Zoning board recommends county approval for rural lot split near Troy Grove

The LaSalle County Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 17 recommended that the County Board approve Special Use Petition 25‑21, a request to split a parcel of less than 35 acres at 4126 East 5205th Road in Troy Grove Township. The board voted to forward the petition to the County Board; the petition is scheduled to be presented to the County Board on Oct. 9.

The recommendation followed a staff summary and testimony by the petitioner. Brian Gift, LaSalle County land use director, told the board that notices went to adjacent property owners on Aug. 29 and that the county received no written communications about the petition. Petitioner Benjamin Keiner said he purchased the land from his grandfather and planned to move closer to the farm to help with operations. "We have no desire to change it," Keiner said when asked whether pasture or crop ground would remain agricultural.

Under the county's Zoning Ordinance, the board must make findings on standards in Section 14.1‑5 before recommending a special use. The board made findings on each standard — including impacts on light and air to adjacent properties, fire hazard, property values, traffic, public expense for services, and general public welfare — and recorded affirmative responses before calling the motion. Ryan (staff member) confirmed the application complied with ordinance standards.

After the findings of fact, a motion to recommend approval was made and seconded; the board voted in favor and the chair said the petition will be presented to the County Board on Oct. 9. The action before the Zoning Board of Appeals was a recommendation only; final approval rests with the LaSalle County Board.

The petitioner was advised he could stay for the remainder of the hearing or leave. No written public opposition or additional correspondence was reported to staff.