Habitat gets closer to OK for its 11-home subdivision

DuPage Habitat for Humanity's largest project ever -- a 11-home subdivision -- could be less than a week away from becoming a reality.

The West Chicago Development Committee this week unanimously approved the Wheaton-based non-profit's more than $3 million proposal.

However, the panel rejected Habitat's request to leave out city-mandated frills, including some streetlights and parkway trees. It also shot down an attempt by Habitat to get out of some of the fees involved in the process.

"All developments should pay for themselves," said Community Development Director Joanne Kalchbrenner. "All developments cost the city money in terms of staff time and effort. If fees are waived, that cost is borne by taxpayers."

The subdivision, called Pioneer Prairie, is planned for three unincorporated acres near Sherman and Pomeroy streets, on West Chicago's southwest side.

As part of its recommendation, the development committee is suggesting that the site be annexed into West Chicago.

Now the proposal goes on to the city council, which will take it up for final approval next week.

"DuPage County is an expensive place to live," said Sarah Brachle, DuPage Habitat's executive director. "This project will bring 11 new hardworking taxpayers to the city of West Chicago, and will make housing available for 11 limited income families, which may include teachers, firefighters or service workers."

Brachle said that while Habitat is committed to raising most of the money needed to make the project happen, the organization needs help.

To that end, Habitat will renew requests for financial help when the proposal goes before the city council.

"We will be asking for the city to demonstrate its support through the waiving of some nominal fees," Brachle said.

If the council gives the go-ahead to the project, Habitat will embark on a capital campaign to fund the project. Then in 2009, the organization will start constructing infrastructure for the area from scratch, including curbs, sidewalks, trees, lighting and water and sewer service.

As part of the plans, Pomeroy Street will be extended into a cul-de-sac. The 11 ranch-style homes would be constructed in phases over a three-year period.