Palatine Considers Controversial Development, Village Hall Renovation

The Palatine Village Council will consider approving a 33-unit apartment building at 345 Eric Drive, and if a full renovation will occur at village hall, among other items for the Monday, July 8 meeting. 

Catherine Alice Gardens

The proposed 33-unit apartment building for people with mental disabilities has proven to be a controversial topic, with supporters on both sides. The Palatine Village Council is set to vote on whether to approve the preliminary planned development at 345 Eric Drive. Issues cited at a Palatine Plan Commission June 18 by detractors included the size and height of the building, the location [which would be in the middle of properties zoned for manufacturing], and the safety of children who attend a karate school in the area and residents who live nearby. Business owners also expressed concerns over added liability in relation to safety of apartment residents who could potentially enter the industrial area when they leave the facility to utilize services in the downtown area. Supporters, who included the League of Women Voters, expressed a need for such a facility, and believe the area to be appropriate for the housing development. 

Full Renovation of Existing Village Hall

Palatine Village Hall, 200 E. Wood Street, has been in its current location since the late 1970’s. Due to a space study conducted in 2006, village staff is recommending the village council approve a $1.1 million contract with Palatine-based Wold Architects and Engineers. The study found that most of the major building systems have reached or surpassed their life expectancy. The building was built in 1952 and expanded in 1966, according to village documents. Since Fire Station #85, 39 E. Colfax, has similar conditions, part of the plan is to relocate the fire station to the village hall site. If approved, the newly renovated facility would be completed by the summer of 2015.

To view the rest of the items on the agenda, click here.

The Palatine Village Council meeting will be held on Monday, July 8 beginning at 7 p.m. in council chambers, 200 E. Wood Street.