Steven E Drazner

This data presentation for the Village of Northbrook's downtown provides updates on planning efforts, including historical comprehensive and downtown plans, and current activities from 2024 to 2026 stemming from a strategic planning process. It highlights key areas such as increasing housing supply, encouraging mixed-use developments, leveraging transit-oriented development, implementing new development standards, and fostering a pedestrian-oriented environment. The presentation details recent zoning code updates to reduce parking requirements, permit accessory dwelling units, allow zero front lot lines, and enable taller structures. It also reviews housing progress with 75 new units added in the last two years and emphasizes the need for increased residential density to enhance foot traffic and sales for downtown businesses. Future steps include a comprehensive plan update, further housing diversification, recruitment of an economic developer, and the evaluation of financial tools and business incentives.

The Board of Trustees of the Village of Northbrook adopted Ordinance 2025-55, which introduces a new zoning code for the village, replacing the code adopted in 1988. The new zoning code encompasses 14 articles covering general provisions, administration, residential, mixed-use, office, commercial, industrial, institutional, overlay districts, development, sign standards, nonconformities, inclusionary housing, and definitions. A public hearing was conducted, and the Plan Commission recommended approval with amendments. The ordinance aims to promote public health, safety, and welfare through comprehensive zoning regulations.

The Board of Trustees discussed adjustments to the compensation of the Village Manager, including increases to the base salary and the approval of a bonus. The board also authorized the Village Manager to purchase out-of-state service credits for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). Additionally, the board approved the use of a consultant to facilitate the Annual Performance Evaluation of the Village Manager.

The Strategic Plan for Economic Development for the Village of Northbrook aims to establish a comprehensive strategy to proactively encourage commercial, office, and industrial development. Driven by fiscal challenges, the plan prioritizes maintaining and enhancing a diverse tax base to support high-quality public services. Key focus areas include retaining and attracting desired businesses, educating residents on the business community's importance, and fostering stakeholder cooperation. Specific objectives are detailed for the Retail Market, Office Market, Industrial sector, Marketing, and the programmatic review of code requirements, tax systems, and development processes.

The committee reviewed the Third Quarter FY 2022/23 financial performance, noting revenues above budget and expenditures in line with budget. Transfers to the Facility Capital Projects Fund and pension funds were discussed. Economic indicators, including construction permits and unemployment rates, were presented. The FY 2023/24 draft budget was reviewed, highlighting property tax levy reductions and allocations to pension funds. Capital improvements, including building repairs, IT, vehicle replacement, and police equipment, were discussed. There was also discussion regarding a potential food and beverage tax to fund façade improvements.