Proposed Peoria winery drawing opposition from residents

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) - A zoning board has rejected plans by a central Illinois winery to expand.

The Peoria Planning and Zoning Commission voted against proposed land-use changes that would allow Tres Rojas Winery to open a vineyard, tasting room and special-events facility. The expansion would take place on 14-1/2 vacant acres north of Peoria Heights.

Commission chairman Mike Wiesehan says the reasons for the disapproval included a lack of prepared plans and issues with rezoning the land. Potential neighbors voiced concerns for increased traffic and noise the proposed winery might bring.

Bob Barry says the event room would be 30 by 40 feet. An outdoor patio would play host to wedding receptions, among other things. He says music usually would be basic, perhaps a guitar player.

Bob Barry's description was met with skepticism, with one opponent noting kids like loud music, and "that's what's going to happen here."

The Peoria City Council still has to act on the commission's recommendation.