In a recent special meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the Village of Campton Hills, significant discussions centered around the proposed Headwaters Academy, which aims to establish a new educational facility in the area. The meeting highlighted key operational details and community concerns regarding the school’s impact on local traffic and neighborhood dynamics.
One of the primary points addressed was the school’s limited enrollment and operational hours. The academy plans to operate weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM, with actual class time scheduled from 9 AM to 3 PM. This structure is expected to minimize traffic disruptions, as the local Hampton Hills Road sees an average of only 600 vehicles per day. Officials believe that the limited number of students and the school’s hours will create minimal impact on road traffic, which is a significant concern for residents.
The commission also discussed drop-off and pick-up procedures, emphasizing that the village will monitor these processes to ensure they do not adversely affect traffic on nearby roads. Additionally, all school activities will take place indoors or in a fenced area, further alleviating potential disturbances.
Community feedback was a crucial aspect of the meeting, particularly regarding after-school events and facility rentals. In response to concerns raised by neighbors, Headwaters Academy agreed to limit school events to no more than 12 per year, with these events concluding by 10 PM. This includes fundraisers and performances, with a maximum of one event per month during the school year. Furthermore, the academy committed to not leasing the facility for third-party events, such as weddings, addressing another concern from the community.
The property is currently zoned in the Residential Estate 2 Zoning District, which aligns with the proposed use of the site for educational purposes. The discussions from this meeting reflect a careful consideration of community needs and the potential impacts of the new school, aiming to balance educational opportunities with the quality of life for residents in Campton Hills. As the planning process continues, the village remains focused on ensuring that developments serve the best interests of the community.