Tuesday, October 19, 1999

By Mary Radigan
The Grand Rapids Press

Meijer Inc. lost a second round in its attempt to build a new store in Lisle, Ill., a suburb of Chicago.

An Illinois judge Monday issued a preliminary injunction against any further construction of the 215,000-square foot Meijer store, which has been battling opposition from a local citizen's group since building plans were proposed in July 1998.

Meijer's groundbreaking in Lisle, a community of about 22,000, came to an abrupt halt in September when four residents filed suit and won a temporary restraining order against the Walker-based grocer.

The suit alleged "irregularities and improprieties" were used by village officials in changing zoning laws and in the process which led to the annexation of property being used for the store's construction.

A judge agreed enough evidence existed to stop the development until the complaint could be further reviewed. The injunction came as another victory for those opposed to the Meijer plan.

"The courtroom was packed, and we are very pleased with the judge's decision," said Tim Lane, spokesman for CRADL -- Citizens for Responsible and Appropriate Development in Lisle, which has led the fight. "Meijer has to stop."

Meijer had hoped to regain a green light at Monday's hearing to continue construction, but the injunction stops the project until spring, following either a court order or "proper public hearing" is held, according to the ruling.

"We are very disappointed with the decision, however we intend to thoroughly review the judge's opinion and look at every legal option available to move forward on the project," said Steve VanWagoner, a spokesman for Meijer. "This doesn't end anything here and we are confident the approval process we went through will stand. We won't step away from this."