Fox River Grove castle tour battle heating up
Despite having been warned that bus tours are not permitted in residential areas in Fox River Grove, the owners of Bettendorf Castle were issued a zoning ordinance violation notice after hosting a tour on Wednesday, officials said.Fox River Grove Police Chief Ron Lukasik said a notice to appear Sept. 8 in McHenry County Circuit Court was issued to castle owner Michael Strohl after a tour bus dropped off a group of people who visited the castle at 418 Concord Ave.The village had issued Strohl permits for Aug. 10 and 23 to allow for overweight vehicles, but commercial tours are a separate issue, village officials have said. Lukasik said Strohl had been informed that a notice would be issued if tours took place. The ordinance states that a fine ranging from $250 to $1,000 could be collected, he added. Strohl did not return a call seeking comment.Residents of Concord Avenue have opposed allowing tours at the castle, citing traffic and safety issues. In March, Strohl withdrew an application for a zoning change to allow tours and other events at the castle. A tour bus made a stop at the castle July 14, and residents complained to the village.Resident Diana Durso said Wednesday's tour comprised more than 40 people and lasted about 45 minutes. #8220;I videotaped the people getting on the bus and the bus driving past my house,#8221; she said. #8220;I sincerely hope that the village takes action.#8221;McHenry County Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Cort Carlson said the tours that stopped at Bettendorf Castle July 14 and Wednesday were part of larger tours of sites throughout the county. The bureau connects tour operators with local attractions, he said. Another tour of the castle is planned for Aug. 23, but Carlson said Friday he didn't know if that will take place. #8220;There is a lot of interest to see (the castle), but we are not here to break any laws or go against any ordinances in the village of Fox River Grove,#8221; he said.Trustee Steve Knar said he would want to #8220;tighten up#8221; the village code to more specifically address bus tours if the judge rules against the village next month. #8220;I think the way it is written right now, (the ordinance) is reasonably clear cut, but you never know,#8221; Knar said.