Orland Park officials are revving up opposition to a proposed repossession lot planned for unincorporated land at 17000 S. Wolf Road.
The Cook County Zoning Board of Appeals had a hearing on the issue set for Wednesday, May 7, at 11 a.m. at 69 W. Washington St., 22nd floor conference room in Chicago. Visitors could also attend virtually by requesting a link at zba.emails@cookcountyil.gov
A petition opposing the proposed lot has also been started for residents at https://www.ipetitions.com/petition/say-no-to-repo-lot-in-orland-park.
“The presence of repo lots can fundamentally change the atmosphere of our communities,” said Orland Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady. “The unease and intimidation felt by residents cannot be overlooked. We want to foster safe neighborhoods where families feel secure, and that can be compromised by the intimidating presence of repossession activities.”
“I thank Paul for bringing up the idea,” newly sworn in Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge said. “We want to make a run at this thing at the Zoning Board of Appeals and stop it.
“The village needs to work with the residents and landowners in that area to clean up all of Wolf Road south of 167th Street,” he added. “I’d prefer if those long vacant properties and former businesses were under village zoning control.
“Repo lots and other businesses of this type near residences can change the character of the area.”
Both officials said the potential for visual disruption caused by repo lots, often characterized by chaotic displays of vehicles in various states of disrepair, poses a risk to area aesthetics and may also negatively impact property values.
“These are legitimate concerns to take to the county,” said Dodge.
Dwight Welch will be representing Mike Terreault, who has petitioned for a Special Use for a Planned Unit Development in the C-4 General Commercial District for repossessed vehicles for shipment to dealers and resellers on property in a floodway.
