Willow Glen Receives Approval, But Narrowly

The Willow Glen development had received positive feedback when passed by the city Plan Commission, however was nearly derailed at the Common Council meeting this week. Aldermen were concerned about how the proposed multi-family development, which will include 11 buildings total (four units per building) for tenants.  The property sits just south of the Calvary Church along Racine Avenue, and just north of City Hall.

The development will be required to improve on the four existing units before any new construction can begin on the remaining buildings.  

However, Ald. Kert Harenda raised questions on the density requirements of the property in relation to the 2020 Comprehensive Plan, stating that he felt the number of units exceeded the parameters of the plan.

Other aldermen also asked if the Plan Commission had overlooked these requirements, but Ald. Tracy Snead said, "the Plan Commission is tough.  I have to trust that this was considered before it would be approved and before it would come to council."

A memo from city planner Jeff Muenkel on February 15 also recommended that the property be rezoned to a planned development district, which would allow for 40 units, and a 10% density bonus was also available by current city codes.  Adam Trzebiatowski, also with planning, confirmed that "we are bound by the 2020 plan.  In other words, we could not exceed the numbers put forth under the plan, and based on the changes to zoning and the designation of this property as a planned unit development, we are within the requirements of the plan.

Ultimately, the recommendation for the developer's agreement on Willow Glen passed, but by a 4-3 vote.  (Confirmation of the dissenting votes was not available.)