ORDINANCE NO. 2024-O-012

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE VILLAGE OF MOKENA CODE OF ORDINANCES, SECTION 9-8-3-1 RELATING TO ZONING DISTRICTS AND SPECIAL USE PERMITS FOR RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES

WHEREAS, the Village of Mokena recognizes the need for residential care homes that provide essential services to various populations in need of care, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and others requiring special assistance; and

WHEREAS, the appropriate placement of small and large residential care homes within the Village is vital to ensure that such facilities integrate well with existing neighborhoods and do not adversely impact the character, traffic, safety, and welfare of the residents; and

WHEREAS, the current zoning regulations of the Village of Mokena do not adequately address the unique considerations associated with the operation and location of residential care homes, necessitating an amendment to provide clearer guidance and standards; and

WHEREAS, the Village of Mokena seeks to promote a balanced and inclusive approach to housing and care options within the Village, ensuring accessibility and quality of life for all residents while maintaining neighborhood stability and harmony; and

WHEREAS, the adoption of Special Use Permits for residential care homes in specified zoning districts allows for a more tailored and thoughtful approach to their integration, providing opportunities for public input and detailed review of each proposal;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mokena, Illinois, as follows:

Section 1. Title 9, Chapter 8, Section 9-8-3-1 of the Village of Mokena Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to read as follows:

9-8-3-1: SPECIAL USE PERMITS FOR RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES:

A. Small Residential Care Homes:

Small Residential Care Homes are defined as residential care facilities designed to accommodate five or fewer residents exclusive of caregiving staff.

Small Residential Care Homes require a Special Use Permit to operate within the following zoning districts: Estate (E-1), Single-Family Residential (R-1), Two-Family Residential (R-2), Multi-Family Residential (R-3), Mixed Residential (R-4), General Residential (R-5), and High Density Residential (R-6).

B. Large Residential Care Homes:

Large Residential Care Homes are defined as residential care facilities designed to accommodate more than six to ten residents exclusive of caregiving staff.

Large Residential Care Homes are only allowed within the following zoning districts by Special Use Permit: Estate (E-1), General Residential (R-5), and High Density Residential (R-6).

Section 2. Application for a Special Use Permit for both Small and Large Residential Care Homes shall be made to the Village's Planning and Zoning Commission in accordance with the procedures established in the Village of Mokena Code of Ordinances.

Section 3. The Planning and Zoning Commission shall review the application in consideration of the Village’s comprehensive plan, existing Village needs, and potential impacts on the surrounding area. Recommendations for approval or denial will be forwarded to the Village Board for a final decision.

Section 4. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage, approval, and publication in accordance with the law.

Section 5. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.

PASSED this 8th day of April, 2024, by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Mokena, Will County, Illinois.

Ayes:    5

Nays:    0

Absent:   1

APPROVED this 8th day of April, 2024.

Village President

ATTEST:

Village Clerk