pbz 04 40 (04.28.05)

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING & ZONING111 West Fox Street • Room 316

Yorkville, IL • 60560(630) 553-4141 Fax (630) 553-4179

04-40 – Prairie Material Sales, Inc. et alMap Amendment A-1 to M-3

Hearing # TBD

SITE INFORMATION

PETITIONERS New Lenox State Bank, Trustee for Trust # 1291 – Prairie Material Sales, Inc – Keith C. Hosbach and Wendy E. Hosbach

ADDRESS None assigned

LOCATION Sherrill Road west of Route 47

TOWNSHIP Lisbon

PARCEL # 08-33-400-002; 08-33-400-004; 08-33-400-005

SIZE 120.10 acres

EXITING LAND USE Agricultural

ZONING A-1

LRMP Agricultural

REQUESTED ACTION Map Amendment changing the zoning map for the subject parcel from A-1 (Agricultural) to M-3 (Earth Materials Extraction, Processing and Site Reclamation)

APPLICABLE REGULATIONS

Section 10.03 of the Zoning Ordinance (M-3 Earth Materials Extraction, Processing and Site Reclamation)Section 13.06 of the Zoning Ordinance (Amendments)

SURROUNDING LAND USE

Location Adjacent Land Use Adjacent Zoning

LRMP Zoning within ½ Mile

North Agricultural -1A Agricultural -1; -3; -1; -A B M M

2South Agricultural Grundy County Grundy County Grundy County

East Agricultural -1A Agricultural -1A

West Agricultural -1A Agricultural -1A

Petition # 04-40 Sherrill Road west of Route 47(Prairie et al) of 19

REQUESTED ACTIONGENERAL The petitioner, Prairie Material Sales, Inc., is requesting a Map Amendment changing

the zoning designation of approximately 120 acres in Lisbon Township from A-1 (Agricultural) to M-3 (Earth Materials Extraction, Processing and Site Reclamation). The purpose of this request is to construct and operate a limestone quarry on the site.

The M-3 designation was specifically written for this kind of use, as there are no other zoning designations available for the proposed use. The M-3 is written as a specific, rather than a general, zoning designation in that subsumed in the ordinance language is a set of mandatory conditions that all applicants must follow. A copy of the M-3 language is included in the agenda packet. One of those conditions addresses the issuance of a mine operations permit. See the staff analysis for the request for further details.

NRI

LESA

Review of the NRI report, dated April 23, 2004, reveals the following:

• 100% of the soils on the subject parcel are prime soils and the most agronomically productive.

• 100% of the soils on the subject parcel are rated “severe” and have limitations for shallow excavations and local roads/streets.

• A wetland does exist on the subject parcel.

Land Evaluation: 93Site Assessment: 147TOTAL: 240LEVEL OF PROTECTION: High

FACTORS The following factors are to be used by the Zoning Board of Appeals when analyzing a map amendment request per Section 13.06.F of the Zoning Ordinance:

EXISTING USES OF PROPERTY WITHIN THE GENERAL AREAExisting land uses within 1 ½ miles of the subject parcel are depicted in Volume 1, Exhibit 1 – Land Use Aerial. The subject parcel is currently being used for agricultural purposes and all of the immediately abutting properties are in agricultural use. Overall, 92.5% of the general area is presently in agricultural use.

The second most predominant land use in the general area is mineral extraction. This includes the Valley Run Stone and Central Limestone quarries located within a half mile and a mile northwest of the subject parcel.

Commercial land use in the general area is limited to the Hogan-Walker/John Deere farm implement dealer located approximately ¼ mile southeast of the subject parcel.

Residential land use accounts for less than ½ of 1 % (0.5%) of the land usage in the general area.

ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY WITHIN THE GENERAL AREA

Existing zoning classifications within 1 ½ miles of the subject parcel are depicted in Volume 1, Exhibit 2 – Zoning Aerial. The subject parcel is currently zoned A-1 Agricultural and is used for agricultural purposes. All of the immediately adjacent

properties in Kendall County are zoned A-1 Agricultural and the adjacent properties to the south are zoned A Agricultural by Grundy County.

Within the general area there is a variety of existing non-agricultural zoning districts that incorporate mineral extraction either as a legal nonconforming use or as a result of a court order. The Central Limestone quarry property is zoned M-2 Heavy Industrial. Mineral extraction is no longer permitted in the M-2 zoning district, so the Central Limestone quarry is operating as a legal nonconforming use. The Valley Run quarry is operational due to issuance of a Kendall County Circuit Court order.

Overall, these existing operations account for 310 contiguous acres of land devoted to mineral extraction in the general area.

The only other zoning classification in the general area is a small B-3 designation at the northeast corner of Route 47 and White Willow Road.

SUITABILITY OF PROPERTY FOR USES PERMITTED UNDER THE EXISTING ZONINGThe subject parcel is zoned A-1 Agricultural, and is presently in row crop production. The property is currently used for crop farming, a permitted A-1 use. The suitability of the property for agricultural purposes is evidenced by the high LESA score of 240. The subject parcel is not in the path of advancing nonagricultural development and is surrounded by existing agricultural operations.

Suitability for Proposed Use: Certainly a major aspect of suitability is the capacity and physical condition of the local road network to service the proposed use. The applicant has provided a road improvement plan [Volume 1, Tab 11] to the County. This report does not purport to say that this plan is adequate – only that the applicant is aware that it will be an issue. The technical aspect of that plan will be addressed at the mining operations permit stage.

Another aspect of suitability is the presence of wetlands on the parcel. Appropriate steps need to be taken in order to protect the wetland. The applicant has provided a plan to address wetland protection. This report does not purport to say that this plan is adequate – only that the applicant is aware that will be an issue. The technical aspect of that plan will be addressed at the mining operations permit stage.

