Village board grants land‑use variance to Greater Good reuse shop on Rand Road

The Village Board on June 15 voted to adopt an ordinance granting a land‑use variation that allows Greater Good — a reuse nonprofit that operates classes and an alternative thrift shop — to operate at 935 East Rand Road in a B‑1 district.

Amanda Muller, Greater Good’s executive director and founder, told trustees the organization aims to divert creative supplies from the landfill, host workshops and support teachers and nonprofits with low‑cost or donated materials. Staff presented a parking analysis and told trustees the shopping center has surplus parking; the Plan Commission unanimously recommended approval subject to two conditions: the use cannot be transferred to a different user and the operation must comply with applicable local, state and federal codes.

Trustees expressed support for the organization and its neighborhood fit; Trustee Bertucci, a nearby neighbor, moved adoption and praised the group’s community orientation. The ordinance passed on roll call; staff and petitioner indicated the store hoped to be open to the public within weeks.

Vote: roll call approval recorded (ayes by trustees in attendance).