During the July 1st city council meeting, the Wheaton City Council moved forward with an ordinance to amend a special use permit for the Wheaton Park District, which would significantly increase parking spaces at the Causeway Zoo from 30 to 93. The ordinance includes eight conditions, seven from the zoning board and one from city staff, and is now on the agenda for consideration.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and strong opposition to the proposed parking lot. Resident Tom Johnson expressed concerns about safety, drawing parallels to past incidents in other communities and warning that accidents could tarnish the reputation of the zoo. He urged the council to reconsider the approval, emphasizing the potential risks involved.

Another resident, Chuck Smith, voiced his disappointment with the council's decision to recommend the parking lot, arguing that it disregards the voices of Wheaton citizens who oppose the project. He criticized the council for allegedly favoring the park district's interests over community safety and needs, citing a lack of serious defense for the parking lot's compliance with city ordinances. Smith highlighted concerns about traffic safety on Gary Avenue, questioning the adequacy of measures to protect families visiting the zoo.

The council's decision to proceed with the ordinance has sparked significant public debate, with residents calling for more thorough consideration of safety implications and community needs before moving forward with the project. The council is expected to deliberate further on the ordinance in upcoming meetings.