'Potentially Defamatory': Burr Ridge Developer Upset

BURR RIDGE, IL – A developer that drew criticism for offering gift cards to Burr Ridge residents suggested possible legal action against a critic last week.

On Saturday afternoon, the resident emailed village officials about the offer of Capri Ristorante gift cards for residents who endorsed the developer's proposed housing development in letters to Village Hall.

In the email, the resident said the offer could be considered a "bribe" or a "quid pro quo," alleging it smacked of "corruption."

Later the same afternoon, Paul McNaughton of Burr Ridge-based McNaughton Development wrote the resident, copying in the village officials the resident emailed.

"We will be forwarding this to our outside counsel to investigate the potentially defamatory statements included in your e-mail," McNaughton said. "Like any campaign in history, we have the right to show our gratitude for the support of our cause with small tokens of appreciation to the private citizens that choose to take the time to make their voices heard on this matter."

Asked about the email Wednesday, McNaughton's vice president, John Barry, said the company had no further comment.

"We consider this issue over," he said.

Patch left an emailed message for comment with Paul McNaughton.

Village officials criticized the gift card offer this week, with one calling it "unethical" and saying it should be illegal.

On Monday, the Plan Commission recommended against the development. The company said it would withdraw its proposal.

Patch wrote about the controversy in a story Tuesday.