The Chamber took a rare step this week and sent a letter to the members of the City of Naperville Planning & Zoning Commission regarding cases 12-1-39 and 12-1-40, commonly referred to as the Water Street project.

As a matter of policy the Chamber does not involve itself in individual developments petitions and zoning matters. Rather, the Chamber supports all economic development, job creation and new investment in our community.

In recent weeks the development has been the subject of letters to the editors, op-ed columns and public discussion. As “the business voice,” the Chamber wanted to contribute to the community discussion and call attention to the matter to encourage individuals and businesses to participate in the process. 

Last year, the Legislative Committee held several sessions on the Naperville Downtown 2030: Planning the Downtown Experience comprehensive development plan. These meetings allowed the business community to offer their thoughts and perspective on how to achieve balanced growth in downtown.

Those discussions and the subsequent endorsement of the plan are recounted in the Chamber’s pro-growth letter to the Commission. Interim president & CEO Tami Andrew writes:

“After taking part in its crafting and educating our Members, the Chamber endorsed the ratification of Downtown 2030. We’ve pledged our support to the City to work with the business community to make its vision and goals a reality. This letter is part of our commitment to champion a brighter future.”

The Commission will hear the case at its Wednesday, August 8 hearing in council chambers at City Hall, 400 S. Eagle Street in downtown Naperville. Interested citizens can access the agenda and meeting packet at: http://naper.cc/QFuLbD. 

You can access the entire letter to the commission at: http://naper.cc/Nf2UKl.