OREGON – The Ogle County Board Tuesday night chose to delay revoking a special use permit for a property in Dement Township where rodeo activities, including the practice known as “Steer Tailing”, has occurred multiple times over the last few years. The board indicated they wish to review the violations and give the property owners the opportunity to address the allegations. The Ogle County Zoning Committee on June 9th revoked the special use permit for Rancho La Esperanza, located at 16989 E. Ritchie Rd south of Rochelle, where controversial “Steer Tailing” rodeos have been held.
Steer tailing involves riders chasing a steer or bull and grabbing its tail to force it to the ground. Activists highlight severe injuries like broken horns, spinal damage, and “de-gloved” tails.
Vice Chair Patricia Nordman read the following statement when the matter was supposed to come before the full Ogle County Board.
“This is a public statement in regards to a Special Use Permit Review. At this time, what we wish to provide regarding the status of the Special Use Permit Review is the review by the Planning & Zoning Committee. The Committee’s initial recommendation to revoke the permit was based on information provided to the Joint Board indicating that the property owner had violated the conditions of the permit on three separate occasions. Since that time, the Board has received additional information regarding the reported violations that requires further inquiry. Because of this, and in keeping with our responsibility to ensure transparency, fairness, due process for all, the full Board will not be voting on the revocation of the Special Use Property at tonight’s meeting.
Instead, the Board will be moving it in a manner that ensures the property owner receives the due process to which they have a legal statutory right. This includes a full and accurate review of the facts, an opportunity for the property owners to be heard, and a careful evaluation consistent with the county ordinances and established procedures. Our commitment is to act based on verification of information and to uphold the rights of all parties involved. We appreciate the Committee’s understanding, and as we work to resolve this matter legally, properly, and fairly.”
