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Elgin commission approves variance for new house at 552 East Chicago Street
Summary
The Elgin Planning & Zoning Commission voted 6–0 on Dec. 8 to approve two site‑design variations allowing a new single‑family home at 552 E. Chicago St. The home will be built with Community Development Block Grant funds and sold to households meeting HUD income limits.
The Elgin Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a request to construct a new single‑family home at 552 East Chicago Street, voting 6–0 on petition 38‑25 at its Dec. 8 meeting.
City planning staff told the commission the vacant lot — about 8,580 square feet in the Yelton Historic District — previously held a home that was demolished after a 2010 fire. Applicant Spillane and Sons requested two site‑design variations: a 30‑foot front porch setback from Chicago Street where the average setback requires 36 feet, and a 25‑foot setback from Porter Street where 38 feet is required. Staff said the foundation would sit farther back (36 ft) and the porch projection creates the reduced measurement, and that the proposed façade and porch were designed to match existing historic homes on the block.
Staff recommended approval, saying the project meets the ordinance standards for variations and noting that a design‑review subcommittee unanimously approved the plans on Nov. 3. The applicant, Michael Spillane, told commissioners the firm has built similar homes in Elgin’s historic district and that the exterior materials and window types will meet the district’s design standards, while interiors will use modern materials.
Commissioners asked few questions and no members of the public spoke on the petition. Commissioner Wally moved to approve the petition subject to the conditions in the packet; Commissioner Bridal seconded. A roll‑call vote approved the motion 6–0.
Under the terms discussed at the hearing, the house will be constructed with Community Development Block Grant funds and sold to buyers meeting HUD income restrictions for low‑ to moderate‑income households. Staff said final compliance with design and construction standards will be enforced through the city’s regular permitting and inspection processes.
The commission’s approval adopted the findings in the staff packet; the applicant and staff will follow up on the permit and conditions listed in the packet.
