Plan commission reviews draft zoning text amendments to create residential‑attached district and tighten design rules; schedules public hearing

The Roscoe Plan Commission discussed draft text amendments to Article 3 of the village zoning code on June 11 that would (1) create a new residential‑attached zoning district for low‑density attached housing (townhomes), (2) allow limited minor land divisions similar to a certified survey map (CSM) for up to four parcels, and (3) tighten architectural design standards for single‑family districts.

Evan, a planning staff member, summarized the draft: “This amendment ordinance would do about 3 things. It would first create a new residential attached zoning district for low density, single family that, is attached.” Evan said the draft also updates architectural standards for R‑1 and R‑2 districts and adds a minimum of 100 square feet of private outdoor space for each townhome unit.

Commissioners discussed the minor‑land‑division proposal, which would let staff administratively approve small divisions (up to four parcels) rather than requiring the fuller tentative/final plat process for every split. Evan and other staff noted Roscoe’s current rule requires a full plat if lots are under five acres; the draft would permit a shorter CSM‑style path for smaller splits. Commissioners asked whether administrative staff review would suffice or whether such splits should come before the commission. Commissioners also raised concerns about potential sequential subdivisions and suggested limits (for example, a frequency limit such as once every five years) to avoid abuse.

On design standards, staff explained the draft would prevent garages from protruding far ahead of a home’s main façade to avoid “snout houses” and would require more substantial trim around windows and doors (staff suggested larger, more visible trim rather than 1–2 inch accents). Commissioners discussed flexibility in the language, noting that some architectural designs legitimately include garages that project slightly but remain visually integrated by windows or detailing.

The draft is at a feedback stage. Staff indicated the text may be tweaked and will be published for a formal public hearing at a future commission meeting. Evan confirmed that further edits will be circulated to the commission before that public hearing. There was no vote to adopt the text at the June 11 meeting; commissioners directed staff to continue refining the draft and schedule a public hearing.