LA GRANGE, IL – A developer plans to tear down the century-old Jackson Square antique mall building later this month.
In late April, the demolition company, Chicago-based Taylor Excavating & Construction, let neighbors know that the work at 112 E. Burlington Ave. is set to start May 18, weather permitting. It is estimated to last 50 days.
Resident Jonathan Robinson, who lives next door, released the company's notice, which states the work will "in no way adversely affect your property."
In January, the Village Board voted unanimously for the demolition to make way for a 39-unit condo complex. Many residents objected.
Robinson has sued the village, seeking a restraining order to stop the teardown.
Public records show that village officials quietly worked with the developer on the proposal for seven months before letting residents know.
Last week, Robinson and other residents held a news conference with Chicago Alderman Byron Sigcho Lopez. He is running as an independent in a congressional district that includes La Grange.
"This is what we have endured when developers take over communities and there's no transparency," Lopez said. "I am here in full support of residents who are demanding transparency, who are demanding that there's due process."
Robinson said residents wanted the village to take accountability.
"The people of this village came out and unequivocally said they want to keep this historical building in this location," he said.
Nearly 2,400 people signed an online petition to save Jackson Square.
In January, Robinson went before the Plan Commission with proposals to record their sessions, require developer meetings with neighbors and restrict developments near single-family houses.
Commissioners said they liked the first two ideas. Village President Mark Kuchler has said he expects them to happen.
This year, Robinson has become involved in a range of local government issues. He has started filming local public meetings, posting them to his "Eyes on La Grange IL" YouTube page.
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