Conflicts Of Interest Alleged In Burr Ridge

BURR RIDGE, IL — A Burr Ridge trustee contended this week that two of his colleagues have conflicts of interest in relation to a proposed new restaurant and bar. Both denied they had conflicts.

On Monday, the Village Board approved a new restaurant with a bar, live entertainment and dancing for County Line Square. Two of those involved with the new establishment are businessmen Gene Halleran and Scott Magnusson, among others.

See related story: Proposed Burr Ridge Bar Draws Objections

Trustee Zach Mottl questioned whether Trustee Joe Snyder, a onetime Mottl political supporter, had a conflict of interest involving his business, Darien-based Snyder Insurance.

"I know Joe provides insurance. Doesn't he provide it to Gene? Is he going to provide it to this facility?" Mottl said.

"There is no conflict of interest," Mayor Gary Grasso said.

Mottl replied, "Can Joe answer?"

Snyder said he had no conflict of interest.

Mottl asked, "You're not the insurance agent for any of these people?"

Snyder replied, "I'm not the insurance agent for the new venue coming in."

Mottl said Snyder did not answer his question.

"You are the insurance agent for these men. You're going to make money off of this," Mottl said.

Grasso defended Snyder, saying the trustee said he had no conflict.

Mottl disagreed.

"He said he's not providing it through this venue, but it's not open yet, so we'll find out," Mottl said.

Mottl also alleged Grasso continued to have conflicts of interest in his role as the village's liquor commission. The conflicts, he said, would extend to the new restaurant and bar. Grasso's son's valet company provides service for Capri Ristorante and a number of other Burr Ridge restaurants.

"Who is going to be the valet company? Will that be your son?" Mottl asked the mayor.

Snyder shot back, "Who cares who it is?"

Mottl said state law prohibits the liquor commissioner from acting on matters involving establishments where family members have a financial benefit.

According to village documents, the new restaurant plans to offer valet parking.

The mayor said he was not violating the law and that Mottl was misquoting it.

Mottl asked again whether Grasso's son would get the new restaurant's business.

Grasso said he didn't know, but hoped he would apply.

Much cross-talk occurred during the debate, with Snyder at one point requesting that Mottl be escorted out.

The board voted 5-1 for the zoning for the new restaurant. Mottl was the only dissenter.

Snyder took part in the vote. Grasso only votes in cases of ties.

Burr Ridge Patch left a message with Snyder.