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Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 2:51 AM
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Locals challenge commercial project

Locals challenge commercial project
Attorney Les Romo (left) and Roemer Road homeowner Brandon Guinn talk with neighbors June 12 about a potential commercial storage yard on land reportedly restricted to residential use. Photo by Jason Chlapek

Roemer Road homeowners are mobilizing against what they say is an illegal commercial generator storage yard taking shape on land restricted to residential use.

Brandon Guinn, whose property sits just north of city limits, gathered a group of concerned neighbors at his home June 12 after watching “18-wheeler after 18-wheeler” roll onto the adjoining tract. The land in question is owned by Jeffrey Davis, operator of the Manor-based JC Davis Power.

“A few weeks ago, we noticed this—and we decided that this was not residential,” Guinn said. “What it looks like they’re doing is trying to make a storage unit for these products, which is clearly commercial.”

According to attorney Les Romo, who attended the meeting, the residents worry that the big rigs will negatively impact property values and quality of life. He added that deed restrictions recorded in 2017 prohibit commercial operations.

“All of the properties in this area are residential or farms—it’s a breech of deed restrictions,” Romo said. “There’s a major concern that this will reduce property values because of giant 18-wheelers zipping back and forth all hours of the day. (Residents) want to protect their properties to get away from major commercial operations, not to have one next door.”

Guinn echoed the sentiment, noting Roemer Road is a narrow county lane.

“This road is not meant to handle traffic,” he said. “This area is one of the few spots in Elgin that’s pristine. The property owners take pride and ownership in what this place looks like. There will be a lot of noise, too.”

Romo reportedly sent Davis a cease-and-desist letter earlier this month, but construction activity continues.

“They intend to proceed unless they’re stopped,” he said, adding that a lawsuit seeking an injunction now appears likely. “When Jeffrey Davis purchased his property, the deed restrictions were already in place.”

Davis, whose company services portable generators, did not respond to requests for comment.

“We’ll have to file a suit and get a judge to say ‘stop,’” Romo added.


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