Developer Pitches Residential Building Near Century Park

A developer’s proposal to build a multi-family residential building in Vernon Hills was met with some resistance Tuesday night, but some trustees said they’d be willing to consider a scaled-back project. 

Sy Taxman unveiled conceptual plans to construct a five-story, 264-unit building at the northwest corner of Lakeview and Hawthorn parkways, near Century Park.

“We’re asking you to open the door and see if you’d support a multi-family development,” he said.

“I don’t think we are proposing something that is not keeping with the community,” Taxman added.

Two vacant restaurant buildings at 102 Hawthorn Parkway and 1000 Lakeview Parkway would be demolished to make way for the building. Residential units would average 800 square feet, according to the initial plans.

Officials praised Taxman’s previous projects, which include the Town Center at the northwest corner of Milwaukee Avenue and Old Half Day Road, but said the conceptual plans for the new development were too dense. Among their concerns are the proposed 401 parking spots, which average to 1.5 spaces per home. The village generally requires at least two parking spaces per unit.

They also expressed concern over placing a building of that size near the park, which hosts events such as Summer Celebration. 

“My vision of this parcel is for everyone to enjoy,” said Trustee Cindy Hebda. “I do not see residential there. I see people being able to enjoy the vista of the lakes.”

Trustee James Schultz suggested that an alternative project such as an affordable assisted living facility would require fewer parking spaces. Meanwhile, Trustee Jeanne Schwartz said she’d be more likely to consider the project if it allowed for access to the lake.

Five years ago, Vernon Hills officials decided that a 100-unit condominium proposal was too dense for the same site.

Taxman, who would partner with Robert Miller, owner of Milco Acquisition Co., for the project, emphasized that he was only trying to gauge interest in the project and begin the technical review process. He said he’d ask to retain the property’s business zoning, but request approval for a planned-unit development. 

“I think the building you’re proposing is a little large for the site. Come back with something a little less dense, with more openness to it, and you’ve got my support,” Trustee Barbara Williams told Taxman.