Design Review Board
Regular MeetingWinnetka, IL · May 7, 2026
Minutes
Minutes adopted 06.04.2026
1 Winnetka Design Review Board/Sign Board of Appeals Special Meeting Minutes
2 May 7, 2026
3
4 Members Present: Katie Moor, Chairperson
5 Chris Baggett
6 Wesley Barker
7 Fritz Duda
8 Peter Evanich
9
10 Members Absent: Colin Kennedy
11 Heather Niehoff
12
13 Village Staff: Scott Mangum, Director of Community Development
14 Davorka Kirincic, Building and Code Enforcement
15 Manager
16
17 Village Attorney: Peter Friedman
18
19 Call to Order & Roll Call:
20 Chairperson Moor called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Roll call was taken of the Board Members
21 present.
22
23 Public Comments:
24 No comments were made at this time.
25
26 Approval of Minutes:
27 Chairperson Moor asked if there were any comments or corrections or for a motion to approve the April
28 17, 2026 meeting minutes. A motion to approve the April 17, 2026 meeting minutes was made by Mr.
29 Baggett and seconded by Mr. Barker. A vote was taken and the motion unanimously passed, 4 to 0:
30 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Moor
31 NAYS: None
32
33 Recommendations and Determinations:
34 a. Case No. 25-28-SU: 225 Sheridan Road — Centennial Beach: Consideration of approval of
35 findings and recommendation of the Design Review Board on the Certificate of Appropriateness
36 application to allow installation of fencing on the existing beach at 225 Sheridan Road. The Village
37 Council has final jurisdiction on this request.
38 Mr. Friedman stated the Board could make a motion to approve the Findings and Recommendations for
39 a Certificate of Appropriateness in Case No. 25-28-SU. Chairperson Moor asked for a motion. A motion as
40 stated by Mr. Friedman was made by Mr. Baggett and seconded by Mr. Barker. Chairperson Moor asked
41 if there were any comments or corrections. No comments were made at this time. A vote was taken and
42 the motion unanimously passed, 4 to 0:
43 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Moor
44 NAYS: None
45
46 Mr. Duda arrived at the meeting at this time.
47
48 New Applications:
Design Review Board May 7, 2026
Page 2
1 a. Case No. 26-04-DR: 562 Lincoln Avenue — Kaage Homes: A Sign Permit to allow installation of
2 a double-faced projecting sign on the existing frame on the street frontage of Subject Property.
3 Ms. Kirincic identified the property’s location and the applicant’s lease of the commercial space which
4 contained an oval projecting sign which she described for the Board. She stated the applicant has changed
5 their branding and would like to update the signage. Ms. Kirincic stated the Village staff administratively
6 approved the window signage which she identified for the Board. She then identified the sign’s location
7 and the proposal of a double faced projecting sign on the existing frame and noted the frame was
8 previously approved for the entire building. Ms. Kirincic described the proposed signage and referred to
9 the sign code regulations and general sign provisions.
10
11 Ms. Kirincic then stated that, following the applicant’s presentation, public comment, and Board
12 discussion, the Board may decide to either continue the matter to a date certain to allow time to address
13 questions or comments or make a motion to recommend approval or denial of the Certificate of
14 Appropriateness with conditions if requested. She then asked if there were any questions.
15
16 Chairperson Moor also asked if there were any questions. No questions were raised at this time. She then
17 asked for the applicant’s presentation.
18
19 Casey Kaage stated the request is to replace the sign decal in the same location with the same dimensions
20 with the verbiage and name of the property. Chairperson Moor asked if there were any questions. No
21 questions were raised at this time. Chairperson Moor commented that it looked great and asked for a
22 motion.
23
24 A motion was made by Mr. Evanich to issue a Sign Permit to approve the projecting sign as presented. Mr.
25 Barker seconded the motion. A vote was taken, and the motion was unanimously passed, 5 to 0:
26 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Duda, Evanich, Moor
27 NAYS: None
28
29 b. Case No. 26-05 DR: 385 Winnetka Avenue — New Trier High School: A Certificate of
30 Appropriateness to allow multiple directional signs on the existing building and the property.
31 Ms. Kirincic identified the property’s location, zoning classification, site improvements, as well as
32 illustrations of the seven proposed multidirectional and wayfinding signs. She referred to several statutes
33 and the exemption from Sign Code regulations, which is the basis for the applicant’s submission of a
34 Certificate of Appropriateness of Design application. Ms. Kirincic stated the applicant must also follow the
35 Village’s design guideline recommendations and building signage general provisions.
36
37 Ms. Kirincic stated that following the applicant’s presentation, public comment, and Board discussion, the
38 Board may decide to either continue the matter to a date certain to allow time to address questions or
39 comments or make a motion to recommend approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. She
40 also referred to the public comment received and provided to the Board and asked if there were any
41 questions.
42
43 Chairperson Moor also asked if there were any questions. No questions were raised at this time. She
44 asked for the applicant’s presentation.
45
46 Jim Maile, the Physical Plant Director, introduced himself and Mike Fess, the Winnetka Campus Facility
47 Manager. Mr. Maile referred to the amount of construction on campus and to complaints regarding
48 wayfinding, parking, etc. He stated that the proposal would include adding four major signs to match
Design Review Board May 7, 2026
Page 3
1 those on campus, with the same design. Mr. Maile also referred to the proposed building signage
2 regarding dock signage and delivery and stated that the request would also unify the door signage. Mr.
3 Tess stated the dock signage would help alleviate truck traffic in terms of deliveries, which would address
4 neighbors’ concerns relating to traffic.
5
6 Chairperson Moor questioned the signage’s material, which Mr. Maile described to the Board, stating that
7 it would align with other signage in the community. He then stated that wooden material would have
8 created maintenance issues. Chairperson Moor asked for the Board’s comments. A Board Member stated
9 the request is fine. Another Board Member stated he appreciated the proposal’s consistency with other
10 signs. Mr. Baggett added that traffic concerns would be addressed. Mr. Evanich agreed with the comments
11 made.
12
13 Chairperson Moor asked for public comment. No comments were made at this time.
14
15 Chairperson Moor then asked for a motion. A motion was made by Mr. Barker to issue a Certificate of
16 Appropriateness to approve the request as presented. Mr. Barker seconded the motion. A vote was taken
17 and the motion was unanimously passed, 5 to 0:
18 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Duda, Evanich, Moor
19 NAYS: None
20
21 c. Case No. 26-06-DR: 547 Chestnut Street — The Lake Effect: A Sign Permit to allow replacement
22 of the awning valance and valance sign on the existing awning at Subject Property.
23 Ms. Kirincic identified the property’s location and existing improvements with two awnings. She stated
24 the applicant is only looking to replace portions of the valance. Ms. Kirincic described the proposed awning
25 and referred to material samples provided by the applicant. She also referred to illustrations of both signs
26 and temporary posters to be removed. Ms. Kirincic summarized the prior approval in September 2023 as
27 well as the details of the proposed awning request. She noted while the existing frame did not comply
28 with the code requirements, a variation is not required due to the request to only change the valance.
29 Ms. Kirincic then identified the text size and referred to the design guidelines with regard to colors,
30 awnings and materials with which the request complied.
31
32 Ms. Kirincic stated following the applicant’s presentation, public comment and Board discussion, the
33 Board may decide to either continue the matter to a date certain to allow time to address questions or
34 comments or make a motion to recommend approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness for
35 the sign permit together with conditions if appropriate. She asked if there were any questions.
36
37 Chairperson Moor also asked if there were any questions. No questions were raised at this time. She then
38 asked for the applicant’s presentation.
39
40 Allison Cassato of The Lake Effect stated they were formally Chestnut Street Flowers and would begin
41 construction tomorrow with an estimated completion date of June 10, 2026. She stated the request is to
42 change the name on the valance. Chairperson Moor questioned the reasoning for the color change which
43 Ms. Cassato explained to the Board. Chairperson Moor asked for the Board Members’ comments.
44
45 A Board Member commented it would better if it was all navy blue and it would look more intentional.
46 Mr. Duda stated either option is fine. A Board Member stated he preferred either blue or black with the
47 old color. The Board Members discussed color alternatives. Ms. Cassato stated they cannot afford to do
Design Review Board May 7, 2026
Page 4
1 another awning. Mr. Evanich stated he would be fine with the navy color and that there is no cohesion of
2 awnings on the street and that he is fine with the request as proposed.
3
4 Chairperson Moor asked for a motion. A motion was made by Mr. Barker to issue a Certificate of
5 Appropriateness to approve the request as presented. Mr. Duda seconded the motion. A vote was taken
6 and the motion unanimously passed, 5 to 0:
7 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Duda, Evanich, Moor
8 NAYS: None
9
10 d. Case No. 26-07-DR: 902 Green Bay Road — Found by Steph: A Sign Permit to allow installation
11 of a window, door, and double-faced projecting sign on the existing frame on the street frontage of
12 Subject Property.
13 Ms. Kirincic identified the property’s location, zoning classification, and referred to storefront views. She
14 explained the request is for the window and door signs and the projecting sign, which are all code-
15 compliant. Ms. Kirincic summarized the code requirements for the application components in detail, as
16 well as the design guideline requirements.
17
18 Ms. Kirincic stated that following the applicant’s presentation, public comment, and Board discussion, the
19 Board may decide to either continue the matter to a date certain to allow time to address questions or
20 comments or make a motion to recommend approval or denial of the requested Certificate of
21 Appropriateness for the sign permit and any conditions if appropriate. She asked if there were any
22 questions.
23
24 Chairperson Moor also asked if there were any questions. A Board Member asked whether the mounted
25 signs needed to be fixed so they don't swing. Ms. Kirincic confirmed that it is correct, and the applicant
26 can confirm further. Chairperson Moor then asked for the applicant’s presentation.
27
28 The business owner confirmed the sign would not swing and explained how it would be mounted, noting
29 that it would be similar to their Lincoln Park location. She also clarified that the logo is white and the
30 vintage is black, because they planned to install café curtains, which would provide some pop. She added
31 that the vendor did the same for their location in Lincoln Park and for another business in Winnetka. She
32 confirmed it would be painted on the outside with a sealant.
33
34 Chairperson Moor asked if there were any questions and commented that it looked nice. No other
35 comments were made at this time.
36
37 Chairperson Moor asked for a motion. A motion was made by Mr. Baggett to issue a Certificate of
38 Appropriateness for the request as presented. Mr. Duda seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
39 motion unanimously passed, 5 to 0:
40 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Duda, Evanich, Moor
41 NAYS: None
42
43 e. Case No. 26-08-DR: 1010 Green Bay Road — Bank of America: A Certificate of Appropriateness
44 to replace the existing exterior light fixture at the main entrance of the Bank of America building on the
45 Subject Property.
46 Ms. Kirincic identified the property’s location with Bank of America as the primary tenant and summarized
47 the request to replace the external light fixture. She identified the proposed light fixture’s location,
Design Review Board May 7, 2026
Page 5
1 dimensions, and specifications. Ms. Kirincic referred to the design guidelines for building lighting and
2 stated that the request complied.
3
4 Ms. Kirincic stated that following the applicant’s presentation, public comment, and Board discussion, the
5 Board may decide to either continue the matter to a date certain to allow time to address questions or
6 comments or make a motion to recommend approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness for
7 the design as presented, along with any conditions if appropriate. She asked if there were any questions.
8
9 Chairperson Moor also asked if there were any questions. No questions were raised at this time. She then
10 asked for the applicant’s presentation.
11
12 Greg Parcel identified himself as the general contractor representing Bank of America. He stated the goal
13 is to replace the existing small pendant fixture, which did not emit enough light to enter the vestibule,
14 which he described as a safety issue. He stated the new fixture would provide a larger light circumference.
15
16 Chairperson Moor asked if there were any questions. A Board Member asked if the light in the fixture
17 would be softer or a stark LED light. Mr. Parcel stated the light would be adjusted accordingly. No
18 additional comments were made at this time.
19
20 Chairperson Moor asked for a motion. A motion was made by Mr. Duda to issue a Certificate of
21 Appropriateness to approve the request as presented. Mr. Baggett seconded the motion. A vote was
22 taken, and the motion was unanimously passed, 5 to 0:
23 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Duda, Evanich, Moor
24 NAYS: None
25
26 Other Business.
27 a. May 21, 2026 Regular Meeting – Quorum Check.
28 A Board Member noted that agenda items (a), (d), and (e) were routine in nature and suggested
29 expanding Village staff authority to either approve such items administratively to improve
30 efficiency for applicants. Chairperson Moor responded that granting Village staff such approval
31 authority would require an amendment to the Sign Code by the Village Council. The Board
32 Members concurred and agreed to develop proposed language for consideration as a Sign Code
33 amendment.
34 The Board then discussed member availability and scheduling matters.
35
36 b. June 3 or 4, 2026 Special Meeting – Quorum Check.
37 The Board Members discussed their availability for the special June 4, 2026, meeting and the meeting
38 agenda items.
39
40 Adjournment:
41 Chairperson Moor asked for a motion to adjourn. A motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Duda and
42 seconded by Mr. Evanich. A vote was taken, and the motion was unanimously passed, 5 to 0:
43 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Duda, Evanich, Moor
44 NAYS: None
45
46 The meeting was adjourned at 7:51 p.m.
Design Review Board May 7, 2026
Page 6
1
2 Respectfully submitted,
3
4 Antionette Johnson
5 Recording Secretary
Agenda
Village of Winnetka
Design Review Board/Sign Board of Appeals Special
Meeting
May 7, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Winnetka Village Hall Council Chambers
510 Green Bay Road
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Public Comments
3. Approval of Minutes
a. April 16, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes
4. Recommendations and Determinations
a. Case No. 25-28-SU: 225 Sheridan Road — Centennial Beach: Consideration
of approval of findings and recommendation of the Design Review Board on the
Certificate of Appropriateness application to allow installation of fencing on the
existing beach at 225 Sheridan Road. The Village Council has final jurisdiction on
this request.
5. New Applications
a. Case No. 26-04-DR: 562 Lincoln Avenue — Kaage Homes: A Sign Permit to
allow installation of a double-faced projecting sign on the existing frame on the
street frontage of Subject Property.
b. Case No. 26-05 DR: 385 Winnetka Avenue — New Trier High School: A
Certificate of Appropriateness to allow multiple directional signs on the existing
building and the property.
c. Case No. 26-06-DR: 547 Chestnut Street — The Lake Effect: A Sign Permit to
allow replacement of the awning valance and valance sign on the existing awning
at Subject Property.
d. Case No. 26-07-DR: 902 Green Bay Road — Found by Steph: A Sign Permit
to allow installation of a window, door, and double-faced projecting sign on the
existing frame on the street frontage of Subject Property.
e. Case No. 26-08-DR: 1010 Green Bay Road — Bank of America: A Certificate
of Appropriateness to replace the existing exterior light fixture at the main
entrance of the Bank of America building on the Subject Property
6. New Business
a. May 21, 2026, Regular Meeting Quorum Check
b. June 3 or 4, 2026, Special Meeting - Quorum Check
7. Adjournment
NOTICE
Public comment is permitted on all agenda items at the meeting. If you wish to provide testimony or comments
prior to the meeting, you may provide them one of two ways: (1) by sending an email to planning@winnetka.org; or
by sending a letter to Community Development, Village of Winnetka, 510 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL 60093. All
agenda materials are available at www.villageofwinnetka.org/agendacenter.
The Village of Winnetka, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with
disabilities, who require certain accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have
questions about the accessibility of the meeting or facilities contact the Village ADA Coordinator at 510 Green Bay
Road, Winnetka, Illinois 60093, (Telephone (847) 716-3543; T.D.D. (847) 501-6041).
Packet
Village of Winnetka
Design Review Board/Sign Board of Appeals Special
Meeting
May 7, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Winnetka Village Hall Council Chambers
510 Green Bay Road
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Public Comments
3. Approval of Minutes
a. April 16, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes
4. Recommendations and Determinations
a. Case No. 25-28-SU: 225 Sheridan Road — Centennial Beach: Consideration
of approval of findings and recommendation of the Design Review Board on the
Certificate of Appropriateness application to allow installation of fencing on the
existing beach at 225 Sheridan Road. The Village Council has final jurisdiction on
this request.
5. New Applications
a. Case No. 26-04-DR: 562 Lincoln Avenue — Kaage Homes: A Sign Permit to
allow installation of a double-faced projecting sign on the existing frame on the
street frontage of Subject Property.
b. Case No. 26-05 DR: 385 Winnetka Avenue — New Trier High School: A
Certificate of Appropriateness to allow multiple directional signs on the existing
building and the property.
c. Case No. 26-06-DR: 547 Chestnut Street — The Lake Effect: A Sign Permit to
allow replacement of the awning valance and valance sign on the existing awning
at Subject Property.
d. Case No. 26-07-DR: 902 Green Bay Road — Found by Steph: A Sign Permit
to allow installation of a window, door, and double-faced projecting sign on the
existing frame on the street frontage of Subject Property.
e. Case No. 26-08-DR: 1010 Green Bay Road — Bank of America: A Certificate
of Appropriateness to replace the existing exterior light fixture at the main
entrance of the Bank of America building on the Subject Property
6. New Business
a. May 21, 2026, Regular Meeting Quorum Check
b. June 3 or 4, 2026, Special Meeting - Quorum Check
7. Adjournment
Page 1 of 158
NOTICE
Public comment is permitted on all agenda items at the meeting. If you wish to provide testimony or comments
prior to the meeting, you may provide them one of two ways: (1) by sending an email to planning@winnetka.org; or
by sending a letter to Community Development, Village of Winnetka, 510 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL 60093. All
agenda materials are available at www.villageofwinnetka.org/agendacenter.
The Village of Winnetka, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with
disabilities, who require certain accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting or have
questions about the accessibility of the meeting or facilities contact the Village ADA Coordinator at 510 Green Bay
Road, Winnetka, Illinois 60093, (Telephone (847) 716-3543; T.D.D. (847) 501-6041).
Page 2 of 158
1 Winnetka Design Review Board/Sign Board of Appeals Meeting Minutes
2 April 16, 2026
3 Members Present: Katie Moor, Chairperson
4 Chris Baggett
5 Westley Barker
6 Colin Kennedy
7 Heather Niehoff
8 Peter Evanich
9 Members Absent: Fritz Duda
10 Village Staff: Davorka Kirincic, Building and Code Enforcement
11 Manager
12 Scott Mangum, Community Development Director
13 Ann Klaassen, Assistant Director of Community
14 Development
15
16 Village Attorney: Peter Friedman
17 Call to Order & Roll Call:
18 Chairperson Moor called the meeting to order. Roll call was taken of the Board Members present.
19 Public Comments:
20 No public comments were made at this time.
21 Approval of Minutes:
22 Chairperson Moor asked if there were any comments or corrections to the March 26, 2026, meeting
23 minutes. A motion to approve the March 26, 2026, meeting minutes was made by Member Baggett and
24 seconded by Member Barker. A vote was taken and the motion was unanimously passed, 6–0.
25 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Kennedy, Niehoff, Moor
26 NAYS: None
27 Continued Applications:
28 a. Case No. 26-02-DR: 1050 Scott Avenue — Hubbard Woods Public Parking Structure: A Certificate of
29 Appropriateness to allow installation of a new externally illuminated wall sign above the entrance of
30 the public parking structure (Amended case).
31 Ms. Kirincic summarized the revised application, noting the Board previously requested alternative
32 designs. Four options were presented: two plaque sign options and two pin-mounted letter options.
33 Lighting was reduced from four fixtures to three as directed by the Board.
Page 3 of 158
Design Review Board April 16, 2026
Page 2
1 The applicant, Tom Powers, Director of Public Works, noted that gold lettering was not recommended
2 due to low contrast and indicated preference for black or bronze. Option 1 was believed to offer best
3 visibility and alignment with Village streetscape signage.
4 Board members discussed contrast, visibility, aesthetics, and consistency with Village design guidelines.
5 General consensus favored Option 1 plaque sign with black lettering and three black gooseneck fixtures.
6 Chairperson Moor asked if there was any public comment and there was none.
7 A motion was made by Member Niehoff, second by Member Barker, to approve Option 1 as presented
8 with three black gooseneck light fixtures. A vote was taken, and the motion was unanimously passed, 6
9 to 0:
10 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Kennedy, Niehoff, Moor
11 NAYS: None
12 New Applications:
13 a. Case No. 26-03-DR: 588 Lincoln Avenue — Rail Splitter Capital Management: A Certificate of
14 Appropriateness to allow storefront improvements at Subject Property.
15 Ms. Kirincic reviewed the façade changes. No new signage was requested.
16 Dave Szafarz, representing Downey Szafarz Architects, explained that the proposal for 588 Lincoln
17 Avenue was intended to refresh and modernize a worn storefront while maintaining its existing layout
18 and overall character. He stated that the new design keeps the door and windows in their current
19 locations but replaces them with a new wood door and new wood-framed windows. The surrounding
20 storefront panels would also be replaced with real painted wood to provide an updated and more
21 refined appearance. He also described the plan to install three new LED lighting fixtures with clear
22 cylinders, ensuring the lighting would complement the updated materials.
23 Board members responded with questions and comments focused on lighting and long‑term flexibility
24 of the façade. Member Barker asked for clarification on whether the lighting would use a clear lens, and
25 Mr. Szafarz confirmed that it would. Member Niehoff inquired about why the fixtures were located
26 within the lower horizontal band rather than the upper band, and Mr. Szafarz explained that the design
27 team preferred the proportions created by their current placement. Member Niehoff noted that
28 positioning the lights higher could potentially serve future storefront signage, though this was not a
29 requirement for the current application.
30 The Board generally expressed appreciation for the clean appearance of the proposed updates and
31 agreed that the improvements were appropriate for the building and consistent with the Village’s design
32 standards. No concerns were raised about the materials or design approach, and the Board concluded
33 that the application was straightforward, aesthetically suitable, and ready for approval.
34 Chairperson Moor asked if there was any public comment and there was none.
35 A motion was made by Member Evanich, second by Member Kennedy, to approve the application as
36 submitted. A vote was taken and the motion was unanimously passed, 6–0.
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Design Review Board April 16, 2026
Page 3
1 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Kennedy, Niehoff, Moor
2 NAYS: None
3 b. Case No. 25-28-SU: 225 Sheridan Road — Centennial Beach: A Certificate of Appropriateness to
4 allow installation of fencing on the existing beach. The Village Council has final jurisdiction on this
5 request.
6 Ms. Klaassen presented a thorough overview of the two fence proposals submitted for Centennial Beach
7 and explained the procedural context for the Design Review Board’s review. She emphasized that the
8 DRB’s role was limited to evaluating the design appropriateness of the proposed fencing and did not
9 include consideration of land‑use questions or the merits of the off‑leash dog beach itself. Ms. Klaassen
10 reviewed both the original plan, which was the plan presented to the Plan Commission, which consisted
11 of galvanized chain‑link fencing extending into the lake, and the new plan, which was the plan presented
12 to the ZBA, which consisted of black vinyl‑coated chain‑link, mounted to the existing steel groins and
13 reduced the overall footprint of the dog beach. She noted that both the Plan Commission and the ZBA
14 had previously recommended denial of the related special use permit, but that those decisions were
15 independent of the DRB’s design-focused evaluation.
16 Ms. Klaassen also explained that the Village’s design guidelines were originally created for commercial
17 districts and institutional buildings and therefore did not perfectly align with lakefront conditions. She
18 highlighted compliance matters such as allowable fence height, described the planned seasonal removal
19 of some fence sections, and summarized the procedural steps available to the Board. Ms. Klaassen then
20 asked if there were any questions for staff. There were none at this time.
21 Mr. Kutulas spoke on behalf of the Winnetka Park District and explained that the intent of the project
22 was to restore and properly manage Centennial Beach as an off‑leash dog beach in compliance with
23 Village and Cook County regulations. He stated that fencing was intended to keep dogs safely contained,
24 prevent movement to adjacent beaches—including the soon‑to‑reopened Elder Lane Beach—and
25 ensure that the Park District met all regulatory obligations.
26 Mr. Kutulas described how the revised plan was developed in response to community feedback, noting
27 that it significantly reduced the size of the fenced area and added a dedicated pedestrian bypass so
28 people could walk the shoreline without entering the dog area. He explained the choice of black
29 vinyl‑coated chain‑link fencing as a pragmatic response to harsh lakefront conditions, emphasizing
30 durability and reduced visual impact compared to galvanized metal. He also outlined the seasonal
31 removal of fence segments to prevent ice damage, the shift of key‑fob access from the bluff to the
32 beach level, and the functional reasons for placing fencing on existing steel groins.
33 Mr. Kutulas presented fence material samples to the Board and acknowledged that decorative or
34 heavier architectural fencing had been considered but determined such materials would be vulnerable
35 to wave action, ice, and shifting sand, making chain‑link the only feasible option for a temporary but
36 necessary containment solution. He concluded by reiterating that the Park District attempted to balance
37 safety, public access, environmental conditions, and community feedback while preserving this
38 long‑standing community amenity.
