A proposal to replace a shopping center in Northbrook with three condominium buildings is moving forward. The Northbrook Village Board decided to let the Plan Commission review the project after initial opposition. On August 25, the Board voted to reverse its previous decision from May and directed the zoning application to the Plan Commission. Trustee Johannah Hebl was the only member to vote against this change.
A significant number of residents have expressed their discontent with the project. Village officials reported at least 100 residents attended the recent meeting to voice their opposition against the plans submitted by Pulte Homes. The proposal involves redeveloping the Meadow Plaza Shopping Center at 1901 Cherry Lane. It includes constructing three six-story condo buildings with 150 units, 23 of which are affordable, alongside two commercial parcels and a river walk.
The Meadow Plaza has been a part of Northbrook since 1959, housing essential shops like Ace Hardware, a shoe repair store, a dry cleaner, Dollar Tree, and an auto parts shop. Residents rely on these businesses for daily needs and expressed concerns during the public comment period.
Pulte Homes presented the initial proposal in May before submitting the zoning application on August 3. The development exceeds current zoning guidelines, which limit building heights to four stories in the downtown area. To build five-story structures, developers need a special permit. For six-story buildings, the Planned Unit Development process is necessary.
The Board decided the Plan Commission should review the zoning application first. Anna Ables, the village’s communications director, explained that the Plan Commission will focus narrowly on the zoning aspects, while trustees look at broader issues. The Village attorney clarified the Plan Commission is a recommending body, not the decision-maker. Village President Kathryn Ciesla added that the application is incomplete, missing several items, and is still under staff review. A hearing date has not been set.
During the meeting, concerns raised included potential increased density, traffic issues near schools, and the displacement of long-standing businesses. Resident Jane Mentzer highlighted the challenges small businesses face when relocating, particularly their struggle to retain customer loyalty. Many residents also reported issues with Freedom of Information Act requests. Several claims were made about requests being ignored, with Ciesla promising to have the village attorney examine the complaints.
Susan Nelson, a longtime resident, founded the “Save Downtown Northbrook” campaign and addressed the Board, opposing the development. Many attendees wore t-shirts supporting the campaign. An online petition against the project has gathered over 5,000 signatures since June.
Ciesla shared an email expressing understanding of community concerns about potential business displacements. She acknowledged the businesses’ role in Northbrook’s community but noted that the Meadow Plaza property is privately owned, with its sale independent of the village. She stated the village is committed to helping affected businesses find new locations and resources.
Throughout the meeting, Ciesla and others stressed that legal procedures must be followed. Trustee Hebl remarked on the importance of allowing due process, emphasizing that all developments undergo the same scrutiny.