Grayslake seniors project to be debated again May 9

Grayslake zoning board of appeals members plan to continue a public hearing in a little more than a week on a proposal for a senior apartment complex on Route 120 just east of Alleghany Road.

Backers and opponents were present for the first two hearings on Mercy Housing Lakefront of Chicago’s plan before the advisory board this month. The most recent session occurred Monday night.

Mercy Housing wants an amendment to a special-use permit to build a four-story, 70-unit apartment building for residents 55 and older. It would be across from the village’s namesake, Gray’s Lake. Plans call for 63 one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom units in the four-story structure at Route 120 and Neville Road, tentatively named Lakefront Lodge. A community room, fitness center and library are part of the preliminary plans. Zoning board of appeals members Monday agreed to continue the public hearing to 7 p.m. May 9 at village hall, 100 S. Seymour Ave. Zoning Officer Kirk Smith said the panel wants more information before voting on a recommendation that’ll go to the Grayslake village board.

Smith said Mercy Housing has been asked for more details about how it operates as a business entity. More detailed information about the height of the building in various spots also has been requested from Mercy Housing.

Project supporters contend seniors deserve a nice place to age with dignity. The backers include Lake County United, an organization of churches, synagogues, mosques, civil and labor groups involved in issues such as affordable housing.

Michael Andrews, who lives south of Route 120 across from Gray’s Lake, and some of his neighbors have raised a variety of concerns about Mercy Housing’s plan. The concerns include whether the complex is appropriate for the site and the possibility it’ll create rainwater runoff problems.

Andrews said some of the neighbors’ worries that the plans were moving too fast have been somewhat eased now that the public hearing is headed toward a third evening. The Grayslake village board will get the final word after receiving the zoning board of appeals recommendation.