Village Continues Negotiations With Deerbrook

Village officials continue to refine a proposal by owners Gateway Fairview for a with hopes of some form of initial action next month.

Both Mayor Harriet Rosenthal and Village Manager Kent Street indicated after Monday’s Village Board of Trustees meeting members Street’ staff and Deerfield financial advisor Kane, McKenna were working with the mall owners on a letter of intent acceptable to all parties.

“Staff and our financial advisor have been negotiating with Deerbrook on a letter of intent,” Street said. “Our financial advisor did not see the original letter of intent,” he added referring to the one presented to the Board June 18. Gateway Fairview is paying for Kane, McKenna’s services.

The original proposal, which came under criticism from two Board members, asked for considerations that would allow Deerbrook to recoup $16 million of the $26 million it planned to spend. There are no specific details on possible changes.

During the meeting, the but not before making it clear violations of Deerfield’s clean air ordinance by cab drivers would not be tolerated.

“We take smoke free ordinance very seriously,” Rosenthal said. “We expect you to follow through on this.” Representatives of both companies assured the Board that would happen. American Taxi will be able to operate seven additional cabs in the Village and 303 six more.

The Board also approved Deerfield’s entry into an Inter-Agency Agreement with other local police departments to create . Chief John Sliozis believes it will ease dealing with this crime where the elderly are often victims.

Patch will have more detailed stories this week on Deerbrook and the Inter-Agency Task Force.

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