Church expansion proposal moves forward in Des Plaines

A Des Plaines church’s expansion plans have been tentatively approved by the city council.

The Chicago Mar Thoma Church, 240 Potter Road, has proposed adding a building that would house a gymnasium, classrooms, a kitchen and an office, documents indicate.

The parking lot on the roughly 3-acre property would be expanded, too, and landscaping changes have been proposed.

After a lengthy discussion that included comments from nearby residents concerned about noise, the environment, traffic and other issues, the council on Monday voted 7-1 in favor of the proposal and a conditional use permit that would be necessary because the property is zoned for residential use.

Citing concerns about traffic congestion and the esthetics of the plan, First Ward Alderman Margaret Chlebek cast the lone “no” vote. The church is in her ward.

A second and final vote could happen at the council’s next meeting on June 15. That meeting is set for 7 p.m. at city hall, 1420 Miner St.