Zoning board backs barn‑venue permit with conditions after neighbors raise noise, notice concerns

The LaSalle County Zoning Board of Appeals voted Feb. 18 to recommend that the County Board approve Margaret ("Margie") Warwick’s request to operate a rural specialty facility — a restored family barn — as a small‑event venue at 1034 North 2401st Road in Deer Park Township, subject to two staff‑recommended conditions.

Warwick told the board the barn was built by her grandfather in the late 1800s and has been in the family about 130 years. She said the proposed use is modest and community focused — baby showers, wedding showers, small meetings and the occasional small wedding — and emphasized limits on event frequency, hours and noise. "This request is about preservation, not disruption," Warwick said.

Board members asked about dimensions and occupancy; the petitioner and a neighbor estimated the barn at roughly 30–50 feet and said maximum occupancy would not exceed about 100 people. Contractor Steve Michelini told the board the barn has a separate septic system that the health department inspected and signed off on.

Several neighbors, including Carol Pierce and Ryan Michelini, spoke in support, praising Warwick’s stewardship and saying past events were managed. Paul Hayes, who lives adjacent to the property, said he did not receive advance notice about the venue and opposed the request, citing potential traffic and noise impacts.

Staff recommended two conditions, which the board included in its recommendation: (1) submission of architect‑stamped plans and application for a commercial building permit for renovations and change of use, with required changes completed and inspected before events; and (2) completion of parking improvements prior to use of the facility for events. The board voted to recommend approval; the petition will be presented to the County Board on March 9 for final action.