(A) Facility and service adequacy. Before approving any density increase, the Village Board must determine that the increased density can be supported by existing and planned public facilities and services.
(B) General public benefit. The maximum allowable residential density of the subject zoning district may be increased by up to 10% above the maximum density allowed by the subject zoning district if the Village Board determines that such an increase is warranted to support the public benefit likely to result from the proposed development.
(C) Sustainability.
(1) If the developer commits to attainment of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design – Neighborhood Development (LEED-ND) certification or an equivalent or higher level of sustainability as certified by a village-approved accreditation organization, the Village Board may allow the maximum residential density of the subject zoning district to be increased above the maximum density allowed by the subject zoning district, in accordance with the following table.
LEED Certification Level | Maximum Allowable Density Increase |
Certified | 10% |
Silver | 15% |
Gold | 20% |
Platinum | 25% |
(2) Because sustainable or “green” project certifications cannot occur until after development is completed, any density bonuses granted must be based on the developer’s good faith commitment to achievement of the applicable sustainability level.
(a) The developer (applicant) must submit a binding letter of intent that communicates his or her commitment to achievement of the required sustainability level.
(b) The village will then issue subsequent approvals based on this commitment.
(c) A letter of credit, other village-approved financial guarantee or other reliable method must be established by the Village Board at the time of approval to ensure ultimate compliance with the required sustainability level.
(d) Any forfeited financial guarantees and all penalties collected must be contributed to a green building fund dedicated to supporting market adoption of green building practices.
(Ord. 2015-08, § 16.04, passed 6-23-2015)