Despite opposition from nearby industrial businesses, Libertyville trustees have granted tentative approval for a 19-unit condominium development on land now zoned for industrial use.
Lazzaretto Construction Co. has asked the village to rezone several lots along Fifth Street back to residential use to make way for housing units. The property, currently owned by Solar Inc. and used for an employee parking lot, was zoned for industrial use 15 years ago.
The project, which has come before the board on two other occasions–once receiving approval from the Plan Commission–has attracted closer scrutiny from several businesspeople who are concerned that the proposed development would infringe on the industrial base of the area.
Jeff Covert, president of neighboring Morton Manufacturing, said he fears that the area could become more residential, which could conflict with the operations of local industries. Covert said his company recently expanded operations on Fifth and Church Streets and purchased additional property for future business use.
“Sometimes I feel like that coyote up on the north side of town being run out of town because people are saying he’s picking on the little kids,” Covert said. “You know the coyote was here first. And the industrial base was there first.”
Another issue of concern is the truck traffic along Fifth Street and the impact it will have on the new residential units. Terry Weppler, attorney for the developer, said purchasers of the units, designed for empty-nesters and young professionals, will be required to sign a declaration saying they are aware there is truck traffic along Fifth Street.
Despite these concerns, trustees voted 4-2 Tuesday to direct the village staff to draw up documents that would allow the project to proceed. In doing so, they rejected a recommendation from the village Plan Commission against the proposal. Trustees David Giza and Jeff Harper dissented.
The property reportedly would bring about $100,000 in property-tax revenue annually to the village, Weppler said.
