State Supreme Court Hears Arguments in Big Bleacher Case

The state’s highest court on Wednesday heard arguments surrounding the controversial and massive bleachers built at Crystal Lake South High School, which have irritated neighbors who say the seats are too big, too noisy and far too close to their property lines, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Controversy over the $1.18 million bleachers began in the summer of 2012 when homeowners living on Amberwood Drive said they were never given advance notification about the project, or an opportunity to share their concerns or input.

An appellate court in September decided the bleachers should be subject to the city of Crystal Lake’s zoning ordinances. But District 155 continued to fight to keep its 48-foot high bleachers in place.

As has been the case in the past, attorneys for District 155 argued Wednesday the school district is not required to seek city zoning approval on projects since the district is instead required to follow rules set by the Illinois legislature, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The city’s attorney said school districts are not immune to zoning standards, according to the article. The 50-foot-tall bleachers replaced bleachers that were 15 feet tall.

The Supreme Court is expected to announce its ruling in the case later this year, according to the Chicago Tribune.

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