Council approves rezoning and special-use permit for private therapeutic day school at 315 North 6th Street

The DeKalb City Council voted to approve rezoning and a special-use permit for the property at 315 North 6th Street to accommodate a private therapeutic day school operated by Specialized Education of Illinois, Inc.

City staff said the Plan Commission had recommended approval (4–0). Staff noted the proposal preserves the previously proposed layout of classrooms, offices and therapy rooms, and includes plans to expand the north parking lot and lease an additional 50 spaces in a nearby lot to meet staff parking needs. Council members said the applicants agreed to meet with the police and fire departments to review safety and emergency response procedures.

Alderman Smith, who participated in a staff-level meeting with the applicant and city staff, reported that the conversation addressed safety and security measures and resulted in constructive changes. The council waived second reading for the ordinance and approved it by roll call vote.