Morton Grove planning commission-backed text amendments presented; first reading of Title 12 changes slated

Village planning staff presented Planning Commission case PC 25-03, a set of proposed text amendments to Title 12 of the Morton Grove municipal code, and the board heard the first reading of ordinance 25-17 reflecting those edits.

Brandon, a planning staff presenter, told trustees PC 25-03 would clarify definitions, make some housekeeping changes to the zoning code, provide guidance for parking of vehicles bearing delivery plates, extend the construction timing period for planned-unit developments and special-use permits, create a process for the Zoning Board of Appeals to receive input from the Traffic Safety Commission, allow in-kind driveway replacement with two approaches, and provide guidance for installation and use of synthetic turf and security shutters. Brandon said guidelines for solar and wind energy collection systems were evaluated by the commission but removed from the draft after review.

Brandon reported the Planning Commission reviewed the draft and voted unanimously on March 18 in support of the proposed amendments. Ordinance 25-17 was presented as a first read at the board meeting; no formal vote was taken on the Title 12 amendments during this session.

Why it matters: The proposed amendments change how the village defines several zoning terms, how driveway and parking issues are handled, and how the ZBA may receive technical input — all of which affect future development reviews. Because this was a first reading, implementation requires future board action.

Next steps: Staff will return the ordinance for second reading and potential adoption at a later meeting; trustees took no formal action this evening.