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The Chicago Tribune featured an interesting piece on a proposed sprinkler initiative in Winnetka. According to the article, a new ordinance is being considered that would mandate all commercial buildings in Winnetka to install fire sprinklers within the next few years. This move has sparked differing reactions among local business leaders. Supporters argue it's a crucial step for public safety, while critics label it as an unwarranted financial burden.
To gather feedback, Winnetka Fire Chief Alan Berkowsky mentioned that surveys were sent out this summer to around 500 local business owners and property managers. These surveys are expected to be discussed further at the upcoming village council meeting on November 11th.
Interestingly, the village had previously enacted a similar ordinance back in 1977. This earlier law required fire sprinklers to be installed whenever there was a change of use in a commercial building, like converting an office into a shop. The current proposal seeks to broaden this requirement to encompass all commercial properties, including private educational institutions, within approximately five years.
Chief Berkowsky highlighted the unique challenges faced by Winnetka's downtown area, where buildings are closely packed together. He emphasized that this lack of spacing significantly increases the risk of fires spreading rapidly between neighboring structures. A case in point was a fire incident in February at a restaurant in Mount Prospect, which quickly affected adjoining businesses due to its central location.
Despite these concerns, some members of the village’s Business Community Development Commission have voiced their backing for the proposed sprinkler ordinance. Berkowsky noted that since the 1977 ordinance was implemented, a significant number of businesses—around 64% in the West Elm district—have already complied by installing fire sprinklers.
However, not everyone is pleased with the new proposal. Landlord Glenn Weaver, who owns a building on Lincoln Avenue in downtown Winnetka, expressed his dissatisfaction. Weaver stated that the existing "change of use" rule has already deterred potential tenants from leasing his property. Over the past five years, one of his spaces has remained empty because any new tenant wanting to run a retail business would need to install fire sprinklers. Weaver estimated that he has spent close to $40,000 on fire alarms and smoke detectors alone.
He also claimed he never received the recent survey from the fire department and questioned how the mailing list was compiled. Berkowsky countered that efforts were made to send the survey to every commercial entity in town, and an online version was available for those who wished to participate.
Overall, the debate continues to rage on, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. It remains to be seen how the village council will ultimately decide on this contentious issue.