The LaSalle County Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously on Nov. 19 to recommend that the county board approve Petition 25-25, a special-use request from the Sharon M. Trumbo Family Trust to create a new lot of less than 35 acres at approximately 3121 North Route 71 in Rutland Township. The petitioner, Steve Trumbo, said he wants to build a roughly 2,000-square-foot single-family home so he and his wife can help care for elderly family members who still live on the family farm.

Board Chair Sandy Billard and staff outlined hearing procedures and legal standards under Section 14.1-5 of the LaSalle County Zoning Ordinance. Staff member Brian Gipp told the board that notice had been mailed to adjoining property owners and that the application was presented as compliant with applicable zoning requirements. Trumbo confirmed the proposed lot would have its own well and septic system and that the site is not within the county floodplain, though a culvert on Route 71 can run full at times.

After board members asked follow-up questions about site drainage, flood risk and utilities, the board read the seven statutory factors the ordinance requires for special-use findings and answered in the affirmative. A motion to recommend approval passed on a voice vote. Brian Gipp said the petition will be presented to the LaSalle County Board on Dec. 8, 2025.

The recommendation from the Zoning Board of Appeals is advisory; the county board will take final action following its review and any additional materials required under county procedures.