The Chicago Tribune recently covered an interesting development in Winnetka regarding a proposed sprinkler initiative. According to the article, the ordinance aims to require all commercial buildings in the area to have fire sprinklers installed within the next few years. While some local business leaders support the measure, calling it a necessary step for public safety, others are strongly opposed, labeling it an "unfunded mandate."
Winnetka's Fire Chief, Alan Berkowsky, mentioned that earlier this summer, officials sent out surveys to approximately 500 local business owners and landlords to gather feedback on the proposed ordinance. This topic is set to be discussed during the upcoming village council meeting on November 11.
Chief Berkowsky explained that back in 1977, Winnetka had already enacted a similar law mandating the installation of sprinklers whenever there was a change of use in a commercial property, such as converting an office into a retail space. However, the current proposal takes things further by requiring all commercial buildings—private schools included—to have sprinklers installed within about five years. He emphasized the unique nature of the village's downtown district, where buildings are closely packed together, increasing the risk of fire spreading rapidly. To illustrate his point, he referenced a fire incident in February at a restaurant in a historic building in Mount Prospect, which spread quickly to neighboring shops.
Interestingly, some members of the village’s Business Community Development Commission have voiced their approval of the new fire sprinkler ordinance. Berkowsky noted that since the 1977 ordinance came into effect, a significant number of businesses, around 64% in the West Elm business district, have already installed sprinklers.
However, not everyone is on board with the idea. Glenn Weaver, a landlord who owns a 3,600-square-foot building on Lincoln Avenue, is among the skeptics. He claims that the existing "change of use" requirement has already made it extremely challenging for him to attract tenants. Weaver shared that one of his spaces has been empty for five years due to the need for fire sprinklers, even though the previous tenant operated a professional service that didn't require them. He expressed frustration, saying, "Because of these fire sprinkler rules, I've had spaces sitting empty for far too long." Weaver estimated that he has spent close to $40,000 on fire alarms and smoke detectors alone, yet still faces resistance from prospective retail tenants. He also claimed he never received the survey from the fire department and questioned how they distributed it.
In response, Berkowsky stated that officials did attempt to mail the survey to every commercial business in town. Additionally, Winnetka business owners and landlords were given the chance to share their views through an online survey. Despite the controversy, the debate continues to unfold, highlighting the complex balance between safety regulations and the practical concerns of local business owners.
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