Planning board recommends rezoning of 427 and 431 S. Chicago Ave. to two-family

The Kankakee City Planning Board on Feb. 10 recommended that two parcels at 427 and 431 South Chicago Avenue be rezoned from R-1 (single-family) to R-2 (two-family), forwarding the map amendment to Kankakee City Council for consideration on March 2.

Unidentified staff told the board the city recently transferred title to the land bank, the structure is an existing two-unit with rental history dating back to at least 2011, and the land bank plans maintenance work — including roof repairs — before listing the property for sale. Staff recommended approval, saying the lot met minimum lot-size standards, could accommodate required parking with additional pads, and fit the surrounding land-use pattern.

A board member asked whether the city could produce a building-code checklist for small multiunit properties so prospective buyers and the land bank would better understand required upgrades; staff said it would explore a general checklist or guidance rather than conduct a full inspection program. The planner stated, “I recommended approval of this,” and described a side-setback irregularity that staff did not believe warranted a variance in this case.

Deb Terrell moved to recommend approval and Steve Case seconded. On roll call the board recorded four yes votes and one abstention; the motion carried and the recommendation will go to the March 2 city council meeting. The board did not receive public comment on the item at this meeting.

Next steps: the city council will consider the planning board’s recommendation at its March 2 meeting; any final rezoning will depend on council action.