North Chicago council approves rezoning of 3601 Skokie Highway amid strong opposition from Lake Bluff residents

The North Chicago City Council voted May 19 to approve an ordinance to rezone the property at 3601 Skokie Highway from M‑1 (limited/light industrial) to M‑3 (intensive/heavy industrial). Alderman Robert Evans moved to approve the petition and Alderman Allen seconded; the motion passed with one dissenting vote from Alderman Jackson and the rest of the council voting aye.

Why this matters: M‑3 zoning allows heavier industrial uses than M‑1, and speakers at the meeting warned that the change would permit activities they say are incompatible with nearby homes, a school and health facilities. The council approval reverses a recommendation from the North Chicago Planning and Zoning Commission, which voted to deny the petitioner’s request.

Dozens of residents and area stakeholders addressed the council during public comment, nearly all urging denial. Regis Charlot, village president for the Village of Lake Bluff, told the council that his village “has repeatedly voiced its opposition” and said the Lake Bluff sanctuary neighborhood lies across Route 41 from the site. Charlot said the planning and zoning commission — an advisory body appointed by the…