A controversial issue dealing with a outdoor shooting range was settled last night by Ogle County officials.
In an 11-11 vote, the proposal was denied for a special use permit for the Byron-Oregon Sportsman and Conservation Club on just under 20 acres of land in the 15 hundred block of Town Line Road. Absent from last night's meeting were county board members John O'Brien of Rochelle and Bill Welty of Chana.
The Club had met the 21 conditions set by the county for the shooting range. Residents who live near the facility were concerned about their property value along with safety and the loud sound from the guns.
Board Chairman Kim Gouker, who voted in favor of the special use permit, said that there were 2 sides to this issue when it comes to zoning.
He said that the residents in the area did not want the shooting range near their home.
Following the vote, several area residents voiced their support and opposition of the shoooting range.
County officials are expected to receive more information on a new detention facility during the February or March meeting. Exelon has also donated $5,000 to the Weld Park Eagle Scout Memorial project.
Gouker also said that he has met with chairmen from Stephenson, Boone, Winnebago, McHenry, Dekalb, and Lee Counties about a future partnership when it comes to economic development.
The county board may approve a resolution for the 7 counties dealing with this issue during next month's meeting in Oregon.