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Plan Commission conditions Culver’s drive‑through expansion after neighbors raise trash, light and screening concerns
Summary
Elm Grove’s Plan Commission recommended approval of an amended conditional use permit for Culver’s drive‑through expansion after condominium residents raised concerns about gaps in screening that let trash and headlights reach private drives; the approval is contingent on a joint solution to be presented to the Board on April 28.
The Elm Grove Plan Commission on April 6 recommended approval of an amended conditional use permit for the Culver’s at 15280 W Bluemound Road, but required the restaurant and nearby Plank Road Condominiums to present a joint screening and trash‑abatement plan to the Board of Trustees on April 28.
Residents of the Plank Road Condominiums told commissioners they have long dealt with trash and light intrusion where fencing stops around mature trees. One resident said garbage “including cups and receipts with Culver’s branding end up in their private drive.” Another resident, Kris Drollinger, said a continuous fence would also deter people, including children, from cutting through condominium property in the evenings.
Property owner Brian Schecterle and Ricky Brice, a member of the ownership group, told the commission they were aware of past trash issues and that Culver’s conducts daily lot checks. Brice said the restaurant was willing to “add or modify the fence” and would “be willing to take on that expense for the project,” though trimming or removing some mature arborvitae might be required to install contiguous screening.
Zoning Administrator Ethan Sowl told the commission that the original 2012 conditional use permit required a combination of fencing and landscaping to screen the condominium property; the current configuration with gaps near trees reflected those earlier approved plans.
Anthony Graziano of Kimley‑Horn, the civil engineering consultant for the project, addressed technical points raised by residents. He said the proposed site plan preserves existing snow‑storage areas, that a photometric study shows proposed lighting complies with ordinance limits, and that the new drive‑through equipment uses automatic volume control to limit off‑site noise. Graziano also confirmed lighting would be on a timer to turn off during nonbusiness hours.
Commissioner Jan Termuehlen suggested extending fencing around the northeast corner to reduce light and litter impacts while retaining existing arborvitae where possible. President Jim Koleski asked the parties to exchange contact information and present a joint resolution to the Board within about 20 days.
Ms. Stuckert moved to recommend approval of the amended conditional use permit contingent on a joint screening and garbage plan; Ms. Peter seconded and the motion passed 6‑0. The commission’s recommendation — and any proposed fencing details — will go before the Board of Trustees at the April 28 public hearing.
