Elgin City Council Approves Haunted House Return Amid Parking Ordinance Debate
The Elgin City Council has approved the return of the Evil Intentions Haunted House to the city, following a complex vote on a parking ordinance. The venue, previously located in the former Elgin Casket Co. building, plans to open in the largely vacant Heider Electric Co. building for the Halloween season. The council unanimously approved a conditional use permit for the business, but faced challenges with a parking ordinance amendment proposed by council member Anthony Ortiz. This amendment would require the business to explore private parking options after three years, although it allows the arrangement to continue if no suitable alternatives are found. The ordinance will be rewritten and brought back for final approval, creating uncertainty for the business's timeline to open in September. Despite these challenges, the council adopted the ordinance with the new amendment, allowing the haunted house to proceed with its plans. 
