Voting delayed on proposal for North Shore Master Plan, amphitheater
A long line of protesters who took turns lashing out against a proposed North Shore Master Plan and amphitheater on Tuesday forced the City Planning Commission to delay voting on them for at least two weeks.
More than 150 people crammed into the hearing in the John P. Robin Civic Building on Ross Street, Downtown, many carrying signs and wearing Northside United shirts. Others stood outside and chanted, demanding that North Shore developers agree to a Community Benefits Agreement that would ensure jobs and other benefits for residents.
"This is the most valuable land we have on the North Side, and the city is giving it away to these people," said John Canning, 69, of the Central North Side. "As the planning commission, you have to think city, not site."
Some voiced concerns over whether the new buildings would be built to LEED certification. Others said they fear an increase in noise, litter and parking problems in surrounding neighborhoods.
Three hours after the hearing started -- and with dozens of people still standing in a line that snaked from a podium to a hallway outside -- board Chairwoman Wrenna L. Watson delayed the hearing until June 9.
The master plan was developed by Continental Real Estate Companies, which has exclusive rights to develop the area between the North Shore stadiums. It calls for a hotel, residential units, commercial space and an amphitheater.
Continental officials said they want a chance to respond to yesterday's criticism.
"They're upset with the fact that we will not participate in a CBA," said Continental's vice president of development, Michael Hudec.
"This (delay) potentially disrupts our ability to provide this venue to the city," he said. "We want to get started. But we've seen in this economy, the risk is that the opportunity passes us by, (that) the operator loses interest and passes."
The amphitheater would host up to 100 concerts and other events a year, Hudec said. Work is expected to start in the fall and could finish next year.
But first protesters want a Community Benefits Agreement and other assurances.
"How can you have a master plan about a neighborhood and not include input from the people who live in that neighborhood?" Northside United co-chairman Michael Glass said.
The planning commission cannot vote before June 9. It must vote first on the master plan, then on the amphitheater plans.
Protesters will be allowed to speak on both issues. Northside United officials vowed to return in two weeks, meaning further delays are possible.
Watson said the planning commission does not have the authority to reject the plans based on matters like Community Benefits Agreements, even if board members agree with the protesters. She said the commission can only rule on whether Continental has adhered to zoning regulations and other laws.