St. Charles Approves Porch Plan Amid Development

The St. Charles Plan Commission convened on October 24, 2024, to discuss multiple residential development projects, including Mhal Glen PUD, River 504 Townhomes, and Emblem of St Charles. The meeting focused on amendments to residential design, neighborhood impacts, and concept plan feedback for large-scale developments.

Approval of Meeting Minutes

The session opened with a roll call and pledge of allegiance, followed by the approval of the September 17th meeting minutes, formalizing the record for the prior session.

Mhal Glen PUD Amendment: Rear Porch Encroachment

The commission reviewed a planned unit development amendment to allow rear porch encroachments.

Key Decisions:

• Recommendation Approved: 10-foot porch encroachment for most lots

• Southern Lots (5-20): Limited to 8-foot porch encroachment (both enclosed and unenclosed) to minimize impacts on neighboring properties

Action Items for Applicant (Airheart Construction):

• Revise plans for Lots 5-20 to reflect the 8-foot limit

Discussion Highlights:

• Commissioners focused on neighboring property impacts and design consistency

• Public comments were supportive of the adjusted encroachment limits

This decision balances design flexibility for homeowners with protection of existing neighborhoods.

River 504 Townhomes: Concept Plan Review

The commission conducted an informal review of the River 504 Townhomes concept plan.

Key Feedback for J&B Builders:

• Continue existing brick paver streetscape along S First Street

• Position building facades closer to First Street to strengthen the “street wall”

• Incorporate parkway separation along Cobblestone Drive

Notes:

• No formal approvals were granted at this stage; the discussion served as guidance for revisions

• Focus was on residential character, streetscape, and community integration

This step ensures that the development aligns with urban design standards before submission of a preliminary plan.

Emblem of St Charles: Concept Plan Review

The Emblem of St Charles project proposes 288 apartments and 72 townhomes on land transitioning from commercial to residential zoning.

Key Feedback for Cortera/Lennar:

• Adjust site plan for fire department access and connectivity between townhomes and multifamily units

• Explore paths around retention ponds and optimize detention pond placement

• Engage with Prairie Winds Apartments for pedestrian access to regional paths

• Consider reconfiguring buildings for better integration with surrounding properties

• Formulate shared maintenance agreements for detention basins

• Conduct traffic studies for Route 38 and Meyer access road due to potential vehicle volume

Notes:

• Commission emphasized pedestrian connectivity, safety, and green space integration

• Suggested the applicants return for further concept review if substantial changes occur

This project represents a significant residential expansion along Randall Road and is intended to enhance housing variety and community amenities.

Important Notes and Meeting Highlights

• Agenda Order Changed: Mhal Glen PUD discussed first, followed by River 504 Townhomes, then Emblem of St Charles

• Community Engagement: Public input supported adjusted porch limits at Mhal Glen

• Residential Design Emphasis: Commission focused on streetscape, pedestrian access, and site connectivity

Action Items Summary

Project	Action Item
Mhal Glen PUD	Revise plans to reflect 8-foot porch limit for southern lots
River 504 Townhomes	Consider streetscape, street wall, and parkway separation improvements
Emblem of St Charles	Adjust site plan, detention ponds, pedestrian access, and traffic study; potential return for review

Conclusion

The October 24 Plan Commission meeting demonstrated St. Charles’ careful oversight of residential growth. By approving Mhal Glen porch amendments and providing detailed feedback for River 504 and Emblem projects, the commission ensures that new developments enhance neighborhood character, maintain safety, and integrate thoughtfully with surrounding communities. Residents can expect well-planned housing expansions that balance design, functionality, and connectivity.