THORNTON | Plans to construct an independent senior housing residence at 400 E. Margaret St. might happen after all.
The Village Board denied a special use permit and a zoning variance needed for Weiss Properties on July 16 to build the five-story building with 50 apartments for seniors at least 62 years old.
But last week, Trustee Joe Pisarzewski called for a meeting to take place at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 10 at the village recreation center, 700 Park Ave.
Pisarzewski said he wants residents to hear a presentation on the project and form their own opinions.
Pisarzewksi was one of four trustees, along with Judy Diekelman, Dave Hudson and Ernest "Bo" Kaye, who in July did not approve going ahead with the project. Trustees Kim Atkinson and David Kolosh voted to grant the permit and variance.
"I'm still keeping an open mind to this," Pisarzewski said. "There's a lot of people opposed and a lot of people for it."
Pisarzewski said trustees were given just six days to consider the project when they voted in July.
Other trustees brought up concerns over whether there would be ample parking and the property being located in a floodplain.
Jake Weiss, of Weiss Properties Inc., said the Sept. 10 meeting will allow his company the opportunity to address rumors.
"I understand that there was some information that was given out anonymously in the community that was really wrong information," Weiss said. "I think there's been an overall misinterpretation of what it means to have an affordable housing project."
Weiss said some associate that with Section 8 housing.
"This particular project, while it is affordable, it is nonsubsidized for the most part," Weiss said.
The senior housing project might do more for the village than just meet a housing need, he said.
"It could possibly act as a impetus to spur further development and really do something positive for the town," Weiss said.
Village President Jack Swan said the project could be brought up again for a vote at a future board meeting.
"It has to be brought up by a member that voted no on the first time around," Swan said. "The motion can't be made by a member that voted yes."
The entire project presented in July involves demolishing the existing buildings on the property to make room for the senior residence, while the adjacent Thornton Brewery building would be remodeled and reopened.
Please Wait…