Missing Info In LTHS Controversy

LA GRANGE, IL – Lyons Township High School says it has no record of a request to the appraiser who assessed the school's property in Willow Springs last year.

Last week, the school responded to Patch's records inquiry for any request given to appraiser William Enright framing what it wanted in the appraisal.

Enright only assessed the property for industrial uses, which are barred under current zoning. Last May, his report indicated the property was valued at $68 million for such uses.

Willow Springs officials and residents have said they do not want industrial uses on the property.

Also, Enright appraised five parcels, two of which are owned by Pleasant Dale Park District. A written request would indicate whether the school requested those parcels to be included.

It is unclear why the park district's portion was a part of the appraisal. Perhaps the school wanted to work out a deal where the park district would sell its part.

However, the park district said it did not hear about the school's plan until the school board issued a statement Nov. 30 about its interest in selling.

Patch filed a new public records request Thursday. Area appraisers advised Patch to use the words "engagement letter" and "scope of work" in its request.

It appears that attorney Ares Dalianis of the Chicago-based Franczek law firm may have made the request to the appraiser. The appraiser's report is addressed to Dalianis.

In recent weeks, Dalianis' name has made the news. He is representing a school district for tax issues related to the Chicago Bears' proposed development in Arlington Heights.

Patch left a message for comment with Superintendent Brian Waterman.