Machesney Park trustees approve first readings for Rainbow Lane mobile-home ordinances, staff requires inspections and deadlines

The Village of Machesney Park Board of Trustees approved first readings of ordinances 39.25 and 40.25 in January 2026 to allow redevelopment and site improvements at the Rainbow Lane mobile-home property.

Unidentified planning staff told the board the applicant submitted an updated site plan showing space for 10 new mobile homes on previously open sites, which could bring the initial total to 41 units. Staff recommended several exceptions to village spacing standards and specific conditions to protect residents. "We need to make sure each of these units is safe to live in," the presenter said, adding that any unit needing repairs must be brought up to code or condemned and removed.

Key elements staff recommended and the board approved for first reading: allowing 16-foot separation between some mobile homes where the code requires 20 feet; requiring inspections of every mobile home by a contract inspector before occupancy; allowing only one shed per mobile home with at least 9 feet of separation from a neighbor's shed; requiring a privacy fence around the property; and imposing permit timing: permits for Rainbow Lane roadway and parking stalls must be applied for by March 27, with work completed no later than Feb. 27, 2027, as stated by staff.

Staff cautioned that although the updated plan could result in 41 units initially, compliance with setback and replacement rules could reduce that number over time as older units are inspected and replaced to meet setbacks. Board members asked whether the property owner agreed to the recommended conditions; staff replied the owner had reviewed the recommendation, had questions, but was not opposed.

On roll call the board recorded unanimous support and approved both ordinances for placement on the Jan. 20 agenda for second reading. The ordinances proceed to the next scheduled board meeting for final action.