39 Chairperson Moor asked for public comment and swore in those speaking to this matter.
Page 5 of 158
Design Review Board April 16, 2026
Page 4
1 Kim Marsh, 360 Forest – Expressed long‑term use of the dog beach and strong opposition to fencing.
2 She stated that chain‑link fencing would further harm already obstructed views, diminish the natural
3 beauty of Centennial Beach, and be “unconscionable.” Ms. Marsh then provided a photograph
4 illustrating the vista concern.
5 Joanna Karatzas, 476 Provident Avenue – Argued that the DRB cannot meaningfully separate design
6 aesthetics from shoreline conditions such as groins, breakwaters, and property lines. She raised
7 concerns specifically about the south fence, stating the geometry “pinches” awkwardly and does not
8 work in plan view. Ms. Karatzas suggested that fencing into the lake may be unnecessary because
9 existing rock structures discourage dog passage. She recommended a simpler gate at the top of the
10 south steps instead of extending fencing lakeward.
11 Susie Schreiber, 152 Glenwood – Provided comments from the perspective of lake users (swimmers,
12 paddlers, kayakers). She stated that Lake Michigan conditions can change rapidly and black chain‑link
13 fencing may be difficult to see from the water, posing collision or entrapment risk. Ms. Schreiber raised
14 concerns about obstructing rescue operations and creating new safety hazards. She also noted potential
15 accumulation of invasive mussels on fence structures.
16 Linda Welch,– Opposed fencing based on aesthetics, safety, and community sentiment. She noted that
17 past fencing remnants caused hazards. Ms. Welch expressed concern that new fencing would mar the
18 beauty of the beach and could trap dogs, wildlife, or people. She concluded that if fencing is required,
19 the area should revert to a people-only beach rather than degrade a natural setting.
20 David Stevens, 333 Sheridan Road – Noted that chain‑link fencing contradicts the design standards
21 applied to the rest of the Village. Mr. Stevens argued the lakefront should not be treated like a
22 residential/commercial site and that extending fencing into the lake is inappropriate. He believes fencing
23 is unnecessary, unsafe, and unattractive.
24 Peggy Martay, Sunset Road – Spoke about Winnetka’s identity as “beautiful land.” She compared the
25 proposed fencing to other rejected aesthetic elements in Village history (e.g., “golden arches”). Ms.
26 Martay urged the DRB to deny the request based on aesthetics and to preserve the appearance of
27 Centennial Beach.
28 Tom Borders, Old Green Bay Road – Framed comments around public access and civic responsibility. He
29 asserted that a fenced dog beach serves a small percentage of residents while restricting shoreline
30 access for families. Mr. Borders believes the Park District’s investment in fencing contradicts traditional
31 concepts of shared public land.
32 Steve Juliusson, 1436 Asbury Avenue – Criticized the proposal as unnecessary (no major incidents over
33 30 years), unreliable (prone to damage by lake conditions), and unsafe (barrier could slow rescue efforts
34 or create hazards). He called the fencing “ugly” and predicted that the consequences of installing it
35 could be worse than the aesthetic impact.
36 Melissa Mizel – Argued that fencing and some associated signage act as “repellents” to public beach use.
37 She criticized wording on recently installed signage as intentionally discouraging the public from using
38 the beach and lakefront. Ms. Mizel described fencing as limiting access and benefiting interests other
39 than the general public. She urged the DRB to stand for “good, true, and beautiful.”
Page 6 of 158
Design Review Board April 16, 2026
Page 5
1 Maggie Hayes, 525 Orchard Lane – Shared personal appreciation for Centennial Beach’s natural beauty.
2 She explained that she opposed “uglification” of the beachfront through chain‑link fencing. Ms. Hayes
3 expressed concern about cost and about altering a well-used space and enjoyed during all seasons. She
4 stated long‑term use of the beach does not justify physical barriers.
5 Dave Robertson, longtime resident near Centennial – Opposed fencing and expressed concern that
6 fencing supports private interests over community-wide public access. He characterized the lakefront as
7 an important public resource that should remain open and unobstructed.
8 Chairperson Moor emphasized the DRB’s limited purview — design appropriateness, not policy or
9 land‑use decisions. She highlighted the Board’s responsibility to evaluate materials, quality, aesthetics,
10 and alignment with Village design standards.
11 Member Niehoff expressed concern that chain‑link fencing is materially inappropriate for a natural
12 waterfront setting. She stated she prefers natural materials and higher-quality design solutions
13 consistent with Village standards elsewhere.
14 Chairperson Moor stated chain‑link fencing is not aligned with design expectations for the Village;
15 compared it to selecting low‑grade materials in commercial design review. She encouraged exploring
16 alternative materials and more thoughtful design.
17 Member Kennedy supported a motion to deny based on inappropriate design.
18 Member Barker concurred that chain‑link fencing is not appropriate and supported the motion for
19 denial.
20 A motion was made by Member Kennedy, second by Member Barker, to direct staff and the Village
21 Attorney to prepare written findings recommending denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness for both
22 the Original Plan and the New Plan. A vote was taken and the motion was unanimously passed, 6–0.
23 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Kennedy, Niehoff, Moor
24 NAYS: None
25 Other Business.
26 a. May 21, 2026, Meeting – Quorum Check.
27 The Board Members discussed their availability.
28
29 Adjournment:
30 Chairperson Moor asked for a motion to adjourn. A motion to adjourn was made by Ms. Niehoff and
31 seconded by Mr. Baggett. A vote was taken and the motion was unanimously passed, 6 to 0:
32 AYES: Baggett, Barker, Evanich, Kennedy, Niehoff, Moor
33 NAYS: None
34
35 The meeting was adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
Page 7 of 158
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: SCOTT MANGUM, DIRECTOR
ANN KLAASSEN, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
DATE: MAY 1, 2026
SUBJECT: CENTENNITAL BEACH FENCE – 225 SHERIDAN ROAD
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (CASE NO. 25-28-SU)
INTRODUCTION
On May 7, 2026, the Design Review Board (“DRB”) is scheduled to consider the attached findings and
recommendation of the DRB in response to an application submitted by the Winnetka Park District (the
“Applicant”), as the owner of the property located at 225 Sheridan Road (the “Subject Property”) and
considered by the DRB on April 16, 2026, (Attachment A2). The Applicant is proposing installation of
fencing on the existing beach located on the Subject Property and requests approval of a Certificate of
Appropriateness.
As of the date of this memo, staff has received several written comments from the public regarding this
request. Written comments that were not included in the April 16 DRB agenda packet but were
distributed to the DRB in time for that meeting, as well as written comments received since the April 16
meeting, are included in Attachment C2. The public correspondence included in the April 16 agenda
packet was divided into two attachments and are available on the Village website:
1. Public Correspondence Previously Included in the ZBA and PC Agenda Packets:
https://winnetkail.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1212/files/attachment/5814
2. Public Correspondence Received Since Posting of March 16, 2026, ZBA Agenda Packet:
https://winnetkail.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1212/files/attachment/5815
APRIL 16, 2026, DESIGN REVIEW BOARD MEETING
On April 16, 2026, the DRB held a public hearing on the Applicant’s certificate of appropriateness
application for proposed improvements to the existing beach located on the Subject Property. The staff
memo and application materials for the April 16 meeting can be found in Attachment B2.
After a presentation by staff and a presentation by the Applicant, the DRB heard from 11 members of the
public who all expressed concerns about design and safety. The DRB then discussed the request.
Members expressed significant concern about the quality and appropriateness of the proposed fencing
material in both plans presented by the Applicant, which consisted of the original plan presented to the
Plan Commission with galvanized chain link fencing as well as the new plan that was presented to the ZBA
with black vinyl-coated chain link fencing. Members also expressed concern about potential safety issues
with regard to the materials and location of the proposed fencing
Page 1
Page 8 of 158
Ultimately, the DRB found that the proposed fencing does not satisfy the required standards for a
certificate of appropriateness and by a vote of 6-0 the DRB directed the Village Attorney to prepare a draft
recommendation of denial with written findings and determinations based on the DRB’s discussion for
consideration at a future DRB meeting. A copy of the draft April 16 meeting minutes is included in the
May 7 agenda packet for the DRB’s consideration.
CONSIDERATION BY OTHER ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMISSIONS
On February 25, 2026, by a vote of 6-0, the Plan Commission approved written findings and its
recommendation to deny the Special Use Permit, based on the original plan submitted by the Applicant.
On March 16, 2026, by a vote of 6-0, the Zoning Board of Appeals approved written findings and its
recommendation to deny the Special Use Permit, based on the new plan submitted by the Applicant.
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
As noted in the April 16 staff report, the DRB is charged with evaluating a certificate of appropriateness
for consistency with the four standards used for evaluating a certificate of appropriateness. Attachment
A2 contains the findings and recommendation with regard to the Applicant’s original plan and new plan
that were prepared at the DRB’s direction during the April 16 meeting. At the May 7, 2026, meeting, the
DRB is scheduled to consider the findings and recommendation and take a final vote on the request.
If the DRB is prepared to make a final decision regarding the Certificate of Appropriateness request, a
member must make a motion approving the written findings and recommendation to deny the Certificate
of Appropriateness as requested by the Applicant in its application to allow installation of fencing on the
existing beach on the Subject Property.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A2: Findings and Recommendation of DRB on Certificate of Appropriateness application for
Case No. 25- 28-SU Centennial Beach 225 Sheridan Road
Attachment B2: April 16, 2026, DRB Meeting Staff Report
Attachment C2: Public Correspondence Received Since Posting of April 16, 2026, DRB Agenda Packet
Page 2
Page 9 of 158
ATTACHMENT A2
Winnetka Design Review Board
Findings and Recommendation – Case No. 25-28-SU
Certificate of Appropriateness
Centennial Beach 225 Sheridan Road
1 of 4
FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION FOR THE VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
CASE NO. 25-28-SU
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
APPLICATION BACKGROUND
1. The Winnetka Park District (“Applicant”) is the owner of property commonly known as
Centennial Beach, located at 225 Sheridan Road (“Subject Property”).
2. The Applicant filed its original application on October 21, 2025 (“Application”), seeking
approval of a special use permit (“Special Use”) and a certificate of appropriateness to install
two chain link fences (“Proposed Fencing”) to provide an enclosed area on the Subject
Property for an off-leash dog beach (“Original Plan”).
3. The Subject Property is located in the Village’s R-2 Single-Family Residential Zoning District
and the Lakefront Preservation Overlay District pursuant to the Winnetka Zoning Ordinance,
as amended (“Zoning Ordinance”).
4. The Subject Property consists of approximately 5.3 acres and is located on the east side of
Sheridan Road generally between Fuller Lane and Elder Lane.
5. Pursuant to the Zoning Ordinance, the Subject Property has two front yards (i) the street
frontage along Sheridan Road to the west; and (ii) lake frontage along Lake Michigan to the
east.
6. The Plan Commission (“PC”) considered the Park District’s Original Plan for the special use
permit (the only plan that the Park District presented to the PC) at its January 28, 2026,
meeting, at which it directed the Village Attorney to prepare a draft recommendation of denial
with written findings and determinations for consideration at the February 25, 2026, PC
meeting. On February 25, by a vote of 6-0, the PC approved the written findings and
recommendation to deny the Special Use Permit for the Original Plan.
7. The Zoning Board of Appeals (“ZBA”) commenced a public hearing on the Applicant’s special
use permit on February 9. However, the item was continued without presentation to the March
9, 2026, ZBA meeting because the Winnetka Park District Board had authorized a new plan at
its February 5 special meeting and it had not been submitted to the Village for review before
the February 9 ZBA meeting. On March 9, the ZBA considered the Applicant’s new plan (the
only plan that the Park District presented to the ZBA) (“New Plan”) and by a vote of 7-0 the
ZBA directed the Village Attorney to prepare a draft recommendation of denial with written
findings and determination for consideration at the March 16 special ZBA meeting. On March
16, by a vote of 6-0, the ZBA approved the written findings and recommendation to deny the
Special Use Permit for the New Plan.
Page 10 of 158
Winnetka Design Review Board
Findings and Recommendation – Case No. 25-28-SU
Certificate of Appropriateness
Centennial Beach 225 Sheridan Road
2 of 4
REQUESTED CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
The Applicant requests a Certificate of Appropriateness for the construction and use of fencing at
Centennial Park. The Applicant is asking the Design Review Board (“DRB”) to consider two
options -- the Original Plan that the Applicant presented to the Plan Commission and the New Plan
that the Applicant presented to the ZBA. The Original Plan is described in detail on pages 7 – 9
of the April 10, 2026 staff memorandum to the DRB and generally includes fencing with
galvanized chain link fencing. The New Plan is described in detail on pages 9 – 13 of that same
staff memorandum and generally includes black vinyl-coated chain link fencing.
PUBLIC HEARING
1. A public hearing was properly noticed as a mail notice was sent to property owners
within 250 feet of the Subject Property indicating the time and date of the public
hearing.
2. The Winnetka Design Review Board commenced the public hearing on March 26,
2026, and continued and concluded the public hearing on April 16, 2026.
3. During the public hearing, the Applicant presented testimony and exhibits for both the
Original Plan and the New Plan. The Applicant and its team discussed the proposed
architectural design and materials and operational features of the Proposed Fencing for
the off-leash dog beach and the location of the various elements of the fencing and the
interplay with public access to and from north and south of the Property under both
Plans. The Applicant testified that in its opinion, the project maintains public access,
improves safety and maintains shoreline connectivity.
4. Approximately 11 members of the public expressed significant concerns about the
design and safety of both the Original Plan and the New Plan.
5. Members of the Design Review Board expressed significant concerns about the quality
and appropriateness of the Proposed Fencing material included in both proposed Plans,
including potential safety issues with regard to the materials and location of the
proposed fencing.
FINDINGS REGARDING STANDARDS FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
Section 15.40.010 of the Village Code provides the procedures and criteria for consideration of a
certificates of appropriateness. The Design Review Board has considered the following issues as
required by Section 15.40.010.F of the Village Code:
(1) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood;
Page 11 of 158
Winnetka Design Review Board
Findings and Recommendation – Case No. 25-28-SU
Certificate of Appropriateness
Centennial Beach 225 Sheridan Road
3 of 4
(2) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and improvements in the
immediate neighborhood, and including both urban design and site arrangement
considerations;
(3) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
consistent with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and criteria as may
be adopted by the Board; and
(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the integrity of
the immediate vicinity.
Due to the materials, design, and location of the Proposed Fencing under either the Original Plan
or the New Plan, the DRB finds that the external architectural features of these proposals are
inappropriate and incompatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood and the public
beach environment of the Subject Property and may cause substantial depreciation in the
effectiveness and value of the improvements on and surrounding the public property location of
the proposed fencing.
Accordingly, the Design Review Board finds that, notwithstanding the Applicant’s representations
regarding compliance with the standards for certificates of appropriateness under the Village Code,
that the Proposed Fencing under either the Original Plan or the New Plan does not satisfy the
required standards and thus denial is appropriate under Section 15.40.010.I.1 of the Village Code.
RECOMMENDATION
The Design Review Board recommends to the President and Trustees denial of the Certificate of
Appropriateness for the Proposed Fencing under either the Original Plan or the New Plan.
This report is adopted by a __ to __ vote of the Design Review Board, this 7th day of May, 2026.
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Respectfully Submitted,
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
OF THE VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
Page 12 of 158
ATTACHMENT B2
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGEOF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: SCOTT MANGUM, DIRECTOR
ANN KLAASSEN, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
DATE: APRIL 10, 2026
SUBJECT: CENTENNIAL BEACH FENCE – 225 SHERIDAN ROAD
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (CASE NO. 25-28-SU)
INTRODUCTION
On April 16, 2026, the Design Review Board (“DRB”) is scheduled to hold a public hearing on an application
submitted by the Winnetka Park District (the “Applicant”), as the owner of the property located at 225
Sheridan Road (the “Subject Property”). The Applicant is proposing installation of fencing on the existing
beach located on the Subject Property and requests approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness.
This item was originally scheduled for the March 26, 2026, DRB meeting; however, the Applicant
requested the item be continued to the April 16, 2026, DRB meeting. The DRB granted the Applicant’s
request and continued the item to the April 16 DRB meeting. A mail notice was sent to property owners
within 250 feet of the Subject Property, in compliance with the Village Code, informing them of the
original public hearing on March 26.
The Applicant has also submitted a Special Use Permit application to allow the proposed fencing.
Information about the special use permit review is provided to the DRB for reference only. The DRB’s
purview is limited to consideration of the Certificate of Appropriateness.
The Plan Commission (“PC”) considered the Park District’s original plan for the special use permit (the only
plan that the Park District presented to the PC) at its January 28, 2026, meeting, at which it directed the
Village Attorney to prepare a draft recommendation of denial with written findings and determinations
for consideration at the February 25, 2026, PC meeting. On February 25, by a vote of 6-0, the PC approved
the written findings and recommendation to deny the Special Use Permit. The Zoning Board of Appeals
(“ZBA”) commenced a public hearing on the Applicant’s special use permit on February 9. However, the
item was continued without presentation to the March 9, 2026, ZBA meeting because the Winnetka Park
District Board had authorized a new plan at its February 5 special meeting and it had not been submitted
to the Village for review before the February 9 ZBA meeting. On March 9, the ZBA considered the
Applicant’s new plan (the only plan that the Park District presented to the ZBA) and by a vote of 7-0 the
ZBA directed the Village Attorney to prepare a draft recommendation of denial with written findings and
determination for consideration at the March 16 special ZBA meeting. On March 16, by a vote of 6-0, the
ZBA approved the written findings and recommendation to deny the Special Use Permit. Details regarding
the PC’s and ZBA’s considerations are provided later in this report.
Page 1
Page 13 of 158
As of the date of this memo, staff has received several written comments from the public regarding this
application. Most of these comments were received by the Village for consideration by the PC and ZBA.
Additional comments have also been received since the ZBA’s consideration of the Applicant’s request.
Comments previously included in the PC and ZBA packets are provided in Attachment B. Comments
received since the posting of the March 16, 2026, ZBA agenda packet are provided in Attachment C.
The Village Council has final jurisdiction on this request.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The Subject Property, which is approximately 5.3 acres (230,911.56 square feet) in size, is located on the
east side of Sheridan Road generally between Fuller Lane and Elder Lane and contains Centennial Beach
and Park (see Figure 1). Under the Village Zoning Ordinance, the Subject Property has two front yards: (i)
the street frontage along Sheridan Road to the west; and (ii) lake frontage along Lake Michigan to the
east.
The Comprehensive Plan designates the Subject Property as appropriate for “Open Space” land uses,
which includes public parks & recreation facilities, pocket parks/plazas, and Cook County Forest Preserve
Land (see Figure 2). The property is zoned R-2 Single Family Residential and is in the Lakefront
Preservation Overlay District, and it is bordered by R-2 Single Family Residential to the north and south,
and R-4 Single Family Residential to the west (see Figure 3).
In addition, the Zoning Ordinance allows park and recreational uses in any zoning district within the Village
by special use permit approval.
The Applicant’s current use of the Subject Property as a park and recreational facility is generally
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan land use designation and the R-2 zoning district. The Applicant
recently used the Subject Property as an off-leash dog area as well.
Subject
Property
Figure 1 – GIS Aerial Map
Page 14 of 158
Subject
Property
Figure 2 – Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map – Winnetka Futures 2040 Plan
Subject
Property
Figure 3 – Zoning Map
Page 15 of 158
Figures 4 and 5 below are photos of the Subject Property taken in January. Figures 6 through 9 on the
following pages were taken in the summer of 2024.
Figure 4 – Subject Property – Looking North at Centennial Beach (January 2026)
Figure 5 – Subject Property – Looking South at Existing Steel Groin on Centennial Beach & Stone Groin
at 205 Sheridan Road Property (January 2026)
Page 16 of 158
Figure 6 – Subject Property – Looking North at Centennial Beach (Summer 2024)
Figure 7 – Subject Property – Looking South at Centennial Beach (Summer 2024)
Page 17 of 158
Figure 8 – Subject Property – Looking North from Centennial Beach (Summer 2024)
Figure 9 - Existing Sea Wall on Subject Property (Summer 2024)
PROPOSED PLAN
The Applicant is proposing installation of fencing on the beach to provide an enclosure to allow off-leash
dogs on the beach. The existing beach has been utilized as a dog beach since 1995, according to the
Applicant. Currently, patrons are required to have a key fob to access the existing beach from the top of
the bluff above and dogs are required to be leashed. As explained by the Applicant in the attached letter
dated April 3, 2026, included in Attachment A, the Applicant is proceeding in an unusual way. The
Page 18 of 158
Applicant is asking the DRB to consider two options; the original plan (“Original Plan”) that the Applicant
presented to the Plan Commission and the new plan (“New Plan”) that the Applicant presented to the
ZBA.
Original Plan (presented to the Plan Commission). The Original Plan consists of two rows of galvanized
steel chain-link fencing, measuring 4 feet in height, set back 20 feet from both the north and south
boundaries of Centennial Beach. The proposed fencing would be located at the base of the existing steel
sheet pile wall and extend perpendicularly eastward across the beach into the lake.
Both the north and south fence would have access gates to allow the public to traverse the beach. The
Applicant indicates that they are planning for the access gates to remain unlocked, with the current key
fob controlled access gate to remain at the top of bluff.
North Fence. The north fence would extend a total of 91 feet from the existing steel sheet pile wall at the
base of the bluff east towards the water (Figure 11). Approximately 40 feet of the fence would extend
from the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) (581.5) into the lake. There would be a double access gate
10 feet in width to allow unleashing and leashing of dogs. The depth of the leashing and unleashing area
would be 6 feet. The proposed access gate would be 24 feet east of the existing steel sheet pile wall, and
approximately 17 feet west of the OHWM.
South Fence. The south fence would extend approximately 78 feet from the existing steel sheet pile wall
east towards the water (Figure 12). Approximately 36 feet of the fence would extend from the OHWM
into the lake. The double access gate would be located 16 feet east of the steel sheet pile and be 3’-3” in
width. Similar to the north access, the depth of the leashing and unleashing area would be 6 feet.
In response to staff review comments, including the Village’s coastal engineering consultant, the lakeward
sections of fencing (east four or five sections) would be removable, so that these sections can be removed
during late fall and winter and reinstalled in the spring.
The proposed site plan and up-close excerpts of both the north and south fences, as well as elevations of
the proposed fencing and gates for the Original Plan are provided below and on the following pages
(Figures 10-16). The complete set of plans is provided in the application materials, which are included in
Attachment A.
OHWM
(Front Lot Line)
Proposed
Existing Stairs to Beach South Fence
(key fob access) and Gate
Proposed Existing Steel
North Fence Sheet Pile Wall
and Gate
Figure 10 –Original Plan - Site Fencing Plan (Sheet L2.0)
Page 19 of 158
OHWM
(Front Lot Line)
Property Line Between
Centennial Park & Beach
and 261 Sheridan Road
Proposed
Access Gate
Figure 11 – Original Plan - Proposed North Fence (Excerpt of Sheet L2.0)
Property Line
Between Centennial
Park & Beach and 205
Sheridan Road
Proposed
OHWM
Access Gate
(Front Lot Line)
Figure 12 – Original Plan - Proposed South Fence (Excerpt of Sheet L2.0)
Page 20 of 158
As proposed in the Original Plan, to walk along the beach from the north end to the south end of the
Subject Property, or vice versa, a member of the public would need to use the proposed access gates and
walk through the dog beach. As noted earlier, both rows of fencing would be off-set from the north and
south property lines by 20 feet, allowing for a pathway to access the stairs that go over the 205 Sheridan
Road stone groin.
Figure 13 – Original Plan - North Access Gate Figure 14 – Original Plan - South Access Gate
Figure 15 – Original Plan - Elevation of North Fence
Figure 16 – Original Plan - Elevation of South Fence
New Plan (presented to the ZBA). Following the Applicant’s special meeting on February 5, the Applicant
submitted a New Plan, which is also included in Attachment A. In the New Plan, the existing gate at the
top of the bluff would remain but access would be controlled with a programed timed locking system that
would operate from 6:00am to 10:00pm, this allows for public access to the beach. While entry into the
fenced off-leash dog beach area would be restricted with the key fob system currently in place at the top
of the bluff. There would be a double-entry gate system to allow for unleashing and leashing of dogs.
There would also be a 10-foot wide maintenance access gate that would remain locked and used by Park
District staff. The Fire Department has requested access to the maintenance gate for emergency
responses and the Applicant has agreed to coordinate with the Fire Department to provide access.
The proposed fencing would be attached to the existing steel groins and enclose approximately 265 feet
Page 21 of 158
of the beach frontage for dogs to be off-leash (Figure 17). This represents a reduction of approximately
50% from the Original Plan presented to the PC in terms of the linear frontage of the dog beach area.
