St. Charles Committee Approves Historic Demolition, Affordable Housing Funding, and SSA Establishment

Introduction

On May 12, 2025, the St. Charles Planning & Development Committee convened to address several important community and development matters. Key discussions included the demolition of the historic Judge Barry House at 217 Cedar Avenue, the allocation of funds from the Housing Trust Fund for affordable housing, and the creation of a dormant Special Service Area (SSA) for stormwater pond maintenance. Updates on Whole Foods’ upcoming store opening and potential regulations for short-term rentals were also provided.

Historic Demolition of Judge Barry House

The most debated item was the demolition request for 217 Cedar Avenue, a historic property on Landmarks Illinois’ 2025 Most Endangered Historic Places list. The house, tied to Judge William D. Berry and Civil War-era history, had significant preservation advocates.

Key Details

• Church Ownership: Baker Memorial United Methodist Church proposed demolition due to financial and structural challenges, offering to sell the property for $1 if someone could relocate the house.

• Public Input: Residents and preservation groups voiced both support and opposition, emphasizing the house’s historical significance versus practical redevelopment needs.

• Decision: The committee approved the Demolition Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) in a 5-3 vote, incorporating a 90-day voluntary delay to allow potential relocation offers. During this period, any city citations for the property are paused.

Action Items:

• Staff: Integrate the 90-day delay into the COA ordinance.

• Church: Actively market the house for relocation and evaluate legitimate offers.

Affordable Housing Funding

The committee unanimously approved a $500,000 allocation from the St. Charles Housing Trust Fund to the Kane County Affordable Housing Fund.

Details:

• The current Housing Trust Fund balance is $1.6 million.

• Funds aim to support affordable housing projects throughout Kane County.

Establishment of Dormant SSA Number 71

The committee also voted unanimously to establish Dormant Special Service Area (SSA) Number 71 for Monhal Glenn to fund stormwater pond maintenance.

Action Items:

• Staff: Provide information on active SSAs and levy collections.

• Next Steps: Set a public hearing date for formal establishment.

Other Updates and Community Announcements

Short-Term Rentals / Airbnb

Committee members requested staff research potential regulations for short-term rentals, with recommendations to be presented at a future meeting.

Whole Foods Store Opening

Staff confirmed that Whole Foods received a temporary occupancy permit and is actively hiring, with over 1,000 applicants for 50 positions. An official opening date is expected by the end of May.

Community Events

• Recognition of National Police Week (May 11-17), including a charity basketball game and a “Cop on a Rooftop” event benefiting Special Olympics Illinois.

• “Ride Your Bike to Work Day” scheduled for Friday, May 16th.

Conclusion

The May 12th meeting highlighted St. Charles’ efforts to balance historic preservation, affordable housing initiatives, and infrastructure planning. While the demolition of the Judge Barry House remains controversial, provisions for relocation provide an opportunity to preserve this landmark elsewhere. Additionally, the Housing Trust Fund allocation and SSA establishment reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to community development and environmental stewardship.