Board approves special-use permit for used-car lot on Chicago Road with parking amendment

The South Chicago Heights Board of Trustees voted to approve Ordinance 2026-ORD-1 on Jan. 5, granting a special use to allow a used automobile dealer at 3026–3030 Chicago Road after the board amended the ordinance to address parking requirements.

Mayor Terry Matthews presented the ordinance. Trustee John Ross raised concerns that the proposed site plan had cars parked close to the building and lacked an emergency-vehicle lane, prompting discussion about compliance with zoning-space and safety standards. Attorney Matt Welch explained that the board cannot amend the zoning code directly and said the applicant would need to apply for a variance under the municipal variance standards.

Trustee Eric Stanton moved to approve the ordinance as amended; Trustee Rose Ann Diederich seconded. The motion carried on a roll call vote with the trustees recorded as voting aye. The board agreed to waive the variance application fee and asked the applicant to incorporate a security camera system. Attorney Welch recommended deleting Section G of the ordinance and adding that, "unless a variance to parking requirements of the zoning code is granted, the applicant shall cause the property and special use to comply with parking requirements set forth in zoning code." The board approved the ordinance with that amendment.

Mayor Matthews also asked whether there were objections to the clerk issuing a business license to the applicant; trustees signaled no objection. The ordinance action moves the applicant to the variance and licensing steps required by village code.