Certainly, there needs to be evidence that there is aggregate to be extracted under the subject property. The petitioner has performed borings that indicate the existence of subsurface dolomite limestone.

TREND OF DEVELOPMENT IN THE AREAThe most prominent use changes that have occurred in the general area since the subject parcel was zoned A-1 has been the readaptation of over 310 acres of land for mineral extraction purposes. Otherwise, the trend of development has been generally stable with agricultural uses dating back to the 19th Century.

CONSISTENCY WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LAND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANIt can be argued that the proposed use of the subject parcel is consistent with the LRMP. The County’s objectives in the area of mineral extraction activities are as follows:

G: /REPORTS/2004/04-40/PBZ 04-40 (04.28.05)Prepared by Dale R. Powers, AICP, Senior Planner

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• “Identify and conserve areas of mineral resources to assure continued availability of building and engineering materials.”

• “Require the development of plans for the implementation of mine[s]...”• “Protect prime mineral extraction areas from encroachment by incompatible

uses.”• “Protect other land uses from negative impacts of mineral extraction…

through appropriate siting and adequate screening and buffering.”

These objectives anticipate the establishment of additional quarries in the County to address the aggregate needs of the County. Location of these quarries, out of necessity, is driven by the location of the deposits to be mined. According to the submittal documents, an estimated 60,000,000 tons of dolomite limestone are present under the subject parcel.

It can also be argued that the proposed use of the subject parcel is inconsistent with the LRMP. Section 3.A.1 of the LRMP [p. 3-1] states the following planning goals and objectives in the area of water:

• “Maintain and enhance the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the county’s surface and ground waters.”

• “Protect natural drainage areas, floodplains and wetlands to avoid costly man-made storm water projects and to protect associated habitats for both flora and fauna. Regulate development to insure that the quantity or rate of runoff does not increase from what currently occurs under natural conditions.”

Section 3.A.2 describes the County’s objectives under land use:

• “Prevent the disruption of the natural environment by allowing only those land developments and other human activities that exhibit sensitivity to the character and limitations of the natural environment.”

Evidence in the record at this time indicates that an aquifer servicing the surrounding agricultural and residential uses will be invaded. The petitioner has submitted a plan to divert this water off the site via Valley Run Creek. However, the record does not indicate what the petitioner plans to do to mitigate the following environmental challenges:

• Dewatering: To the extent that this aquifer will be invaded, will this cause all of the water wells in the area to become dry? What is the geographical area of the impact?

• Exposing surface waters to evaporation.• Potential of infiltration of pollutants into the water to be discharged.

Section 4.B describes the County’s objectives under regulatory techniques:

• “Evaluate the need and effectiveness of regulations based on the potential for improving Kendall County’s living, working and natural environments, not simply the protection of property value.”

As well, the Lisbon Township LRMP Summary states that mining activity “may be permissible depending on the need for the product in the area and the


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impact on the environment.”

: TOWNSHIP

( )Lisbon

(09.14.04)

At its September 14, 2004 regular meeting, the Lisbon Township Board unanimously ratified the recommendation of the Lisbon Township Plan Commission to deny approval of the map amendment request. Copies of the Minutes from that meeting are included as an attachment to this report.

(07.06.04)ZPAC Highlights from the July 6, 2004 ZPAC meeting on this petition:

• Fran Klaas stated that Sherrill Road would need perpetual care with traffic coming in and out of the quarry.

• Mike Waldron stated a concern about the potential impacts on Valley Run Creek, specifically where detained water would enter the creek and the rate of release.

• Jason Pettit reiterated Waldron’s concerns and also included potential impacts to the neighboring Aux Sable Creek on water quality and impacting on fish in the creek.

• Sheriff Richard Randall raised safety concerns for the 47-Sherrill Road intersection, suggesting the installation of turn lanes and traffic lights there.

Attorney Robert Britz introduced his team of experts present at this meeting, ready to answer questions if needed. He explained the operations of this proposed quarry stating this was an ideal site for this type of operation. He spoke of the impact on the neighboring area and addressed the issues of blasting, roadways, water, dust and drainage. He spoke of property values and the effect of the economy this site would promote. He feels they can put together a project that would be good for Kendall County that would not be harmful to the neighboring properties.

Believing the quarry would affect this area, neighbor Arline Brue asked the board to think about the future potential growth that would be impacted. She also spoke of the traffic and safety concerns from Sherrill Road onto Route 47.

Neighbor Gary Anderson spoke of water concerns and the impact on the surrounding wells.

Neighbor Henry Babson spoke of water concerns and with his involvement in Real Estate, the negative impact on their property values.

In addition to the traffic, noise and dust, neighbor Robert Friestad spoke of his concerns of water, flooding, high PH in the soil, and damage to the crops.

Neighbor Milford Bjelland spoke of his concerns of the dangerous truck traffic on Route 47.

KCRPC

(09.29.04)Attorney Bob Britz, representing the petitioner, stated reasons that support the map amendment request: rich mineral reserves, flat topography, distance from urban areas, lack of centralized water and sewer in the subject area, and accessibility to main arterial roads and railroads. Britz further stated that with the development pressures in the area that the need for aggregate will only increase.

Petitioner’s land planner and zoning consultant, Mike Donahue, stated an argument for the “highest and best use” of the parcel as a mining operation and tied his


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rationale to the LRMP language of “identifying, conserving and protecting” mineral extraction areas.

Petitioner’s Geologic Site Appraiser, Arthur Pincomb, estimated that the estimated reserves on the subject parcel are 40,000,000 tons of “high quality” aggregate material with 15 feet of overburden [the amount of topsoil over the source], and claims that there are no other deposits that meet “these” characteristics in the Chicago area. Pincomb also expanded on Donahue’s “highest and best use” theory by stating that, using the U. S. Department of Justice “Royalty Income Method” of highest and best use, the land is worth $6,000 - $9,000 per acre as agricultural land and $26,000 per acre if mining were authorized for the site.

