LTHS Not Selling Land: Ex-Congresswoman

LA GRANGE, IL – For nearly six weeks, the Lyons Township High School board has kept silent about the controversy over its plan to sell the school's Willow Springs land to an industrial developer.

But former Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Newman, who on Monday endorsed the two incumbents running in the April 4 election, also said she was told with "certitude" what was going on with the issue.

On Facebook, Newman, a La Grange resident, announced her endorsement of board President Kari Dillon, member Jill Beda Daniels and newcomer Tim Albores for the Lyons Township High School board.

She also expressed her support for La Grange District 102 candidates Molly Knott and Katy McQuiston.

After she posted her endorsements, commenters noted their concerns that the high school board was trying to sell land to an industrial developer where zoning barred such uses.

Newman responded, "I believe that was already resolved and it is not being sold. Also, it is my understanding the developer in question was building residential properties."

When told that didn't appear to be the case, Newman then wrote, "So I'm very confused. I have been told with certitude, the land is not being sold."

Only one bidder, Bridge Industrial, met the $55 million minimum price, which was set for industrial uses in mind. In late January, the board rejected the two bids, saying they did not meet all the specifications. At the time, Dillon said the board would continue negotiations with the bidders.

Willow Springs officials said in January that Bridge Industrial told the village it wanted the land for industrial uses.

Patch left a message for comment with the high school's spokeswoman.

In her statement on Facebook, Newman said the April election was "super simple." She said voters should support her favored candidates if they want books to stay in schools, guns to stay out of schools and schools led by "stable, knowledgable leaders."

She gave the links for the three high school candidates. Next to Dillon's name were the words "your truly," leading some to believe that Dillon had a hand in Newman's statement.