Plan Commission approves conditional use for off‑grid solar trailer sales at 1631 Brookfield Avenue

The Village of Howard Plan Commission on June 8 unanimously approved a conditional use permit allowing Sun Power Trailers LLC, doing business as Off Grid Solutions LLC, to convert utility trailers into mobile off‑grid power units and sell them from 1631 Brookfield Avenue, Unit BB01. The approval includes conditions limiting outdoor display and requiring battery‑storage details for fire‑safety review.

Planning staff told the commission the zoning approval is required to obtain a state dealership license to sell the trailers. Applicant Steve Fischer described the operation as converting “utility trailers into mobile off‑grid power hubs equipped with solar panels and battery systems,” and said “the trailers are built to order and sold primarily through online sales.” He told commissioners that typically no more than two trailers would be on site and most would be stored inside the building.

Commission discussion focused on enforcement and safety. Staff said permit conditions and review periods could be used if the number of trailers stored outdoors exceeded limits, and commissioners asked for a building layout identifying battery storage locations to assist the Fire Department in an emergency. Commissioners also asked about waste streams and titling; Fischer said the business would not generate oils or vehicle fluids and that trailers would be titled as cargo or utility trailers while the company installs electrical and solar systems.

Ellery Gulbrand moved to approve the permit subject to four conditions: limit outdoor parking/display to no more than five trailers; comply with local ordinances and dealer licensing; provide a building layout showing battery storage and related equipment for Fire Department reference; and maintain the property in its current condition. Mike Soletski seconded; the motion carried unanimously.