Peoria Heights village trustees are expressing significant concerns regarding modifications to a mixed-use development project at the former Save A Lot grocery store location. Originally approved as a three-story building, the developers have revised the plans to a two-story structure, raising questions about transparency and adherence to village codes.
Key Takeaways
- Trustees feel the reduction in building height materially alters the project approved by the board and the public.
- The current village code lacks a clear definition of "material change" that would necessitate re-approval of an amended project.
- Despite concerns, the board unanimously approved a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement for the project.
Shifting Development Plans
The development, slated for North Prospect Road, was initially approved with plans for a three-story building. However, the developers are now proceeding with a two-story structure on the same site footprint. Trustee Sarah DeVore highlighted that the building’s height was a crucial factor in the board’s original approval of the $12.5 million project. DeVore stated that while the change might be a matter of interpretation regarding code violations, it undeniably alters the project presented to and approved by the board. She expressed that the current situation exposes weaknesses in the village’s code.
Code Weaknesses and Transparency
Village attorney Mark Walton acknowledged that the existing zoning code does not define what constitutes a "material change" that would require an already approved project to return to the board for re-evaluation. Trustee Nate Steinwedel echoed DeVore’s sentiment, describing the revised project as "not merely an architectural tweak." This lack of clear definition has led to discussions about strengthening village codes, a process that Peoria Heights has already initiated.
Balancing Development and Resident Interests
Mayor Matt Wigginton urged the board to maintain Peoria Heights’ reputation as business-friendly and not abandon the project due to the amended plan, especially since demolition has already commenced. Trustee DeVore, while supportive of growth and redevelopment, emphasized that the board’s primary responsibility is to the residents. She stressed the importance of a fair, transparent, and consistently followed process that supports development while protecting the interests of the community, asserting these goals should not be mutually exclusive.
Financial Agreement and Project Details
Despite the concerns raised, the board voted unanimously, with one member absent, to approve a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement. This agreement will reimburse the developers up to $2.5 million and includes incentives for the developers to attract sales tax-producing businesses to occupy at least a portion of the space. The building is designed to feature retail space on the first floor and offices on the second. The accounting firm CliftonLarsonAllen has already secured a long-term lease for office space. Construction is anticipated to take up to two years to complete.
