W. Dundee board OKs superstore changes

West Dundee trustees unanimously approved several variance requests for the planned Wal-Mart SuperCenter at Huntley Road and Elm Avenue though residents opposing the development argued the zoning for the site had expired.

The board approved changes to parking lot and signage standards for the 186,000-square-foot development after an attorney for Dundee Neighbors -- a coalition of families opposing the development -- argued the village's code nullifies the site's zoning designation.

Robert Gildo, an attorney from Wheaton, said the site's zoning as a regional business district had expired since development did not occur within six months.

The property was initially zoned in 2000 for a proposed Meijer store.

But Village Attorney John Brechin said the ordinance referenced was legally ineffective.

"There is no such thing in Illinois as self-executing rezoning," Brechin said. "It is not enforceable and is contrary to Illinois statutes."

The retailer requested and was granted a special use for seasonal outdoor sales, such as garden and holiday sales.

Wal-Mart had also requested 42-foot-tall light poles, which are 12 feet taller than village code recommends.

The village board allowed the change under the condition that light poles on the northwest and south sides of the building -- which are closest to residential areas -- remain 30 feet tall and include filters.

Wal-Mart was also granted a variance to the number of parking lot islands required.

The world's largest retailer will install larger but fewer parking lot islands. The islands will also serve as water treatment areas.

Larger monument signs on Huntley Road and Elm Avenue were also permitted.

Wal-Mart was granted permission to install two 40- square-foot monument signs at its primary entrances.

The developer originally requested 100-square-foot signs, which are 2½ times larger than the village codes permits.

Village President Larry Keller, who typically votes in case of a tie, requested his vote be counted at Monday night's board meeting.

Residents have argued the development on the 30-acre site near the Tartans Glen subdivision does not fit the village's quaint image.

"Somehow I don't think a 186,000-square-foot Wal-Mart embraces nor enhances its small town feet or its character," said Lisa Geisler, a founder of Dundee Neighbors.

But Keller countered the argument.

"The 1 million-square-foot regional mall didn't hurt the small-town atmosphere of the village," said Keller referring to Spring Hill Mall. "It's the people, not the buildings."