Will County Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Tuesday May 5, 2026

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission held a meeting on May 5, 2026, addressing several zoning cases involving special use permits and variances. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a special use permit for a bar/tavern with video gaming at an existing liquor store in Joliet, with conditions related to site inspections and liquor licensing. The commission also reviewed two special use permits and fence height variances for water infrastructure projects by the Grand Prairie Water Commission and the City of Joliet, aimed at supporting regional water supply with security fencing approved. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a special use permit and variances for a commercial solar energy facility and battery energy storage system proposed by US Solar on a 90-acre parcel in Green Garden Township. The project faced substantial public opposition citing environmental, safety, and zoning concerns, including incomplete wetland delineations and potential impacts on residential areas. After extensive public comment and discussion, the commission approved the special use permit for the solar facility and several variances by narrow margins, while the battery energy storage permit failed to pass due to a tie vote. The meeting concluded with scheduling of future meetings and adjournment.