The Park Forest Village Board voted 4-3 Monday night to grant a temporary variance allowing Bingo City and Flea Market to hold outdoor sales.
Chad Coe, owner of the business, has requested 61 spaces for outdoor sales that would operate from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
The two-month temporary agreement will permit parking lot sales while Coe’s application is reviewed by the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Planning Commission.
Coe has been at odds with village officials since May over his quest for a special variance permit. He says he has lost business by not being able to hold outdoor sales.
“The whole town benefits,” he said. “Outdoor selling brings more people shopping in Park Forest.”
But officials have expressed concerns about parking and community standards.
Trustee Jon Steinmetz said an outdoor flea market does not enhance the image Park Forest is trying to portray, but Coe argued that he needs a carnival-type atmosphere and energy for his business to be successful.
“Outdoor sales bring in drive-by traffic,” he said.
Village Atty. Kathleen Orr advised against the temporary variance, saying it would set a precedent. Trustee Thomas DeHahn said he was uncomfortable about allowing outdoor selling.
Coe said merchandise would be regulated and sold “in a presentable manner.”
