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Google maps identifies the road as Split road, located a few miles south of Amoret in Homer township near state line.
The basis of the closure (to the public) centers around a request by Cliff Ellig, who owns property along both sides of the gravel road highlighted in the graphic at right.
A study done in September of this year indicates that around 275 trips were made down the road by employees and guests of Ellig, while the road was traveled by only about 23 times by the general public.
Proponents of the closure argue that Ellig will assume 100% of the maintenance of the road, allowing maintenance money to go towards other roads in the area; and will not need patrol by sheriff's office. Neighbors say the remote area is a haven for illegal dumping and drug activity, and closing/privatizing the road should alleviate those problems.
The map does indicate that there is full access to state line road via CR NW802 just a mile north.
Ellig, owner of the Cerner Corporation has developed the once barren property adjacent to Split road to include a hotel, along with hunting and recreational activities.
There will be a meeting to discuss the fate of Split road tonight at 7 pm at the Amoret Community Building. The public, and specifically residents of Homer township are encouraged to attend.
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While most folks are aware of the development south of Amoret, many don't know exactly the economic impact of Ellig's business venture. Shown below is the local infusion from Ellig/Cerner Corp:
Local contractors- $500,000
Building materials purchased locally- $225,000
Resident payroll (annual)- $475,000
Utilities/fuel- $260,000
Property tax (2016)- $96,000
School taxes- $71,000
Homer Township- $8,000
Scholarships (66 total over 11 years) Hume, Miami, Prairie View- $460,000 for just Miami School alone which all combined close to almost 1 million dollars for local kids.
Full time employees 14
Part time/seasonal employees 25 to 30
