Northbrook Development Proposal Stirs Public Debate
A developer’s plan to replace a Northbrook shopping center with condos is advancing to the Plan Commission. The shift in review process followed a decision by the Northbrook Village Board at their August 25 meeting. The Board opted to send Pulte Homes’ zoning application to the Plan Commission, reversing a previous decision to handle it themselves.
Only Trustee Johannah Hebl opposed the motion. Over 100 local residents, present at the meeting, voiced opposition to the redevelopment plan. Pulte Homes aims to transform Meadow Plaza Shopping Center at 1901 Cherry Lane into three six-story condominium buildings, totaling 150 units, including 23 affordable ones. Additionally, the plan involves two commercial plots and a river walk.
Locals rely on existing shops at Meadow Plaza, home to longstanding businesses like Ace Hardware, shoe repair services, and a dry cleaner. Open since 1959, the center holds significance for the community. Pulte Homes first presented their project in May, submitting a zoning application by August 3. Concerns about the zoning change involve pushing beyond the current four-story height cap for buildings, requiring a special permit for five stories and a Planned Unit Development for six.
The majority of Trustees decided on a Plan Commission review prior to Board involvement. “It’s just a different routing,” explained Anna Ables, village communications director, highlighting the Board’s broader focus and the Plan Commission’s zoning priority. Despite the Commission’s role, the Village Board retains final decision authority.
Village President Kathryn Ciesla noted the incomplete application status, with essential components missing and under review. Consequently, no date is set for a Plan Commission hearing. The August 25 meeting included a public comment period where residents expressed unease about increased area density, school traffic, and the loss of local businesses.
During the meeting, Jane Mentzer voiced concerns about relocating local businesses, drawing from personal experience with her father’s business. Residents highlighted ignored Freedom of Information Act requests, prompting Ciesla to assure action by the village attorney. Pat Young raised issues about unaddressed document requests. Susan Nelson, leading the “Save Downtown Northbrook” initiative, spoke against the development, drawing visible support from attendees.
An online petition against the project has gathered over 5,000 signatures. In communication shared by Ciesla, concerns about business displacement and the village’s support for affected parties were acknowledged. The village promises to assist in linking businesses to available spaces and resources.
Throughout, Ciesla and Board members stressed the importance of due legal process. Trustee Hebl emphasized understanding this process as crucial for all future developments.