Another major difference in the New Plan is the addition of a west fence that would be located 12 feet
east (lakeward) of the existing sea wall to allow the public to traverse the beach without entering the off-
leash dog area. This fence would be 4 feet in height above grade (sand level) and be black chain-link,
rather than the galvanized chain-link proposed in the Original Plan.
Use of Remaining Beach Area. Included in Attachment A, is a narrative dated March 4, 2026, provided by
the Applicant explaining the use of the remainder of Centennial Beach given the New Plan limits the dog
beach area to roughly half of Centennial Beach. The remaining portion of the beach consists of
approximately 260 feet of lake frontage and would be used as a passive beach without swimming. The
Applicant indicates that staffing for the passive beach would generally be late May through early
September and that access to the beach would require a beach pass. The beach will remain accessible
from 6:00am until 10:00pm outside the typical beach season, but it will not be staffed.
North Fence. The north portion of the fence would be 46’-6” feet in length with approximately 20 feet of
the fence extending from the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) (581.5) lakeward (Figure 18). The 4-wide
access gate would be located where the west and north fence meet. Patrons would enter through this
gate into an unleashing and leashing area measuring 10 feet by 10 feet. The extent to which the proposed
fence would extend beyond the OHWM is reduced by approximately 20 feet in the New Plan.
South Fence. The south fence would be 49’-3” in length, and also extend approximately 20 feet from the
OHWM towards the lake (Figure 19). There would not be an access gate in this portion of the fencing. At
the west end, the fence would be set back 5 feet from the south property line. Due to the angle of the
existing steel groin, upon which the proposed fencing would be installed, in relation to the south property
line, the distance between the proposed fence and the south property line would narrow from 5 feet at
the west end until it meets the south property line and ends. Given the proximity of the proposed fence
to the south property line, it is important to note the distance between the property line and the stairs
that go over the 205 Sheridan Road stone groin is approximately 10 feet and at this location the fence
would be north of the property line by at least 1’-11”.
In response to staff review comments, including the Village’s coastal engineering consultant, the two
lakeward sections of fencing (the east 20 feet) would be modular, so that these sections could be removed
during late fall and winter and reinstalled in the spring.
The proposed site plan and up-close excerpts of both the north and south fences, as well as elevations of
the proposed fencing in the New Plan are provided on the following pages (Figures 17 through 21). The
complete set of the New Plan is included in Attachment A.
Page 22 of 158
Property Line Between
Centennial Park & Beach
and 261 Sheridan Road
OHWM
Proposed (Front Lot Line)
Fence
Existing Stairs to Beach
Proposed
(time restricted access)
Access Gate
Figure 17 – New Plan - Site Fencing Plan (Excerpt of Sheet L2.0)
Proposed Proposed
Unleashing/Leashing Area Fence
(key fob access)
Proposed
Maintenance
Existing Sea Wall Access Gate
Figure 18 – New Plan - North and West Portion of Proposed Fencing (Excerpt of Sheet L2.0)
Page 23 of 158
Property Line Between
Centennial Park & Beach
and 205 Sheridan Road
Proposed
Fence
Figure 19 – New Plan - South and West Portion of Proposed Fencing (Excerpt of Sheet L2.0)
Figure 20 – New Plan - Elevation of North Fence
Figure 21 – New Plan - Elevation of South Fence
Fence and wall height within required setbacks. With the adoption of the steep slope regulations, the
Village also amended the Zoning Ordinance to redefine the front line along the lake as well as the front
yard setback along the lake. The front lot line is now the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) and is defined
as the line on the shore of Lake Michigan consistent with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ administrative
benchmark, which is currently set at 581.5’. The front yard setback along the lake is now defined as the
toe of the bluff or 50 feet from the OHWM, whichever results in the line farthest from the OHWM.
Page 24 of 158
The Zoning Ordinance allows fences, walls, or a combination of a fence and wall within a required yard
that is no taller than 6.5 feet from natural grade. While the proposed fence is located within the required
front yard, at a height of 4 feet, it complies with the maximum permitted height. Therefore, the proposed
fence complies with the zoning regulations.
CONSIDERATION BY OTHER ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMISSIONS
Plan Commission. On January 28, 2026, the PC considered the Applicant’s Original Plan and the only Plan
the Applicant presented to the PC for approval of a special use permit to allow installation of fencing on
the existing beach. After a presentation by staff and a presentation by the Applicant, the PC heard from
16 members of the public. 15 of the speakers spoke in opposition to the proposed plan. The PC then
discussed the request. By a vote of 7-0, the PC directed the Village Attorney to prepare a draft
recommendation of denial with written findings and determinations based on the PC’s discussion of the
Original Plan for consideration at the next Plan Commission meeting on February 25, 2026.
On February 25, 2026, by a vote of 6-0, the PC approved the written findings and recommendation to
deny the Special Use Permit.
Zoning Board of Appeals. As noted at the beginning of this report, on February 9, 2026, the ZBA
commenced a public hearing on the Applicant’s special use. However, since the Winnetka Park District
Board authorized a new plan at its February 5 special meeting and the new plan had not been submitted
to the Village for review in advance of the February 9 ZBA meeting, by a vote of 7-0, the ZBA voted to
continue the item to the March 9 ZBA meeting. At the March 9 meeting, after hearing from staff and the
Applicant, the ZBA heard from 15 members of the public. Approximately 14 members of the public
expressed significant concerns about safety, public access, parking, private property encroachments, and
beach obstructions. By a vote of 7-0, the ZBA directed the Village Attorney to prepare a draft
recommendation of denial with written findings and determinations based on the ZBA’s discussion of the
New Plan for consideration at the next ZBA meeting on March 16.
On March 16, 2026, by a vote of 6-0, the ZBA approved the written findings and recommendation to deny
the Special Use Permit.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS CONSIDERATIONS
As established by the Village Code, the DRB is to consider the following four (4) factors in determining whether
to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness:
“(1) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood;”
“(2) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and improvements in the
immediate neighborhood, and including both urban design and site arrangement
considerations;”
“(3) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
consistent with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and criteria as may be
adopted by the Board; and”
“(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the integrity of the
immediate vicinity.”
The DRB will need to determine if the proposed fencing on the existing beach located at Centennial Beach
Page 25 of 158
complies with the above standards.
DESIGN GUIDELINES ANALYSIS
The Village’s Design Guidelines provide recommendations and standards on the appearance of site and
building design for commercial and institutional uses. The Design Guidelines were predominantly
developed for use within the three business districts and nearby multi-family residential and institutional
structures. Therefore, it is challenging to use the Design Guidelines for areas outside of the three business
districts. With respect to fencing, the Design Guidelines focus on fencing for screening of mechanical
equipment and streetscape elements, including obscuring the view of parking lots, in the business
districts, multifamily residential, and institutional areas, which are not applicable to this request.
FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
At the April 16 DRB meeting, the DRB is scheduled to consider the design of the Applicant’s proposed
fencing on Centennial Beach. After hearing from the Applicant and the public, the DRB will have the
following options:
1) Continue the public hearing to a specific date to provide the Applicant and/or staff with
additional time to address questions and comments from the DRB; or
2) Consider a motion recommending approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. If
the DRB is prepared to make a recommendation to the Village Council regarding the request, a
DRB member should make a motion recommending approval or recommending denial based
upon the following findings of fact and direct staff and the Village Attorney to prepare written
findings and determinations for the DRB’s consideration and final vote at a subsequent meeting:
a. The proposed fencing is consistent [is not consistent] with the following standards used
for evaluating a certificate of appropriateness:
(1) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are appropriate
to and compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood;
(2) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are appropriate
to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and improvements in the immediate
neighborhood, and including both urban design and site arrangement considerations;
(3) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are consistent
with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and criteria as may be
adopted by the Board; and
(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the integrity of
the immediate vicinity.
b. [If the DRB chooses to place conditions as part of its recommendation of approval, it
will want to include the conditions here.]
As noted above, any motion on a decision by the Design Review Board should direct the Village Attorney
to prepare written findings and determinations for the Design Review Board to consider and vote on at
a subsequent meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
Page 26 of 158
Attachment A: Application Materials
Attachment B: Public Correspondence Previously Included in ZBA and PC Agenda Packets
Attachment C: Public Correspondence Received Since Posting of March 16, 2026, ZBA Agenda Packet
Page 27 of 158
ATTACHMENT A
Costa Kutulas
Director of Parks and Maintenance
Winnetka Park District
1380 Willow Road
Winnetka Illinois 60093
April 3, 2026
Ann Klaassen
Assistant Director of Community Development
Village of Winnetka
Winnetka Illinois 60093
Re: Special Use Permit Case No. 25-28-SU
Centennial Beach – Off-Leash Dog Beach
Design Review Board Meeting
Ann,
Per our recent conversation, I wanted to follow up with additional clarification regarding the
design elements associated with the Centennial Dog Beach fencing project currently under
review as part of Special Use Permit Case No. 25-28-SU. This letter and exhibits are intended to
supplement the materials previously submitted to the Village of Winnetka in advance of the
Design Review Board meeting scheduled for April 16, 2026. I have also included an updated
Certificate of Appropriateness Application, which has been revised to clearly reflect the
optionality of the two proposed plan configurations.
As you are aware, the Park District initially submitted its Special Use Permit application on
October 21, 2025. Since that time, the Park District has continued to refine the plans in response
to staff review, Plan Commission feedback, and Park Board direction. The most recent plan set
was submitted on February 13, 2026, with a corrected plan illustration transmitted on February
17, 2026. Additional materials outlining operational considerations and providing further design
detail were submitted on March 4, 2026, to support the ongoing review process for Centennial
Beach.
Based on the materials provided to date, it is our understanding that the primary design elements
relevant to the Design Review Board’s review have been incorporated within the submitted plan
sets. However, I would like to clearly communicate that the Park District is formally requesting
1
Page 28 of 158
Design Review Board consideration of both the original fencing plan (submitted October 21,
2025) and the revised Alternate 1 plan (submitted February 17, 2026).
Given the progression of this application through the Plan Commission and Zoning Board of
Appeals, where only a single plan configuration (though differing between boards) was
presented at each stage, the Park District believes it is important to provide the Design Review
Board, and ultimately the Village Council, with the opportunity to evaluate both design
approaches concurrently. This approach is intended to provide greater flexibility and
transparency in the review process, while ensuring that all viable design options remain under
consideration as part of the final decision-making process.
For reference, the Park District has received permits from IDNR, IEPA, and USACE for the
original plan design.
As discussed, additional clarification regarding fencing materials and color palette will assist the
Design Review Board in completing its review.
The original plan (Exhibit A), submitted October 21, 2025, illustrates two galvanized fencing
runs inset approximately 20 feet from both the north and south park property lines. These fence
lines extend approximately 15 feet into the lake from the existing western seawall and
incorporate double-entry gate systems to facilitate safe leashing and unleashing of dogs while
minimizing the potential for unintended egress, consistent with Cook County Department of
Animal and Rabies Control (CCDARC) requirements. Fence posts are designed to be driven into
the sand to refusal and cut to a height of approximately 4 feet above grade. The northern fence
segment is approximately 76 feet in length, and the southern segment approximately 63 feet,
with the easternmost 15 feet of each segment designed for seasonal removal to accommodate
winter lake conditions. The fencing is intended to follow the existing beach profile and be
maintained accordingly. Both options maintain the gate at the top of the bluff allowing access to
Centennial Beach accordingly.
Alternate 1 (Exhibit B), submitted February 17, 2026, represents a revised approach that reduces
the overall length of the off-leash dog beach area by approximately half and responds directly to
concerns raised during Plan Commission review. Under this alternative, the existing gate at the
top of the bluff will remain, maintaining access from the upland area and allow for closure of the
site during off hours. This gate is metal and finished in black, consistent with its existing
condition.
At the beach level, the proposed fencing includes both post-driven sections for the western fence
run (approximately 265 linear feet, offset 12 feet from the existing seawall) as well as panels
affixed to the existing steel groins, which will serve as the structural support for the east-west
fence runs. All fencing materials will consist of black vinyl-coated chain link with black metal
components. The imagery included in Exhibit B provides representative examples of the
proposed material and appearance. This fencing type is consistent with installations throughout
the Park District system and community, including the Skokie Playfield campus (COA
approved) and Duke Child Fields and was selected for its durability and adaptability within the
dynamic shoreline environment of Lake Michigan. Like the original plan, the easternmost 20 feet
of fencing will be seasonally removed to prevent damage from winter storm events.
2
Page 29 of 158
All proposed beach-level gates will be constructed of matching materials and finished in black to
maintain a cohesive and consistent visual appearance. The use of black fencing in lakefront
settings is a widely accepted design approach, as it minimizes visual prominence, preserves
sightlines toward Lake Michigan, and blends more effectively with the surrounding landscape.
Similar applications can be observed at both Elder Lane and the Centennial Park bluffs, where
black fencing is used to reduce visual impact and integrate with natural surroundings. The outer
beach-level gate will operate with a key fob-controlled locking system to ensure compliance with
CCDARC access control requirements for off-leash dog areas.
Regardless of the option ultimately selected, signage will be installed in accordance with the
Park District’s standard signage branding program to ensure consistency across facilities while
providing clear operational and wayfinding information for users. Representative examples are
included in Exhibit B.
If the Design Review Board or Village staff require any additional information in advance of the
April 16, 2026 meeting, please do not hesitate to reach out. The Park District appreciates the
continued coordination with Village staff as the review process moves forward.
Sincerely,
Costa Kutulas
Director of Parks and Maintenance
Winnetka Park District
CC: Shannon Nazzal, Executive Director of the Winnetka Park District
Harold W. Francke, Legal Counsel, Winnetka Park District Centennial Beach Project
3
Page 30 of 158
Exhibit A
Winnetka Park District – Special Use Permit Case No 25-28-SU
225 Sheridan Road – Centennial Beach
Original Plan and additional images of the proposed project materials for the fencing.
Image from January 2023 showing the approximate location size and scale of the northern fence
(no fabric was installed in the photo)
4
Page 31 of 158
Image from January 2023 showing the proposed fencing materials (galvanized chain-link)
5
Page 32 of 158
Image from 2010 of the previous fencing that was installed at Centennial Beach near the north
property line. (Galvanized posts and fabric).
6
Page 33 of 158
Images of 4’ Galvanized Chain-Link Fencing (similar in design to what proposed for original
design Design)
7
Page 34 of 158
8
6
575 56 4
57 57
575
57
5 1 East Wacker Drive
Suite 2700
Chicago, Illinois 60601
577 p 312.467.5445
574 f 312.467.5484
3 574 575
thelakotagroup.com
57
575
576 575
575
580
PREPARED FOR
577
Winnetka Park
580
580 PROJECT SITE LOCATION:
42.09821N, -87.71452W
580
District
580 585 540 Hibbard Rd
586 Winnetka, IL 60093
584 584 CENTENNIAL DOG BEACH
585
585
584
Temporary
586
Dog Beach
Fencing
261 SHERIDAN RD 205 SHERIDAN RD
225 Sheridan Rd
Winnteka, IL 60093
H:\Lakota_files\Projects\2023\23008 - Elder Lane-Centennial Park\07 Graphics\03 DD CD\01 CAD\20250422 Centennial Dog Beach Fencing Application.dwg
It's smart. It's free. It's the law.
Call
Before
You Dig
Call before
you dig.
ILLINOIS
ONE-CALL SYSTEM 811
ISSUED FOR PERMIT
April 25, 2025
REVISIONS
No Date Issue
VICINITY MAP
SCALE IN FEET
1" = 30'
0' 15' 30' 90'
NORTH SHEET NUMBER
SHERIDAN ROAD L1.0
C 2025 The Lakota Group
Page 35 of 158
570
574
8 1 East Wacker Drive
5
575 56 4 Suite 2700
7 57 Chicago, Illinois 60601
6
p 312.467.5445
f 312.467.5484
57 thelakotagroup.com
5
577
574 PREPARED FOR
4
57 57 575 Winnetka Park
3
575
District
15'-0" 540 Hibbard Rd
WATER LEVEL PER 10/21/24 SURVEY Winnetka, IL 60093
575 ELEV. 578.6 (NORMAL WATER LINE)
575
59'-0"
CENTENNIAL DOG BEACH
NORTH FENCE 48" TALL WITH 580 Temporary
15'-0" TWO 10'-0" DOUBLE GATES SOUTH FENCE 48" TALL WITH
SEE ELEVATION, DETAIL 1, SHEET L3.0 TWO 3'-3" SINGLE GATES
SEE ELEVATION, DETAIL 2, SHEET L3.0 Dog Beach
WATER LEVEL PER 10/21/24 SURVEY 6'-0"
ELEV. 578.6 (NORMAL WATER LINE) 577
3'-3"
Fencing
57'-0" 580
580 PROJECT SITE LOCATION:
42.09821N, -87.71452W
16'-0" 225 Sheridan Rd
580 585
586 Winnteka, IL 60093
6'-0"
20'-0"
10'-0" 584
584 585
24'-0"
585
H:\Lakota_files\Projects\2023\23008 - Elder Lane-Centennial Park\07 Graphics\03 DD CD\01 CAD\20250422 Centennial Dog Beach Fencing Application.dwg
586
20'-0"
205 SHERIDAN RD
It's smart. It's free. It's the law.
261 SHERIDAN RD
Call
Before
You Dig
Call before
you dig.
ILLINOIS
ONE-CALL SYSTEM 811
ISSUED FOR PERMIT
April 25, 2025
REVISIONS
No Date Issue
CL 5' o.c., 3'-3"
typ. o.c., typ.
Double gate latch
for public access Steel frame, attached to hinges Gate hinges,
mounted to gate
(2) Gate hinges,
mounted to gate
Single gate latch
Steel frame, attached for public access
to hinges
SITE FENCING
PLAN
SCALE IN FEET
1" = 20'
0' 10' 20' 60'
NORTH SHEET NUMBER
1
Double Access Gate at Dog Beach - Elevation
Scale: 1/2" = 1'-0" 2
Single Access Gate at Dog Beach - Elevation
Scale: 1/2" = 1'-0"
C
L2.0
2025 The Lakota Group
Page 36 of 158
24'-0" 10'-0" 57'-0"
15'-0"
6'-0" Normal Water Line 1 East Wacker Drive
ELEV 578.6
Suite 2700
Chicago, Illinois 60601
p 312.467.5445
f 312.467.5484
thelakotagroup.com
Plan
Fence ties, 12" o.c. 2" Line post, typ. 10'-0" Double gate with PREPARED FOR
8'-0" eq. to gate
evenly spaced, 10'-0" o.c. max.
10'-0"
latch for public access
See Detail 1, Sheet L1.0
Winnetka Park
District
1 83" dia. top rail, continuous 540 Hibbard Rd
4'-0"
Chain link fencing, typ.
Winnetka, IL 60093
9'-6" eq. to gate CENTENNIAL DOG BEACH
TBD in field,
Temporary
see notes
Normal Water Line
Dog Beach
Fencing
585
225 Sheridan Rd
Winnteka, IL 60093
Elevation - North Dog Beach Fence Notes:
1
580
1. Steel top rail to run continuously over multiple posts.
575
Scale: 1/4" = 1'-0"
2. Posts to be driven into the sand and underlying clay until
refusal. Posts will then be cut 48" above the sand line
H:\Lakota_files\Projects\2023\23008 - Elder Lane-Centennial Park\07 Graphics\03 DD CD\01 CAD\20250422 Centennial Dog Beach Fencing Application.dwg
Normal Water Line
ELEV 578.6
It's smart. It's free. It's the law.
6'-0" Call before
Call
Before
You Dig
15'-0"
you dig.
ILLINOIS
ONE-CALL SYSTEM 811
16'-0" 3'-3" 59'-0"
ISSUED FOR PERMIT
April 25, 2025
Plan REVISIONS
No Date Issue
8'-0" eq. to gate
Fence ties, 12" o.c. 3'-3" Single gate with latch
for public access
See Detail 2, Sheet L2.0 2" Line post, typ.
evenly spaced, 10'-0" o.c. max.
Chain link fencing, typ. 1 83" dia. top rail, continuous
9'-10" eq. to gate
TBD in field, FENCE
see notes ELEVATIONS
Normal Water Line
SCALE IN FEET
1/4" = 1'-0"
0' 2' 4' 12'
NORTH SHEET NUMBER
2
Elevation - South Dog Beach Fence
Scale: 1/4" = 1'-0"
C
L3.0
2025 The Lakota Group
Page 37 of 158
Exhibit B
Winnetka Park District – Special Use Permit Case No 25-28-SU
225 Sheridan Road – Centennial Beach
Alternate 1 Plans and additional images of the proposed project materials for the fencing.
Images of 4’ Black Chain-Link Fencing (similar in design to what proposed for Alternate 1
Design)
Image of black chain-link fencing similar in design to the proposed Alternate 1 dog fence double
access gate area.
8
Page 38 of 158
Image of the existing Centennial Beach Kep Fob Gate with signage (top of bluff)
Image of the existing Centennial Beach black fencing (top of bluff)
Site images of the project location were already included in the original Certificate of
Appropriateness (Dated 10-21-2025) Additional images will be provided to the Design Review
Board the evening of the meeting (April 16, 2026).
9
Page 39 of 158
FENCE MOUNTED TO GROINS
4’ HT - GOES TO 5’ DIFFERENTIAL
IN SAND HEIGHT
AT E R L I NE
NORMAL W
FENCE INSTALLED ON STEEL JETTI
DOUBLE GATE MAINTENANCE ACCESS 4’ HT - GOES TO 5’ DIFFERENTIAL
RELOCATED KEY FOB ACCESS 4’ HEIGHT, TWO DOORS FOR EQUIPMENT ACCESS IN SAND HEIGHT
AT E R L I NE
HIGH W
LEGEND
SHEET PILE (EXISTING)
PROPOSED DOG BEACH FENCING
4’H BLACK VINYL-COATED CHAIN LINK
EXISTING PUBLIC BEACH ACCESS
BEACH ACCESS GATE
DOUBLE-GATED DOG BEACH ENTRY
ACCESS TO BEACH
EXISTING STAIRCASE TO REMAIN
ACCESS TO BEACH
KEY CARD ACCESS GATE
CENTENNIAL BEACH & BLUFF IMPROVEMENTS
CENTENNIAL DOG FENCE PLAN: ALTERNATE 1 SCALE: 1”=10’
0 5’ 10’ 20’
NORTH
WINNETKA, ILLINOIS MARCH 5, 2026 © 2026 THE LAKOTA GROUP
Page 40 of 158
1 East Wacker Drive
TW 581.70 Suite 2700
Chicago, Illinois 60601
p 312.467.5445
f 312.467.5484
thelakotagroup.com
TW 582.40
TW 582.20
TW 582.80
PREPARED FOR
TW 583.00
PROJECT SITE LOCATION:
42.09821N, -87.71452W TW 583.20 Winnetka Park
District
TW 588.80 TW 591.60 540 Hibbard Rd
Winnetka, IL 60093
TW 584.00
CENTENNIAL DOG BEACH
TW 588.80
Dog Beach
Fencing
Alternate Plan 1
261 SHERIDAN RD 205 SHERIDAN RD
225 Sheridan Rd
Winnteka, IL 60093
H:\Lakota_files\Projects\2025\25030 - Elder Lane-Centennial Park Revised\07 Graphics\01 SD\02 CAD\20260303 Centennial Dog Beach Fencing Application.dwg
It's smart. It's free. It's the law.
Call
Before
You Dig
Call before
you dig.
ILLINOIS
ONE-CALL SYSTEM 811
ISSUED FOR PERMIT
March 3, 2026
REVISIONS
No Date Issue
VICINITY MAP
SCALE IN FEET
1" = 30'
0' 15' 30' 90'
NORTH SHEET NUMBER
C
L1.0
2026 The Lakota Group
Page 41 of 158
1 East Wacker Drive
Suite 2700
Chicago, Illinois 60601
p 312.467.5445
f 312.467.5484
thelakotagroup.com
TW 581.70
SOUTH FENCE
PREPARED FOR
SEE ELEVATION, DETAIL 2, SHEET L3.0
Winnetka Park
District
TW 582.40 540 Hibbard Rd
WATER LEVEL PER 10/21/24 SURVEY WATER LEVEL PER 10/21/24 SURVEY Winnetka, IL 60093
ELEV. 581.5 (HIGH WATER LINE) ELEV. 578.6 (NORMAL WATER LINE)
TW 582.20
CENTENNIAL DOG BEACH
TW 582.80 1'-11"
NORTH FENCE
Dog Beach
49'-3"
SEE ELEVATION, DETAIL 1, SHEET L3.0
TW 582.50
10'-0" Fencing
265'-0" 33'-2"
WATER LEVEL PER 10/21/24 SURVEY
ELEV. 578.6 (NORMAL WATER LINE)
Alternate Plan 1
TW 583.20
TW 583.00
5'-0"
PROJECT SITE LOCATION:
225 Sheridan Rd
46'-6"
42.09821N, -87.71452W TW 588.80
12'-0" Winnteka, IL 60093
10'-0"
TW 591.60
10'-0"
12'-0"
10'-0"
TW 584.00 EXISTING PUBLIC ACCESS STAIRS
4'-0" LOCATION IS APPROXIMATELY 10 FT
TW 588.80
H:\Lakota_files\Projects\2025\25030 - Elder Lane-Centennial Park Revised\07 Graphics\01 SD\02 CAD\20260303 Centennial Dog Beach Fencing Application.dwg
SOUTH OF THE PROPERTY LINE
RESIDENT ACCESS GATE MAINTENANCE ACCESS GATE WEST FENCE AT DOG BEACH
WITH RELOCATED KEY SEE DETAIL 1, THIS SHEET CHAIN LINK FABRIC TO BE EXTEND
CENTENNIAL BEACH
FOB ACCESS 1'-0" BELOW SAND ELEVATION
ACCESS GATE,
SEE DETAIL 2, THIS SHEET SEE DETAIL 3, THIS SHEET
TIMER CONTROLLED
205 SHERIDAN RD
It's smart. It's free. It's the law.
