Hoffman explores option for west-side development

Desperate for a grocery store or other retailer on the village's west side, Hoffman Estates trustees appear ready to lift restrictions on allowing a commercial development on the Plote property.

A 2003 annexation agreement allowed only residential development on the land at the southwest corner of Higgins and Beverly roads. Shorewood Property Investments LLC has a plan to build for 415 apartments on the 36-acre plot.

However, Shorewood wants to turn over 4.64 acres to a commercial developer for retail, but they need the village board to amend the annexation agreement in order to go forward with commercial development. The board voted unanimously Monday to have the village negotiate amending the deal. Trustees Gary Pilafas and Anna Newell were absent.

However, Shorewood also wants the board to give them the option of building an additional four buildings and 72 apartment units if they fail to attract a developer. Shorewood suggested waiting five years to find commercial development before going forward with construction of the extra residential units. Trustees were unsure of how long they should give Shorewood, which will be a big factor in negotiating the amendment to the annexation.

There was some skepticism from the board that Shorewood has no desire to build commercial development and only wants the village's approval so they can maximize profits and construct more residential units. The village has wanted a commercial development on the west side for years.

"We want the commercial," said Michael Origer, manager of South Barrington-based Shorewood.

Origer described the apartments Shorewood plans to build on the site as premium apartments with 9-foot ceilings, in-unit washers and dryers and garages with interior access. A pool, outdoor sports courts and clubhouse are also included.

Over the years there have been many proposals for the Plote development, including a casino, hotel and water park.