amendments to the county zoning ordinance aimed at tightening regulations on temporary use permits to prevent abuse of the system.

News Briefs

Lockport Side Yard Variance Approved:
The commission approved a variance for Peter Krzyzanowski to reduce a side yard setback from 10 feet to 4 feet at 328 Dell Park Avenue in Lockport. The applicant sought to build a single-family home on a legal non-conforming lot that is only 40 feet wide. A previous request for a 3-foot setback had been denied by the commission and the County Board earlier in the year. The applicant adjusted the plan to 4 feet, and with no objectors present this time, the measure passed.

Temporary Use Permit Loophole Closed:
The commission voted to recommend a text amendment to the Will County Zoning Ordinance that limits the duration of temporary use permits. The new rule, prompted by complaints from township officials, restricts temporary use permits for uses not specifically authorized in the code to a maximum of 179 consecutive days within a two-year period. This change is intended to stop applicants from consecutively renewing temporary permits to operate permanent businesses without proper zoning.

Commission Vacancy Noted:
During the Lockport variance hearing, Chairman Hugh Stipan noted that the commission is currently operating with a vacancy. He explained to an applicant that previous denials might have been influenced by low attendance, as a “no” vote carries more weight when the full seven-member body is not present. On Tuesday, six members were present, constituting a quorum.