Despite criticism, retail plan for Mundelein moves ahead

Opponents trying to scuttle a controversial proposal for a new shopping center in Mundelein were dealt a potentially final blow Monday when the village board formally approved the development plan.

Trustees also approved a special-use permit and subdivision plans for the Mundelein Town Center, which will be built on Route 60 north of Route 176.

A Wal-Mart Supercenter, an OfficeMax, a Menards and about 50 other stores and restaurants are planned for the 600,000-square-foot plaza, which will be across the street from the Mundelein Crossings center.

Developers will get a share of the sales-tax generated by the stores, up to $6 million, Village Administrator John Lobaito said. Some of that revenue will fund road improvements at the site, he said.

The proposal has been opposed by residents from the nearby Ivanhoe neighborhood, which is outside the village limits. For the third consecutive board meeting, they packed the board room Monday.

Some critics don't want Wal-Mart to open in the center, saying the store isn't high-quality enough. Others have fought to change the appearance of the center.

A new foe spoke to the board about the project Monday: Evan Craig, a Vernon Hills resident and representative of a local Sierra Club environmental group.

Craig voiced concern about pollution from the development, its impact on wetlands on the property and global warming.

Attorney William Graft, representing the Ivanhoe Club and some residents, addressed the board, too, and threatened a lawsuit over the development.

In recent weeks, some of the critics have worked with village leaders and the developer to change aesthetic elements of the plan.

It could be two months before the board approves all the documents needed for Rubloff to start construction, village officials have said.