Senior Planner Dale Powers emphasized to the group that it was the role of staff to present both sides to the request and, since the petitioner stated the reasons for granting the map amendment, he spoke of the rationale behind denying the map amendment request. Powers stated that traffic and stormwater issues were two important reasons to consider, and shared with the attendees that stormwater issues had yet to be addressed by Strand Associates, the County’s consulting civil engineer.

RPC Secretary Larry Nelson reminded the assemblage of the care and extent in which the County has addressed the Land Resource Management Plan, and stated that the RPC has an important job in protecting the land uses in the County and to consider the impact any one proposed use would have on surrounding areas.

Petitioner’s Traffic Engineer, Mike Werthmann, reported that Route 47 has the capacity to accept the additional number of daily trips [120], and indicated that the petitioner intends to improve Sherrill Road to a 40-ton standard from the mine entrance east to Route 47 and to install acceleration/deceleration lanes on Route 47 in the vicinity of the proposed quarry.

PUBLIC COMMENTS: Ruth Bell (via letter) – traffic, water and berming issues. The petitioner was forwarded a copy of the letter. Karen Kyrouac – concerns about the impact of surrounding land values, and stated that agricultural property is worth $30,000 per acre and half that if the quarry was allowed. Art Prochaska (Yorkville Mayor) – submitted correspondence from City Attorney Roy Harsch asking for a response to the City’s concerns over ground and surface water, underground fractures, impact on adjacent water wells, impacts of the Aux Sable Creek, traffic, and a comparison between IDOT’s traffic numbers and the petitioner’s traffic numbers. Melissa Barnhart (attorney representing some adjacent property owners) – wanted to clarify the zoning status of the other quarry operations, and reminded the group that the two existing quarry operations never received County approval. The “Shaw” quarry – Central Limestone – was in existence since before the County had zoning regulations, and the “Avery” quarry – Valley Run – is operating under a court order. Barnhart also questioned Pincomb’s statements as running contrary to testimony from him 10 years ago in regards to the Piert farm. Rose Spears (Yorkville Alderwoman) – traffic and public safety concerns. Scott Hoelscher (Northern Pipeline) – impact of blasting on an existing 36-inch, 1000 pound natural gas line that runs along the north edge of the subject property. Chairman Mohr asked that the petitioner and Hoelscher meet to get this issue resolved. Bob Friestad – water and traffic concerns. He shared a photo from a June 10 storm that created ponding, and felt that the proposed berming would create “even more” of a water problem. Joe Slivka (Lisbon Village Trustee) stated that negotiations are ongoing with Valley Run to add 120 acres of quarry area, which will add to the water problem with Valley Run


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Creek. Keith Coppelman – inquired into Sunday operations (opposed).

Summarizing the public comments, questions posed by RPC members to the petitioner’s centered around impact of land values, impact on the watershed in general, dolomite market value analysis, the Northern Pipeline issue, impacts on ground and surface water, location of the underground fractures, impact on adjacent water wells, and reclamation issues.

The public meeting was recessed until 6:30 pm October 19, 2004.

KCRPC

(10.19.04)This is the continuation of the recessed public meeting from September 29, 2004.

In response to issues raised at the 09.29.04 public meeting, the RPC received information from the petitioner on the following issues:

Fracture and Groundwater Study: At the 09.29.04 meeting, testimony revealed the potential of a major underground fracture on the site. The Petitioner stated that if the operation of the quarry would cause nearby water wells to dry up, the Petitioner will repair the problem by lowering the pump, deepening the well, or drilling a replacement well at no cost to the impacted well owner.

Watershed Impact Study: At the 09.20.04 meeting, a concern was raised that surface water flows would be redistributed from one watershed to another, causing flooding problems to the nearby landowners. The petitioner stated that, in a meeting with Strand Associates, the proposed stormwater discharge plan was reviewed and that said plan met with the preliminary approval of Strand.

Landscape Plan: At the 09.29.04 meeting, no detailed landscape plan was forwarded for review and comment. The petitioner acknowledges that the submitted landscape plan will need to be modified and the plan will be resubmitted upon application for a Mine Operations Permit.

Pipeline: An engineer with Northern Pipeline will be in contact with the petitioner in order to coordinate this issue.

Traffic Impact: The petitioner presented an analysis of this issue from Konig, Lindgren, et al. dated 10.13.04.

Geographic Distribution of Dolomite Limestone: The petitioner presented an analysis of this issue from Associated Geologists, Inc. dated 10.14.04.

Quarry Operations Impact on Subsequent Commercial Development: The petitioner presented aerial photography of the Vulcan McCool quarry that existed at the time of development of an adjacent shopping center, and stated that the shopping center currently has 100% occupancy.

Hours of Operation: The petitioner stated that it would abide by the County’s ordinance that sets the hours of operation at 0600-1900 from 04.01 to 11.01 and 0600-1800 from 11.02 to 03.31. Hours may be extended during a “public emergency” upon issuance of same by the County Highway Engineer.

Staff presented correspondence from IDOT dated 03.16.04 that notified Aux Sable


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Stone Co. that its 2004 inspection passed, indicating their aggregate gradation limits are acceptable and is classified as a “certified aggregate source” under IDOT’s Aggregate Gradation Control System. This may refute the petitioner’s 09.29.04 claim that the Aux Sable quarry was not “IDOT quality” as required by IDOT for being able to provide road making materials.

RPC Questions to the Petitioner: Larry Nelson asked how the proposed quarry location received the quality and amount of limestone indicated in the Petitioner’s study. Art Pincomb noted that this parcel has “Class A” material. Nelson responded that the submitted maps may address the general location of dolomite limestone in the Chicago area but they do not address the thickness of the high-quality dolomite vs. the amount of “chert” [non-aggregate] or amount of [lower grade] “limestone”.

