Village approves two open-air gazebos for local temple; planner asks to avoid drainage channel

The Village Board and Planning Commission approved a site plan amendment Aug. 14 to add two open-air gazebos on the grounds of a temple at S46 W23214 Lonsdale Road for member gatherings and meditation. The petitioners said the structures were donated by members and described the proposed locations: a 12-by-13-foot gazebo between a residence and the temple and a 10-by-10 gazebo in the northeast corner of the lot. Planner Sean said both locations comply with zoning and that the structures are at least 20 feet from the lot line. The village engineer advised that the smaller, northeast gazebo should be kept out of any areas designed for stormwater runoff because it looked close to a drainage channel on the submitted site plan. The petitioner confirmed the structures were intended for member gathering and meditation and thanked the village for permitting them. Action: The Planning Commission recommended approval with staff conditions, and the Village Board accepted the recommendation; both votes were unanimous. Why it matters: The approval allows minor, donated structures for community gatherings and clarifies that placement must avoid existing drainage paths to prevent site drainage problems. Next steps: Building inspector and planning staff will ensure the final placement avoids stormwater channels and complies with conditions of approval before construction.