WIUM Local
(2011-09-07)
The Illinois Department of Agriculture was expected to announce on September 7 whether it would issue a permit for Shamrock Acres. Instead. the department sent a letter to owner Larry O'Hern, seeking more information about his plans.
The department said it wanted additional details about odor control and run-off control. It also wanted to know more about the proposed transportation routes to and from the farm. In addition, it cited several other concerns.
The department indicated it will not make a decision on the permit until it has all the information requested.
Shamrock Acres has divided neighbors and the county board. Supporters say large-scale hog farms are the norm in some rural areas. They also contend such facilities create jobs.
Opponents say Shamrock Acres will hurt the economy by driving away hunters. They say it could cause a nearby daycare to close, and they contend the farm will damage the quality of life for others who live near the site.
In July, the county board was asked to take an advisory vote on whether to support the operation. It deadlocked, nine-to-nine.
The dispute over Shamrock Acres led an Industry-area woman to file a lawsuit against the state agriculture department. Ramona Cook alleged the department withheld design documents that she believes should be available under the state's Freedom of Information Act.
Associate Judge Patricia Walton ruled the department did not prove the documents are exempt from FOIA, but she also gave the agency more time to prove its case. The matter was scheduled to return to court September 12.
© Copyright 2013, wium
