Winnetka Futures 2040: Plan Commission Considers Comprehensive Plan

WINNETKA, IL — The Winnetka Plan Commission on Wednesday is set to review a draft of a new comprehensive plan for the village, a long-term vision aimed at serving as a statement of policy to guide future decision-makers.

The Winnetka Futures 2040 plan is the culmination work that began in the fall of 2019, according to village staff.

A report on the existing conditions in the village was presented to village officials at the end of 2020. That was followed by the preparation of a "Visioning document," according to staff. The Plan commission prepared in the first half of last year and presented it to the Village Council in July.

Last fall, more than 130 community members took part in open houses and "affirmed that the draft vision statements, goals, and initiatives found in the Visioning document are in line with their future vision for the community," staff said in a release.

The 284-page draft comprehensive plan includes 10 pillars:

• Quality Livable Neighborhoods
• Vibrant Business Districts
• Community Heritage & Placemaking
• Sustainability & Climate Action
• Educational Excellence
• Healthy & Engaging Lifestyles
• Infrastructure, Service, & Technology
• Mobility & Connectivity
• Civic Engagement
• Operational Efficiencies & Coordination

The plan also includes initiatives that align with goals associated with each pillar and prioritizes their implementation as low (10 or more years to implement), medium (done in 3 to 10 years) or high (less than 3 years.)

"The Implementation Chapter is set up like an independent workbook that the Council, Plan Commission, and Village staff can use to guide and track the implementation of the Plan," Community Development Director David Schoon said in a memo to plan commissioners.

The plan was prepared by consultants from The Lakota Group, SBFriedman, Sam Schwartz and Strand Associates, along with village staff.

Village staff said there would me more opportunities to provide comments to the commission and the Village Council following Wednesday's special plan commission meeting.

On Feb.15, another special plan commission meeting is scheduled to make a formal recommendation about the plan to the council, according to a staff memo.

On March 14, the Village Council is due to review the recommendations in a study session. It is expected to adopt a version of the plan at its April 4 or April 18 regular meeting.