‘It is an enclave’: Developer defends concept of gated community on former PepsiCo site in Barrington

The developer of a proposed gated community, the Claremont, with 88 custom luxury homes on the 94-acre former PepsiCo site in Barrington told the village’s plan commission this week he has revised his plan.

But commissioners and residents are still grappling with a development some feel is detached from the village.

The commission held its second hearing Tuesday. Another is scheduled for Aug. 26.

The developer, Joe Elias of Vintage Luxury Homes, has made some concessions in the plan for the site at 617 W. Main St., including moving the gatehouse 20 feet back from Main Street, reducing the height of the gatehouse and cabana, and removing most of the brick wall along the frontage.

In addition, the developer has agreed to pay park district impact fees.

Commissioner Dan Hogan raised concerns that the development is out of character with the village’s openness and walkability.

“I don't understand, necessarily, the full value that you guys are getting by putting up a gate. And I think you are going to get a lot of pushback from the community,” Commissioner Robert Windon said.

Elias defended the plan for a gated community.

“It is an enclave,” he said.

He said customers in his other subdivisions live there because they are gated. He said security is a primary concern. Another concern is that children can play outside without worrying about traffic.

Residents also took exception to the number of zoning changes requested, including revisions to building setbacks, landscaping and size.

“I don't know why we have ordinances or regulations or requirements, because the list of exceptions is a mile long,” said resident Bill Hartman.