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Committee backs change to zoning hearing signs: durable, general notices to replace laminated property‑specific signs
Summary
Lake County staff proposed and the committee forwarded a resolution to direct the Zoning Board of Appeals to hold public hearings on an amendment to Chapter 151 allowing reusable, general public‑hearing signs instead of laminated property‑specific notices to improve durability and reduce waste.
County planning staff told the committee that current laminated paper signs used for zoning hearings deteriorate or blow away, reducing public notice effectiveness. BJ, the planning and zoning manager, said staff reviewed best practices and recommend allowing durable, reusable signs that state a hearing will be conducted and give contact information for details.
BJ said the content of site signs would be simplified; the detailed information now printed on signs — hearing date, time and request specifics — would remain available by mailed neighbor notice, the statutory newspaper legal notice and on the county website. “We’re really focusing on one aspect of that overall continuum of notice by looking at a more permanent solution for those signs,” BJ said.
Committee members asked about sign color, size and whether a QR code or website address could be included. BJ said the county will coordinate with the county sign shop (LCDOT) on visibility, color and sizing; staff said a minimum sign size is included in the packet. Member Schleck urged a contrasting color and suggested QR codes; staff indicated they would consider those details.
The item was presented as a resolution directing the Lake County Zoning Board of Appeals to conduct public hearings on proposed amendments to Chapter 151 of the Lake County, Illinois Code of Ordinances relating to posted notice requirements in unincorporated Lake County. A motion to move the resolution forward to the county board was made by Member Kanishnik, seconded by Member Campos, and passed by voice vote.
Staff emphasized that mailed neighbor notices and online application materials would continue; the sign change is intended to increase the durability and visibility of on‑site notices and to reduce waste and long‑term sign maintenance costs.
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the public hearings on the proposed ordinance amendments as directed by the county board process.