261 SHERIDAN RD
Call
Before
You Dig
Call before
you dig.
ILLINOIS
ONE-CALL SYSTEM 811
ISSUED FOR PERMIT
March 3, 2026
REVISIONS
No Date Issue
CL 5' o.c., 4' o.c.,
typ. typ.
Double gate latch for
maintenance access Steel frame, attached to hinges Key Card Access for Gate hinges,
Residents mounted to gate
(2) Gate hinges,
mounted to gate
Fence Post (behind)
Steel frame, attached
to hinges
SITE FENCING
4' from sand elevation
Chain Link Fabric, typ.
Notes: PLAN
1. Posts to be driven into the sand and
underlying clay until refusal. Post will
then be cut 48" above the sand line
SCALE IN FEET
1' Chain Link Fabric
with 1'-0" of chain link fabric to be 1" = 20'
buried below grade for fence panels.
Gate panels shall not have buried
buried into sand
Post Footing driven to 0' 10' 20' 60'
refusal, typ. chain link fabric condition.
See Note NORTH SHEET NUMBER
1
Maintenance Access Gate at Dog Beach - Elevation
Scale: 1/2" = 1'-0" 2
Resident Access Gate at Dog Beach - Elevation
Scale: 1/2" = 1'-0" 3
West Fence at Dog Beach - Cross Section
Scale: 1/2" = 1'-0"
C
L2.0
2026 The Lakota Group
Page 42 of 158
12'-0" 583 10'-0" 582 581 580 36'-6" 579 578 577
58
4 4'-0" High Water Line Chain Link Fencing Normal Water Line
ELEV 581.5 mounted to groin ELEV 578.6
Relocated Key 1 East Wacker Drive
10'-0"
Fob Access
Suite 2700
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Resident Access Gate p 312.467.5445
See Detail 2, Sheet L2.0 f 312.467.5484
4'-0" thelakotagroup.com
577
Embedded Fence
Posts, typ. 583 582 581 580 578
See notes 579
Plan
2" Line post mounted to groin, typ. PREPARED FOR
TW 588.80
evenly spaced, 10'-0" o.c. max. Chain link fencing, typ.
9'-1" eq.
1 83" dia. top rail
Winnetka Park
10'-0"
Sand Elevation
Fence ties, 12" o.c.
Modular fencing to be removed seasonally Existing Steel Groin
District
540 Hibbard Rd
4'-0" 4'-4"
Winnetka, IL 60093
3'-8" 3'-11" 3'-2"
2'-11"
High Water Line
3'-5" 2'-8"
2'-2"
584.00 TW 584.00
2'-5"
ELEV 581.5 CENTENNIAL DOG BEACH
TW 583.00
583.00
TW 582.50
582.00
Dog Beach
4'-10" from sand
5'-0" height
581.00
5'-0" height 5'-0" height
from sand
from sand from sand
580.00
579.00
Normal Water Line
ELEV 578.6 Fencing
elevation, typ.
elevation, typ
elevation, typ elevation 578.00
577.00
Alternate Plan 1
Notes:
1. Steel top rail to run continuously over multiple posts where shown. 225 Sheridan Rd
2. The eastern 20'-0" of fencing shall be removable fencing panels for seasonal damage prevention.
3. Posts shown over steel groin to be surface-mounted onto the steel groin.
Winnteka, IL 60093
4. At-grade fence posts to be driven into the sand and underlying clay until refusal. Post will then be cut
48" above the sand line with 1'-0" of chain link fabric to be buried below grade.
Elevation - North Dog Beach Fence
1 Scale: 1/4" = 1'-0"
H:\Lakota_files\Projects\2025\25030 - Elder Lane-Centennial Park Revised\07 Graphics\01 SD\02 CAD\20260303 Centennial Dog Beach Fencing Application.dwg
586 585 584 583 580 579 578 577
582 581
High Water Line
575
12'-0" ELEV 581.5
576
49'-3"
Normal Water Line
ELEV 578.6
5'-0" to It's smart. It's free. It's the law.
Call
Call before
Property Line
Before
You Dig
you dig.
1'-11" to
Chain Link Fencing ILLINOIS
ONE-CALL SYSTEM 811
Property Line
mounted to groin
Approximate location of stone steps is 10FT
south of WPD property line for public access
ISSUED FOR PERMIT
Plan March 3, 2026
REVISIONS
No Date Issue
2" Line post 2" Line post mounted Chain link fencing, typ. Approximate location of stone steps is 10 FT
driven into sand to groin, typ. 1 83" dia. top rail south of the WPD property line for public access
Sand Elevation See Notes. 9'-10" eq. evenly spaced, 10'-0"
588.80
o.c. max. Fence ties, 12" o.c.
Modular fencing to be removed seasonally
Existing Steel Groin
4'-0"
586.00
4'-11"
4'-0" 4'-2"
585.00
4'-0" 4'-2"
584.00 3'-9"
TW 583.00 TW 582.80 2'-4" 2'-6" High Water Line
Fence post
footing depth
583.00 582.00
TW 582.40 ELEV 581.5
FENCE
4'-8" height
TBD in Field, 581.00
5'-0" height from
ELEVATIONS
5'-0" height from
580.00 Normal Water Line
see Notes from sand
579.00 ELEV 578.6
elevation
sand elevation
sand elevation 578.00
SCALE IN FEET
1/4" = 1'-0"
Notes:
1. Steel top rail to run continuously over multiple posts where shown. 0' 2' 4' 12'
2. The eastern 20'-0" of fencing shall be removable fencing panels for seasonal damage prevention. NORTH SHEET NUMBER
3. Westernmost post identified in elevation to be driven into the sand and underlying clay until refusal. Post will
L3.0
then be cut 48" above the sand line with 1'-0" of chain link fabric to be buried below grade.
Elevation - South Dog Beach Fence
2 Scale: 1/4" = 1'-0"
C 2026 The Lakota Group
Page 43 of 158
Village of Winnetka
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS APPLICATION
V I L L A G E O F W I N N E T K A, I L L I N O I S
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS APPLICATION
225 Sheridan Road
Project Address: ______________________________________________________________________________
Winnetka Park District
Name of Business(es):__________________________________________________________________________
Application is hereby made for the following work (please check all that apply):
Sign Sign Permit Application attached?
Awning Awning Permit Application attached?
Other (general description) Installation of Dog Beach Fencing
_______________________________________________________________
Please provide a detailed description of the proposed work (attach additional information such as material
specifications, photographs, etc.): ________________________________________________________________
Looking to install dog beach fencing at Centennial Park. There are two different
____________________________________________________________________________________________
options submitted, Park District is formally requesting Design Review Board consideration of both the original fencing plan
____________________________________________________________________________________________
(submitted 10/21/2025) and the revised Alternate 1 Plan (submitted 2/17/2026). 4/3/2026 Letter to Village CD describes both plans.
I/We hereby certify that as Owner
_________(Lessee/Owner) of the property located at
________________________(address), I am/we are authorized to submit plans for alterations of the subject
225 Sheridan Road
property. I/We agree to perform the subject work in accordance with the conditions of approval by the Winnetka
Design Review Board as well as all other applicable codes, rules and regulations of the Village of Winnetka.
SIGNED __________________________ FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
PRINTED NAME(S) Costa Kutulas
__________________________ COA applied for (date): __________
ADDRESS 540 Hibbard Road
__________________________
COA Case Number: __________
PHONE NO. 847-501-2052
__________________________
COA Issued (date): __________
EMAIL ckutulas@winpark.org
__________________________
The Lakota Group
PRIMARY DESIGN FIRM ______________________________
CONTACT NAME Costa Kutulas
______________________________
ADDRESS 540 Hibbard Road
______________________________
Winnetka IL 60093
______________________________
PHONE NO. 847-501-2052Page 4 of 4
______________________________
EMAIL ckutulas@winpark.org
______________________________
Page 44 of 158
Costa Kutulas
Director of Parks and Maintenance
Winnetka Park District
1380 Willow Road
Winnetka Illinois 60093
March 4, 2026
Ann Klaassen
Assistant Director of Community Development
Village of Winnetka
Winnetka Illinois 60093
Re: Park Board Operational Direction – February 26, 2026
Special Use Permit Case No. 25-28-SU
Centennial Beach – Off-Leash Dog Beach (Alternate 1)
Dear Ann,
This letter is intended to formally document the operational direction provided by the Winnetka
Park Board at its February 26, 2026 meeting regarding Centennial Beach and the proposed
fenced off-leash dog beach (Alternate 1), in connection with Special Use Permit Case No. 25-28-
SU.
Following approval of Alternate 1 on February 5, 2026, the Park Board reviewed operational
components necessary to refine the Special Use Permit application and to ensure that the
proposed use satisfies applicable standards relating to public health, safety, welfare,
compatibility, and site management. The actions summarized herein were approved contingent
upon issuance of the necessary permits.
With respect to access control and site management, the Board directed staff to maintain the
existing access-controlled gate at the top of the bluff and to install a new access-controlled gate
at the beach level, as reflected in Alternate 1. This dual-gate configuration provides layered
access control and operational flexibility. The upper gate will operate pursuant to Park District
Ordinance #504 and standard park hours from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. through a programed
timed locking system. The lower beach-level gate will operate during the same hours but will
require a key fob for entry into the fenced off-leash dog beach area. The key-fob system allows
the Park District to regulate access, suspend operations during hazardous lake or weather
1
Page 45 of 158
conditions, and enforce compliance with dog beach eligibility requirements. We will also
maintain the existing exit button which allows beach walkers to leave the site if there is an
instance where someone might be exiting the beach outside of permitted hours or closures due to
storm events. Collectively, these measures enhance public safety, improve enforceability, and
ensure controlled access consistent with Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control
regulations and Village leash law requirements.
The Board further designated the approximately 260-foot section of Centennial Beach located
immediately north of the fenced off-leash dog beach as a staffed passive beach with no
swimming permitted. This designation was selected to maintain public shoreline access while
avoiding the establishment of an additional programmed swimming beach and limiting the
operational intensity of the site. Staffing for the passive beach will align with the typical
swimming beach season, generally late May through early September. During that period, staff
presence will provide oversight and management only, again no swimming will be permitted at
the northern beach area. During this time the northern passive beach area will require a beach
pass to utilize the beach area. This is the same review as practiced last Fall at Elder Lane Beach.
This will help limit the potential influx of beach users if it was a “free beach” which could cause
issues with parking on site and the adjacent streets. Outside of the traditional beach season, the
passive beach will remain accessible during standard park hours from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. but
will not be staffed. This measured approach maintains access to the shoreline, limits potential
conflicts between uses, and supports compatibility with adjacent properties and lakefront
activities.
The Board confirmed that the fenced off-leash dog beach will operate year-round, consistent
with its longstanding historical operation at Centennial Beach. Daily operating hours for both the
fenced off-leash dog beach and the northern passive beach were established at 6:00 a.m. to 10:00
p.m. These hours align with standard park hours, provide predictability for neighboring
properties, support enforceability through the timed gate system, and limit late-night activity that
could affect neighborhood compatibility. The continuation of year-round dog beach operations,
combined with defined daily hours and controlled access, reflects a continuation of an existing
community amenity under strengthened regulatory and operational controls.
Recognizing that parking and traffic considerations remain part of the Special Use Permit
review, the Board established a prioritized parking management framework to guide
implementation and allow flexibility for potential conditions of approval. The Board directed
that permit-required parking access for dog beach pass holders and Winnetka residents remain
2
Page 46 of 158
the primary strategy. If necessary, a two-hour parking restriction may be implemented to
promote turnover. As a further measure, parking access could be reduced to dog beach pass
holders only. The Board also authorized staff to evaluate the feasibility of a shuttle service and to
explore potential land-banking opportunities at Centennial Park. This structured hierarchy
provides the Village and reviewing bodies with clear operational parameters while preserving the
ability to implement additional mitigation measures should they be deemed necessary. Based on
prior parking analysis and the shared use of the Elder Lane Park parking lot, the Park District
believes that existing capacity is sufficient to accommodate projected demand; however, the
District remains willing to evaluate additional measures as part of the review process.
The project remains subject to review and approval by the Illinois Department of Natural
Resources, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the
Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control, and the Village of Winnetka. Revised
plans reflecting the Board’s operational direction will be submitted to the appropriate agencies
for evaluation. The timing of those reviews will depend upon each agency’s independent review
process.
The Park Board’s February 26, 2026 actions were intended to strengthen access control, clarify
operational parameters, maintain shoreline access, limit intensity of use in the northern beach
area, provide enforceable daily hours, establish a structured parking management hierarchy, and
enhance overall site safety and compatibility. The Park District respectfully submits this
operational clarification for inclusion in the Special Use Permit record and consideration by the
Zoning Board of Appeals.
Please advise if additional information would assist the Village in preparation for the March 9,
2026, Zoning Board of Appeals meeting.
Sincerely,
Costa Kutulas
Director of Parks and Maintenance
Winnetka Park District
CC: Shannon Nazzal, Executive Director of the Winnetka Park District
Scott Mangum, Director of Community Development Village of Winnetka
3
Page 47 of 158
Winnetka Park District
540 Hibbard Road
Winnetka, Illinois 60093
February 13, 2026
Scott Mangum
Director of Community Development
Village of Winnetka
510 Green Bay Road
Winnetka, Illinois 60093
RE: Centennial Beach Dog Fencing – Alternate Plan 1 Revision Narrative
Special Use Permit Case No. 25-28-SU – 225 Sheridan Road
Dear Scott,
On February 6, 2026, the Winnetka Park District Board of Commissioners reviewed the dog
fencing proposal for Centennial Beach in consideration of the January 28, 2026 Plan
Commission comments, public input, and Village staff review comments from the initial Special
Use Permit review. Following that discussion, the Board directed staff to proceed with Alternate
Plan 1 (attached), which represents a material redesign in response to that feedback.
The original submittal proposed a contained enclosure defined by perpendicular fencing
extending toward Lake Michigan at both the north and south ends of the beach. During the
review process, concerns were raised regarding public safety, shoreline access, visual impact,
and the interaction between fencing and lake conditions. The revised plan shifts the project away
from installing new fencing across the beach to create an enclosed dog park. Instead, it uses the
existing shoreline infrastructure and beach geometry to define the dog beach limits while
maintaining continuous public access along the lakefront with a 12’ bypass to the west of the dog
beach area.
Page 48 of 158
Most notably, the revised design eliminates the previously proposed four-foot chain-link fence
runs at the north and south ends of the beach, thereby minimizing fencing located within active
wave zones. Rather than projecting fencing across the beach and into the lake to form an
enclosed area, Alternate Plan 1 attaches boundary fencing to the existing steel groins and
relocates the controlled entry point directly to beach level. This change significantly reduces the
perceived enclosure of the beach and removes physical barriers previously identified as potential
safety concerns. The relocated fencing runs will be modular, allowing seasonal removal of the
easternmost sections in areas subject to ice damming and winter lake conditions.
A dedicated pedestrian bypass corridor has also been incorporated into the revised design. This
feature allows residents and visitors to walk the shoreline without entering the dog beach area
and directly addresses concerns that general beach users would otherwise be required to pass
through an active off-leash area. By separating circulation paths, the revised layout improves
user clarity and reduces potential interaction conflicts between dog owners and non-dog users.
The bypass itself is shown on the attached Alternate Plan 1. It is created by installing a fence line
approximately twelve feet lakeward of the steel seawall at the toe of the bluff and extending
between the existing southern steel jetties. This run is approximately 265 feet in length and
reduces the overall dog beach frontage by approximately fifty percent. Integrated into this fence
line is the electronic key-fob entry gate, along with a secondary ten-foot maintenance access gate
that will remain locked and secured for staff use. The fence is proposed at an overall height of
five feet, with four feet exposed above grade and one foot buried below grade to accommodate
fluctuating sand levels and reduce the possibility of dogs digging beneath the fencing.
Operational control is further improved through relocation of the key-fob entry to beach level
and the use of a defined double-gate leash-up area. This eliminates the need for interior fencing
corridors while maintaining controlled access for permitted users. The double-entry gate system
is also a requirement of the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control. In addition,
the revised plan substantially reduces the amount of fencing interacting with lake forces by
utilizing existing structural elements and shortening fence exposure in areas subject to wave and
ice movement. The existing steel shoreline structures are designed to withstand year-round lake
conditions, allowing the Park District to reduce the overall length of installed fencing.
For ease of review, the primary differences between the previously submitted plan and Alternate
Plan 1 are summarized below.
Page 49 of 158
Plan Comparison Summary
Previous Temporary Alternate Plan 1
Design Element Resulting Impact
Fencing Plan (Approved 2-6-26)
Enclosed containment Shoreline-defined
Reduces enclosed park
Overall Layout area formed by boundary using existing
appearance
perpendicular fencing groins
Approximately 15 ft Fencing attached to
Fencing Into Minimizes wave/ice
lakeward fence runs at existing structures with
Lake interaction risk
both ends reduced lake exposure
Public Shoreline Users pass through an 12-ft pedestrian bypass Maintains continuous
Access active off-leash dog area outside dog beach public access
Clearer entry and safer
Beach-level controlled circulation while
Access Control Inland gated corridor
entry vestibule improving access for non-
dog users
Double corridor Removes internal
Interior Fencing Eliminated
containment system obstacles
Safety Potential cross-traffic Separated circulation
Improves user safety
Considerations conflicts paths
Reduced fencing
Visible enclosure across Less intrusive shoreline
Visual Impact footprint at north and
beach presence
south boundaries
In summary, Alternate Plan 1 reduces the installation of new freestanding fence infrastructure at
the north and south boundaries by utilizing existing steel groins, improves shoreline access
through the addition of a defined pedestrian bypass, separates user groups to enhance safety, and
minimizes fencing interaction within active lake areas while still providing a controlled off-leash
area consistent with regulatory requirements. These revisions were intentionally developed in
direct response to Plan Commission discussion, public input, and Village staff feedback, and
intends to fully satisfy the applicable Special Use Permit standards. The design preserves the
open character of Centennial Beach while incorporating operational controls necessary to
manage off-leash use in a safe and regulated manner.
Page 50 of 158
Staff is also planning to discuss additional items with the Park Board at the February 26, 2026
meeting to obtain direction regarding the north beach area of Centennial Beach and how to
proceed. Staff will follow up after that meeting to inform the Village of any items related to SUP
Case No. 25-28-SU.
We appreciate the continued coordination with Village staff and look forward to the next steps in
the review process. Please let me know if any additional clarification would be helpful.
Sincerely,
Costa Kutulas
Director of Parks and Maintenance
Winnetka Park District
CC: Shannon Nazzal, Executive Director
Ann Klaassen, Assistant Director of Community Development
Page 51 of 158
Dog Shower Amenities (Looking Northwest)
Dog Beach Access Gate (Looking East)
Page 52 of 158
Dog Beach Access Stairs (Looking East)
Dog Beach Access Stairs Beach Level (Looking South)
Page 53 of 158
Dog Beach Stairs Beach View (Looking West)
Dog Beach (Looking North)
Page 54 of 158
North Seawall (Looking West)
North Seawall (Looking Northwest)
Page 55 of 158
Dog Beach (Looking South)
Bog Beach (Looking South)
Page 56 of 158
Dog Beach South Property Line (Looking West)
Dog Beach Seawall (Looking West)
Page 57 of 158
Mid-level Bluff Sidewalk (Looking South)
Mid-level Bluff Paver and Bench Area (Looking Southwest)
Page 58 of 158
Mid-level Bluff Paver and Bench Area (Looking West)
Mid-level Bluff Sidewalk (Looking South)
Page 59 of 158
Mid-level Bluff Sidewalk to Park Area (Looking West)
Upper Bench Southeast Section of Upper Parkland
Page 60 of 158
Upper Park Sidewalk Southwest Corner of the Park (Looking East)
Upper Park Sidewalk South End (Looking East)
Page 61 of 158
Upper Park (Looking South)
Upper Park (Looking East)
Page 62 of 158
Upper Park Sidewalk (Looking North)
Upper Park Center East Side (Looking East)
Page 63 of 158
Upper Park Center Overlooking Dog Entry Gate (Looking East)
Upper Park Sidewalk (Looking North)
Page 64 of 158
Upper Park Area (Looking Southwest)
Upper Park Area (Looking Northeast)
Page 65 of 158
Upper Park Sidewalk (Looking Southwest)
Sheridan Road Sidewalk South side of Park (Looking North)
Page 66 of 158
Page 67 of 158
ATTACHMENT C2
Page 68 of 158
Letter to Village Counsel
April 12, 2026
Page 2 of 5
Figure 1. Case No. 25-28-SU Revised Dog Fence Design (Revised Plan)
The ZBA unanimously recommended against the Revised Plan. The Revised Plan is a Major
Change from the original design Case No. 25-28-SU Original (Original Plan) presented to the
Plan Commission on January 28, 2026, and seen in Figure 2 below.
Figure 2. Case No. 25-28-SU Original Dog Fence Design (Original Plan)
Placement of the fences differ substantially between the Original Plan and the Revised Plan. The
Revised Plan splits Centennial beach into an off-leash dog beach and a passive beach for people
materially changing the Original Plan’s use that had the entire beach dedicated to an off-leash
dog beach.
While discussing the merits of the Revised Plan before the ZBA, Mr. Hal Franke, attorney for
the Park, stated the following:
Timestamp (1:54:21 - 1:54:52)
The last thing I would say, just as a point of order and clarification, because this came up
at the beginning of our discussion, I would like to just make, again, as I say, a point of
order, and I haven't discussed this with anybody at the Village, but the issue came up as
to what about the plan (Original Plan) that was considered by the Plan Commission. That
was recommended unanimously for denial. That plan (Original Plan) has not been
officially withdrawn by the Park District.
Timestamp (1:54:52 - 1:55:11)
So, in my mind, what would eventually end up at the, will eventually end up at the
Village Council is both recommendations and both plans (Original Plan & Revised Plan).
I'm only saying that I don't think we've withdrawn the first plan (Original Plan). You can
correct me if I'm wrong, Mr. Friedman. (ZBA meeting March 9. 2026)
Page 69 of 158
Letter to Village Counsel
April 12, 2026
Page 3 of 5
To which Peter Friedman, Village attorney responds:
Timestamp: (1:55:11 - 1:55:30)
Friedman: I don't know if you use the words withdrawn, but you, at the Plan
Commission, said you want to provide an alternative plan, and then you submitted, and
usually an alternative plan replaces the one that preceded it. (ZBA meeting March 9.
2026)
Table 1 below shows status of review of the two dog fence plans before the various boards of the
Village.
Table 1: Status of Dog Fence SUP(s)
Nothing that I have read in the Village ordinances indorses presentation of multiple SUPs
simultaneously; such a procedure would increase complexity of the permit process and would be
an undue burden on the time commitments of members of Winnetka volunteer boards. Under
Section 17.56.030, it is the administrative responsibility of Community Development to schedule
the application before ZBA, Plan, and Design Review; therefore, Community Development has
the statutory authority to limit one permit at a time per property. I urge Community
Development to restrict SUPs to one plan at a time in order to keep the process streamlined. I
would also note that the ZBA has not reviewed the Original Plan, so neither ZBA nor Plan
committees have reviewed both Original and Revised Plans.
At the ZBA meeting of March 9. 2026 the following exchange occurred between Lynn Hanley
and Anne Klassen:
Timestamp (16:24 - 16:53)
Lynn Hanley: So, Anne, because they (the Park) amended (their plan) since they were at
the Plan Commission, after they're done with us, do they go back to the Plan
Commission with their amended plan?
