Church expansion plan approved in Des Plaines
A Des Plaines church’s expansion plan was approved by the city council Monday night.
A freestanding building that will house a gymnasium, classrooms and other facilities has been proposed for the Chicago Mar Thoma Church property at 240 Potter Road. The parking lot will be expanded, too.
Following a brief discussion, the council approved a conditional use permit for the proposed building, with some restrictions. For example, the congregation is forbidden from leasing the church or the new building to outside groups. Restrictions concerning garbage pickup and parking also were added.
The council had tentatively approved the proposal June 1 despite opposition from neighbors concerned about noise, the environment, traffic and other issues. A second vote was needed to certify the vote.
First Ward Alderman Margaret Chlebek, who voted to reject the permit in June, was absent Monday. City Clerk Domanik Bronakowski read a statement from Chlebek opposing the plan.