Geneva reviews zoning compliance for Malone Funeral Home expansion

The Geneva Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on May 8, 2025, focused on the ongoing expansion of the Malone Funeral Home, a project that has raised significant questions regarding zoning compliance and community impact. The funeral home, which has been operating for 18 years without the necessary special use permit, is located in the B-3 District, where such establishments require specific approvals.

During the meeting, officials discussed the architectural features of the new addition, which integrates a mansard roof design reminiscent of the original 1898 structure. The expansion includes two levels, with a coffee lounge on the second floor and a larger banquet room below, previously used for autopsies before the establishment of a morgue in Kane County.

Concerns were raised about the lack of enforcement regarding the special use permit, with questions about how the funeral home operated for nearly two decades without compliance. The discussion highlighted the need for clarity on zoning regulations and the implications of the expansion on the surrounding community, particularly regarding environmental concerns.

The commission emphasized the importance of maintaining Geneva's historical character while accommodating necessary services like the funeral home. As the project moves forward, the city will need to address these zoning issues to ensure that the expansion aligns with community standards and regulations. The outcome of this meeting sets the stage for future discussions on zoning enforcement and the balance between development and historical preservation in Geneva.