ZBA forwards rezoning request for South Clay Services to Land Use after resident objections

The Grundy County Zoning Board of Appeals voted to forward a recommendation to the Land Use Committee on petition 26CBA003, a map amendment to rezone about 5.04 acres at 4020 West DuPont Road from agricultural to commercial general to accommodate South Clay Services.

County staff emphasized the hearing covered only the map amendment (rezoning), noting operational approvals, site plans and mitigation measures would be handled later in the special‑use and site plan review stages. Chris Stewart, representing South Clay Services, told the board the business performs vehicle and school bus repairs and needs more space than its current ~3‑acre site allows. Stewart said the company is negotiating a road‑use agreement with the township road commissioner and that access, buffering and environmental safeguards would be addressed at the special‑use stage.

Neighbors raised compatibility and environmental concerns. Adjoining property owner Mary Jo Maguon said she had been told by petitioner representatives that daytime operations would be typical but later observed about 20 vehicles at the company’s current location and expressed worry about well contamination and property values. "My main concern is my well and… contamination issues are a concern," Maguon said. Another resident, David Sanner, told the board a heavy truck and bus repair facility is not compatible with the rural and agricultural character of Norman Township.

After public comment and discussion about access and potential mitigation (road upgrades, buffers and special‑use conditions), the board voted to forward the map amendment to the March 25 Land Use Committee; the County Board will consider final action on April 14. Staff reminded the board that rezoning preserves the county’s ability to impose safeguards later during the special‑use and site plan reviews if the rezoning is approved.