Lake County Gazette

At the Nov. 14 meeting of the Village of Gurnee board, discussion from officials and the public focused on Trans-Chicago's proposed development on Highway 21.

Mayor Thomas Hood explained that Trans-Chicago had presented its plans to the Planning and Zoning Commission, who gave them a generally favorable recommendation. Hood pointed out that the board would still have to listen to public input before voting on the proposal.

Hood said he and the board would be weighing the need for tax revenues with following residents' wishes.

"We do our best to balance the development in town with the residents' needs and their enjoyment where they live," Hood said. "And sometimes that's not a real easy job. I can just tell you that having done it for a number of years, it's tough now. But nonetheless, that doesn't – and shouldn't – stop you from voicing your concerns and what you think is important to you."

Hood said the board will be making its decision on the Trans-Chicago proposal on Nov. 28. 

Many residents came out to speak in the public comment section on the proposal, which includes a truck dealership near the Heath Ridge neighborhood. 

Residents who opposed the proposal cited increased traffic volume and noise in the area, air pollution, and light pollution from the facilities. They were worried about decreases in their property value. The neighbors of Heather Ridge were against the change in zoning from office to light industrial; they wanted the parcel of land to be developed for its current zoning designation.