County approves modification to allow outdoor mini‑storage bays in converted retail space; 17–1 vote

The Peoria County Board approved a modification to a zoning special use to allow outdoor mini‑storage bays as part of a conversion of existing retail space into indoor mini‑storage, citing compliance with the Unified Development Ordinance. The petition (ZBA‑2025‑0035) seeks to modify Special Use ZBA‑2025‑004 to add outdoor bays.
Amber Rosenbaum presented the item to the board, noting the petitioner had returned with a site plan prepared by a local engineer showing fencing, lighting, access aisles and security, and that the plan had been reviewed with local fire and sheriff’s offices for public‑safety standards. Rosenbaum added the petitioner had experience converting vacant retail space into storage, citing the CubeSmart conversion on Pioneer Parkway as an example.
Board members asked no further questions. The item passed with 17 ayes and one nay; Member McCann recorded the lone negative vote. The board recorded no further conditions in the meeting minutes.
The zoning request cited section 20‑5.802.04 of the Unified Development Ordinance as permitting mini‑storage facilities in the C‑2 General Commercial district and sought modification to include outdoor storage bays in addition to the previously approved indoor conversion.
No additional deliberation or appeals were recorded during the meeting. Staff advised the board that the petitioner had coordinated with emergency‑services agencies to address access and safety concerns.