A discussion ensued between PBZ staff and the petitioner on the interpretation of “highest and best use”. Petitioner’s Real Estate Appraiser Mike McCann presented a land sales study for agricultural property alone Route 37 from I-80 in Morris, IL to the Wisconsin border. RPC Chair Randy Mohr stated that the “highest and best use’ is not always financially driven.

Annette Hattner questioned the direct economic impact of the quarry on tax receipts such as property and sales tax. The petitioner responded that “99%” of the sales would be to contractors and thus exempt from sales tax. [There was nothing in the record as to the property tax question.]

PBZ Staff continues to have a concern about the proposed location atop a watershed divide. Illinois drainage law prohibits cross-watershed water transfers.

Public Comments: Ralph LeGrand – traffic flow issues and stated that Historic Route 66 near the McCook quarry was closed due to the damage caused by heavy truck traffic. Petitioners Attorney Bob Britz responded that the laws have changed and that the petitioner has an obligation to see that the roads are maintained. Karen Kyrouac – restated her property value concerns. Henry Babson – quarry life cycle issues. Melissa Barnhart – attorney representing several adjacent property owners – pipeline safety issues. RPC Chair Randy Mohr asked the petitioner to get this issue settled in writing prior to the 12.08.04 RPC meeting. Barnhart also asked if there are any IDNR issues regarding the Boughton quarry. The petitioner responded that there is a pending case but does not know the status of it. Bob Friestad – traffic study of Joliet Road. Karla Stacy – traffic safety. Kris Swenson - farmland preservation. Dick Wagner – “strategic planning specialist” – supported Ms. Swenson’s comments and stated that the rich productive soils of this region need to be kept in production.

Larry Nelson asked whether the site could be returned to productive farmland when the soil has been stripped and the reserves depleted. Petitioner Robert Furlong responded that this can be done and is being done in two other locations.

Annette Hattner asked whether the petitioner is making a financial commitment to the road improvement to Sherrill Road and Route 47. The petitioner stated it is and the estimated cost of the improvement is in the $250,000 - $500,000 range.

The public meeting was recessed until 6:30 pm December 8, 2004.


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KCRPC

(12.08.04)

This is the continuation of the recessed public meeting from October 19, 2004.

RPC Chairman Randy Mohr received correspondence dated 11.01.045 from Mike Sitterly, president of The Western Sand and Gravel Company of Spring Valley, IL – the company which operates the Aux Sable Stone Quarry. The letter disputes the testimony of Petitioner’s Geologic Site Appraiser Art Pincomb on the submitted market study and analysis of the quality of material produced at the Aux Sable quarry. This letter was entered into the record.

In response, Pincomb stated that the Aux Sable quarry was included in the report as part of the market study that produced “a good quality of stone”. In response to Larry Nelson’s question about market competition, Pincomb stated that “with competition, costs could be controlled.”

Claire Wilson asked the petitioner if they had reviewed the report from the County’s consulting geologic expert, Dr. William Lang, which raised questions regarding the geology of the area. Petitioner’s Civil Engineer, Gordon Stephens of Patrick Engineering, stated that he had read Dr. Lang’s report and that an “extensive” hydrogeologic study was performed and the study confirmed that the permeability of the site was consistent. Stephens also indicated that potential fracture areas were identified. The petitioner does not anticipate any impact to surrounding water wells but, if such an impact were to arise that the petitioner would cover the costs of restoring the water to the impacted wells.

Correspondence was received from the City of Morris. The City states that commercial developers are attracted to the City by its centralized location 20 miles north of Dwight – 20 miles west of Joliet – 20 miles south of Yorkville – and 20 miles east of Ottawa. The City’s comprehensive land use plan called for Route 47 to be developed as a commercial corridor. The City’s planning area extends north to Minooka Road, 1 mile south of the subject site.

Strand Associates outlined its engineering concerns and listed 14 items that are still outstanding as of this time. Strand’s primary concern is the proposed diversion of stormwater runoff across watershed divides. Jim Pore of Prairie Materials met with the adjoining neighbors and stated that the drainage design – which Pore said was similar to the drainage design at its Pontiac, IL facility – met with the approval of the neighbors.

There being no further comments, Nelson/Ashton moved to approve Petition 04-40. The motion failed by a 1-9 vote, with all RPC members voted in the negative except for member Wilson. [NOTE: A copy of the minutes of the three RPC meetings is attached to this report.) The main reasons for the failure of the motion are as follows:

• The petitioner did not establish the needs for the product as required in the Land Resource Management Plan.

• Faulting on the site presents a risk to groundwater supply.• The watershed issue is not being fully addressed.• Prime farmland should be protected.• The highest and best use of the land is agriculture.


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ZBA

(02.15.05)After entering into the record Volumes 1-3 of the Application Submittals, the Addendum to the Submittals, the Preliminary Review of the Submittal documents by Dr. William Lang, Ph. D., the County’s consulting geologic engineer, the decision in Peart et. al v. County of Kendall (93-MR-23, a/k/a the “Feltes” decision), the staff report prepared by PBZ staff, all minutes of the proceedings of the Lisbon Township Plan Commission and Lisbon Township Board, Kendall County Regional Planning Commission, and a publication called “Illinois Drainage Law” from the University of Illinois, State’s Attorney Tim McCann swore in all those who wished to testify at this public hearing.

Refer to the unapproved minutes of this meeting, which are included as an attachment to this report. This portion of the public hearing consisted of the following:

1. The petitioners presented their case. 2. The petitioners responded to questions from ZBA members.

Martin/McKay unanimous to recess the public hearing until March 1, 2005 at 6:30 pm in the County Board Room.

