Step towards annexation taken by Village Board

By Chris Johnson

News Correspondent

There are going to be a lot of steps that have to be taken before the realization of an idea to construct a discount shopping outlet within the confines of the Village of Pecatonica actually happens. The Village Board, acting according to the legal parameters in place, held another of their required meetings in an attempt to allow residents the chance to voice their opinion. Few showed up. One person spoke and others added slight comment during the Tuesday, Nov. 15, Public Hearing.

The annexation hearing had to be held because the Village was required to hold it. The measure will be to annex a portion of land which stands at the current limits of the Village of Pecatonica’s municipal control, just south of Pecatonica High School. The land has to be grabbed. The ground has to be broken, the plans have to be put in place and then construction can occur, after a series of additional hearings and meetings take place that is.

Some requests have been made for an extra effort to be given in assuring notification of specific meetings are received. At times the venture, through its speed in development, has reportedly led to confusion as to what exactly is going on for some residents. Others have shown non-concern in complacency.

According to Pecatonica Village Attorney Doug Henry, the plan will be to hold Public Hearings and Special Meetings as they are needed. The actions will continue for some time. A lot of things have to be discussed, including issues pertaining to zoning.

“The Village Code requires it. The property we want to annex has to be amended to be commercial. A requested variance has to be given. Information will include the shape of the structure and how it will set on lot as well as the necessary parking spaces on Pec Road and adjacent to the high school.”

The parking spaces have to be adjusted the variance has to be issued. The Zoning Board of Appeals will reveal its findings and the Village Board will take action. The parking spots themselves, Henry said, are different.

“They have to be a foot narrower and a foot shorter. They have to be 9×19 feet. Behind the property there will be a loading truck turning area, so there is no parking there. The findings are anticipated for the Dec.1 Committee of the Whole Meeting.”

The goal of bringing the Dollar General Retail Outlet to the Village is front-and-center on the minds of village administrators, as the benefits seem to outweigh any possible costs. Other governmental entities and agencies haven’t quite said they are as in full support of the measure as others.

This issue will be followed in the Gazette Newspaper throughout its potential development and realization.

Members of the Pecatonica Village Board met on Tuesday, Nov. 14.