Committee approves minor variance to bring country market site into compliance

Kane County’s Development Committee voted to approve a minor variance to an existing special‑use permit at 39 W. 130 Plank Road (petition 4349) so the site plan reflects existing conditions and a planned donut bakery and ADA restroom building.

The committee heard from staff that the variance’s purpose is primarily to bring constructed features — a pavilion, walk‑in cooler, hoop houses and relocated structures — into conformity with the 2015 special‑use site plan and to permit a small new retail/donut building. County staff said notices were mailed to adjacent property owners within 250 feet and the applicant provided the required materials.

Why it matters: the minor variance lets an agricultural‑based country market formalize current operations and add a small retail building and restroom while preserving the zoning character of the area.

Key details and conditions - Applicant: Matt Klein. The parcel is in Plato Township near Highway 20 and is close to the Eldren municipal boundary. - Staff said the health department reviewed plans for the donut building and found the existing well and septic system compliant for the current proposal; if the future retail building adds food service or restrooms the health department will require an additional review and permits. The county’s water resources division said existing stormwater is covered under the property’s current permit and no new stormwater permit is required for the donut building at this time. - Transportation noted the Route 20 access eventually will be designed as a right‑in/right‑out. - The minor variance only required Development Committee action (it did not go to the ZBA) because it is a variance to an existing special‑use permit; staff confirmed the matter will not be forwarded to the full county board unless the committee requests it.

Public questions at the hearing addressed septic capacity, runoff and parking; Klein told the committee he has counted 21–25 cars on the site’s busiest days and the lot contains roughly 30 spaces, and that produce sold at the market is largely grown on the farm. After discussion, Linda Rose moved for approval and Dr. Iqbal seconded; the roll call vote was unanimous in favor.

Taper: Staff and the applicant will proceed to the permit review stage for the donut building; any future changes that materially expand food service, restrooms or parking beyond the approved plan will require additional health reviews and permits.