Barbed Wire In Burr Ridge? Allowed In This Instance

BURR RIDGE, IL – The Burr Ridge Village Board on Monday agreed to allow a barbed wire fence at a local business, but the mayor expressed qualms about it.

In 2019, Lyons Truck Sales, which is northwest of Madison and 79th streets, was authorized to have a fence with barbed wire for five years, ending Sunday. At Monday's board meeting, the board was asked to allow the fence to remain permanently.

During a discussion, Mayor Gary Grasso said he was speaking for himself and Trustee Guy Franzese, who was absent, when the mayor questioned why a barbed wire fence was needed.

"Barbed wire? I just don't see the need for it," the mayor said. "Why would there be barbed wire after five years? What are they trying to protect? Is barbed wire something we want in the village of Burr Ridge?"

Trustees, however, said they don't see it as a problem.

"I drive by the location four times a day," Trustee Russell Smith said. "I haven't noticed barbed wire."

Trustee Al Paveza said he goes by the business every day and doubted anyone sees the barbed wire.

Asked about crime at the business, Police Chief Tim Madden said his department knew of no thefts in at least three years. Officials also reported the business has installed cameras and additional lighting.

The board voted 4-0 to keep the fence. Besides Franzese, trustees Joe Snyder and Anita Mital were absent.

Last week, the Burr Ridge Plan Commission voted 4-3 for the fence. Some members expressed concerns about the barbed wire.

Among the village's conditions are more evergreen landscaping along the street, repairs and maintenance for the chain-link fence, and requirements for the wooden fence to be 50 percent open and 6 feet in height.