The Normal Town Council will consider plan changes for the Trails on Sunset Lake along Airport Road April 1. (Stephanie Pawlowski/WJBC)

By Stephanie Pawlowski

NORMAL - The Normal Planning Commission is recommending the town council approve an amended plan for the Trails on Sunset Lake.

The development is at Shepard and Airport Roads. Developers want to reduce some green space on the east-side of the subdivision, remove planned cul-de-sacs and add size to the lots.

The developers said at a meeting Thursday evening that the changes reflect changes in the marketplace.

The Planning Commission recommended approval and the town council will consider the plan April 1.

Franklin Heights

The Planning Commission denied a request from the developer and owner of Franklin Heights.

He wanted to keep ownership of the three detention basins on the property if it is annexed into the town.

Right now, the subdivision, at the corner of Ft. Jesse Road and Towanda Barnes Road, is in the county but is within 1.5 miles of Normal.

The county holds the bond for public improvements. The county is ready to release the bond but can't without the consent of the town.

The developer, Big Tiger Enterprises LLC, wants to change the pre-annexation agreement with the town to keep the basins in order to maintain them and possibly allow public access in the future.

Several neighbors expressed concerns over liability of the basins because the developer said in a report the basins would retain ownership with the owner, property owners association or private entity.

Two neighbors also complained about the lack of a park-like feel in the development, which they said was promised.

Town staff said the property will likely not be eligible for annexation for many years.

The town council will also hear the recommended denial on April 1.

Stephanie Pawlowski can be reached at Stephanie.Pawlowski@Cumulus.com