Patrick Bodame

The commission reviewed applications for new signage at 1409 Peterson Road and 297 Peterson Road. For the first location, the commission recommended that the Village Board of Trustees approve the signage plan, which utilizes individual channel letters. For the second location, the commission discussed the applicant's proposal for a black background sign and ultimately recommended that the Village Board of Trustees approve the application as submitted, noting the specific location and branding needs of the tenant. The meeting also included a brief discussion regarding positive feedback received by the Community Development Department.

The commission held a public hearing regarding two requests from Prairie Retail Holdings, LLC, involving a text amendment to the zoning code and a special use permit to establish an adult-use cannabis dispensary in a C-4 shopping center commercial district. Following extensive testimony from the petitioner and numerous residents expressing concerns about neighborhood character, public safety, traffic, and land use compatibility, the commissioners deliberated on the proposal. Ultimately, the commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Village Board of Trustees deny both the requested text amendment and the special use permit.

The Economic Development Commission discussed the appointment of a new member, approved the 2026 meeting calendar, and heard a presentation regarding the National Register designation process and federal and state historic tax credits for historic properties in the downtown district. The discussion also covered eligibility requirements, the application process for these tax credits, and the financial considerations for property owners pursuing redevelopment.

The Commission discussed preferences regarding the distribution of physical printouts for Staff Memorandums during meetings. Additionally, the Commission was informed of a member's appointment as Chairman for the Appearance Review Commission.

The commission reviewed and acted on several applications regarding signage and infrastructure. New signage requests were considered and approved for 1419 Peterson Road, 320 Peterson Road, and 801 E. Park Avenue, with specific conditions regarding design, illumination, and the removal of existing or non-compliant window signage. Additionally, the commission evaluated a proposal for new antennas, mechanical equipment, and landscaping at 810 Garfield Avenue, recommending approval subject to specific tree replacement requirements. The meeting also included brief internal communications regarding commissioner affiliations.