Steve Paulus

The commission held a meeting to deliberate on application PZC 2026-08 regarding a request for a fence variation at 135 Schult Drive. The applicant proposed a 5-foot high fence in the corner sideyard, citing safety and privacy concerns for their young children and dog. The commission reviewed the application, noted the support of neighbors, and recommended that the village board approve the variation. Additionally, the staff provided reports on upcoming projects, and the meeting concluded after an opportunity for public comment.

The meeting included proclamations for Gun Violence Awareness Month and the 250th Anniversary of the United States, along with appointments to the Community-Police Advisory Committee and the Fire and Police Commission. Key business items involved the approval of a contract for the 2026 Crack Sealing Program, an extension of the safety plan agreement with Axon Enterprise Inc., and a public hearing regarding the annexation and development request for 911 North Rand Road. Additionally, the Board reviewed a budget amendment for fiscal year 2025, authorized easement acquisitions for the Lake Michigan Water Project, updated approved financial institutions and signatories, and approved an intergovernmental agreement with School District 95 for school resource officer services.

The commission reviewed an application for a variation at 135 Schuldt Drive, specifically regarding the construction of a 5-foot high fence within a corner side yard setback in the R-5 Single-Family Residential District. Additionally, the agenda included staff reports concerning upcoming projects and an opportunity for public comment.

The meeting included the review and approval of the final plan for a planned unit development project consisting of multi-family rental buildings and future commercial space. Additionally, a public hearing was opened for a variance application concerning the construction of a detached garage at a single-family residential property.

The workshop focused on changing rainfall patterns in Lake County and the resulting challenges for watershed management and infrastructure. Key topics included the shift in rainfall intensity, impacts of urbanization on water runoff and land absorption, the use of updated rainfall standards for designing storm sewers and detention basins, and strategies for grant funding and emergency resource management in partnership with FEMA. The session also reviewed specific drainage situations, such as the Echo Lake area, and discussed the role of the Watershed Development Ordinance in regulating new development to protect against future flooding.