Height Concerns With Elmhurst Condo Project

ELMHURST, IL – Elmhurst aldermen praised the concept for a proposed condo complex in downtown. But they expressed concerns about the building's height.

The design shows eight stories and 28 units. It is set for 196 to 202 N. York St. Those lots now include a house and an old two-story building, which would need to be torn down.

The developer presented the concept for the project at Monday's meeting of the City Council's Development, Planning and Zoning Committee.

Representing the developer, Oak Brook-based RSCK Holdings, was attorney Scott Day.

Day, who often represents developers in Elmhurst, said the part of downtown in question is under-developed. It's the area where the city's highest density development is allowed, he said.

To make the project a reality, the developer needs exceptions to the zoning code for such things as building height. At eight stories, the project would need a city permit.

Alderman Mark Mulliner said he liked the building's design. But he said the height may be an issue.

"Everyone I talked to is concerned about height," he said.

Alderwoman Emily Bastedo called the proposal "a beautiful improvement to this space."

"I do think that the City Council would like to see it a little shorter," she said.

The committee's chairwoman, Alderwoman Dannee Polomsky, agreed many want a lower height for the project.

Mayor Scott Levin said he was impressed with the quality of the project and the commitment of the owner.

Day said he and his client would go through the information for the project over the new few weeks and then submit a proposal to the city's Plan Commission.

The commission would hold public hearings and then make a recommendation to the council, which has the final say.