Anne Klassen: No, the plan commission made their recommendation of denial on the
original application. And were not interested in seeing an amended plan. This amended
plan will be presented to the Design Review Board unless there are further changes as a
result of this evening's meeting. (ZBA meeting March 9. 2026)
Ms. Klassen’s was referring to the following exchange between members of Plan Commission
and Hal Franke on January 28, 2026:
Page 70 of 158
Letter to Village Counsel
April 12, 2026
Page 4 of 5
(2:53:55 - 2:54:23)
Hal Franke: Could I respond before you vote? Sure. I hear and appreciate everything
that you've said. It seems to me, and I understand, first and foremost, as you just said,
Madam Chair, that you're not, and nobody's inclined to make a recommendation of
approval subject to conditions based on the concerns that seem to be, have been
expressed unanimously.
(2:54:24 - 2:55:07)
So, my question to you is, would it be helpful if two of the primary concerns that were
addressed by everybody, which is that there would be a bypass, so that you wouldn't
have to go through (the off-leash dog enclosure), and if there was no fencing in the lake,
and if you saw an actual plan instead of written conditions, would that be something
that would warrant us coming back to you at your next meeting, or a next meeting?
Layla Danley: Members?
Plan Commision Member: I don't particularly think so. I think we have the concept of
the plan. I don't think it's gonna add much.
(2:55:11 - 2:55:32)
Hal Franke: I mean, I have to say, I don't understand.
Layla Danley: So, you can, if you choose to, take what has been said by this board, and
when you meet with the ZBA, you can certainly present them with something that takes
into consideration what has been said this evening. (Plan Commission meeting January
28, 2026)
The Park had made no presentation on what the elements of this Revised Plan would entail
before Mr. Franke made the above inquiry of whether the Park should return for another meeting
to review a Revised Plan. Mr. Franke in the statement above suggested that a Revised Plan could
eliminate fencing in the lake and provide a pedestrian bypass. Mr. Franke failed to mention that
this new Revised Plan made a Major Change of the special use in the Original Plan for an off-
leash dog beach to a dual use off-leash dog beach and a people passive beach. Lacking the
knowledge that the Park was considering a Major Change to the Park’s Original Plan; the Plan
Commission recommended to Mr. Franke that another meeting would not be useful. However,
Plan Commission members did not foreclose the Park from presenting a Revised Plan with a
Major Change to the Plan Commission in the future. It is the administrative responsibility of
Community Development under Section 17.56.030, to schedule SUP applications before ZBA,
Plan, and Design Review Commissions for any application that had received a Major Change to
its special use.
Section 17.56.130 Amendments to Special Use Permits requires that a SUP holder to amend the
SUP when a “Major Change” occurs in the special use. The Original Plan was for a single use
off-leash dog beach whereas the Revised Plan consisted of a dual use off-leash dog beach and
passive people beach. The Revised Plan changed programming in a way that altered the
Page 71 of 158
Letter to Village Counsel
April 12, 2026
Page 5 of 5
fundamental character of the special use in the Original Plan (17.56.130 A. 3) and added new
uses (17.56.130 A. 4). Section 17.56.130 B. 1 requires a holder of a SUP to begin the SUP
process from scratch when the SUP holder seeks to make a Major Change in the use. The Park
has submitted the Revised Plan to Village Staff which Village Staff reviewed and Staff
scheduled a review of the Revised Plan before the ZBA on March 9. 2026. Under Section
17.56.030 it is the administrative responsibility of Community Development to schedule the
application before ZBA, Plan Commission, Design Review Commission, and Community
Development has failed to schedule the required review of the Revised Plan by the Plan
Commission to date. I urge Community Development to schedule this review of the Revised
Plan before the Plan Commission before it is taken up by Village Counsel.
As noted above, the ZBA has unanimously recommended against the Park’s Revised Plan and
the Park has scheduled a review of the Revised Plan before Design Review Commission on April
15, 2026. Once the review before the Design Review Commission is complete Community
Development will schedule the Park’s application for review before Village Counsel
Village ordinance Section 17.56.070 A. establishes the procedure for review of a SUP:
A. Village Council Deliberations. Within thirty (30) days after receiving the
findings of fact, minutes, and recommendation of the Board of Appeals and
the Plan Commission, in accordance with their respective jurisdictions ….
The requisite review of the Plan Commission of the Revised Plan has yet to be made and any
evaluation by Village Counsel would be incomplete without such a review. Under Section
17.56.070 B., Village Counsel has discretion to return the Park’s SUP for further consideration
and findings. I urge Village Counsel to return the Revised Plan to the Plan Commission in order
for Plan to make its findings of fact and make its recommendations to Village Counsel. I believe
that Village Counsel should follow its own procedure for review for SUPs in order to make a
thorough evaluation of the Revised Plan that will enable Village Counsel to make a
determination that safeguards the health, safety, and welfare of the community while also
permitting the Park to develop Centennial for the benefit of the community.
Sincerely,
/s/
John W. Root
326 Woodland Ave.
Winnetka, IL 60093
Page 72 of 158
From:
To: Ann Klaassen; Davorka Kirincic
Subject: Centennial Beach
Date: Monday, April 13, 2026 5:50:04 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
To Whom This May Concern,
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed fencing that is being
proposed for Centennial Beach in Winnetka. The fencing would be unattractive,
possibly dangerous, and will diminish the beauty of the beach.
Centennial Beach, as is, is a gem and asset to our community.
Therefore, please deny the Winnetka Park Board’s request for an enclosed
fence/cage.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Deborah Z. Creigh
132 Glenwood Ave, Winnetka, IL 60093
Debbie Creigh
Page 73 of 158
From:
To: Ann Klaassen
Subject: Propose Fencing at Centennial
Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 5:21:16 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
14 April 2026
Joanna Karatzas
Winnetka, IL
Design Review Board
Regarding: Fence proposed by the Winnetka Park District on Centennial Beach.
Board Members;
The Winnetka Park District presented plans during the Winnetka Park Board meeting on 26
February 2026 for extensive fencing at Centennial Beach. As I mentioned to the Zoning Board back
in March, the plans do not include visuals of adjacency conditions such as the breakwater at the
south boundary of Centennial. Furthermore, critical dimensions are missing, minimized,
or obscured from the drawings. In other words they are hard to read. What is the width of the
passage between the proposed fence and the steps over the breakwater? Where exactly is the
property line between Centennial and 205 Sheridan? Before any critical decisions can be made the
WPD should bother to provide this board and the public with descriptive drawings showcasing
neighboring conditions; accurate dimensions; and a staked survey for review. The introduction of a
fence at the south boundary of Centennial is a complicated design problem. The proposed fence, the
property line and the breakwater all angle toward each other converging near the steps of the
breakwater. Whose property is the public going to be walking on when exercising their Public Trust
Doctrine rights? How tight is the space between the steps and the stairs? WPD never seems to get to
that level of detail.
Due to agreements with 205 Sheridan, the placement of the fence is slated to last for 50
years. Shouldn’t this board see a staked survey and exact dimensions before reviewing the feasibility
or necessity of the fence?
Also, I question the necessity of the amount of fencing proposed. While the WPD Board claims
Cook County demands it for off-leash dog parks; if anyone cares to go to Montrose and look at the
fencing for that dog park, as of last Fall, the fence doesn’t go much pass the ordinary water line of
the lake. I don’t know who is advising the WPD or how they are coming to their conclusions.
Please don’t rush into anything and please deny this special use permit.
Joanna Karatzas
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
Page 74 of 158
From:
To: Ann Klaassen; Davorka Kirincic
Subject: For the Design Review Board
Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 8:44:18 PM
Attachments: Chain Link Fencing.pages
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hi, Ann. Would you please give this letter and attachments to the DRB members?
Thank you very much.
Irene Smith
To the Design Review Board:
I'm sorry I won't be able to attend your meeting on April 16, but I'd like to give you a
bit of information.
The attachment below comes from wildlifegardeners.org
I found it very interesting, and the photos tell a story, too.
I've also sent 2 photos of chain link fencing at other places. Not pretty.
I hope you will deny the Winnetka Park District's application for a special use permit.
Thank you very much.
Irene Smith
40-year resident of Winnetka
*******************************************************************************************
Though I may not be here with you, I urge you to answer the highest calling of your heart and stand up for
what you truly believe. In my life I have done all I can to demonstrate that the way of peace, the way of
love and nonviolence is the more excellent way. Now it is your turn to let freedom ring.
When historians pick up their pens to write the story of the 21st century, let them say that it was
your generation who laid down the heavy burdens of hate at last and that peace finally triumphed over
violence, aggression, and war. So I say to you, walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit
of peace and the power of everlasting love be your guide.
John Lewis, from the essay he wrote shortly before his death on July 17, 2020.
Page 75 of 158
From:
To: Ann Klaassen
Subject: Irene Smith"s letter to DRB.
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 5:11:57 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Wildlife-friendly Fencing and the
Problem With Link Chain Fencing
May 9, 2024 - By tara
In recent years, the conversation around sustainable living and environmental conservation has
highlighted the importance of wildlife-friendly fencing. Traditional barriers, particularly chain
link fences, often pose significant hazards to local wildlife, obstructing natural movements and
causing injuries. This article explores some wildlife-friendly fence options, the challenges of
chain links, and inexpensive ways to cover a chain link fence to enhance its safety for wildlife.
What Makes a Fence Wildlife-Friendly?
Visibility
Wildlife-friendly fencing is designed to be highly visible to animals to prevent collisions and
entanglement. By using larger, more reflective materials or adding colorful flagging tape to
wires, the fence stands out better in natural environments. This visibility helps animals like
deer, elk, and even birds recognize the barrier from a distance, allowing them to navigate
safely around it. Enhanced visibility is especially crucial in areas where animal movement is
high, ensuring that the fence serves as a gentle deterrent rather than a lethal obstacle.
Permeability
The concept of permeability in fencing is crucial for maintaining natural wildlife migration
and movement patterns. Wildlife-friendly fences are constructed with gaps or are flexible
enough to allow animals to pass through safely when necessary. For instance, drop-down
sections or large spaces between the lower wires enable smaller animals to crawl under, while
taller species might jump over without harm. This approach helps in preserving the ecological
balance and allows animals to continue their natural behaviors such as foraging and migration
without severe disruption.
Height and Spacing
Adjusting the height and spacing of the wires in a fence can significantly enhance its wildlife-
friendliness. The design considerations include ensuring that fences are not too high that they
trap animals or too low that they pose a tripping hazard. Ideally, a fence should be high
Page 76 of 158
enough to deter or contain livestock yet low enough or properly spaced so that wildlife like
deer can jump over safely. Moreover, sufficient ground clearance is provided to allow smaller
creatures, such as turtles and rodents, to pass underneath, facilitating free movement across
their habitat.
Material
The choice of material in wildlife-friendly fencing is vital to minimize potential injuries to
wildlife. Using smoother and more flexible materials can reduce the chances of animals
getting caught or injured by the fence. Smooth wire is often preferred over barbed wire, as it is
less likely to cause harm if an animal attempts to cross through or over the fence. This
consideration not only protects wildlife but also maintains the integrity and purpose of the
fence over time.
Gate Placement and Design
Integrating strategically placed gates or removable sections in wildlife-friendly fencing can
significantly improve accessibility for wildlife. These gates are often designed to
accommodate seasonal migration patterns, allowing animals to pass through key areas during
specific times of the year. This design strategy helps to ensure that fencing does not
permanently fragment habitats or obstruct essential migratory routes, thus supporting
biodiversity and ecological connectivity.
Avoiding Barbed Wire
One of the fundamental aspects of wildlife-friendly fencing is the avoidance of barbed wire.
Barbed wire can cause severe injuries to wildlife, leading to entanglement and even death. By
substituting barbed wire with smoother alternatives, the risk to animals is greatly reduced.
This practice is crucial in areas with high wildlife activity, ensuring that the fence fulfills its
purpose without becoming a lethal hazard to the local fauna.
The Problem With Link Chain Fencing
Chain link fencing is not typically recommended for wildlife-friendly fencing due to several
potential issues it can pose for animals:
Limited Permeability: Chain link fences offer little to no flexibility for animals to pass through
or over, effectively creating barriers that can restrict wildlife movement and fragment habitats.
Injury Risks: The mesh design of chain link fences can pose risks for smaller wildlife, which
might attempt to pass through the openings and become stuck or injured.
Obstacle to Larger Animals: Larger wildlife, like deer or elk, cannot jump over high chain link
fences without risking injury. Likewise, they can’t pass through it, which can disrupt natural
migration and foraging paths.
Cheap Ways to Cover a Chain Link Fence
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From:
To: Ann Klaassen
Subject: Irene Smith’s article for DRB
Date: Wednesday, Apr l 15, 2026 5:17:54 PM
CAUTION This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
*****************************
Though I may not be here with you, I urge you to answer the highest calling of your heart and stand up for what you truly believe. In my life I have done all I can to demonstrate that the way of peace, the way of love and nonviolence is the more excellent way. Now it is your turn to let freedom ring.
When historians pick up their pens to write the story of the 21st century, let them say that it was your generation who laid down the heavy burdens of hate at last and that peace finally triumphed over violence, aggression, and war. So I say to you, walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit of peace and the power of everlasting love be your guide.
John Lewis, from the essay he wrote shortly before his death on July 17, 2020.
Page 81 of 158
Page 82 of 158
From:
To: Ann Klaassen; Robert Dearborn
Subject: Re: 2026-04-21-01-SCHRIESHEIM
Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 1:02:31 PM
Attachments: image001.png
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
I corrected the Trib article's date, thanks for providing this version to DRB. Thank you for
your patience.
On Wed, Apr 29, 2026 at 10:45 AM Kris Schriesheim < > wrote:
Hello Ann:
Would you please provide this to DRB members ahead of their next meeting? Thank you.
To: Design Review Board, Village Council President Dearborn
From: Kristine Schriesheim
Re: WPD Dog Beach Fencing COA Application
Date; April 29, 2026
I am forwarding a Freedom of Information Act Request ("FOIA") email chain because of
WPD's representations on the independence of its fencing designs, and how its effort to
delay providing access to public documents is implicated in that.
On April 21, 2026 I requested WPD records on 205 Sheridan's attorney's, Mr. David
Williams', concern about WPD's 2026 Dog Beach Pass Application. WPD's executive
director referenced this concern in her April 9, 2026 Weekly Report (relevant page
attached). I also requested WPD's records dated 3/1/26-4/21/26 on Cook County's review of
WPD's dog beach fencing project, which Mr. Kutulas referenced in his April 17, 2026
memorandum to WPD's executive director (relevant page attached). Mr. Kutulas stated that
Cook County had two additional questions about it. Despite asking for what I presume are
limited documents--based on WPD's claims to have designed the dog beach project
independently and in order to meet the Cook County Code's legal requirements--WPD now
asserts that responding to my FOIA request is unduly burdensome. Like WPD's fencing
project itself, WPD's effort to delay its FOIA officer's production of a limited number of
specifically identified, responsive documents reflects how disconnected it is from the public.
The Chicago Tribune's April 24, 2026 article on DRB's April 16, 2026 meeting, quotes
WPD's executive director as saying "This is a Winnetka Park District application and has
nothing to do with the owner of 205 Sheridan." My question is, if that is correct why is 205
Sheridan's attorney expressing "concern" about the minutia of WPD's dog beach pass
application? For your information, WPD's 2026 dog beach pass application contains a
startling ban on children ten years old and younger from using the dog beach, even with
adult supervision. Families with children would be unable to use the beach, presumably even
to cross it. The dog beach pass application also features its incorporation of WPD"s
"Conduct Ordinance 504," threatening "eviction" not only from the dog beach for violating
its conditions, but by extension from all District Property, which includes certain sidewalks,
Page 83 of 158
crosswalks, the ice facility, its beaches, A.C. Nielsen, other parks, etc. It may even result in
families being banned from using "District Waters," i.e., Lake Michigan. WPD's dog beach
pass application threatens $1000 fines, and also convictions. I do not think this is in the
community's best interests. It certainly is anti-family.
You may be interested in reading the attached Wilmette Park District Gillson Dog Beach
Pass application and rules, which seem both rational and reasonable. The rules state that "
[d]og owners/handlers must be at least 14 years old or a freshman in high school." Neither
the dog beach pass application nor the rules ban children from using Gillson dog beach.
They do not threaten convictions or the imposition of $1000 fines.
Cook County's two additional questions about WPD's effort to install dog beach fencing that
would create barriers to passage from either side of Centennial beach, appear to reinforce its
awareness that, as it informed Ms. Nazzal on November 10, 2025, "our ordinance does not
speak directly to this unique situation . . . our bureau is still reviewing the legalities."
Raising more questions two years after WPD prepared its first SUP application for dog
beach fencing/structures, hardly signals that Cook County "requires" Lake Michigan dog
beach fencing, particularly because there is no known precedent for other Cook County
localities trying to entwine Animal Control in efforts to put up barriers violating the public
trust doctrine and/or blocking off Lake Michigan dog beaches.
Thank you for adopting DRB's findings of fact and denying WPD's COA application, which
reflects an effort that is quite contrary to the public interest.
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: FOIA <FOIA@winpark.org>
Date: Tue, Apr 28, 2026 at 2:27 PM
Subject: RE: 2026-04-21-01-SCHRIESHEIM
To: Kris Schriesheim < >
Cc: Simon, Adam <asimon@ancelglink.com>, FOIA <FOIA@winpark.org>
Dear Ms. Schriesheim,
After careful review, we have initiated the process of gathering the requested information.
Due to the nature of this request, more than five (5) business days are required.
This falls under:
5 ILCS 140/ 3) (from Ch. 116, par. 203)
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Sec. 3. (e) The time for response under this Section may be extended by the public body for
not more than 5 business days from the original due date for any of the following reasons:
vi) the request for records cannot be complied with by the public body within the time limits
prescribed by subsection ( d) of this Section without unduly burdening or interfering with
the operations of the public body;
It is expected that a follow-up will be able to be provided by Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
If any fees are associated with processing your request, we will inform you of the estimated
costs before proceeding. In the event that we encounter any additional challenges or require
further clarification regarding your request, we may contact you to ensure the accuracy and
completeness of our response.
For your reference, you may track the status of your request by referencing the unique
identification number assigned to it: 2026-04-21-01-SCHRIESHEIM. Feel free to contact
me if you have any questions or concerns regarding the status or processing of your request.
You have a right to have this reviewed by the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Office
of the Illinois Attorney General. 5 ILCS 140/ 9.5(a). You can file your Request for Review
with the PAC by writing to:
Leah Bartelt, Public Access Counselor
Office of the Attorney General
500 South 2nd Street
Springfield, Illinois 62701
E-mail: public.access@ilag.gov
877-299-3642
You also have the right to seek judicial review by filing a lawsuit in the circuit court. 5 ILCS
140/ 11. If you choose to file a Request for Review with the PAC, you must do so within 60
calendar days of the date of this letter. 5 ILCS 140/ 9.5(a). Please note that you must include
a copy of your original FOIA requests and this letter when filing a Request for Review with
Page 85 of 158
the PAC.
Sincerely,
From: FOIA <FOIA@winpark.org>
Sent: Wednesday, April 22, 2026 4:31 PM
To: Kris Schriesheim >
Cc: Simon, Adam <asimon@ancelglink.com>; FOIA <FOIA@winpark.org>
Subject: 2026-04-21-01-SCHRIESHEIM
Dear Ms. Schriesheim,
This acknowledges receipt of your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request dated April
21, 2026 in which you are seeking the following:
I hereby request WPD records related to Mr. David Williams’ concerns about
WPD’s dog beach application, which is described as a “constituent concern” in
E.D. Nazzal’s April 9, 2026 Weekly Report.
I also request WPD records related to Cook County’s review of WPD’s dog beach
fencing project, between the dates 3/1/26-4/21/26, including Cook County’s two
additional questions, as mentioned in Costa Kutulas’s April 17, 2026 Parks and
Planning Weekly Report to E.D. Nazzal.
We appreciate your interest in the Winnetka Park District’s records and are committed to
providing a timely and thorough response to your request. Please be advised that, in
accordance with the FOIA, we have five (5) business days to respond to your request. If
additional time is required, we will notify you promptly and provide an estimated
completion date.
If any fees are associated with processing your request, we will inform you of the estimated
costs before proceeding. In the event that we encounter any challenges or require
Page 86 of 158
clarification regarding your request, we may contact you to ensure the accuracy and
completeness of our response.
For your reference, you may track the status of your request by referencing the unique
identification number assigned to it: 2026-04-21-01-SCHRIESHEIM. Feel free to contact
our office if you have any questions or concerns regarding the status or processing of your
request.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to fulfill your FOIA request.
Our goal is to provide you with the requested information in a thorough and timely manner.
Sincerely,
Saba Koya
Administrative Operations Coordinator
O: (847) 501-2076
E: skoya@winpark.org
Winnetka Park District | winpark.org
540 Hibbard Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093
From: Kris Schriesheim >
Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 7:31 PM
To: FOIA <FOIA@winpark.org>
Subject: FOIA Request
Page 87 of 158
I hereby request WPD records related to Mr. David Williams’ concerns about WPD’s dog
beach application, which is described as a “constituent concern” in E.D. Nazzal’s April 9,
2026 Weekly Report.
I also request WPD records related to Cook County’s review of WPD’s dog beach fencing
project, between the dates 3/1/26-4/21/26, including Cook County’s two additional
questions, as mentioned in Costa Kutulas’s April 17, 2026 Parks and Planning Weekly
Report to E.D. Nazzal.
Thank you.
Kristine Schriesheim
Winnetka taxpayer
Page 88 of 158
Page 89 of 158
From: Shannon Nazzal
Cc: Saba Koya; Costa Kutulas; Elizabeth Dostert; Alisa Kapusinski; Mileak Harper; FOIA
Subject: Weekly Status Report - 4/10/26
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026 2:16:34 PM
Attachments: Outlook-jupnya0m.png
Commissioners,
All are BCC’d. [ATTACHMENTS LINKED AT BOTTOM] I am out on Friday, so you are receiving a
day early. Costa and Saba are in the office.
Constituent Concerns
Mr. David Williams reached out last Friday to voice concern about the dog beach
pass application. Responded.
Mr. Ted Wynnychenko sent a complaint to the Board separately.
Major Concerns/Items the Board may be contacted about:
Please complete the cybersecurity training sent to you by ExcalTech. If you need
that reset or are having trouble accessing, please let me know.
SEI filing is open! You have until May 1, 2026 to complete. Not all commissioners
have completed.
Audit work is ongoing. On track with document submission to Auditors.
Vehicle at Elder incident sent to Commissioners separately.
Had to remove a power washer and screens that were discarded in the Centennial
parking lot.
Matt Barton was recertified this week as a Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor!
ED Nazzal attended Cook County Commissioner Scott Britton's "State of the
County" this week in Wheeling.
Non-reoccurring open session items being briefed to the Board in the next 30
days:
Awards / Recognition - GFOA Award for 2024 Audit. Scheduled 04/23/2026
Consent - More bank signature changes. Scheduled 04/23/2026
Consent - Truck replacement. Scheduled 04/23/2026
Consent - Surplus Equipment Disposal. Scheduled 04/23/2026
Consent - Window Project Award. Scheduled 04/23/2026
Presentations - Sponsorship Request: Alliance for Early Childhood. Scheduled
04/23/2026
Unfinished Business - Northfield Park Lightning Detection. Scheduled 04/23/2026
Unfinished Business - Policy Updates 5.01, 5.03 - 5.15, 5.22. Scheduled
04/23/2026
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Waiver + Release
Waiver + Release of All Claims + Indemnification Agreement
Please read this form carefully and be aware that in consideration for permission to use this
facility/park, you will be expressly assuming the risk and legal liability and waiving and releasing all
claims for injuries, damages or loss which you or your dog might sustain as a result of participating in
any and all activities connected with and associated with use of this facility or surrounding area.
I recognize and acknowledge that there are certain risks of physical injury to the dog and its
handler/owner in association with participating in animal activities, and I voluntarily agree to assume
the full risk of any injuries, damages or loss, regardless of severity, that I might sustain as a result of
participating in any and all activities connected with or associated with use of this facility or surrounding
area.
I do hereby agree to waive, relinquish, release and forever discharge the Winnetka Park District,
including its officials, agents, volunteers and employees (hereafter collectively “District”) from any and
all claims for injuries, damages or loss that I may have or which may accrue to me and arising out of,
connected with, or in any way associated with this use of this facility or surrounding area.
I further agree to indemnify and hold harmless and defend the District from and against any and all
losses, claims, damages, liabilities, cause of actions, and expenses (including attorney fees), on account
of personal injuries or death to any person or dog, or damages to property occurring, growing out of,
incident to, or resulting directly or indirectly from my use of this facility or surrounding area.
Residency Policy
Recreation program residency rates apply to everyone who lives within Park District boundaries and
pays Winnetka Park District taxes. Non-residents pay an additional non-resident fee per program. Non-
residents fees are the second fee shown in program descriptions.
Photo/Video Policy
Photos and video footage are periodically taken of participants in a class, during a special event or at the
District’s parks and facilities. Please be aware that, by signing this waiver and release you are authorizing
the Park District to use these photos and video footage for District advertising and promotion without
your further permission and without any compensation to you. All photos/video are property of the Park
District. Please call the Administration Office at (847) 501-2040 for more information.
