St. Charles City Council Meeting September 9, 2022: River East Lofts Rejected

Introduction

The St. Charles City Council met on September 9, 2022, for a lengthy session addressing community development, liquor licenses, city appointments, and public land use. The meeting’s focal point was the River East Lofts project, which ultimately failed to receive the required supermajority for approval, halting the project in its current form.

Key Approvals: Omnibus Vote, Appointments, and Liquor License

The meeting opened with a prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call. The council proceeded to approve several routine matters:

• Omnibus vote covering standard agenda items (approved).

• Confidentiality of committee minutes maintained for sensitive matters.

• City appointments: Megan Provencher to the Natural Resources Commission and Attorney Thomas M. Bastian as Administrative Adjudication Hearing Officer.

• B-1 Liquor License approval for Mr. Hibachi Express and Sushi, allowing the restaurant to operate under the city’s liquor regulations.

These approvals ensured the smooth continuation of city governance while setting the stage for the more contentious River East Lofts discussion.

River East Lofts Project: Right-of-Way Vacation Denied

The River East Lofts project required an 8-vote supermajority to approve a right-of-way vacation for redevelopment purposes. Council members debated the motion extensively, weighing the following issues:

• Definition of the “green triangle” area and whether it should be included in the PUD boundary. The developer offered to remove it to address concerns.

• Potential future development impacts, such as rooftop additions, parking, traffic, and public land preservation.

• Community petitions opposing the project, with over 250 signatures collected.

• Downtown vibrancy and housing needs, balancing development goals with neighborhood character.

During over 45 minutes of public comment, residents and property owners expressed strongly divided opinions, highlighting both the benefits of urban development and the risks to green space and public access.

Ultimately, the council voted against the amended motion for the right-of-way vacation (5 No, 4 Yes), effectively halting the River East Lofts project in its current form.

Additional Business and Announcements

After the River East Lofts discussion, the council briefly reviewed The Springs subdivision final plat and other routine matters. Announcements included upcoming community events:

• Nancy’s birthday (Sept 14th)

• Fox Valley Marathon (Sept 18th)

• 9/11 Annual Memorial Event (Sept 11th, 7:30 AM)

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn after nearly 1 hour and 34 minutes of deliberation.

Conclusion

The September 9 meeting highlighted the council’s careful balance between promoting development and preserving public interest. While the River East Lofts project was denied, other key city business, including liquor license approvals and commission appointments, proceeded smoothly. The council emphasized the importance of public input, transparency, and clear procedural adherence, leaving the door open for future redevelopment proposals that better align with community priorities.

FAQs

What was the main outcome of the St. Charles City Council meeting on September 9, 2022?

The Council rejected the River East Lofts project after failing to secure the required supermajority vote for a right-of-way vacation.

Why was the River East Lofts project denied by the St. Charles City Council?

The project was denied due to concerns over green space preservation, parking, traffic impacts, and strong community opposition through petitions and comments.

Were any liquor licenses approved at the September 9, 2022 meeting?

Yes, the Council approved a B-1 Liquor License for Mr. Hibachi Express and Sushi, allowing the restaurant to operate under city liquor regulations.

What appointments were made during the September 9 Council meeting?

Megan Provencher was appointed to the Natural Resources Commission, and Attorney Thomas M. Bastian was appointed as Administrative Hearing Officer.

What community events were announced at the September 9, 2022 meeting?

Announcements included the 9/11 Memorial Event, Nancy’s birthday on September 14, and the Fox Valley Marathon on September 18.