Petition opposes proposed 4-story building in East Dundee

A four-story riverfront development proposed in East Dundee has been met with opposition from several nearby business and property owners who fear the project could negatively affect the downtown district.

More than 40 downtown stakeholders signed a petition urging village officials to halt negotiations with development group Billitteri Enterprises, which introduced preliminary plans earlier this month. The project would involve tearing down an existing structure at 1 E. Main St., permanently shutting down Water Street, and constructing a building with retail space, outdoor terraces and eight for-purchase condominiums.

The petition was presented to the village board Monday by local investors Tom Roeser and Terry Donati, two of the project's more vocal opponents. They told trustees they believe the development is too big and wouldn't fit in with the historic downtown.

"It's important that we keep the integrity of this town the way it should be," Donati said.

Later in the meeting, the village board approved an inducement resolution for the project. Though not promising any specific incentives, the measure ensures redevelopment costs would be eligible for future tax reimbursement if an agreement is reached.

Village leaders have expressed enthusiasm for the proposed development in its early stages, saying it could serve as a catalyst for revamping Main Street and land along the Fox River. Village President Lael Miller stressed that several steps, including a traffic study, need to be taken before a decision is made.

"At first glance, I think it's an exciting concept for our downtown," he said. "The location is very important for us, as it's one of the gateways to the village. I think what we need is something that's going to start to lift that whole area."

Former Trustee Rob Gorman said he doesn't believe the building is the best use of valuable riverfront property. He and Roeser asked the board to consider how the project - including the closing of Water Street - will affect the rest of the downtown and its potential for growth.

"Your continued discussions did not seek input from neighbors or affected businesses," Roeser told trustees. "Almost everyone I have talked to is against this."

Developer Joe Billitteri said the goal of the project always has been to generate economic activity in the downtown and complement nearby businesses. After speaking with a handful of neighbors, he said he doesn't believe the opposition is as strong as the petition makes it out to be.

"I think what it is, is it's about control," he said. "I think people have their own agenda."

Billitteri said he hopes to break ground on the project next spring if trustees approve final plans. The two parties are negotiating the terms of a redevelopment agreement, which will be considered by the board at a future meeting.

"I live here, I love the community, and I think that project would really be a benefit to it," Billitteri said. "I'm really proud of what we do."