Winnetka Park District 540 Hibbard Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093 P: (847) 501-2040 E: wpdinfo@winpark.org
Page 96 of 158
Dog Access to Park Property Waiver
Important Information
You are solely responsible for supervising your dog and determining whether or not this is an
appropriate activity to participate in. You must understand that you are participating in this
activity at your own risk (and risk of your dog). You are solely responsible for determining if you
and/or your dog are physically fit and/or adequately skilled for the activities contemplated by
this agreement. It is always advisable, especially if the owner/handler or dog is pregnant,
disabled in any way or recently suffered an illness, injury or impairment, to consult a physician
or veterinarian before undertaking any physical activity.
Warning of Risk
Dog exercise, walking, training, leashed or simply allowing your dog off lead, is intended to
provide a fun and rewarding experience for a dog and his owner/handler. However, despite
careful and proper preparation, instruction, medical advice, conditioning and equipment, there
is still a risk of serious injury, including death to either the dog or its owner/handler.
Understandably, not all hazards and dangers associated with animal activities can be foreseen.
Certain inherent risks include the propensity of any dog to behave in dangerous ways that may
result in injury to the owner/handler or other patron or dog. Certain risks include but are not
limited to the negligence or irresponsibility of another dog owner/handler; the inability to
predict a dog’s reaction to sound, movements, objects, persons, or other animals; and actions
by the dog due to fright, anger, stress, insect bites, or natural reactions such as jumping, pulling,
resisting and biting. Other risks include the hazards associated with environmental and traffic
conditions, acts of God, inclement weather, slipping, falling, premises defects, equipment
failure, failure in instruction/supervision, and all other circumstances inherent to animal and
outdoor activities. Should you attempt to break up a fight between dogs, you may be attacked
and severely mauled by the other dog or attacked by the other handler/owner. In this regard, it
must be recognized that it is impossible for the Winnetka Park District to guarantee absolute
safety.
Page 97 of 158
Centennial Park / Dog Beach
Rules and Regulations*
*Rules are subject to change
Leashed Area: Beach, Park + Parking Lot
• You are solely responsible for the actions of your dog.
• Keep your dog leashed at all times. (* See Ordinance below)
• Leashes must not exceed 6 feet.
• You must bring your pass each visit. Attendants are not allowed to let anyone through
the gate without a pass.
• Keep an eye on your dog and always keep your dog’s leash with you.
• For safety reasons children must be at least 10 years of age to use the park and they
must be closely supervised.
• Children will be expected to behave in an appropriate manner: no running, no chasing
dogs, no petting of other dogs unless permission is granted from the owner first.
• Be polite: pick up dog feces and dispose of the dog feces in the waste receptacles, which
are available throughout the park.
• Dogs must wear current license tag and be up to date on shots.
• Cover any holes your dog digs.
• No more than 2 dogs per person on any one visit.
• Check with your veterinarian before bringing a puppy under the age of four months to
the park.
• No dogs known to be aggressive toward other dogs or people may enter the area.
• Owners/handlers are asked to closely supervise their dogs and at no time should anyone
leave the area without his/her dog(s).
• Do not bring rawhide or food into the dog area as dogfights may result.
• Please remove pinch and spike collars from your dog prior to entering the dog run.
• Hours are sunrise to sunset.
• No swimming is allowed for people.
Winnetka Park District Ordinance 596, Adopted March 23, 2023*
Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control wardens and Winnetka Police Department
officers are authorized to issue a citation to a dog owner or their agent who does not have their dog on
a leash, has their dog on a leash exceeding six (6) feet in length, does not have the dog under control, or
does not have in their immediate possession a receptable for the transportation and removal of dog
excrement at Centennial Beach.
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2026 Dog Beach Permit Application
Application must be accompanied by paper documentation of vaccinations/tests from a veterinarian.
Owner’s Full Name: ____________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________
City: _____________________ State: ___________ Zip Code: _______________
Phone: _____________________________________
Email: ______________________________________________________
Resident= $52 for first dog, $11 each additional
Non-Resident= $247 for first dog, $83 each additional
Dog #1 Name: _______________________ Breed: ____________________________
Dog #2 Name: _______________________ Breed: ____________________________
Dog #3 Name: _______________________ Breed: ____________________________
I, the undersigned, have received, read and understand the Wilmette Park District's Dog Rules and Fines and agree
to abide by them. Failure to do so may result in loss of privileges for me and all users. I do hereby fully release the
Wilmette Park District and its officers, agents, servants and employees from any and all claims from injuries,
damages or loss which may occur in the course of my participation and that of my dog. I further agree to indemnify,
hold harmless and defend the Park District and its officers, agents, servants and employees from any and all claims
resulting from injuries, including death, damages and losses sustained by others arising out of, in connection with,
or in any way associated with the activities affiliated with use of this permit.
Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ___________________
Payment information is required for all permits being mailed in or dropped off.
Card # ________ ________ ________ ________
Expiration Date ______ / ______
Billing Zip Code ____________________
Authorizing Signature ___________________________________________
Below Is For Park District Use Only
Tag # Rabies Distemper Hepatitis Parvovirus Para-Influenza Bordetella Lepto Fecal
#1
#2
#3
Page 99 of 158
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: DAVORKA KIRINCIC, AICP
BUILDING AND CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER
DATE: APRIL 30, 2026
SUBJECT: 562 LINCOLN AVENUE – KAAGE HOMES – PROJECTING SIGN PERMIT
(CASE NO. 26-04-DR)
INTRODUCTION
On May 7, 2026, the Design Review Board (DRB) is scheduled to consider a sign permit application submitted
by Kaage Homes (the “Applicant”), as the lessee of the commercial space located at 562 Lincoln Avenue (the
“Subject Property”), to allow a double-faced projecting sign on the existing frame on the street frontage of
the Subject Property.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The Subject Property is one of the commercial spaces located in the mixed-use building at 564-572 Lincoln
Avenue, often referred to as The Winnetka Galleria (“The Galleria”), located on the west side of Lincoln
Avenue between Elm and Pine Streets. It is zoned C-2 General Retail Commercial Overlay District. The
Applicant is leasing a commercial space, which Kjus most recently occupied. In addition to the Applicant
space is the Compass Retail Area, including their office and vendor Anne Loucks Gallery, which is located on
the south side of the courtyard. The Beauty Lash is on the north side of the courtyard. The Galleria has
residential condominiums on the second and third floors. Figure 1 below shows the Applicant’s storefront
on Lincoln Avenue. An oval blade sign is currently installed at the storefront. The sign consists of a white
background with a black logo and the text “THE KAAGE HOMES”. There is no approval for this signage on file.
The previous tenant had a black oval projecting sign with orange and white text.
Location of Kaage Homes
Storefront
Figure 1 – Subject Property – View of the entire building from Lincoln Avenue
Page 100 of 158
PREVIOUS REQUEST
On April 14, 2026, staff administratively approved compliant window signage for the Kage Homes storefront
at the Subject Property, as shown in the illustration below.
CURRENT REQUEST
The Applicant is seeking approval to install a new double-face projecting sign on the existing frame. The
proposed sign would identify and promote their business and would be the same size and shape as the other
projecting signs on the building. Signs will feature the logo, text, and colors of their businesses, as shown in
the illustrations below:
Subject Property – Location and Proposed double sign face change and detail
Page 101 of 158
The existing building’s double-faced projecting sign frame would receive a new face change identifying the
business, as shown in the illustrations below:
• Existing frame
o projecting 48 inches from the building wall
o 9.46 feet from the finish grade; and
• 24 x 36 inches oval vinyl graphic on the existing projecting sign frame with a warm mustard yellow
background and black text stating ”THE WORKSHOPPE” and “by KAAGE HOMES”.
A copy of the Application materials is included in Attachment A.
SIGN CODE ANALYSIS
Section 15.60.120 of the Village Sign Code establishes standards for projecting signs in commercial districts.
Projecting sign standards
• One projecting sign per business;
• Extends no more than 2 feet from the building wall;
• No more than 3 feet high;
• Clearance between the bottom of the sign and the sidewalk is at least 8 feet; and
• Containing the name of the business and a maximum of three words containing a general description
of types of products or services, and the occupant logo or trademark; and
The proposed projecting sign extends more than 2 feet from the building wall, but the existing projecting
sign frames were previously approved for the entire building. Given that the Applicant is changing just the
double face of the projecting sign, there is no need for a sign variation request.
DESIGN GUIDELINES ANALYSIS
When reviewing the design of any signs, the Board is to consider the following standards and criteria of
Section 15.60.150(F) of the Sign Code.
F. Standards and Criteria for Issuance. The following factors and characteristics relating
to the safety and appearance of signage shall govern the Board’s evaluation of
design submittals:
1. The sign area shall be in proportion and scale to the building or to other
buildings or signs in the surrounding area;
2. A signage package for a business establishment that includes a number of
signs and graphics shall have an overall plan that demonstrates the
compatibility of the design and colors of all the signs that are part of that
package;
3. The amount of text and graphics contained in or on any sign or group of signs
shall be limited so that it results in a clear and readable design;
4. Signs and graphics shall have a harmonious relationship with nearby signs,
buildings, and the neighborhood and shall be designed not adversely to
affect adjacent structures. In this respect, the sign shall relate to its building,
structure, and neighborhood in terms of size, shape, material, color, texture,
lettering, location, arrangement, lighting, and the like;
5. Colors shall be used with restraint; excessive brightness shall be avoided; and
6. The additional provisions of this chapter, as specified in this chapter, shall be
part of the criteria of the design review process.
The Board should also consider the Village Design Guidelines for the proposed sign. See Attachment B.
Page 102 of 158
SUMMARY
The Applicant requests that the DRB find the proposed sign appropriate and compatible with the Design
Guidelines and approve the application as proposed. Should the DRB find the proposed improvements
appropriate, the Applicant would first need to obtain the approved sign permit from the Community
Development Department before installing the sign.
FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
At the May 7 DRB meeting, the DRB is scheduled to consider the design of the Applicant’s proposed projecting
sign. After hearing from the Applicant and the public, the DRB will have the following options:
1) Continue the public hearing to a specific date to provide the Applicant and/or staff with additional
time to address questions and comments from the DRB; or
2) Consider a motion for approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. A DRB member
should make a motion for approval or denial based upon the following findings of fact:
a. The proposed projecting sign is consistent [is not consistent] with the following standards
used for issuance of a sign permit:
1. The sign area shall be in proportion and scale to the building or to other buildings
or signs in the surrounding area;
2. A signage package for a business establishment that includes a number of signs
and graphics shall have an overall plan that demonstrates the compatibility of
the design and colors of all the signs that are part of that package;
3. The amount of text and graphics contained in or on any sign or group of signs
shall be limited so that it results in a clear and readable design;
4. Signs and graphics shall have a harmonious relationship with nearby signs,
buildings and the neighborhood, and shall be designed so as not to adversely
affect adjacent structures. In this respect the sign shall relate to its building,
structure and neighborhood in terms of size, shape, material, color, texture,
lettering, location, arrangement, lighting, and the like;
5. Colors shall be used with restraint and excessive brightness shall be avoided;
6. The additional provisions of this chapter, as specified in this chapter, shall be part
of the criteria of the design review process.
b. [If the DRB chooses to place conditions as part of its approval, it will want to include the
conditions here.]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Application Materials
Attachment B: Design Guidelines Excerpt
Page 103 of 158
ATTACHMENT A
Village of Winnetka
SIGN PERMIT APPLICATION
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA,
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ILLI
�HE1ven
APR -7 2026 u
SIGN PERMIT APPLICATION
BY:------
Tenant/Lessee
·::;�-c:90i7
Name of Business Primary contact name
The Kaage Company dba Kaage Homes KC Kaage
Project Address
562 Lincoln Ave.
City State Zip Code Email
Winnetka IL 60093 kc@kaagehomes.com
Sign Company
Name of Sign Company Primary contact name Phone No.
Fast Signs Kim Hackl
I
Street Address
City State Zip Code l Email
Property Owner
Name of Company Primary contact name Phone No.
Hoffman Real Estate Jenn Epstein 847-512-3191
Street Address:
552 Lincoln Avenue Suite 202
City
Winnetka
I State
IL
Zip Code
60093 I Email
jepstein@hoffmanncre.com
Sign type(s): D window graphics D wall-mounted sign D ground-mounted sign
(check all that apply)
[ii projecting sign D other______________
Additional description of sign type and materials.____________________
OFFICE USE ONLY
SIGN FEE: $80 NON-ILLUMINATED PER SIGN TYPE $t,30.00
r
$195 ILLUMINATED SIGN $.____
STAFF REVIEW FEE: $70 WAIVE FEE $ -=,o.oo
TOTAL PERMIT FEE $ 1&>.00
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: _______________________
Page 4 of 4
Page 104 of 158
562 Lincoln Ave
Winnetka, IL 60093
Double-Sided Sign Face
Replacement Only
Existing sign is a 36" x 24" oval that
hangs from a pole bracket that is
mounted to the exterior wall.
LANDLORD INFORMATION
562-72 Lincoln Avenue, LLC
847-512-3191 jepstein@hoffmanncre.com
Phone & E-mail
FASTS/GNS. I SKOKIE
3437 Dempster I (847)423-3456
Page 105 of 158
562 Lincoln Ave
Winnetka, IL 60093
Double-Sided Sign Face
Replacement Only
Existing sign is a 36'' x 24" oval that hangs from a
pole bracket that is mounted to the exterior wall.
THE WORKSHOPPE.
by KAAGE HOMES
FA5TS/GNS. I SKOKIE
3437 Dempster I (847)423-3456
Page 106 of 158
ATTACHMENT B
d. Building Signage
Commercial signs should reflect the character of the building style, while expressing
each store’s individuality. There are several prominent sign styles that are appropriate to
Winnetka: surface mounted, pin-mounted, interior, decal and projecting blade signs.
Sign materials are limited to painted wood, canvas, architectural glass and metal. Sign
color must harmonize with the building upon which it is mounted and adjacent
structures. Lettering color can be unique to the image of the retailer/user. Metal sign
and plaque material such as brushed bronze, antique bronze, aluminum, stainless steel
and painted cast iron or similarly appearing materials are preferred. Highly reflective
metallic signs are not allowed. Signs should be lit by marquee or spot lighting; neon
lighting is not permitted. Spot lighting should be minimal and unobtrusive and, per the
Village Code, the source of illumination shall not be visible from any street, sidewalk or
dwelling. Simplified industrial light fixtures are not permitted. Contextual solutions are
recommended. The majority of the signs will be mounted within the building’s sign
band, defined as the wall area located above the ground floor storefront opening and
below the second floor windowsill, and is located a minimum of 8’-0” above grade and a
maximum of 15’-0” above grade. (MC-01-2023, amended, 01/17/2023)
Signs must comply with the general provisions of the Winnetka Sign Ordinance as well
as design provisions contained within these Design Guidelines.
1. Surface mounted commercial signs are either fabricated from painted wood or cast
metal plaques and are to be mounted within the sign band or within the storefront
transom. The height of the sign is restricted to 75% of the area of the sign band or
14 inches - whichever is less. The sign band of a building consists of the area
located above the ground floor storefront opening and below the second floor
windowsill, and is located a minimum of 8’-0” and a maximum of 15’-0” above
grade. Refer to figures 28, 29, and 30 for location. Surface mounted or pin-
mounted signs are not permitted on secondary elevations without a defined sign
band.
2. Pin-mounted commercial signs consist of
reverse channel, cast metal and flat cut
metal letters mounted above the storefront
in the masonry sign band or suspended in
front of the storefront at the transom or
recessed entry. The size of the lettering is
restricted so that the height of the letters
does not exceed 75% of the height of the
sign band or 14 inches - whichever is less.
The length of the lettering is to be
Figure 38
contained within 75% of the length of the
sign band. (See figure 38)
19
Building & Architecture
Page 107 of 158
Village of Winnetka, Illinois
Figure 39 & 40
3. Projecting blade commercial signs can MC-01-2023, Removed, 01/17/2023
be round, square or vertical, mounted
from the face of the building at the
second floor level between the windows
or at the head of the storefront and are
oriented to pedestrian scale. The signs
are to be mounted on fixed hardware; no
swinging or chain-mounted signs are
allowed. The dimensions of the sign are
not to exceed 6 square feet (36”
high and 24” deep) (See figure 41). If
illuminated, the signs should be lit with
an unobtrusive light source. Figure 41
4. Incidental wall signs such as building management identification and directory
signs should be integrated into a single sign and be constructed of brushed bronze,
antique bronze or painted cast iron. Such signs should not be placed on the
prominent street front facade and should be directed to public residential entries
(MC-01-2023, amended, 01/17/2023)
Design Guidelines 20
Page 108 of 158
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: DAVORKA KIRINCIC, AICP
BUILDING AND CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER
DATE: APRIL 30, 2026
SUBJECT: 385 WINNETKA AVENUE - NEW TRIER HIGH SCHOOL -
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS TO ALLOW MULTIPLE
DIRECTIONAL SIGNS ON THE EXISTING BUILDING AND THE
PROPERTY (CASE NO. 26-05-DR)
INTRODUCTION
On May 7, 2026, the Design Review Board is scheduled to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness
Application submitted by New Trier High School District 203 (the “Applicant”), as the owner of the
property located at 385 Winnetka Ave. (the “Subject Property”), to allow multiple directional signs
on the existing school building and the property.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The Subject Property is located on the north side of Winnetka Avenue, between Fuller Lane and
Woodland Avenue, and is zoned R-4 Single-Family Residential. It contains an existing public high
school. Figure 1 below shows the location maps with approximate locations for the proposed 7
signs for New Trier High School.
Subject Property
Page 1
Page 109 of 158
Figure 1- Subject Property Site Map showing the location of all directional
CURRENT REQUEST
The Applicant has filed an application seeking approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness to install
multiple directional signs, including 2 wayfinding signs, 1 wall sign, and 4 ground signs, on the
existing school building and property as shown below.
Page 2
Page 110 of 158
Page 3
Page 111 of 158
Details for each of the proposed directional signs at the Subject Property
A copy of the Applicant’s application materials is included in Attachment A.
Page 4
Page 112 of 158
SIGN CODE ANALYSES
Per Village Code Chapter 15.60 (Signs), staff has determined that the subject sign is exempt from
the Sign Code requirements. Pursuant to Section 15.60.070, signs, flags, and emblems of and on
the premises of the United States, the State, the Village, or other municipal corporations and
public bodies of the State shall be exempt from the regulations of Chapter 15.60 (Signs).
Notwithstanding this exemption, the proposed signage remains subject to review and approval
through a Certificate of Appropriateness issued by the Design Review Board and the Applicant has
submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness application.
In rendering its decision, the Design Review Board shall evaluate the application in accordance
with the required findings of fact outlined below in section “CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
OF DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS.”
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS OF DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
As established by the Village Code, the Design Review Board is to consider the following four (4) factors
in determining whether to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness of Design:
“(1) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood;”
“(2) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and improvements in
the immediate neighborhood, and including both urban design and site arrangement
considerations;”
“(3) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
consistent with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and criteria
as may be adopted by the Board; and”
“(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the
integrity of the immediate vicinity.”
VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES ANALYSIS
The Board should also consider the Village Design Guidelines when considering the proposed
multiple directional signs. The Design Guidelines provide guidance on the design and
appropriate placement of wall signs.
o The sign should harmonize with the building and reflect the character of the
building style;
o Sign Materials should be limited to painted wood, canvas, architectural glass,
and metal;
o Sign color must harmonize with the building upon which it is mounted and
adjacent structures;
o The height of the sign is restricted to 75% of the sign band or 14 inches –
whichever is less;
o Sign should be located at least 8 feet above grade, but no more than 15 feet
above grade; and
o Sign should be externally illuminated or highlighted where possible.
Page 5
Page 113 of 158
SUMMARY
The Applicant requests that the DRB find the proposed multiple directional signage, as
appropriate and compatible with the Certificate of Appropriateness design factors and the Village
Design Guidelines and approve the Certificate of Appropriateness.
FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
At the May 7 DRB meeting, the DRB is scheduled to consider the proposed multiple directional
signs. After hearing from the Applicant and the public, the DRB will have the following options:
1) Continue the public hearing to a specific date to provide the Applicant and/or staff with
additional time to address questions and comments from the DRB; or
2) Consider a motion for approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. A DRB
member should make a motion for approval or denial based upon the following findings
of fact:
a. The proposed externally illuminated wall sign is consistent [is not consistent]
with the following standards used for evaluating a certificate of
appropriateness:
(1) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with the character of the immediate
neighborhood;
(2) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and
improvements in the immediate neighborhood, and including both urban
design and site arrangement considerations;
(3) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
consistent with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and
criteria as may be adopted by the Board; and
(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the
integrity of the immediate vicinity.
b. [If the DRB chooses to place conditions as part of its approval, it will want to
include the conditions here.]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Application Materials
Page 6
Page 114 of 158
ATTACHMENT A
Village of Winnetka
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS APPLICATION
V I L L A G E O F W I N N E T K A, I L L I N O I S
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS APPLICATION
385 WINNETKA AVENUE, WINNETKA, IL 60093
Project Address: ______________________________________________________________________________
Name of NEW TRIER HIGH SCHOOL
Business(es):__________________________________________________________________________
Application is hereby made for the following work (please check all that apply):
✔
❑ Sign Sign Permit Application attached?
❑ Awning Awning Permit Application attached?
❑ Other (general description) _______________________________________________________________
Please provide a detailed description of the proposed work (attach additional information such as material
INSTALLATION OF 7 SIGNS FOR NEW TRIER HIGH SCHOOL
specifications, photographs, etc.): ________________________________________________________________
2 WAYFINDING, 1 WALL, 4 GROUND
____________________________________________________________________________________________
I/We hereby certify that as OWNER
______________________________________(Lessee/Owner) of the property located
at 385 WINNETKA AVE
___________________________(address), I am/we are authorized to submit plans for alterations of the subject
property. I/We agree to perform the subject work in accordance with the conditions of approval by the Winnetka
Design Review Board as well as all other applicable codes, rules, and regulations of the Village of Winnetka.
FOR LESSEE/OWNER USE ONLY FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
SIGNED __________________________
COA applied for (date): __________
PRINTED NAME(S) MIKE FESS
__________________________
ADDRESS
385 WINNETKA AVE, WINNETKA IL 60093
__________________________
COA Case Number: __________
PHONE NO. (847) 784-2074
__________________________ COA Issued (date): __________
EMAIL FESSM@NEWTRIER.K12.IL.US
__________________________ COA Fee
❑ $135
❑ $575
PRIMARY DESIGN FIRM ___________________________
KDN SIGNS INC.
CONTACT NAME BRIANNA KOZI
___________________________
ADDRESS ___________________________
245 BEINORIS DR,
WOOD DALE, IL 60191
___________________________
PHONE NO. 773-590-6428
___________________________
EMAIL KDNSIGNS_WINNETKA_IL@PERMITFLOWTEAM.COM
___________________________
Page 4 of 4
Page 115 of 158
TRIER
385 Winnetka Avenue 831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
WOOD DALE, IL 60191
Winnetka, IL 60093
(630) 422-1708
contact@kdnsigns.com
artwork in this document is property of
the kdn signs and may
not be copied or reproduced
QUOTE# 22193
02/09/2026
Page 116 of 158
1'-10"
5'-9"
Approx +-
1"h copy
2" arrow
EXISTING SIGN By N19
Proposed
Proposed Proposed Sign #3 1'-10"
Sign #1 Sign #2
831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
N19 E25
Proposed N16 NE WOOD DALE, IL 60191
Sign #2 N15
NW N17 N18 Entrance
Entrance
(630) 422-1708
6'-0"
Approx +-
E24
1"h copy contact@kdnsigns.com
2" arrow
artwork in this document is property of
the kdn signs and may
Proposed not be copied or reproduced
Proposed Sign #4
Sign #1 & #1a W11 EAST
385 Winnetka Avenue
Winnetka, IL 60093
E104
Entrance
TRIER
SOUTH
Entrance
385 Winnetka Avenue
S2 S1 Winnetka, IL 60093
W10 E102
W9
STAFF DRAWN BY: Pamela F
PARKING ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
ONLY
W8 PAGES: 1 of 7
S6 S6 S1L E100
Proposed
Sign #4 Proposed Proposed
Sign #6 Sign #5 06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
NOTES:
NORTH SITE PLAN
Page 117 of 158
4'-10" Updated 2"
05.05.25
2½" 9½" 5"
Vinyl wood grain
digital laminate
14'-0"+-
1'-6" 9½"
4¼"
SHIPPING & returns
Flat aluminum panel
13'-0"+-
4'-6"
+- 4¼"
RECEIVING painted to match
Matthews Brushed
Aluminum
Black cut vinyl copy
and arrow, applied
West View first surface Side View
S/F Non-Illuminated Wayfinding Sign - Sign #1
EXISTING VIEW
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 7.25
Aluminum pan sign with first surface vinyl, painted to match brushed aluminum.
