Douglas E. Cooper

This document presents Pace Suburban Bus's strategic plan and budget for 2026, leveraging new funding to implement the 'ReVision' plan. Key initiatives focus on increasing fixed-route service by 10%, expanding On Demand service hours, improving ADA Paratransit and other access services, and advancing the Pulse rapid transit network. The plan emphasizes improving frequency, convenience, and accessibility across suburban transit, guided by commitments to safety, service, infrastructure, and technology, while incorporating rider feedback for continuous improvement.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing to consider a special use permit for a massage establishment at 9211 Broadway Avenue. A business plan was reviewed, and questions were raised regarding zoning regulations and compatibility with community goals. The permit request was ultimately denied. A second public hearing addressed a final planned development for property at 8845 Burlington Avenue. Discussion included required variations, alley improvements, landscaping plans, parking, and construction timelines. The commission recommended approval of the final planned development, contingent upon the submission of final engineering, landscaping, signage, and safety features by February 5, 2024, for consideration at the February 12, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting. The meeting also included staffing updates, a request for more data analytics for future cases, and an update on the hiring process for a Community Development Director.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing to consider map amendments for several parks, changing their zoning designations to accommodate a potential community center. Discussion included concerns about the timeline of the amendments and potential health risks from gravel alley grading. The commission approved the map amendments, noting that the changes would preserve and enhance public lands. The meeting also included a discussion of the upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting, the 2023 Annual Report, and a zoning code update project.

The 2018 Economic Development Strategy for the Village of Brookfield outlines a vision to revitalize commercial areas, reinvest in residential neighborhoods, and improve the overall identity and appearance of the village. Key strategies include redeveloping the Ogden Corridor, re-tenanting the downtown area to reduce vacancies, supporting business districts like 8 Corners, and focusing on both residential and commercial growth. Financial tactics involve utilizing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, including the activation of the 8 Corners TIF, and exploring other funding avenues such as redevelopment agreements (RDAs), Cook County incentives, mini-TIFs, grants, and land assembly. Non-financial tactics include outreach and marketing, physical improvements, and smart code enforcement. The plan aims to achieve outcomes such as increased building permit values, higher EAV (Equalized Assessed Value), increased sales taxes, greater employment, and increased housing demand. Past efforts show positive trends in sales tax revenue, housing sales, and permit activity, indicating progress toward these goals.

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting will hold a public hearing to consider map amendments for several Brookfield parks. The amendments propose rezoning portions of Ehlert Park to S-2 Restricted Planned Open Space District Zoning and other parks (Candy Cane, Harrison, Madison Tot Lot, Maple Park South, Veterans Memorial Park, Creekside Park, and Maple Park North) to S-1 General Open Space District Zoning. The changes aim to accurately reflect the existing uses of these Village-owned parcels and ensure they are conforming uses under the zoning code. The meeting will also include updates from staff.