ZBA

(03.01.05)Refer to the unapproved minutes of this meeting, which are included as an attachment to this report. This portion of the public hearing consisted of the following:

1. The petitioners responded to questions from ZBA members. 2. Cross-examination of the petitioners by attorney’s representing legal

objectors to the map amendment.

Martin/Cryder unanimous to recess the public hearing until March 21, 2005 at 6:30 pm in the County Board Room.

ZBA

(03.21.05)Refer to the unapproved minutes of this meeting, which are included as an attachment to this report. This portion of the public hearing consisted of the following:

1. Testimony from the public.2. Testimony from Mike Waldron, P. E. of Strand Associates, the County’s

consulting civil engineer.3. Testimony from William Lang, Ph. D., P. G., the County’s consulting geologic

engineer.4. Cross-examination of Lang by the Petitioners’ Attorney.5. Rebuttal witnesses called by the Petitioners’ Attorney.6. Closing arguments by the Petitioner.7. Closing arguments by the Legal Objectors.

McKay/Friedrich unanimous to recess the public hearing until April 4, 2005 at 7:00 pm for a final recommendatory vote by the ZBA.

ZBA

(04.04.05)

Due to a conflict of interest, Chairman Bill Ford stated he would abstain from voting.

The following FINDINGS OF FACT questions for MAP AMENDMENTS were asked and voted upon by the ZBA:

1. Are the proposed uses compatible with existing uses nearby? NO 4-2 (Reinert, Martin)


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2. Is the proposed district compatible with existing districts nearby? TIE 3-3 (Reinert, Martin, Cryder YES; Friedrich, Stees, McKay NO)

3. Is the site physically suited for the proposed uses? NO 5-1 (Martin)4. Is the proposed district compatible with the trend of development nearby? NO 4-2

(Reinert, Martin)5. Is the proposed amendment in the public interest? NO 4-2 (Reinert, Martin)

After the FINDINGS OF FACT were determined, Martin/Stees 2-4 (Friedrich, Cryder, McKay, Stees) to recommend approval of the petitioners’ request for map amendment. The motion failed.

Refer to the unapproved minutes of this meeting, which are included in this report as an attachment, for the reasons cited by each member for their vote.

CONCLUSION A map amendment is a legislative act of the County Board. As such, the Boardcan weigh in on public opinion in the decision and is not 100% bound by a quasi-judicial findings process. This is especially important when the amendment changes the zoning designation to an industry-specific “M-3”, since by granting the map amendment the Board is signaling its willingness to consider issuing the mine operations permit.

RECOMMENDATION As outlined in the minutes and summarized within the staff report, both the Regional Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals found that they could not support the requested rezoning to M-3 for the reasons indicated in their analysis of the request and the motions which are part of the case record.

At this point in the process, staff is not making a recommendation on the map amendment. The reason for the unusual level of staff ambivalence on this issue is that, based on the record to date, arguments can be made both to support and to deny the zoning map amendment.

Given that Kendall County is the 2nd-fastest growing county [in rate of growth] in the United States, and that the “collar counties” around Chicago are also experiencing a level of growth, the need for aggregate to service this growth can not be denied. Quarries tend to congregate in a particular location not due to economies of scale, but due to the location of the underground material to be extracted. As well, the petitioner operate several quarries in the region and has the financial wherewithal to operate the proposed quarry in a quality manner consistent with the expectations of the community. Finally, the petitioner has demonstrated a sensitivity to the issues surrounding the negative externalities common with quarry operations and has indicated a willingness to utilize its operations experience to mitigate – if not obviate – these externalities.

On the other hand, It is clear from the evidence and testimony presented to date that the solutions to these negative externalities will only be revealed after the granting of a zoning map amendment. Of concern to the PBZ staff is the question of whether the underlying strata and deposits contain factures that could potentially have a significant impact of the groundwater resources in this area. In addition, while the County’s engineering consultants agree that the initial plan for discharging run-off and ground water from this site is the most practical, it would appear to be in conflict with a strict interpretation of Illinois Drainage Law.


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The County mining ordinance and the State of Illinois and Kendall County permitting process require mechanisms to be in place to offset the impacts of traffic, dust, noise, vibration and to insure appropriate reclamation of the site. However, as previously indicated, the specifics on how those impacts will be offset are not known at this time. If a major issue comes up afterward that can not be overcome that prevents the petitioner from obtaining the necessary mining operations permit, the county and the petitioner would be left with 120 acres of M-3 zoning that is un-useable.

At this time it is unclear whether a county, in the exercise of its zoning authority, can put an effective date on a zoning map amendment. The answer to that question may cause the level of staff ambivalence on this issue to dissipate.

Given that the issues associated with potential fractures, groundwater and surface water run-off will likely not be able to be addressed until the permit stage, staff is providing the Board with an analysis of the factors listed in the Section 13.06.F of the zoning ordinance which are based on the LaSalle/Sinclair factors that are traditionally used in developing a finding of fact in making recommendations on zoning requests. The actual factors contained in our ordinance for making a finding of fact on a zoning map amendment are listed below and are cross-referenced with the corresponding LaSalle/Sinclair factors. For the record it should be noted that LaSalle/Sinclair includes two additional factors not directly addressed in the County’s finding of fact. The analysis is being offered provides both an argument for granting the amendment as well as one for denial.

If the County Board, after reviewing the record at the time of the decision, finds that the petitioner has adequately demonstrated that there is a clear need for the use and that the related environmental and health, safety and welfare issues have been adequately addressed, it should vote to approve the request for map amendment from A-1 to M-3.