Exact installation method to be determined after field survey.
Drawing for concept purposes only.
831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
12" WOOD DALE, IL 60191
(630) 422-1708
contact@kdnsigns.com
artwork in this document is property of
SHIPPING &
RECEIVING
W11
12"
W11 .125" Aluminum panel painted background to match
Matthews Paint #41313SP Dark Bronze with White
Cut Vinyl copy Font: Helvetica Neue LT Pro 57Cn,
Panel to be screwed into wall surface
the kdn signs and may
not be copied or reproduced
DOOR ID 2 - Wall Application - Sign #1a
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 1.0
TRIER
Digitally produced vinyl overlay with UV Protection Film. Door ID Decal applied 385 Winnetka Avenue
first surface to door window as shown. Exact installation method to be determined Winnetka, IL 60093
PROPOSED VIEW - WEST after field survey. Drawing for concept purposes only.
DRAWN BY: Pamela F
ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
PAGES: 2 of 7
06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
Proposed 02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
Sign #1 & #1a
NOTES:
Vinyl Wood Grain Digital Laminate - Matthews Paint -
BIRDSEYE VIEW -
Page 118 of 158
2'-6" 4" 2'-6"
2" 2" 2" 2"
NEW Digitally produced NEW
TRIER TRIER
6½" TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
on vinyl applied TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
first surface
4" 3"
MAIN ATHLETIC
ENTRANCE N16 Black cut vinyl copy ENTRANCE N19
and arrow, applied
first surface
MAIN
ENTRANCE N16
Flat aluminum panel
painted to match
EXISTING VIEW
5'-0½" Matthews Brushed
Aluminum
Updated
6'-0" 2½" 1¾" Updated
07.17.25 831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
05.05.25 WOOD DALE, IL 60191
(630) 422-1708
Vinyl wood grain contact@kdnsigns.com
digital laminate
returns artwork in this document is property of
the kdn signs and may
not be copied or reproduced
1/2"h Reveal
painted to match
1/2"
11"
Matthews Black
Flat aluminum panel
TRIER
painted to match 385 Winnetka Avenue
Matthews Black
Winnetka, IL 60093
PROPOSED VIEW - WEST East View Side View West View
DRAWN BY: Pamela F
D/F Non-Illuminated Wayfinding Sign - Sign #2 ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
PAGES: 3 of 7
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 15.00
Aluminum extruded sign body with first surface vinyl copy and logo.
New main support and foundation required. Field survey required.
Drawing for concept purposes only. 06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
Proposed NOTES:
Sign #2
Vinyl Wood Grain Digital Laminate - Matthews Paint - Section View - at top
BIRDSEYE VIEW -
Page 119 of 158
2'-6" 4" 2'-6"
2" 2"
Updated
02.09.26
NEW NEW
TRIER Digitally produced TRIER
EXISTING VIEW 6½" TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
on vinyl applied TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
first surface
3'-0½"
Flat aluminum panel
ATHLETIC painted to match ATHLETIC 831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
Matthews Brushed
ENTRANCE N19 Aluminum ENTRANCE N19 WOOD DALE, IL 60191
1¾"2½" 4" 3"
Black cut vinyl copy
MAIN and arrow, applied MAIN (630) 422-1708
ENTRANCE N16 first surface ENTRANCE N16 contact@kdnsigns.com
4'-0" Vinyl wood grain artwork in this document is property of
VISITOR digital laminate the kdn signs and may
PARKING returns
Updated
not be copied or reproduced
ALL LOTS/SPACES 1/2"h Reveal 05.05.25 ALL LOTS/SPACES
OPEN DURING EVENTS painted to match OPEN DURING EVENTS
1/2"
EN
EN
TRAN
CE
MAI
N16
N
ETIC
ATHL N19
CE
TRAN SITOR
VI ING
PARK
11"
Matthews Black
Flat aluminum panel
TRIER
painted to match 385 Winnetka Avenue
Matthews Black
Winnetka, IL 60093
PROPOSED VIEW - NORTH South View Side View North View
DRAWN BY: Pamela F
DF Non-Illuminated Wayfinding Sign - Sign #3 ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
PAGES: 4 of 7
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 10.00
Aluminum extruded sign body with first surface vinyl copy and logo.
New main support and foundation required. Field survey required.
Drawing for concept purposes only. 06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
Proposed NOTES:
Sign #3
Vinyl Wood Grain Digital Laminate - Matthews Paint - Section View - at top
Page 120 of 158
4'-10" Updated 2"
05.05.25
2½" 9½" 5"
Vinyl wood grain
9½"
GROUNDS digital laminate
returns
1'-6" 4¼" 4¼"
GARARGE
Deliveries on West side of
Flat aluminum panel
painted to match
Matthews Brushed
1½" campus on Woodland Ave. Aluminum
Black cut vinyl copy
Updated and arrow, applied
West View first surface Side View
06.10.25
S/F Non-Illuminated Wayfinding Sign - Sign #4
EXISTING VIEW
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 7.25
Aluminum pan sign with first surface vinyl, painted to match brushed aluminum.
Exact installation method to be determined after field survey.
Drawing for concept purposes only.
831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
WOOD DALE, IL 60191
(630) 422-1708
contact@kdnsigns.com
artwork in this document is property of
the kdn signs and may
not be copied or reproduced
GROUNDS
GARARGE
Deliveries on West side of
campus on Woodland Ave.
TRIER
385 Winnetka Avenue
Winnetka, IL 60093
PROPOSED VIEW - WEST DRAWN BY: Pamela F
ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
PAGES: 5 of 7
06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
NOTES:
Proposed
Sign #4 Vinyl Wood Grain Digital Laminate - Matthews Paint -
Page 121 of 158
2'-6" 4" 2'-6"
2" 2"
NEW Digitally produced NEW
TRIER TRIER
6½" TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
on vinyl applied TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
first surface
Flat aluminum panel
ATHLETICS painted to match ATHLETIC
ENTRANCE N19 Matthews Brushed ENTRANCE N19
Aluminum
MAIN MAIN
Black cut vinyl copy
ENTRANCE N16 and arrow, applied ENTRANCE N16
first surface
STAFF VISITOR
EXISTING VIEW
5'-0½"
PARKING PARKING
ONLY
WINNETKA
831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
6'-0" VISITOR Updated ENTRANCE S2
PARKING 05.05.25 WOOD DALE, IL 60191
(630) 422-1708
Updated Updated
02.05.26
Vinyl wood grain contact@kdnsigns.com
digital laminate 02.05.26
returns artwork in this document is property of
the kdn signs and may
not be copied or reproduced
ALL LOTS/SPACES 1/2"h Reveal ALL LOTS/SPACES
OPEN DURING EVENTS painted to match OPEN DURING EVENTS
1/2"
STAFF
PARKING
Matthews Black
TRIER
ONLY
VISITOR
PARKING
ATHLETICS
ENTRANCE N19
MAIN
ENTRANCE N16
Flat aluminum panel
11" painted to match 385 Winnetka Avenue
Matthews Black
Winnetka, IL 60093
PROPOSED VIEW - WEST West View Side View East View
DRAWN BY: Pamela F
D/F Non-Illuminated Wayfinding Sign - Sign #5 ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
PAGES: 6 of 7
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 15.00
Aluminum extruded sign body with first surface vinyl copy and logo.
New main support and foundation required. Field survey required.
Drawing for concept purposes only. 06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
Proposed 02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
Sign #5 02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
NOTES:
Vinyl Wood Grain Digital Laminate - Matthews Paint - Section View - at top
Page 122 of 158
2'-6" 4" 2'-6"
2" 2" 2" 2"
NEW Digitally produced NEW
TRIER TRIER
6½" TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
on vinyl applied TOWNSHIP
HIGH SCHOOL
first surface
Flat aluminum panel
ATHLETIC painted to match DELIVERIES
ENTRANCE N19 Matthews Brushed
Aluminum
DELIVERIES Updated
Updated 07.17.25
MAIN 02.05.26
ENTRANCE N16
EXISTING VIEW
5'-0½" VISITORS Black cut vinyl copy
and arrow, applied
PARKING first surface 831 N CENTRAL AVENUE
6'-0"
WINNETKA Updated WOOD DALE, IL 60191
ENTRANCE S2 05.05.25
(630) 422-1708
Vinyl wood grain contact@kdnsigns.com
digital laminate
VISITORS
ENTRANCE
PARKINGS2 returns artwork in this document is property of
the kdn signs and may
ATHLETIC
GAFFNEY
AUDITORIUM
ENTRANCE N19
MAIN
ENTRANCE N16
DELIVERIES
not be copied or reproduced
ALL LOTS/SPACES 1/2"h Reveal ALL LOTS/SPACES
OPEN DURING EVENTS painted to match OPEN DURING EVENTS
1/2"
11"
Matthews Black
Flat aluminum panel
TRIER
painted to match 385 Winnetka Avenue
Matthews Black
Winnetka, IL 60093
PROPOSED VIEW - WEST
West View Side View East View
DRAWN BY: Pamela F
D/F Non-Illuminated Wayfinding Sign - Sign #6 ACCOUNT REP: Patrick Blazer
PAGES: 7 of 7
Scale 1" = 1'-0" | Qty: (1) Required | Square Footage: 15.00
Aluminum extruded sign body with first surface vinyl copy and logo.
New main support and foundation required. Field survey required.
Drawing for concept purposes only. 06-17-25 QUOTE#: 22193-00
07-17-25 DATE: 02-13-25
10-09-25 REVISED: 03-25-25
02-05-26 05-05-25 04-02-25
02-09-26 06-10-25 04-25-25
NOTES:
Proposed
Sign #6
Vinyl Wood Grain Digital Laminate - Matthews Paint - Section View - at top
BIRDSEYE VIEW -
Page 123 of 158
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: DAVORKA KIRINCIC, AICP
BUILDING AND CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER
DATE: APRIL 30, 2026
SUBJECT: 547 CHESTNUT STREET – THE LAKE EFFECT – A SIGN PERMIT TO
ALLOW AWNING VALANCE AND VALANCE SIGN REPLACEMENT
(CASE NO. 26-06-DR)
INTRODUCTION
On May 7, 2026, the Design Review Board (DRB) is scheduled to consider a sign permit application
submitted by The Lake Effect (the “Applicant”) as the current lessee of the commercial space located at
547 Chestnut Street (the “Subject Property”), to allow replacement of the awning valance and valance sign
on the existing awning.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The Subject Property is located on the east side of Chestnut Street between Spruce and Elm Streets in the
Elm Street Business District and is zoned C-2 General Retail Commercial, while being within the Commercial
Overlay District. The Subject property contains a three-story mixed-use building that includes the
Applicant’s business along with Classic Stitch, Peet’s Coffee, and The Book Stall. Figure 1 below shows the
main building and approximate location of the Applicant’s business. Figure 2 on the following page shows
the current storefront, which still displays the awning valance and window signage from the previous
business, Chestnut Street Flowers, along with a temporary window sign for the new business, The Lake
Effect. All existing and temporary signage will be removed upon approval of the proposed valance signage.
The storefront of “The Lake Effect”
Figure 1 – Subject Property – View of the main building along the east side of Chestnut Street
Page 124 of 158
Figure 2 – Storefront of The Classic Stitch and The Lake Front Effect at Subject Property
PREVIOUS APPROVALS
The existing black-and-cream awnings for The Classic Stitch and The Lake Effect (formerly Chestnut Street
Flowers), including updated awning fabric and window signage, received DRB approval in September 2023.
CURRENT REQUEST
The Applicant is seeking approval to replace the existing awning black valance with a navy-blue valance
and to install new valance signage for both businesses, “The Lake Effect,” and the neighboring business,
“The Classic Stitch.” The proposed signage will provide identification and promotion for each business at
the Subject Property. Both signs will display the respective business names, as illustrated below.
Proposed awning valance sign:
• Recover the existing awning valance with a new canvas in navy blue;
o Existing awning frame 7.5 feet above finish grade;
• Awning sign of 5-inch white text that provides name and address of the Applicant’s business and
neighboring business.
• Awning sign area 5.71 square feet.
Page 125 of 158
The Lake Effect – Proposed awning valance sign
A copy of the Applicant’s application materials is included in Attachment A.
SIGN CODE ANALYSIS
Chapter 12.24.030 of the Village Code establishes standards for the installation of awnings located within
the public right-of-way. The proposed awning valance would utilize the existing frame, which has a
clearance of 7.5 feet above the public sidewalk. In the future, if the support apparatus of the awning is
replaced, the awning must provide a minimum clearance of 8 feet above the public sidewalk. The proposed
Page 126 of 158
awning valance on the existing frame would not project over more than three-fourths of the width, as
required by the Village Code, Section 12.24.030.
Section 15.60.120 of the Village Sign Code establishes standards for awning signs in commercial districts.
Awning sign standards
• Shall not contain information other than the name of the business, the street address numbers,
and the occupant’s logo or trademark;
• The total area of all signs on an awning not to exceed fifteen percent of the awning area;
• Letters, logos, or trademarks not to exceed six inches in height; and
• Shall be placed on the vertical front skirt only.
The proposed valance sign meets all the above standards for awning signs.
Signage Street Exposure
Area Square Percentage
Foot
Street Exposure 112 -
Max Allowed per Sign Code 16.80 15%
(15% of the Street Exposure)
All Existing and Proposed Signs Counted Toward 5.71 2.86%
Street Exposure
The proposed signs comply with the maximum allowed sign area street exposure requirement.
DESIGN GUIDELINES ANALYSIS
When reviewing the design of any signs, the Board is to consider the following standards and criteria of
Section 15.60.150(F) of the Sign Code.
F. Standards and Criteria for Issuance. The following factors and characteristics
relating to the safety and appearance of signage shall govern the Board’s
evaluation of design submittals:
1. The sign area shall be in proportion and scale to the building or to other
buildings or signs in the surrounding area;
2. A signage package for a business establishment that includes a number of
signs and graphics shall have an overall plan that demonstrates the
compatibility of the design and colors of all the signs that are part of that
package;
3. The amount of text and graphics contained in or on any sign or group of
signs shall be limited so that it results in a clear and readable design;
4. Signs and graphics shall have a harmonious relationship with nearby signs,
buildings, and the neighborhood and shall be designed not to affect
adjacent structures adversely. In this respect, the sign shall relate to its
building, structure, and neighborhood in terms of size, shape, material,
color, texture, lettering, location, arrangement, lighting, and the like;
5. Colors shall be used with restraint; excessive brightness shall be avoided;
and
Page 127 of 158
6. The additional provisions of this chapter, as specified in this chapter, shall
be part of the criteria of the design review process.
The Board should also consider the Village Design Guidelines for the proposed signage. See Attachment B.
SUMMARY
The Applicant respectfully requests that the DRB determine that the proposed awning valance fabric and
valance sign replacements are appropriate and compatible with the Village’s Design Guidelines, and
approve the awning application as submitted. Should the DRB find the proposed signage acceptable, the
Applicant will then obtain the required awning permit from the Community Development Department
prior to installing the new awning valance fabric and valance sign.
FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
At the May 7 DRB meeting, the DRB is scheduled to consider the design of the Applicant’s proposed awning.
After hearing from the Applicant and the public, the DRB will have the following options:
1) Continue the public hearing to a specific date to provide the Applicant and/or staff with additional
time to address questions and comments from the DRB; or
2) Consider a motion for approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. A DRB member
should make a motion for approval or denial based upon the following findings of fact:
a. The proposed awning is consistent [is not consistent] with the following standards used
for issuance of a sign permit:
1. The sign area shall be in proportion and scale to the building or to other
buildings or signs in the surrounding area;
2. A signage package for a business establishment that includes a number of
signs and graphics shall have an overall plan that demonstrates the
compatibility of the design and colors of all the signs that are part of that
package;
3. The amount of text and graphics contained in or on any sign or group of signs
shall be limited so that it results in a clear and readable design;
4. Signs and graphics shall have a harmonious relationship with nearby signs,
buildings and the neighborhood, and shall be designed so as not to adversely
affect adjacent structures. In this respect the sign shall relate to its building,
structure and neighborhood in terms of size, shape, material, color, texture,
lettering, location, arrangement, lighting, and the like;
5. Colors shall be used with restraint and excessive brightness shall be avoided;
6. The additional provisions of this chapter, as specified in this chapter, shall be
part of the criteria of the design review process.
b. [If the DRB chooses to place conditions as part of its approval, it will want to include the
conditions here.]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Application Materials
Attachment B: Design Guidelines Excerpt
Page 128 of 158
u
ATTACHMENT A
�C'2tW�Winnetka
AJfA�NG pEftrM'f�TION
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V I L L A G E O F W I N N E T K A, I .L I N o-r �
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMEN�
AWNING PERMIT APPLICATION
Tenant/Lessee
Awning Company
Phone No.
�1�·
AWNING:
-□
'@ retractable or �. rigid
new awning or
J;,4'
recovering of existing frame
• f 1/'_l..-
�!,:;71 vl
re D(CAv//1)(;\ fr-01tf
c(: ne,iJ
1 N �fV'li:- ___j
Fabric type and colo� !,a!tach samples!
Dimensions: Length� Height f---, Projection from Building Fae� /) re�c,,.
Clearance from sidewalk ·::]
_,..____
, vv,�fi\
AWNING VALANCE SIGN COPY/LOGO: Height_kinches, LengtrP4 �1{,,
inches- !LG l�V j�
�/4 w/ N/J4/V
e,.
1/ ?<., TC-,S lO�
11 11 f)
Description of sign material, method of application, and color: tf2-
OFFICE USE ONLY:
AWNING PERMIT FEE: $90 EACH NUMBER OF AWNING S__ $ ___
STAFF REVIEW FEE: $70 c WAIVE REVIEW FEE $ ___
TOTAL PERMIT FEE: $ ___
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: ________________________
Page 4 of4
Page 129 of 158
417/26,3:38 PM Gmail - Fwd: BOLD LOGO
Gmail chestnut st flowers <chestnutstreetflowers@gmail.com>
Fwd: BOLD LOGO
Acme Awning <acmeawning@att.net> Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 10:55 AM
Reply-To: Acme Awning <acmeawning@att.net>
To: chestnut st flowers <chestnutstreetflowers@gmail.com>
Hello again Allison,
I dropped off the samples at The Classic Stitch for your review. I also include the current solid
Black fabric of your existing valance for contrast against the Navy.
Regarding dimensions, they are as follows:
• Awning: 20'8" Width x 3'2" Projection (from wall) with a 53-1/2" Vertical length (Black and
White Striped portion).
• Valance (loose curtain): 20'8" Width x 8" total height.,�u oposecl White text measures 6- 11
��
1JP'l!leight x 75-9/16" Width (The Lake Effect) and 6 eight x 57-1/8" Width (The
�assic Stitch)
Ground Clearance varies as it is a Retractable Awning, but at 90 degree projection (awning against
wall), the ground clearance to the bottom of the valance is 7'. To awning it is 7'8" without including
the loose valance.
Let me know if you need anything else and thanks again,
Eirith Garza, Sales Manager & Design Consultant @Acme Awning Co., Inc.
3080 Skokie Valley Rd Suites 3 & 4
Highland Park, IL 60035
(847)446-0153
acmeawningonline.com �· �e- vt.;10()
*Please note all lead times are approximate and may vary based on seasonal demand*
�cht"e1(
[Quoted text hidden]
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=d7900a3ccc&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1861193592910036735&simpl=msg-f:1861193592910036735
Page 130 of 158 1/1
411126, 12:41 PM Gmail - Fwd: BOLD LOGO
·Gmail chestnut st flowers <chestnutstreetflowers@gmail.com>
Fwd: BOLD LOGO
Acme Awning <acmeawning@attnet> �d. Apr 1, 2026 at 4:50 PM
Reply-To: Acme Awning <acmeawning@att.net>
To: chestnut wers <chestnutstreetflowers@gmail.com>
P ase see attached with new dimensions and bold logo
TCS: 6" x 52-3/4"
TLE: 6" x 84-13/16"
3080 Skokie Valle� & 4
mt�..., "-· k:7'(f:o()()J5
(847)446-0153
acmeawningonline.com
*Please note all lead times are approximate and may vary based on seawnal deman�
(Quoted text hidden)
Bold BW Stripe Navy Valance TCS TLE-rendering.png
652K
https://mail .google.com/mail/u/Ol?ik=d7900a.1ccc& view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f: I 86 J306518287839092&si mpl=msg-f: I 86 I 306518287839092 Ill'
Page 131 of 158
j
3130/26, 9:59 AM BW Stripe Navy ValanceTCS TLE-rendering.png
https:/ /mai I .goo gle.com/mai l/u/0/ #search/acmeawni ng%40att.net/FMfc gzQgK v Fkh\vJ DFhhmqcw vCH LZO\J;i ts !proJtc,u� 1 &u •�•:sai;cr .u uu--u. ,
Page 132 of 158
ATTACHMENT B
d. Building Signage
Commercial signs should reflect the character of the building style, while expressing
each store’s individuality. There are several prominent sign styles that are appropriate to
Winnetka: surface mounted, pin-mounted, interior, decal and projecting blade signs.
Sign materials are limited to painted wood, canvas, architectural glass and metal. Sign
color must harmonize with the building upon which it is mounted and adjacent
structures. Lettering color can be unique to the image of the retailer/user. Metal sign
and plaque material such as brushed bronze, antique bronze, aluminum, stainless steel
and painted cast iron or similarly appearing materials are preferred. Highly reflective
metallic signs are not allowed. Signs should be lit by marquee or spot lighting; neon
lighting is not permitted. Spot lighting should be minimal and unobtrusive and, per the
Village Code, the source of illumination shall not be visible from any street, sidewalk or
dwelling. Simplified industrial light fixtures are not permitted. Contextual solutions are
recommended. The majority of the signs will be mounted within the building’s sign
band, defined as the wall area located above the ground floor storefront opening and
below the second floor windowsill, and is located a minimum of 8’-0” above grade and a
maximum of 15’-0” above grade. (MC-01-2023, amended, 01/17/2023)
Signs must comply with the general provisions of the Winnetka Sign Ordinance as well
as design provisions contained within these Design Guidelines.
1. Surface mounted commercial signs are either fabricated from painted wood or cast
metal plaques and are to be mounted within the sign band or within the storefront
transom. The height of the sign is restricted to 75% of the area of the sign band or
14 inches - whichever is less. The sign band of a building consists of the area
located above the ground floor storefront opening and below the second floor
windowsill, and is located a minimum of 8’-0” and a maximum of 15’-0” above
grade. Refer to figures 28, 29, and 30 for location. Surface mounted or pin-
mounted signs are not permitted on secondary elevations without a defined sign
band.
2. Pin-mounted commercial signs consist of
reverse channel, cast metal and flat cut
metal letters mounted above the storefront
in the masonry sign band or suspended in
front of the storefront at the transom or
recessed entry. The size of the lettering is
restricted so that the height of the letters
does not exceed 75% of the height of the
sign band or 14 inches - whichever is less.
The length of the lettering is to be
Figure 38
contained within 75% of the length of the
sign band. (See figure 38)
19
Building & Architecture
Page 133 of 158
Village of Winnetka, Illinois
Figure 39 & 40
3. Projecting blade commercial signs can MC-01-2023, Removed, 01/17/2023
be round, square or vertical, mounted
from the face of the building at the
second floor level between the windows
or at the head of the storefront and are
oriented to pedestrian scale. The signs
are to be mounted on fixed hardware; no
swinging or chain-mounted signs are
allowed. The dimensions of the sign are
not to exceed 6 square feet (36”
high and 24” deep) (See figure 41). If
illuminated, the signs should be lit with
an unobtrusive light source. Figure 41
4. Incidental wall signs such as building management identification and directory
signs should be integrated into a single sign and be constructed of brushed bronze,
antique bronze or painted cast iron. Such signs should not be placed on the
prominent street front facade and should be directed to public residential entries
(MC-01-2023, amended, 01/17/2023)
Design Guidelines 20
Page 134 of 158
e. Awnings and Banners
Awning scale and proportions are to be
appropriate for the building on which they
are mounted as well as the adjacent
structures. It is highly recommended that
awnings be uniform in size, shape (except
for arched openings, see “Forms” below)
and color in order to unify multiple
storefronts within a single building. The
length of the awning is to be restricted to
the length of the storefront opening;
awnings must not continue over masonry
piers. The vertical and horizontal
dimension should be proportional to the
overall projection of the awning. (See
figure 42)
Figure 42
Awning projection is preferred at 36 inches, but awnings will be considered which
range from a minimum of 24 inches to a maximum of 36 inches. Projection depth
should match the existing adjacent awnings provided they comply with the acceptable
minimum and maximum projection. Awnings should be placed at a minimum height of
8 feet above the sidewalk. If awnings are lit it should be from an outside source; no
backlit awnings are allowed.
Forms: Awning forms are to conform to the general shape of the opening.
