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Commission delegates limited development‑plan approval for 2224 E. Perry Road to staff amid debate over public hearings
Summary
The commission delegated authority to Plainfield staff to approve development plans for 2224 E. Perry Road (the former Golden Corral/Culver’s site) in substantial compliance with DP‑24‑033 through June 3, 2028, after staff outlined a proposal to expand delegated approvals for projects under 20,000 sq ft and commissioners raised concerns about reduced public hearings and notice.
At the March 2 meeting the Plainfield Plan Commission approved a motion to delegate to town staff the development‑plan approval authority for 2224 East Perry Road — the site for a previously approved Culver’s development plan — in order to streamline potential redevelopment of that site under parameters substantially consistent with the earlier DP‑24‑033 plan.
Kevin Whaley (planning staff) told the commission that state law gives the legislative body flexibility to designate where development plans are required and that the Plan Commission is the final authority on development‑plan approvals unless that authority is delegated. Whaley described a proposed ordinance change to delegate staff approval for new construction projects up to 20,000 square feet to reduce docket load and speed review of projects that meet established criteria.
Commissioners expressed concerns about eliminating public hearings for projects delegated to staff. Mr. McPhail said he was “uncomfortable with that” and worried residents could miss an appeal window; Mr. Bridget and Mr. Brandgard echoed concerns that removing required hearings reduces public participation. Whaley responded that delegated approvals would still be subject to a 30‑day appeal period and that staff could forward applications to the commission if warranted.
On the specific site at 2224 E. Perry Road, Whaley said the development plan approved in 2024 (DP‑24‑033) remains valid through 2027 and that staff sought authority to consider other restaurant users with similar layouts and to offer a streamlined path to redevelopment. Mr. Philip moved to delegate authority to staff through June 3, 2028, subject to three conditions: substantial compliance with DP‑24‑033 (excluding architecture and signage), full compliance with the zoning ordinance, and delegation ending June 3, 2028. Mr. Brandgard seconded the motion; the commission voted unanimously in favor.
The delegation applies only to that parcel and the narrowly described plan parameters; staff must still ensure compliance with ordinance requirements and the motion preserves the commission’s ability to consider appeals or forward cases when staff deems it appropriate.
