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Concur with the Zoning Board of Appeals’ Recommendation and Adopt an Ordinance Granting a Special Use Permit to Operate a Reception/Banquet Facility at 6537 North Avenue.
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Introduction
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The Applicant, Emiyuki Ortiz, seeks a special use permit to establish a reception/banquet facility within the NA - North Avenue Commercial Zoning District at 6537 North Avenue.
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Recommended Action
Adopt the Ordinance.
Prior Board Action
• There has been no prior Board action related to this item.
Background
The Applicant is asking for a special use permit to allow the establishment of a reception/banquet facility at the property commonly known as 6537 North Avenue. The Applicant estimates that there will be approximately 10-12 cars dropping off/picking up per event, which does not include the cars parking in vacant spaces in the area. The Applicant does not anticipate needing to request a designated drop-off and pick-up area for the proposed business, which, if it was, could negatively impact parking for adjacent businesses.
The Applicants indicate that: “We are looking for a special use permit to utilize our space to host parties for children with age ranges 3-12. The space could also be used for small bridal showers, first communions, or other small family gatherings. Depending on the community's interest, this venue may also be used for pop-up shops. All events will be held during the daytime and/or early evening. Loud music and smoking/vaping will be strictly prohibited. This business can be a positive addition to our community, creating not only a vibrant atmosphere and potential job opportunities for local residents. Most importantly we also hope this can be instrumental in the revitalization of North Avenue.”
Timing Considerations
The Applicant would like to move forward as soon as the Village Board can review.
Budget Impact
The cost of Public Notice was $196 from GL account 1001 46202 101 550652
Staffing Impact
There is no staffing impact related to this item.
DEI Impact
There is no DEI impact related to this item.
Community Input
The Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on December 4, 2024. There was no one in attendance in opposition or support of the Application. The Zoning Board of Appeals recommends approval of this application with a 5-0 vote with the condition that the facility shall not operate between the hours of 10 PM to 8 AM Monday through Sunday. The Finding of Fact report is attached to this agenda item. Here is the Commission TV link: <https://www.oak-park.us/your-government/citizen-commissions/commission-tv>
Staff Recommendation
Staff Recommends approval of this Ordinance.
Advantages:
• A new business on North Avenue.
• A new gathering place for the community.
Disadvantages:
• Special review of unique use during the approval process.
Alternatives
1. Do not adopt the Ordinance and deny the use.
Advantages:
• No further review
Disadvantages:
• Do not allow new business and gathering places for the community.
• Do not contribute to the vitality of North Avenue.
Continue a vacant commercial space.
2. Remand back to the Zoning Board of Appeals
Advantages:
• Further review and information from applicant, staff, and community.
Disadvantages:
• Delayed timeline for opening and potential to lose the business.
Anticipated Future Actions
If the special use application is approved, regular licensing and inspections (e.g. business license, occupancy permit, building permits for construction work) will be coordinated between staff and the applicant as next steps.
Prepared By: Craig Failor, Village Planner/Planning & Urban Design Manager
Reviewed By: Emily A. Egan, Development Services Director
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Draft Ordinance
2. Findings of Fact Report
3. Application
4. Staff Report