Arched openings are to receive ½-round domed awnings, whereas rectangular
openings are to receive rectangular, gently sloping; planar forms with closed ends.
Valances may be fixed or loose.
Mounting: Awnings may be fixed or retractable. Retractable awnings must be
kept either in the fully projected position or the fully closed position. Fixed
awnings are to have concealed rigid metal frames. Retractable awnings should
have a canopy cover and automatic retractable rollers mounted to the building.
Underpanels are not desired. Frames should be painted to match or compliment
the color of the awning cover material or its underside.
Materials: The awning material should be taut, not relaxed. Awning materials
may include matte finish painted army duck, vinyl-coated cotton, acrylic-coated
polyester, and vinyl-coated polyester or cotton and solution-dyed acrylic. All
materials should receive silkscreen, painted, cutout lettering, heat color-transfer,
pressure sensitive vinyl films or sewn appliqué signs. Awning signs and logos are
limited to a height of six inches, and may be placed on the valence only.
21
Building & Architecture
Page 135 of 158
Village of Winnetka, Illinois
Colors: Awning and banner colors must take into account the color selection of
the surrounding materials, buildings, signs, awnings, and image of the
retailer/user and district. All awnings located on the same building must be the
same color. Colors should enhance and compliment the building and are
restricted to earthtones and primary and secondary colors. Final color selection is
contingent on approval by the Design Review Board and compliance with the
Village awning ordinance.
Banners should be considered as identification of commercial districts. Banners
may be location, event, holiday or sponsor specific and can create a unifying
thread between the independent districts. Banners are to be mounted on existing
poles by fixed brackets and hardware. The Design Review Board must approve
the final design.
All new or replacement Awnings and Banners must comply with Village Ordinances and
the Design Guidelines.
f. ADA Compliance:
Federal and State regulations require all public spaces to be accessible. Accessibility
alterations shall allow access from either the primary or the secondary facade; additions
of elevators or ramps should be designed as an integral element of the building.
Entrances: Commercial and mixed-use facilities should provide first floor access from
the primary or secondary facade.
Elevators: Where possible, elevators should be incorporated into the existing building
envelope. If physically impossible, the elevator and stair core can be located on the
exterior of the building but should be located so as not visible from the main public
way.
Ramps: Where required, the slope of the ramp should be as gradual as possible to
eliminate the need for handrails. Although a 1:12 slope is permitted, 1:20 is
encouraged. A ramp should be an integral design element, reflecting the design of the
building it serves and surrounding site. This can be accomplished by concealing the
ramp behind a low screen wall.
g. Mechanical Equipment
1. Location
Mechanical Equipment must not be visible from pedestrian view. Roof top
equipment should be located either in the center of the roof or in one corner away
from the street elevation so as not to be visible from the primary or secondary
approach.
Design Guidelines 22
Page 136 of 158
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: DAVORKA KIRINCIC, AICP
BUILDING AND CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER
DATE: APRIL 30, 2026
SUBJECT: 902 GREEN BAY ROAD – FOUND BY STEPH – WINDOW, DOOR, AND
PROJECTING SIGN PERMIT
(CASE NO. 26-07-DR)
INTRODUCTION
On May 7, 2026, the Design Review Board (DRB) is scheduled to consider a sign permit application
submitted by Found by Steph (the “Applicant”), the current lessee of the commercial space located at 902
Green Bay Road (the “Subject Property”), to allow the installation of a new window, door, and double-
faced projecting sign on the Green Bay Road frontage of the Subject Property.
The Subject Property is located west of Green Bay Road between Gage Street and Tower Road in the
Hubbard Woods Business District. It is zoned C-2 General Retail Commercial and is located within the
Commercial Overlay District. Figures 1 below and 2 on the following page identify the location of the
Subject Property, and Figure 3 identifies the storefront on the building's exterior facade.
Location of Subject Property
Figure 1 – Subject Property – Location Map
Page 137 of 158
Location of Found by Steph
Storefront
Figure 2 – Found by Steph Business Location-View from Green Bay Road
Figure 3 – Found by Steph Current Storefront
CURRENT REQUEST
The Applicant is seeking approval to install a door sign, a window sign on the central windowpane, and a
new double-face projecting sign frame, all of which would provide identification and promotion for their
new business location, as shown in the illustrations below:
Window Sign
• Individual text painted on the glass, in black, stating “VINTAGE”;
• 6 inches tall and 36 inches long text
• Located in the bottom two-thirds portion of the glass; and
• Sign area 1.50 square feet.
Door Window Sign
• Individual logo sign painted on the glass, in white, stating “found by steph”;
• 6 inches tall and 24 inches long text
• Located in the middle portion of the door window; and
• Sign area 1.00 square feet.
Page 138 of 158
Subject Property – Proposed window and door sign
Projecting Sign
The proposed new double-faced projecting sign identifies new businesses.
• Frame
o projecting 24 inches from the building wall
o bottom of the sign will be 8 feet from the finished grade; and
• Proposed double face nonilluminated 20 inches wide by 14 inches tall, with a white background,
with text stating “found by steph” in black.
Subject Property – Proposed new double-face sign
Page 139 of 158
A copy of the Applicant’s application materials is included in Attachment A.
SIGN CODE ANALYSIS
Section 15.60.120 of the Village Sign Code establishes standards for window signs and projecting signs in
commercial districts.
Window and door window signs that meet the following standards can be administratively approved by
staff:
• Window signs limited to 10% or less of the single window pane;
• Door sign limited to 50% or less of the single door window;
• Limited letters and logos no taller than 8”, except one logo, and the first letter of each word may
be up to no taller than 24”, and except store hours and contact information shall be limited to 2”
in height;
• Window signs limited to letters and logos of no more than two colors on a solid background of
another color, a total of three colors;
• Height of the sign to not exceed 1/3 of the height of the glass area and 90% of the glass width;
• Located in the lower two-thirds of the window opening;
• Shall not extend over or through architectural features/window muntin;
• Without reflective materials;
• No window sign should be illuminated, and
• Comply with the following: for each street exposure, the total area of all wall signs, window signs,
and awning signs other than exempt signs and permitted directional and incidental signs shall not
exceed 15% of the street exposure.
Sign Window Maximum Allowed Maximum Proposed Proposed Sign
Area Sign Area Allowed Sign Sign Area Area as % of
(sf) (% of Window Area) Area (sf) (sf) Window Area
Center Windowpane 101.60 10% 10.16 1.50 1.48%
Door Window 16.08 50% 8.04 1.00 6.22%
The proposed signs meet all of the above standards for window signs.
Signage Street Exposure
Area Square Percentage
Foot
Street Exposure 235.06 -
Max Allowed per Sign Code 35.26 15%
(15% of the Street Exposure)
All Proposed Signs counted toward Street Exposure 4.45 1.89%
The proposed signs comply with the maximum allowed sign area street exposure requirement.
Projecting sign standards
• One projecting sign per business;
• Extends no more than 2 feet from the building wall;
• No more than 3 feet high;
• Clearance between the bottom of the sign and the sidewalk is at least 8 feet, and
• Containing the name of the business and a maximum of three words containing a general
Page 140 of 158
description of types of products or services, and occupant logo or trademark.
The proposed projecting sign meets all the above standards for projecting signs.
DESIGN GUIDELINES ANALYSIS
When reviewing the design of any signs, the Board is to consider the following standards and criteria of
Section 15.60.150(F) of the Sign Code.
F. Standards and Criteria for Issuance. The following factors and characteristics
relating to the safety and appearance of signage shall govern the Board’s
evaluation of design submittals:
1. The sign area shall be in proportion and scale to the building or to other
buildings or signs in the surrounding area;
2. A signage package for a business establishment that includes a number
of signs and graphics shall have an overall plan that demonstrates the
compatibility of the design and colors of all the signs that are part of that
package;
3. The amount of text and graphics contained in or on any sign or group of
signs shall be limited so that it results in a clear and readable design;
4. Signs and graphics shall have a harmonious relationship with nearby
signs, buildings, and the neighborhood and shall be designed not to
adversely affect adjacent structures. In this respect, the sign shall relate
to its building, structure, and neighborhood in terms of size, shape,
material, color, texture, lettering, location, arrangement, lighting, and
the like;
5. Colors shall be used with restraint; excessive brightness shall be avoided;
and
6. The additional provisions of this chapter, as specified in this chapter, shall
be part of the criteria of the design review process.
The Board should also consider the Village Design Guidelines to approve existing signage to remain. See
Attachment B.
SUMMARY
The Applicant requests that the DRB find the proposed signage as appropriate and compatible with the
Design Guidelines and approve the application as proposed. Should the DRB find the proposed
improvements appropriate, the Applicant would first need to obtain the approved sign permit from the
Community Development Department prior to installing the signs.
FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
At the May 7 DRB meeting, the DRB is scheduled to consider the design of the Applicant’s proposed
signage. After hearing from the Applicant and the public, the DRB will have the following options:
1) Continue the public hearing to a specific date to provide the Applicant and/or staff with
additional time to address questions and comments from the DRB; or
2) Consider a motion for approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. A DRB member
should make a motion for approval or denial based upon the following findings of fact:
Page 141 of 158
a. The proposed signage is consistent [is not consistent] with the following standards used
for issuance of a sign permit:
1. The sign area shall be in proportion and scale to the building or to other
buildings or signs in the surrounding area;
2. A signage package for a business establishment that includes a number of
signs and graphics shall have an overall plan that demonstrates the
compatibility of the design and colors of all the signs that are part of that
package;
3. The amount of text and graphics contained in or on any sign or group of signs
shall be limited so that it results in a clear and readable design;
4. Signs and graphics shall have a harmonious relationship with nearby signs,
buildings and the neighborhood, and shall be designed so as not to adversely
affect adjacent structures. In this respect the sign shall relate to its building,
structure and neighborhood in terms of size, shape, material, color, texture,
lettering, location, arrangement, lighting, and the like;
5. Colors shall be used with restraint and excessive brightness shall be avoided;
6. The additional provisions of this chapter, as specified in this chapter, shall be
part of the criteria of the design review process.
b. [If the DRB chooses to place conditions as part of its approval, it will want to include
the conditions here.]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Application Materials
Attachment B: Design Guidelines Excerpt
Page 142 of 158
ATTACHMENT A
R!pc:�:�1·-:t
Village of Winnetka
SIGN PERMIT APPLICATION
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA, ILLIN
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
81";·
SIGN PERMIT APPLICATION
�
Tenant/Lessee
Name of Business Primary contact name Phone No.
Found by Steph LLC Stephanie Harris 630-453-1305
Project Address
902 Green Bay Road
City
Winnetka
I State
IL
Zip Code
60093
I Email
foundbysteph@gmail.com
Sign Company
Name of Sign Company Primary contact name Phone No.
Piece of Sign Anveil NA
Street Address
42-9 Kamiyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
City
NA
State
l NA
Zip Code
NA
I Email
contact@pieceofsign.com
Property Owner
Name of Company
Key Renter Chicago
I Primary contact name
Mary Gilardi
I Phone No.
708-435-2900
Street Address:
1010 Lake St. Suite 200
City
Oak Park
I State
IL
I Zip Code
60301
I Email
mary@keyrenterchicagometro.com
Sign type(s}: � window grap hics D wall-mounted sign D ground-mounted sign
(check all that apply)
(Bl projecting sign D other________________
Additional description of sign type and materials 'fflow Graphic: 6in Tall Hand Painted White Sign, ''found by steph"
Window Graphic: 6in Tall Hand Painted White Sign, "VINTAGE"
Projecting Sign: >8ft from ground+ <2ft from wall projecting metal sign, ''found by steph"
OFFICE USE ONLY
SIGN FEE: $80 NON-ILLUMINATED PER SIGN TYPE $ 80.
J-o. -
□
$195 ILLUMINATED SIGN $
STAFF REVIEW FEE: $70 WAIVE FEE $1-cJ-
TOTAL PERMIT FEE $ lS0.00
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: _______________________ _
Page4of4
Page 143 of 158
Found By Steph – 902 Green Bay Road Design Review Board Sketches
Window Sign Application
A E
F
N
C
M
found by steph I
H
J
G L B
K
D
1. Sign Dimensions & Area (360in, 2% total area) 3. Sign Lettering & Details
• “VINTAGE” Sign: 216in • “VINTAGE” Sign
• G: 6in H • Color: Black
• H: 36in W • Material: Paint
• “found by steph” Logo Sign: 144in • Height: 6in
• I: 6in H • “found by steph” Sign
• J: 24in W • Color: White
2. Window Dimensions & Area (17874.4in) • Material: Paint
• Large Windows: 14,620.5in • Height: 6in
• A: 85.5in H 4. Sign Location
• B: 171in W • “VINTAGE” Sign
• Door Windows: 2318in • Location: lower, middle window
• C: 76in H • K: 12in
• D: 30.5in W • L: 10.5in
• Above Door Window: 936in • “found by steph” Sign
• E: 26in H • Location: middle, door window
• F: 36in W • M: 3.25in
• N: 20in
Page 144 of 158
Projecting Sign Application
C
A
found by steph E
D
B
1. Sign Dimensions & Area
• C: 20in (sign width + mounting pole separation from wall)
2. Sign Height
• E: 16in
• D: 16in (sign width)
3. Sign Vertical Projection
• B: 8ft (from ground to bottom of sign)
• A: 8ft 18in (from ground to top of sign)
4. Sign Appearance & Material
• Material: Metal
• Color: White, Black Font
• Text: found by steph
5. Exterior Lighting: None
Page 145 of 158
APPENDIX
Projecting Sign Application Sketch
Page 146 of 158
ATTACHMENT B
d. Building Signage
Commercial signs should reflect the character of the building style, while expressing
each store’s individuality. There are several prominent sign styles that are appropriate to
Winnetka: surface mounted, pin-mounted, interior, decal and projecting blade signs.
Sign materials are limited to painted wood, canvas, architectural glass and metal. Sign
color must harmonize with the building upon which it is mounted and adjacent
structures. Lettering color can be unique to the image of the retailer/user. Metal sign
and plaque material such as brushed bronze, antique bronze, aluminum, stainless steel
and painted cast iron or similarly appearing materials are preferred. Highly reflective
metallic signs are not allowed. Signs should be lit by marquee or spot lighting; neon
lighting is not permitted. Spot lighting should be minimal and unobtrusive and, per the
Village Code, the source of illumination shall not be visible from any street, sidewalk or
dwelling. Simplified industrial light fixtures are not permitted. Contextual solutions are
recommended. The majority of the signs will be mounted within the building’s sign
band, defined as the wall area located above the ground floor storefront opening and
below the second floor windowsill, and is located a minimum of 8’-0” above grade and a
maximum of 15’-0” above grade. (MC-01-2023, amended, 01/17/2023)
Signs must comply with the general provisions of the Winnetka Sign Ordinance as well
as design provisions contained within these Design Guidelines.
1. Surface mounted commercial signs are either fabricated from painted wood or cast
metal plaques and are to be mounted within the sign band or within the storefront
transom. The height of the sign is restricted to 75% of the area of the sign band or
14 inches - whichever is less. The sign band of a building consists of the area
located above the ground floor storefront opening and below the second floor
windowsill, and is located a minimum of 8’-0” and a maximum of 15’-0” above
grade. Refer to figures 28, 29, and 30 for location. Surface mounted or pin-
mounted signs are not permitted on secondary elevations without a defined sign
band.
2. Pin-mounted commercial signs consist of
reverse channel, cast metal and flat cut
metal letters mounted above the storefront
in the masonry sign band or suspended in
front of the storefront at the transom or
recessed entry. The size of the lettering is
restricted so that the height of the letters
does not exceed 75% of the height of the
sign band or 14 inches - whichever is less.
The length of the lettering is to be
Figure 38
contained within 75% of the length of the
sign band. (See figure 38)
19
Building & Architecture
Page 147 of 158
Village of Winnetka, Illinois
Figure 39 & 40
3. Projecting blade commercial signs can MC-01-2023, Removed, 01/17/2023
be round, square or vertical, mounted
from the face of the building at the
second floor level between the windows
or at the head of the storefront and are
oriented to pedestrian scale. The signs
are to be mounted on fixed hardware; no
swinging or chain-mounted signs are
allowed. The dimensions of the sign are
not to exceed 6 square feet (36”
high and 24” deep) (See figure 41). If
illuminated, the signs should be lit with
an unobtrusive light source. Figure 41
4. Incidental wall signs such as building management identification and directory
signs should be integrated into a single sign and be constructed of brushed bronze,
antique bronze or painted cast iron. Such signs should not be placed on the
prominent street front facade and should be directed to public residential entries
(MC-01-2023, amended, 01/17/2023)
Design Guidelines 20
Page 148 of 158
MEMORANDUM
VILLAGE OF WINNETKA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
TO: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
FROM: DAVORKA KIRINCIC, AICP
BUILDING AND CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER
DATE: APRIL 30, 2026
SUBJECT: 1010 GREEN BAY ROAD – BANK OF AMERICA - CERTIFICATE OF
APPROPRIATENESS TO REPLACE THE EXISTING EXTERIOR LIGHT
FIXTURE AT THE MAIN BANK ENTRANCE
(CASE NO. 26-08-DR)
INTRODUCTION
On May 7, 2026, the Design Review Board (DRB) is scheduled to consider an application submitted by
Meredith Szargowicz (the “Applicant”) as a representative of 1010 Green Bay Road, LLC (the “Owner”) of
the property located at 1010 Green Bay Road (the “Subject Property”). The Applicant requests approval
of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the replacement of the exterior light fixture at the main entrance
of the Bank of America building on the Subject Property.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The Subject Property is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Scott Avenue and Green
Bay Road in the Hubbard Woods Business District. It is zoned C-2 General Retail Commercial and is not
located in the Commercial Overlay District. The Subject Property consists of a two-story commercial
building with Bank of America as its primary tenant. The existing building location is identified in Figure 1
below, and the building's main entrance view is shown in Figures 2 and 3 on the following page.
Figure 1 – Subject Property location – Corner of Scott and Green Bay Road
Page 1
Page 149 of 158
Figure 2 – Subject Property – Corner of Scott and Green Bay Road
Figure 3- Subject Property – View of the Main Entrance
CURRENT REQUEST
The Applicant is seeking approval to replace the existing exterior light fixture at the main entrance of the
Bank of America on the Subject Property.
Page 2
Page 150 of 158
The proposed light fixture
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Size: 9.45 ''Lengthx9.45 ''Widthx20.87 ''Height
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Page 3
Page 151 of 158
The design specifications for the proposed light fixture are included in the application materials as
Attachment A.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS CONSIDERATIONS
As established by the Village Code, the Design Review Board is to consider the following four (4) factors in
determining whether to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness:
“(1) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood;”
“(2) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
appropriate to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and improvements in the
immediate neighborhood, and including both urban design and site arrangement
considerations;”
“(3) whether the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are
consistent with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and criteria as may be
adopted by the Board; and”
“(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the integrity of the
immediate vicinity.”
The Board must determine if the proposed existing exterior light fixture complies with the above standards.
DESIGN GUIDELINES ANALYSIS
The Village’s Design Guidelines give guidance on exterior lighting. The Guidelines state:
“Exterior Uses and Types: Exterior building lighting should be carefully designed. Incandescent and
low-voltage lighting may be allowed. Fixtures should be contextual with the building and the
adjacent building design. Building lighting should focus on illuminating building signs and
enhancing architectural details on the facade. All lighting shall be located and shielded from direct
visibility from any dwelling or public street per the Winnetka Village Code. Wall lanterns and
architectural highlighting should be considered. Sodium and fluorescent lighting are not allowed.”
Page 4
Page 152 of 158
FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATION
At the May 7 DRB meeting, the DRB is scheduled to consider the design of the Applicant’s proposed
exterior light fixture replacement. After hearing from the Applicant and the public, the DRB will have the
following options:
1) Continue the public hearing to a specific date to provide the Applicant and/or staff with
additional time to address questions and comments from the DRB; or
2) Consider a motion for approval or denial of the Certificate of Appropriateness. A DRB member
should make a motion for approval or denial based upon the following findings of fact:
a. The proposed exterior light fixture replacement is consistent [is not consistent] with the
following standards used for evaluating a certificate of appropriateness:
(1) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are appropriate
to and compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood;
(2) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are appropriate
to and compatible with adopted Village plans for and improvements in the immediate
neighborhood, and including both urban design and site arrangement considerations;
(3) the proposed external architectural features and site improvements are consistent
with applicable Village design guidelines and such standards and criteria as may be
adopted by the Board; and
(4) the probable effect of the proposed external architectural features on the integrity of
the immediate vicinity.
b. [If the DRB chooses to place conditions as part of its approval, it will want to include
the conditions here.]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Application Materials
Page 5
Page 153 of 158
ATTACHMENT A
Village of Winnetka
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS APPLICATION
V I LL A G E O F W INN E T K A, ILLINOIS
DEPARTMENTOF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS APPLICATION
Project Address: 1010 Green Bay Road C00...d�.p - L/01
i a _________________________
Name of Business(es):_B_an_k_ o_f _Am_er_ _c_
§
Application is hereby made for the following work (please check all that apply):
Sign
Awning
Sign Permit Application attached? LJ
Awning Permit Application attached? LJ
EGE IVE�
� APR 2 3 2026
Other (general description) -- --------------B-'"":i"'-: ==- -----
�--============'-
Please provide a detailed description of the proposed work (attach additional information such as material
specifications, photographs, etc.): _C_ h_an_ g_ni _g _o u_t li_ g_h__lni g_fi_1x_tu_er ______________ ____
I/We hereby certify that as Bank of Amer ica (Lessee/Owner) of the property located
at 1010 Green Bay Road (address), I am/we are authorized to submit plans for alterations of the subject
property. VWe agree to perform the subject work in accordance with the conditions of approval by the Winnetka
Design Review Board as well as all other applicable codes, rules, and regulations of the Village of Winnetka.
FOR LESSEE/OWNER USE ONLY FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
sIGNED
COA applied for (date):
pRINTED NAME(S) MeredithSzar gowicz
ADDRESS 1 010 Green Bay Road COA Case Number:
pHONE NO. (312) 937-3605 COA Issued (date):
EMAIL meredi th.sza r gowicz@cushwake.com
COAFee
$ 13 5 --+t, k3:'. �, d
□ $575
PRIMARY DESIGN FIRM
CONTACT NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE NO.
EMAIL
Page 4 of 4
Page 154 of 158
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Page 155 of 158
Davorka Kirincic
From: Meredith Szargowicz/USA < Meredith.Szargowicz@cushwake.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 16, 2026 9:43 AM
To: Davorka Kirincic
Subject: RE: IL2-100 Winnetka - Changing Pendant Lighting at Front/Main Entrance
Attachments: COA Application Package- Page- Updated.pdf; Screenshot 2026-04-03 084037.png
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Good morning Davorka,
Below and attached is an option for your review.
Hanging Cord (All): Adjustable (19. 69'')
Embrace the allure of yesteryear with the Vintage Rustic Cylinder Waterproof Outdoor LED Lantern Pendant Lights. Crafted
with meticulous attention to detail, these stunning lanterns will elevate your outdoor space with their timeless beauty and
modern functionality.
• Durable die-cast aluminum and tempered glass construction
• Waterproof to IP56 standards for reliable all-weather use
• Energy-efficient LED bulbs last up to 50,000 hours
• Adjustable hanging cord for customizable placement
• Suitable for illuminating up to 171 sq ft of your yard or patio
Thank you,
Meredith Szargowicz
Manager, Facilities
Mobile: +1 312 937 3605
meredith.szarqowicz@cushwake.com
11111 CUSHMAN &
Ill 1, 111111 WAKEFIELD
From: Davorka Kirincic <DKirincic@Winnetka.org>
Sent: Thursday, April 2, 2026 2:53 PM
To: Meredith Szargowicz/USA <Meredith.Szargowicz@cushwake.com>
Subject: RE: IL2-100 Winnetka - Changing Pendant Lighting at Front/Main Entrance
I External Mail I
Received. Would you please send me a proposed light picture, and I will confirm if can be approved
administratively. In mid time I am sending you Certificate of Appropriateness Application Package.
Warm Regards,
Davorka
1
Page 156 of 158
Davorka I. Kirincic, AICP
Building and Code Enforcement Manager
Village of Winnetka Community Development
84 7. 716.3522 I dkirincic@winnetka.org
From: Meredith Szargowicz/USA <Meredith.Szargowicz@cushwake.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 2, 2026 2:35 PM
To: Davorka Kirincic <DKirincic@Winnetka.org>
Subject: IL2-100 Winnetka - Changing Pendant Lighting at Front/Main Entrance
You don't often get email from meredith.szargowicz@cushwake.com. Learn why this is important
CAUTIOI\I: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Per our conversation - thank you for your help!
2
Page 157 of 158
Thank you,
Meredith Szargowicz
Manager, Facilities
Mobile: +1 312 937 3605
3
Page 158 of 158