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Planning commission recommends billboard for new Life Dispensary at interstate site
Summary
Machesney Park planning staff recommended and the Planning & Zoning Commission voted to forward a positive recommendation for a 42‑ft, billboard‑style sign for a new Life Dispensary, after discussing size, masonry base visibility and precedent; the matter advances to the Planning & Economic Development Committee on Nov. 3.
Machesney Park’s Planning and Zoning Commission voted Oct. 27 to forward a positive recommendation on a variance allowing a 42‑foot‑tall, interstate‑facing freestanding sign for a new Life Dispensary and event center.
Staff told commissioners the proposed sign would be 42 feet tall and about 1,472 square feet of display, visible from the adjacent interstate, and that the site’s total proposed signage (including a smaller freestanding sign and wall signage) would add up to roughly 2,252 square feet versus the roughly 795 square feet the code allows for the lot. Staff said the proposed structure lacks the masonry base required by code and would be primarily electronic message board area, but recommended approval because the site’s direct interstate frontage makes the request an unusual situation.
“Specifically, they would like a 42 foot tall, 1,472 square foot sign that is visible from the adjacent interstate,” staff said during the report. The applicant, Reid Shostrom, who was sworn for testimony, said he had no additional materials to add and “appreciate[d] the opportunity to have this, chance at having the billboard and the business in Machesney Park.”
Commissioners focused on precedent and streetscape concerns: some said approval could encourage similar large signs, while staff and proponents argued the sign is unique because it is located on the same property as the destination business and is the only lot in the area with interstate frontage. Commissioners also questioned whether a masonry base would be visible from the interstate; staff said even if present it likely would not be visible given the sign’s height.
The commission adopted the findings of fact and, by roll call, gave a positive recommendation on ordinance 43‑25. The item will be considered next by the Planning & Economic Development Committee on Nov. 3 at 5:30 p.m.
The committee’s review will be the next formal step; any final permit issuance would be subject to the committee’s decision and applicable permit requirements.
