Obama Center One Step Closer, Ordinance Presented

CHICAGO, IL — The Obama Presidential Center is one step closer to existence, according to the Obama Foundation and the City of Chicago. The city's Planning and Development department introduced an ordinance to the City Council containing a Use Agreement, an agreement on terms related to the center and Jackson Park, which it will call home.

“The Obama Presidential Center is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Chicago to host a museum honoring the country’s first African-American president; create a cultural, recreational and educational asset for Chicago residents and magnet for visitors to our global city; and generate billions of dollars in economic impact,” said Mayor Emanuel, according to a press release from the city.

“The ordinances introduced todayrepresent a significant step forward in achieving what will be the largest private investment in the history of the South Side of Chicago," he said.

Crain's reported it's a 99-year, $10 deal. But that doesn't mean the city won't benefit.

The Obama Foundation's release said they're committed to ensuring the center benefits Chicagoans, and released these details from the Use Agreement:

The City and public will own the buildings. Once the Foundation builds the Center, its buildings will be handed over to the City and owned by the people of Chicago.

Unlike other museums in City parks, the Obama Presidential Center will not receive either operating or capital subsidies from the city.

While other museums may generally occupy their buildings in perpetuity, the Foundation’s Use Agreement has a term of 99 years, at which time any extension will require City Council approval.

While the Foundation will maintain the green space on the campus at our own expense, there are limitations on how we can use these outdoor spaces, with an emphasis on ensuring public access.

Finally, the Use Agreement requires the Foundation to pay the prevailing wage to staff—but we have been very clear in our Community Commitments that we aim to exceed those City requirements.

You can read more about the agreement on the City’s website here.

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