Factors that can be used by the County Board in support of the map amendment:

SEC 13.06.F.1: Existing uses of property within the general area of the property in question. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Existing uses and zoning of the property.An examination of the Kendall County Zoning Map will show that the existing uses and the zoning of nearby property is predominantly agricultural with the exception of the two existing mining operations northwest of the proposed site and a small B-3 parcel at the northeast corner of Illinois Route 47 and Whitewillow Road. Of the two existing mines, one was granted by Court order while the other property is zoned M-2. The presence of the two existing mining operations and an M-2 district in close proximity to the proposed site establishes this area as a suitable location for the extraction of limestone and similar minerals and an M-3 designation.

SEC 13.06.F.2: The zoning classification of property within the general area of the property in question. While it is true that over 90% of the property within 1.5 miles of the outer perimeter of the subject parcel is zoned A-1 Agricultural, rarely are quarries sited on land already zoned for quarries as an allowed or permitted use. In virtually each instance, acreage


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proposed for a quarry has a pre-existing zoning classification that needs amending to allow for the quarry usage. Testimony in the record indicates that there is a higher compatibility of quarry operations with agricultural operations that with residential and/or commercial uses. In most situations, the existing zoning classification for the land proposed for a quarry is agricultural.

LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Extent to which property values are diminished by particular zoning restrictions.

In general, agriculturally zoned properties rank relatively low on the continuum of land uses. In contrast, commercially zoned properties rank toward the top end of the scale and are certainly considered to have a higher value. Properties in close proximity to commercial uses or nearby areas in which the trend of development is more commercial in nature often have higher values than properties far removed from the influence of commercial or non-residential development. While the county’s M-3 district is very specific and contains a very limited range of uses, it can not be denied that an industrial zoning designation would typically rank higher in terms of value when compared against an agriculturally zoned property. Therefore it could be argued that the proposed use could have a positive impact on land values in the immediate area.

LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Relative gain to the public as compared to the hardship of the individual property owner. There can be no question that Kendall County is experiencing an increasing rate of development. As can be evidenced and documented with the growth of such counties as DuPage, Will, Kane and the other collar counties within the Chicagoland area, growth and development brings with it an increase in demand for natural resources to fulfill the needs of a wide variety of construction projects. Foundations for buildings and the need to upgrade, widen and construct new roadways to serve the increasing population and employment base will definitely create a demand for aggregate as noted in the studies supplied by the applicant in support of their petition. Having an adequate supply of aggregate within reasonable proximity of the area generating the demand could be viewed as being in the public’s interest by minimizing the distance the material has to be transported which does have an impact on cost.

SEC 13.06.F.3: The suitability of the property in question for the uses permitted under the existing zoning classification. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Suitability of the property for the zoned purposes. While it is true that the LE score and existing use of the property (row crop production) demonstrates that the property is certainly suitable for agricultural uses under its existing A-1 (Agricultural) zoning classification, it could also be argued that the proposed zoning is equally suitable. As demonstrated in the geologic reports submitted as part of the supporting documentation as part of the rezoning request, a significant deposit of dolomitic limestone is present in the subsurface strata at a depth of anywhere from eight to thirty-seven feet of the surface. On average 15 feet was the depth most commonly encountered based on the nine brings reported in the appraisal report (Tab 7 Volume I). The presence of this resource within the immediate area is also evidenced by the presence of the two existing mining operations within a mile of the project location. That fact coupled with the limited population density found in the surrounding area and relatively close proximity to Route 47 seem to favor the placement of this type of use at this location. Given that blasting operations will be associated with this use, having the site located away from


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more densely populated areas could be seen as beneficial and would likely have less impact on the public. In addition the vehicles transporting the materials will need to be in close proximity to transportation facilities that can support not only the volume of truck traffic anticipated but also the weight of the vehicles involved in transporting the aggregate. Given that Route 47 is located within a half mile of the proposed project, is an existing state highway, and is identified on the County’s Transportation component of the LRMP as an arterial roadway designed to handle this type of traffic, it would appear that the proposed site could be argued to be suitable for the zoning that is proposed.

SEC 13.06.F.4: The trend of development, if any, in the general area of the property in question, including changes, if any, which may have taken place since the day the property in question was in its present zoning classification. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall not recommend the adoption of a proposed amendment unless it finds that the adoption of such an amendment is in the public interest and is not solely for the interest of the applicant. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: The evidence or lack of evidence of community need for the use proposed. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Does the restriction have a basis in public health, safety, and welfare?An argument could be made that locating the use in this particular location within close proximity to two existing mining operations is placing the use in an area already exposed to the impacts of noise, vibration dust and wastewater being generated within a more compact and centralized zone as opposed to disbursing them throughout the County where those impacts could potential be spread over a broader area. In addition, locating the mine in close proximity to the two existing operations where the population is less dense and is planned for retention of low density agricultural uses could be seen as plus again by confining the impacts from blasting to areas and uses that contain less population and fewer structures. The argument could also be made that increasing the availability of aggregate would be a convenience to residents.

The petitioner has supplied information concerning the growth projections for the County and has cited this as evidence that there is a demand for this particular use and product As indicated in the preceding discussion, there is no question given the level of current and projected level of growth and construction activity that there is a need for building and engineering materials such as limestone and limestone related products. It should be noted that the issue of whether or not the creation or establishment of this use will impact the economic success of this or any other similar use or operation should not be taken into consideration in reaching this decision. The basis should be clearly restricted to the issue of need within the community.

While it is true that the vast majority of the area within 1.5 miles of the subject parcel is zoned A-1, and it is true that the major non-agricultural activities – commercial quarries – were in one case in operation prior to the adoption of the zoning ordinance and in the other case imposed via court order, the trend of development still favors the request for map amendment. Quarries prefer to be sited as far away from the potential for non-agricultural development as practicable. This is due to the fact that the negative externalities associated with the daily operations of a quarry would be experienced by fewer adjacent property owners, as well as potential future non-agricultural uses being less likely to conflict with the mining operation. The subject site is 6 miles north of Morris, 10 miles south of Yorkville, and 10 miles west of


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Minooka. To the west, while Lisbon is less than 3 miles away, the Village is actively pursuing annexation of commercial quarries in order to earn a “tipping fee” for much-needed infrastructure improvements. In other words, residential development of the kind and scale presently experienced in the aforementioned municipalities, as well as the northern ½ of unincorporated Kendall County, are years – if not decades – away.

