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Planning board names chair, hears updates on zoning text changes, stormwater and comprehensive plan
Summary
At the June 16 meeting the Kankakee City Planning Board announced Chip Rom as chair, welcomed new member Ken Pontton and heard staff updates on accessory‑structure text amendments, stormwater ordinance revisions and an upcoming comprehensive plan process with consultant Mike Hoffman.
The Kankakee City Planning Board opened its June 16 meeting with leadership announcements and staff updates on key planning projects.
Staff said Chip Rom has been appointed the board's new chair and Deb Terrell was reappointed to a three‑year term; Ken Pontton was introduced as a newly appointed member. Planning staff asked members to confirm contact information and appointment dates for record keeping.
Staff described a set of zoning text amendments that have been under development but temporarily paused: major edits to the accessory‑structure chapter (addressing sheds, pools and garages), simplification of lot‑coverage calculations, a process to treat certain undersized lots as buildable by right for single‑family replacement, and drafting a formal extension process for zoning approvals.
Separately, staff and Neil reported a substantial stormwater ordinance update that will align local detention requirements with neighboring jurisdictions and reduce the current excessive detention burden for smaller projects by providing exemptions. The board was told the stormwater changes are being made in the municipal code and do not require a public hearing.
Staff also advised the board that the city engaged a consultant (referred to in the record as "Tusca") to lead a comprehensive plan; Mike Hoffman was noted as participating in the June 1 City Council kickoff. Staff estimated the comprehensive plan process could take about 14 months and that planning board members will be involved in stakeholder meetings and outreach.
Members discussed the board's role in sticking to zoning findings, maintaining civility during heated hearings, and the board's meeting schedule (third Tuesday each month with occasional shifts for holidays). With no further business, the board adjourned.
