Village of Morton Grove

The commission discussed the 2026 Resident Handbook, which will be available in both digital and print formats. Updates were provided on the Winter and Summer Adopt-a-Planter programs, including logistics for evergreen tree distribution and plant selection. Plans for upcoming neighborhood outreach events and the Community Garage Sale weekend were addressed. The committee reviewed the annual photo contest, discussed the status of the Outstanding Neighbor program, and explored a proposal for a community-created art project intended for the new village hall. Additionally, the commission formally acknowledged the retirement of a long-standing member.

The commission reviewed a case regarding a request for a Special Use Permit for an accessory structure at 9230 Newcastle Avenue. The applicant proposed a new detached garage with a concrete driveway and patio. The discussion focused on the size of the structure, the adequacy of the submitted architectural plans, and potential concerns regarding rear yard coverage and neighborhood impact. A letter of objection from a neighbor was read into the record, addressing concerns about neighborhood character, traffic, and property values. The commission ultimately voted to continue the case to allow for a more comprehensive packet of information to be submitted.

The board addressed two primary zoning cases. In the first case, a request for variations regarding lot coverage and front yard encroachment for a porch and stair addition at 9018 Meade Avenue was approved. In the second case, the board approved a waiver for a property owner at 6427 Elm Street to install a new driveway, following the loss of access to an existing unpermitted driveway located on adjacent Forest Preserve property.

The meeting addressed several personnel and staffing matters. The Board granted permanent status to Probationary Firefighter/Paramedic Brett Wattleworth, effective February 17, 2026, upon completion of necessary criteria. A conditional offer of employment was approved for Fire Candidate Joe Zanca due to a staffing vacancy. The Police Chief provided an update on anticipated staffing levels, noting the necessity for a new eligibility test, and reported on the status of current candidates before the upcoming Police Academy in April. Oral interviews were conducted for fire candidates, but no candidate passed the interview stage.

The regular meeting of the Appearance Commission addressed several agenda cases. Case AC 25-19, involving a request for illuminated canopy signage at 8801 Waukegan Road, was withdrawn by the applicant. Case AC 26-01 concerned a request for a nonconforming pylon sign at 5601 Dempster Street, which was approved subject to conditions related to revised landscape plans, curb modification, and sign details, including illumination not exceeding 5,000K. Case AC 26-02 involved a rebranding signage plan for a mini mart at 9544 Waukegan Road, which was approved with a condition ensuring illumination does not exceed 5,000K. Case AC 26-03 related to site, landscape, and building plans for renovations at 6000 Oakton Street, including eliminating automotive maintenance and expanding retail sales; this was approved subject to several conditions regarding transparent glazing on specified facades, revised lighting plans to manage spillover, and increased landscaping along the Austin Avenue frontage and western property line.