The authorization for groundbreaking on a controversial Veterans Memorial, originally planned for the William E. Brook Wetlands Sanctuary, was postponed during a recent village board meeting. A resolution to evaluate alternative sites received approval with a 4-2 vote. Both matters will be reviewed at a future board meeting on July 22.
The initial site along Skidmore Avenue sparked debate due to its proximity to Sequoit Creek, with design modifications locating the memorial just 11 feet away. Concerns were raised about wetland stability and buffer zone encroachment.
According to Kurt Woolford, Director of Lake County Stormwater Management, the permitting process has been delegated to the village. He stated, “We have not seen any plans, as long as they conform to county code ordinances, including wetlands and buffers.” He emphasized that Antioch, having jurisdiction over the project, must handle permitting and engineering aspects.
A previously considered site at Toft Avenue and Orchard Street features existing memorial elements like a Civil War cannon and a WWII-era tank. Veterans have shown preference for this location. The board’s decision to explore alternative sites includes this park, mandating soil boring samples and topographical assessments before the July 22 meeting.
During the board meeting, trustee Mary Pedersen expressed, “The wetlands sanctuary was created as a memorial, and to place another memorial on top of it is not a good idea.” She mentioned, “This memorial is not just to honor combat veterans but all veterans.”
The project, initially supported by the Antioch Veterans Memorial Committee, has experienced dissent. Members from Antioch VFW Post 4551 and American Legion Post 748 have withdrawn support due to the wetlands location. Trustee Ed Macek revealed he voted against the site, citing, “I originally voted for the design as an oval because it was less intrusive.” He noted the project is still short of its funding by $50,000.
Trustee Brent Bluhardt pointed out, “People have donated money, and inaction might result in withholding further donations. We voted on this already; we should proceed.”
The project has financial backing from Antioch, contributing approximately $60,000. This includes proceeds from a “Thursday Night Concert” VIP ticket sales featuring Chris Cagle in 2024, alongside property tax disbursements aimed at veteran home ownership.
The revised memorial design relocates the concrete base further east near Orchard and Depot streets, featuring plaques representing all U.S. Armed Forces branches.
Trustee Rebecca McNeill stressed the importance of legal compliance, stating, “I just want to make sure we are doing this all legally.”
Efforts to obtain comments from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources regarding waterway regulations were unsuccessful.