Board majority backs ComEd pedestal variance for Stone Garden development; matter goes to council

The Palatine Zoning Board of Appeals on June 12 voted to recommend, by majority, a variation to allow above-ground Commonwealth Edison pedestals to remain in corner/front yard locations for homes in the Stone Garden subdivision at 215–229 North Brockway. The board's recommendation was not unanimous; at least one member voted no, so the matter will go to Village Council on June 18 for final action.

Gary Rocowitz, appearing for the petitioner, said ComEd submitted and the village approved a service plan and that the pedestals were installed roughly 17 months ago. "Commonwealth Edison submitted a plan showing these 2 locations. The village of Palatine issued a permit, and they were installed," he said, stressing the pedestals have been screened with fencing and plantings. Staff explained the portion of the zoning code restricting above-ground utility appurtenances in front/corner yards was adopted in 2008 and that the utility permit had been reviewed by the village engineer; staff took a neutral position and recommended the board exercise discretion on the variation request.

Board members discussed whether relocation was physically or financially feasible and whether the burden was on the permit applicant to request a variation. Board members who approved cited the dense five-home parcel and limited alternatives; one member said Palatine should have told the utility a variation was required. The board recorded a majority recommendation with the condition that the variation conform to the submitted site plan; staff noted final landscaping and screening will be reviewed by the village arborist.