Homewood panel opposes plan for country club site

The Planning and Zoning Commission in Homewood dealt a blow Thursday night to a developer’s plans for the former Calumet Country Club, unanimously opposing a proposal for a warehouse and distribution hub.

The commission’s 7-0 vote is a recommendation to the village board, which can take its own action on the zoning proposal. Many residents of the southern suburb spoke against the project during four lengthy hearings.

They decried the loss of open space and the prospect of increased pollution, noise and truck traffic. Representatives of the developer, Diversified Partners of Scottsdale, Arizona, argued the golf club is no longer viable and 800,000 square feet of industrial space would bring jobs and tax benefits. The golf club covers 127 acres at 2136 175th St.