SEC 13.06.F.5: Consistency with the spirit of the Land Resource Management Plan and other adopted County or municipal plans and policies. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: The care in which the community has undertaken to plan its land use development. The County has stressed the importance through out its LRMP of managing its natural resources and minimizing conflicts between non-compatible land uses. Compact development is encouraged that encourages higher density residential and larger more intensive commercial and industrial development to take place within or adjacent to existing municipal areas Within Section Three “Planning Goals and Objectives”, under the heading “Natural Resources – Land” the LRMP indicates the County should “identify and conserve areas of mineral resources to assure continued availability of building and engineering materials.” Later on in this same section under the Heading “Economy of the Area” it states that the plan should “protect prime mineral extraction areas from encroachment by incompatible uses” and later in this same section “protect other land uses from negative impacts of mineral extraction and heavy industry through appropriate siting and adequate screening and buffering.” While mineral resources are typically considered natural resources, the plan does not specifically include or reference mineral deposits in this overall heading. Flood plain, water recharge areas wetlands, prairies savannahs and significant concentrations of woodlands are however included.

In addition, the plan includes summaries regarding each of the nine townships. To date more detailed sub-area plans have been developed for eight of the nine townships. Under the current text of the Lisbon township summary addressing existing land use, it states “Productive farm land constitutes most of the undeveloped area except a sizeable concentration of limestone located in the Township.” Under the “Future Land Use” component of the summary, it states “Limited commercial and light industrial development can be accommodated along the major highways of Route 47 & Route 52. Agricultural related business development is encouraged. Mining activity may be permissible depending upon the need for product in the area and the impact on the environment.” Lisbon is the only Township in which the issue of mining or as a land use is mentioned as a potential use. It could therefore be argued that while the plan does not show a specific location for this type of use, it does recognize that the potential exists to allow for and accommodate mining operations. By identifying it as an agricultural area on the plan but indicating within the text that some mining limited commercial and manufacturing uses may be appropriate in certain areas of the township provided certain safeguards are in place, the County is accomplishing the goal of preserving this resource from the unwanted encroachment of development which might jeopardize the ability to access the resource in the future. In addition showing the area as agricultural places the land in a category that prevents the encroachment of other uses that could create conflicts and which could be considered incompatible with mining (i.e. residential or more heavily concentrated suburban development) Therefore the County has carefully planned for the accommodation of such uses within this area and an argument could be, given the text of the plan, that the request could be supported. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


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On the other hand, if the County Board finds that the petitioner has not demonstrated a clear and compelling need for the request and has not adequately addressed the environmental and health, safety and welfare issues, it should vote to deny the request for map amendment from A-1 to M-3.

Factors that can be used by the County Board in support of denial of the map amendment:

13.06.F.1: Existing uses of property within the general area of the property in question. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Existing uses and zoning of the property.An examination of the Kendall County Zoning Map and the Kendall County Land Resource Management Plan (LRMP) will show that the existing uses and the zoning of nearby property is almost exclusively agricultural. The only exceptions are existing mining operations and a small B-3 parcel at the northeast corner of Illinois Route 47 and Whitewillow Road. The record to date indicates that there is a difference of opinion on the level of compatibility of agricultural and mining activity in close proximity to each other. This, at a minimum, suggests that the potential exists for conflicts between the two uses.

SEC 13.06.F.2: The zoning classification of property within the general area of the property in question. Within 1.5 miles of the outer perimeter of the subject parcel, over 90% of the land is zoned A-1 Agricultural. The two existing quarries do not exist due to an affirmative act of the County to grant zoning consistent with a mining operation. Central Limestone existed prior to the initial adoption of a county zoning ordinance, and Valley Run is in operation by benefit of a court order.

LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Extent to which property values are diminished by particular zoning restrictions.Certainly, any land that is zoned for earth extraction will always be more valuable than land zoned for agricultural use. Bear in mind that agricultural use is the lowest rung in the continuum of land uses, with M zoning the highest rung. No matter who the current property owner ultimately sells the property to, they will realize a capital gain. Moreover, the very thing that makes the property valuable is the underlying geology. Certainly the value of the underlying geology is what is driving the purchase price and it can not be disputed that if the seller sold the parcel for agricultural uses the price would diminish. Just because the seller has found a buyer that will pay an inflated price for agricultural land does not mean that the buyer should be permitted to develop the land in a manner that is entirely inconsistent with contiguous land uses, zoning ordinances and local land use plans.

LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Relative gain to the public as compared to the hardship of the individual property owner. With respect to the matter of the hardship imposed on the individual property in relation to the relative gain to the public, this issue is difficult to quantify. While there is no question Weitendorf would likely obtain a greater monetary benefit from the sale of the property if it were rezoned from A-1 to M-3, we fail to see a specific hardship in this case. Furthermore, presumed amount of economic loss or gain to an individual property owner is not a valid basis for considering the merits of a request.

As for Prairie Materials, the firm would suffer no hardship whatsoever if the map


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amendment is denied. They do not own the property and would not be stuck with the property, unable to develop it as they wish. The seller would simply find another buyer, perhaps at a lower price as outlined above, but would suffer no significant hardship. There would be no relative gain to the public. There is no evidence of need for a limestone quarry of this nature to service the community needs of Kendall County. An existing quarry, operating under a court order, needs to demonstrate a community need – a market – for additional aggregate in order to expand its operations. As of the date of this report, that demonstration has yet to be made in front of the presiding judicial authority.

