Des Plaines aldermen voted 6-2 Monday night to deny a conditional-use permit for the expansion of the 300-member Faith Alliance Bible Church at 382 S. Mt. Prospect Rd.
About 56 neighbors of the church had signed a petition opposing the project, which was recommended for approval by city staff members and the Zoning Board of Appeals.
“The residents who live in this are opposed to the project for flooding, noise, lighting and traffic concerns. Therefore, I will be opposing it,” Ald. Dick Sayad said before the vote.
Rev. Samuel Lee said his congregation has proposed adding 11,000 square feet to the existing structure. The church also wants to expand its 58-car parking lot to accommodate 115 vehicles on the 1.6-acre parcel.
“It seems to me we are picking on churches,” said Ald. Don Smith.
City Atty. David Wiltse said a “compelling governmental purpose,” is required by state law before a municipality may oppose a church expansion.
“I know if we took this to court we would win,” said Lee, “but that’s not my decision to make tonight.”