The Kankakee City Planning Board recommended approval Jan. 13 of a map amendment to rezone 1151 South Washington from R‑1 (single‑family) to R‑2 (two‑family). The applicant seeks to add a second dwelling unit on the second floor so her daughter and grandson can live in a separate unit.

Staff told the board the lot exceeds minimum size for two‑family zoning and that the city's comprehensive plan and surrounding corridor—already containing duplex and multiunit buildings—support the change. Planning staff cited Section 12.05(b)(6) of the municipal code as the standard used to evaluate map amendments and said the lot “provides plenty of open space” and meets minimum bulk regulations for two units.

Soraya May, speaking for the owner, said the upstairs would be converted to a self‑contained second unit with a kitchen, bathroom and a separate entrance to allow independent living. Neighbor Jamie Tellis, of 1127 South Washington, testified the neighborhood supports the change. A board member noted the city's minimum apartment size of 800 square feet and the applicant was advised to ensure building permits meet that requirement.

A motion to recommend the map amendment passed by roll call; the board recorded affirmative votes and the recommendation will be scheduled for the city council meeting on Feb. 2. Final approval requires an ordinance from the council and any necessary building‑permit approvals and inspections prior to occupancy.

The board’s recommendation does not waive permitting requirements; staff said the owner must submit building plans, pass building inspections, and meet the 800‑square‑foot apartment standard where applicable.