Committee recommends temporary off‑site parking permit for historic Blacksmith building at 3 S. 580 River Road

Christine Hockey, a city staff presenter, asked the committee to consider an ordinance approving a temporary use permit to allow off‑site parking at 28W289 Warrenville Road to support a home‑furnishings retail store in the historic Blacksmith building at 3 South 580 River Road. "Since the River Road property lacks adequate parking, four spaces, including one accessible space, will be reserved on the Warrenville Road property for employees and patrons," Hockey said.

The permit, Hockey said, would expire 18 months after approval or when adequate off‑street parking is provided on the River Road property, whichever occurs first, and includes conditions for signage and ADA striping. Staff noted the same owner holds both properties and presented a site map, a River Road site plan, and photos of the current conditions.

Alderman Lockett asked whether a neighboring tattoo shop would still be able to use the lot's remaining spaces; Hockey confirmed the dedicated River Road spaces would be marked and the tattoo shop could continue to use the southern portion of the lot. Alderman Kenberg asked whether there is pedestrian access between the properties; staff said the sidewalk is in the public right‑of‑way and was upgraded to ADA compliance with last year's street‑improvement project.

Alderman Widner moved to recommend the City Council pass the ordinance; Alderman Davalos seconded. After a voice vote the motion passed.

The ordinance, as explained in the attachments presented to the committee, also allows for extensions beyond the initial 18 months—up to two additional years—if the River Road property has not constructed required on‑site parking and if specified conditions are met. Staff said compliance with zoning, proper signage identifying the spaces as serving the River Road property, and ADA requirements would be conditions for continued use.