Tinley Park Seeks To Confiscate 3 Lots Through Eminent Domain

TINLEY PARK, IL — Village officials said they may use eminent domain powers to take control of private properties remaining inside the Bremen Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing District, also called a TIF District.

If officials can seize ownership of the properties at 6712, 6724 and 6706 North Street, construction on the TIF can continue to its goal of completing Harmony Square, a public space with music and exercise classes, officials said at a board meeting last week.

In order to use governmental powers to take the private property for public use, officials will have to involve the Illinois General Assembly and offer market value compensation to the owners.

Currently, village attorney Paul O'Grady says two of the three properties are vacant and the third is home to a shuttered house. Despite "multiple" offers to the property's owners, O'Grady said the residents would not accept.

The village board passed three resolutions last Tuesday allowing officials to ask government representatives to grant "quick take" power, which would allow Tinley Park to confiscate the properties without the homeowners' consent.

Once completed, Harmony Park will offer musical performances, ice skating, exercise classes and water park features. Village officials told Patch the project is a key part of the village's rebranding initiative.