The DeKalb School Board discussed impacts of a proposed residential development geared toward adults.

The Cottages, which is in its developmental stages, is planned to be built along the corridor of Illinois Route 23 and Fairview Drive in DeKalb.

A developmental contractor with The Cottages said they are exploring the impacts on the community and the school system based on the age demographic they want to target.

The development team is deciding on whether the establishment will be an age-restricted community or an age targeted group.

An age restriction could limit the development to only senior citizens.

The decision will also reflect the impact of the school population in the surrounding areas.

School Board Secretary Holly Wallace offered advice on the planning stages.

“I feel strongly that without an age-restriction you run the risk of having children in the community,” she said.

Having an increase of children in the area may lead to continued school overcrowding.

If you look at the development of the Knolls, it turned out to have an increase in students, she said.

The board also unanimously approved an energy conservation guideline, specifically geared toward building management.

“It is important to know the guidelines for energy conservation program for the schools and the community as a whole,” said Superintendent Paul Beilfuss.

The energy conservation and building management plan sets the policies and responsibilities of the staff and the equipment used in the schools.

School Board President Andy Small said he is excited to begin implementing this program.

The board has expressed interest in a subcommittee meeting with the city in hopes of looking into a new school in the future.