SEC 13.06.F.3: The suitability of the property in question for the uses permitted under the existing zoning classification.LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Suitability of the property for the zoned purposes. As mentioned earlier in this report, the subject parcel has a LESA score of 240, indicating a high level of protection. The County has a tradition of protecting prime agricultural land from non-agricultural uses. This tradition is even more important to maintain given the high rate of conversion of prime agricultural land to residential uses. Maintaining the existing zoning also maintains the sanctity of the groundwater for human consumption. Finally, agricultural land is a valuable resource in and of itself and is worthy of protection.

SEC 13.06.F.4: The trend of development, if any, in the general area of the property in question, including changes, if any, which may have taken place since the day the property in question was in its present zoning classification. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall not recommend the adoption of a proposed amendment unless it finds that the adoption of such an amendment is in the public interest and is not solely for the interest of the applicant. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: The evidence or lack of evidence of community need for the use proposed. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: Does the restriction have a basis in public health, safety, and welfare?Absolutely the proposed use can be viewed as potentially having an adverse impact on public health, safety and welfare. The record indicates some controversy over the geologic suitability of the subject parcel for the proposed use. To date, the petitioner has not performed underground fracture studies that would give solace to those who fear the “dewatering” of the underground aquifer by the proposed use, thereby potentially creating the need for an expensive community water service for those property owners relying on the water supplied by the invaded aquifer. As well, the potential for exposure of the aquifer to air will increase evaporation and possible pollution of the natural resource. Finally, while the level of additional vehicular traffic is minimal, the speed differential between large, slow-moving commercial vehicles and normal passenger vehicle traffic can create a safety hazard at Sherrill Road and Route 52.

The petitioner states [Tab 8, p. 4] “the population in Kendall, Grundy, LaSalle, Will, DeKalb, and Kane Counties will increase by 1,000,000 by the year 2030……employment will increase by more than 500,000…traffic will increase 76% by 2030……”. The petitioner states that as a determination of need for the aggregate. However, there is no evidence in the submittal that the needs of the Kendall County community demand additional aggregate; or that the existing use of the property in agricultural production is somehow not needed in Kendall County. The petitioner’s definition of “community” appears somewhat subjective and was defined to place the subject parcel in the center of that area for business reasons and not for the altruistic


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motive of supplying Kendall County with an adequate supply of dolomite. If the subject area was defined as Kendall, LaSalle, Grundy, Livingston, and Bureau Counties, it is suspected that the need for aggregate in that “community” would be much less.

Simply put, there IS no “trend of development” in this area. Other than the Village of Lisbon – which can’t provide a level of services required for municipal development – there are no municipalities within 6 miles of the subject site in a position to service it with sewer and water service. This is an agricultural area and has been zoned that way – with the occasional commercial zoning – since the advent of zoning. The petitioners’ claim that the existing zoning for Valley Run and Central Limestone establish a precedent that should be honored with their request for map amendment. The fact that Central Limestone was in operation prior to adoption of the first zoning ordinance, and that Valley Run Quarry operates under benefit of a court order, indicates that the County never made an affirmative act of granting zoning for those uses and, in fact, followed the desires of the residents of the affected township in maintaining the zoning as agricultural.

SEC 13.06.F.5: Consistency with the spirit of the Land Resource Management Plan and other adopted County or municipal plans and policies. LA SALLE/SINCLAIR: The care in which the community has undertaken to plan its land use development. Kendall County initially adopted a LRMP in 1994. Since that time it has been amended several times to reflect the evolving nature of the growth patterns in the County, and in response to the intensification of land uses within the municipalities in and near the County. In the current LRMP, two of the stated policy goals [p. 2-2] are “While it is physically and economically feasible to farm and live a farm life, most residents prefer to see agricultural lands remain intact and protected from urbanization and penetration by non-agricultural activities” and “Protection of the County’s rural character is critical to maintaining the quality of life within Kendall County.” While it is true that there are other policy goals that would indicate a desire for additional employment opportunities, it can not be inferred that the County has no discretion in determining which employment opportunities are appropriate and in keeping with the image the County wants to project for itself. This is especially true when it relates to land use at entrances to the County, where the initial image of the County is burned into the memory of those entering its jurisdiction. There can be no question that the County has undertaken a thoughtful effort in keeping its LRMP up to date. Not only has the County planned its land use development with great care, it is abundantly evident that the map amendment proposed by Prairie Materials does not fit. There is nothing on the LRMP map that would indicate or allow anyone to predict that the subject parcel was intended to be used in a manner sought by Prairie. While it is true that existing aggregate quarries operate to the northwest of the subject parcel, and that there exists a vein of limestone underneath the subject parcel, it does not follow that the mere presence of aggregate automatically entitles a petitioner a property right to a zoning classification consistent with the extraction of said aggregate. Given the level of thought and foresight the County has given to its planning process, it can be reasonably deduced that a clear demonstration of need by County residents would need to found. In this case, the record does not indicate the need exists in Kendall County for additional aggregate.

ATTACHMENTS1. Volumes I, II, III of the Application Submittals (Previously Supplied to PBZ/COW)2. Addendum of the Application Submittals (Previously Supplied to PBZ/COW)


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3. Minutes from Lisbon Twp dated 08.10.04 and 09.18.044. Minutes from the Regional Planning Commission public meeting of 09.29.04, 10.19.04, and 12.08.045. Minutes from the Zoning Board of Appeals public hearing of 02.15.05, 03.01.05, 03.21.05, & 04.04.056. Preliminary Review by William J. Lang, Ph. D., P. G., Consulting Geologic Engineer of the County7. Illinois Drainage Law publication


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pbz 04 40 (04.28.05)

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