Village Board Welcomes New Chabad Center

In a refreshing change of tone, an Illinois Chabad Center received approval from a village board to use a new building they acquired as a religious center through a ‘conditional use permit’. Not only did Chabad of Glenview receive approval, the board members wished them Mazal Tov and good luck with the new location.

The Glenview Village Board has given a thumbs up to a new home for Lubavitch Chabad of Glenview, which has operated out of a storefront on Glenview Road for more than five years.

The board has approved a conditional use permit for the synagogue and school to be located in the former Glenkirk school building at 701 Harlem Ave.

“They’re proposing very few changes to the building,” said Lawrence Freedman, a lawyer representing Lubavitch Chabad of Glenview.

For years, services and programs have been held in a storefront in downtown Glenview, but the space had become too small and Lubavitch Chabad was looking for a more permanent home, Freedman said.

“It was very advantageous they found an institutional building,” he said. “They’re talking about trying to get in here in the next few months.”

The conditional use permit was required because the site is in a residential area. But there were not objections to the location among board members. Another religious organization, United Methodist Church, neighbors the site.

“I live in the immediate area, and I welcome the petitioner to our community,” said Trustee Pat Cuisinier.

Freedman added that because of Lubavitch Chabad’s members’ orthodox faith, the parking lot would not be used on certain days, including the high holidays.

The main concern was over hours of operation initially included in the conditional use permit.

“I’m uncomfortable regulating the time people can practice their religion,” said Trustee Deborah Karton.

She said that while the village can regulate noise, traffic and other ancillary issues, limiting hours of operation leads to First Amendment issues.

The permit was approved without that provision.

“Congratulations,” said Village President Kerry Cummings. “I know this has been a long time coming.”

“I believe the word is ‘mazel tov,’” Karton said, drawing a chuckle from the other board members.