This page contains an AI-generated summary of the Village of La Grange’s Board Meeting that was held on November 18, 2024. For your convenience, a video of the meeting is embedded on this page.
To follow the Village of La Grange on YouTube, where the videos are originally hosted, please visit https://www.youtube.com/@villageoflagrangeofficial363.
General Updates:
- Fire Incident Response: The La Grange Fire and Police Departments, supported by regional agencies, responded to a major fire at the 100 block of North La Grange Road. Over 60 residents were safely evacuated, with only two minor injuries reported. The Red Cross assisted displaced residents.
- Hometown Holidays & Events:
- Small Business Saturday kicks off holiday shopping on November 30.
- Tree lighting and holiday festivities are scheduled for December 7.
- 47th and East Avenue Construction:
- The Illinois Department of Transportation is upgrading the intersection into a signalized one with various enhancements. This $18 million project will last until Fall 2026, causing temporary traffic issues, which the Village is addressing through signage and advocacy.
Key Discussions:
- Comprehensive Plan Discussion:
- Focused on zoning and density changes in the R6 area, particularly the “historical east side” of La Grange.
- Residents voiced concerns over allowing three- and four-flat developments in predominantly single-family home areas.
- Consensus leaned toward maintaining current non-conforming properties but prohibiting new multi-unit developments.
- Discussions emphasized preserving the character of the neighborhood and ensuring zoning fairness.
- Public Concerns:
- Multiple residents raised issues, including:
- Property line encroachments by developers.
- Traffic violations near the Ogden Avenue bridge.
- Dumping of leaves and snow near residential areas.
- Concerns over property values in the east side compared to other areas of La Grange.
- Multiple residents raised issues, including:
- Affordability and Density:
- The board discussed balancing community character with the need for affordable housing options. Suggestions included forming a task force or commission to explore affordable housing solutions.
Other Administrative Actions:
- Title 7 Updates: Reviewed updates to the village code covering abandoned vehicles, animal regulations, noise issues, and other topics.
- Consent Agenda Approvals: Approved routine matters, including a resolution adopting Cook County’s hazard mitigation plan and updates to personnel policies.
The board plans to finalize decisions on the comprehensive plan and related zoning issues at a meeting on November 25, 2024. Residents were encouraged to continue participating in discussions.