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Commission recommends special-use permit for Dolce Vita Day Spa and Salon 4 at 216 North Cass
Summary
The Westmont Planning and Zoning Commission voted 4-1 to recommend that the Village Board grant a special-use permit allowing Dolce Vita Day Spa and Salon 4 to operate at 216 North Cass Avenue; staff noted the property exceeds the administrative threshold and additional permits may be required for interior work.
The Westmont Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 8 voted 4-1 to recommend that the Village Board approve a special-use permit for Dolce Vita Day Spa and Salon 4 to operate at 216 North Cass Ave.
The petitioners, Simon Gomula of Dolce Vita Day Spa and Jesse Smith of Salon 4, told the commission they plan to divide the roughly 1,600-square-foot storefront so Dolce Vita can expand massage and skincare services in rear rooms and Salon 4 can lease the front space for three stylist stations. Simon Gomula said the spa has grown from “around 70 loyal customers” monthly to “over 240,” and noted “right now, we are at 4.8 out of 5, and the Google reviews out of 167 verified reviews.” Jesse Smith said Salon 4 is a small staff of three part‑time stylists plus one assistant and currently serves about “40 to 50 clients a week.”
Senior Village Planner told the commission the property is in the B-1 limited business district and that the village zoning ordinance requires barbershops and beauty parlors to obtain a special‑use permit when the space exceeds the administrative exception for units under 1,000 square feet. The staff report cites section 7.03 and note 12 of the zoning code; because the proposed leased area is approximately 1,600 square feet the administrative exception does not apply. The planner also said the businesses’ typical hours and staffing were supplied by the applicants and noted some interior work will require building and fire permits — “it could” trigger additional requirements such as a sprinkler system depending on the extent of the alterations, staff said.
The commission asked about parking and signage. The planner said the B-1 district does not include a minimum on‑site parking requirement for this configuration; the applicants said there is a gravel/garage area behind the building and they estimate space for roughly 8–10 cars plus a two‑car garage and additional alley/loading spots, which they said would accommodate employees and much of the customer demand. The applicants said they will pursue Downtown Incentive Program (DIP) facade improvements at a later stage and may replace storefront frames and glass.
Commissioners expressed support. Commissioner LaVoy moved to recommend approval; Commissioner Thomas seconded. The roll-call vote was: Commissioner Thomas — yes; Commissioner Peterson — no; Commissioner Lynn — yes; Commissioner LaVoy — yes; Chairperson Carmichael — yes. The tally was 4 yes, 1 no; the motion carried. The planner told the applicants staff will contact them about scheduling before the Village Board, which has the final decision.
Next steps: if the Village Board approves the special‑use permit, the applicants must obtain the usual building and trade permits for interior work and any required approvals tied to facade changes under the DIP program.
