Plans move forward for Bensenville paintball

Two paintball businesses hoping to set up shop in Bensenville gained approval from the village's community and economic development committee.

Village officials voted 5-1 Tuesday in two instances to approve the indoor O'Hare Paintball at 1071 Thorndale Ave. and the outdoor Project Storm at 1071 Thorndale Ave., with only board member Patricia Johnson opposing both measures.

She argued primarily against the need for two paintball businesses in the village. But other officials said the businesses will produce sales tax revenue during a recession and fit in with village amenities such as the Redmond Recreational Complex and Edge Ice Arena.

The 52-acre Project Storm also will fill the vacant space of the old Legends golf course.

Bensenville resident Joe Pisano spoke against the measures during the committee meeting, citing concerns about unsightly netting at Project Storm and paintball guns being mistaken for real weapons outside the facilities.

"I still feel they are not looking at some of the elements," said Pisano, who is circulating a petition against the businesses that has about 75 signatures so far.

The village board will vote on whether to give final approval to both businesses, but officials are unsure if the measures will be on the agenda for the 6:30 p.m. June 22 meeting at village hall, 12 Center St.

Village officials could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

"How is everyone approving this when there's (incomplete) documentation to support this, yet at every stage these businesses are being approved?" Pisano said.