Fox River Grove says no to Bettendorf owners

The Fox River Grove zoning board of appeals Wednesday night narrowly voted down a proposed zoning code change that would have allowed the owners of Bettendorf Castle to seek approval for a plan to host tours and events.

After hearing from residents who voiced their objections to turning the historic building into a space for tours, events and activities, the zoning board of denied the request.

Zoning board member Viki Karls, who voted in the majority, said she felt the text amendment request was “too open-ended.”

The 4-3 vote by the board is only a recommendation, and the ultimate decision is up to the village board, which will likely discuss the issue at its next meeting on March 17, said village administrator Art Osten.

Bettendorf Castle owners Michael and Judy Strohl had petitioned for a zoning text amendment asking that a special-use permit be created for “historic buildings and grounds” in certain residential areas that abut business districts.

The Strolhs' attorney, David Curfman of Chicago-based Kirkland & Ellis, said the castle wouldn't hold more than 26 events per year, and events would start after 10 a.m. and not last past midnight, although the village can make whatever restrictions it wants, he pointed out.

The 1.75 acre property is located at 411 Concord Ave. and was built from 1931 to 1967 by immigrant Ted Bettendorf, originally from Luxembourg.

The Strohls' plan calls for up to 95 valet-only parking spaces on site, and more parking off-site serviced by shuttle to accommodate larger events. The castle would would allow caterers with food and liquor licenses.

“The family takes an incredible amount of pride in this property,” Curfman said, adding the Strohls are committed to doing all they can to minimize any negative impact to the neighborhood.

Residents voiced their concerns about the potential increase in traffic and noise, and the decrease in nearby property values.

“My head is spinning,” said Jennifer Long, who lives across the street from the castle and has three small children. Long said she is worried about traffic in the narrow street that mostly lacks sidewalks.

McHenry County Historic Preservation Commission chairman Nick Chirikos said the castle is indeed a historic property, even though it might not be formally designated as one yet. “The children of this area would benefit greatly from being exposed to this property, to see it, touch it, feel it and

experience it,” he said.

Attorney Robert T. O'Donnell, of Libertyville, who represents a few of the residents who live near the castle, called the Strohls' plan “spot zoning” and questioned why a traffic and parking study was not presented by the Strohls.

The village's public health and safety committe is scheduled to review the Bettendorf Castle plan at its next meeting 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, at village hall, 305 Illinois St. in Fox River Grove.