Aurora Country Club sues alderman

AURORA -- The Aurora Country Club has sued Aurora Alderman Rick Lawrence, claiming $3,477 in unpaid dues and other expenses.

But Lawrence said these claims are "slanderous and absolutely untrue," and threatened to file a countersuit against the club for breach of contract and endangering the health and safety of its members.

Lawrence said the suit stems from a Jan. 31 incident at the club on Prairie Street. Lawrence and his family were there eating dinner, he said, when an inebriated club member accosted them.

"He literally screamed and shouted profanities at them in a manner that would fill any parent with disgust, horror and anger," Lawrence said. After asking country club officials to step in and getting no response, Lawrence said he withdrew his membership in the club and left, never to return.

Lawrence said he paid what should have been his final bill from the club in February but continued to receive bills throughout the rest of the year. These, he said, are the basis of the country club's complaint, and he is confident he doesn't owe them a dime.

Club Manager Robert White would not discuss details of the case. He said the club has filed small claims suits against members who leave with balances due in the past, but it does not happen often.

The complaint, filed earlier this month in Kane County Circuit Court, alleges a balance due for "membership fees, food, merchandise, golf fees and miscellaneous charges incurred while a member of the Aurora Country Club."

Lawrence, however, says he has never been a golfing member and has never incurred golf fees.

His court date is Nov. 10.

"I take this matter very seriously and will be consulting with an attorney to prevent any further harm to my reputation," Lawrence said.