The Cook County Zoning Board of Appeals last week continued until August the hearing on a repo lot proposed for Orland Park.
The proposed lot for repossessed vehicles at 17101 S. Wolf Road was on the agenda. Owners are seeking a special-use permit for the site.
Hundreds of residents joined the May 7 meeting virtually, while Orland Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady and Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge attended in person at 69 W. Washington in Chicago.
Other residents were outside the County Building carrying signs saying “No Repo in Orland Township.”
A petition opposing the planned lot has garnered more than 2,000 signatures.
“Thank you to all residents who signed our petition, attended the hearing virtually and in person,” said O’Grady. “The zoning board heard your concerns and is thoroughly going through the objections provided by Orland Township.”
“Imagine what this would do to the safety of our neighborhood with tow trucks and multi-vehicle car carriers coming and going at all hours of the day and night,” said a 45-year resident of Orland Park. “This does not belong in this setting.”
Resident Paula Pries voiced the community’s concern for public safety, property values, and environmental problems that would come with the addition of a repo lot near her home.
The Zoning Board graciously listened to testimonies from residents, local officials, and representatives of the proposed repo lot. The board decided the hearing would be continued to allow for expert testimony on the concerns raised at the meeting.
Dodge said he was not opposed to the business but questioned its location.
“This business is simply not a good fit for a residential area,” Dodge said. “Let me be clear, I do not oppose this business coming to Orland Park, there are more suitable properties in our industrial zones that would better serve the needs of both the business and our community.”
O’Grady echoed those sentiments, highlighting significant concerns regarding public safety. “We have to consider the potential contamination risks to Marley Creek due to the floodplain and the implications this proposal has on our community’s well-being,” he said.
He said the proposed development did not align with the community’s needs, which prioritize safety and quality of life for residents.
The hearing has been continued to August 6 at 69 W. Washington, 22nd floor, at 11 a.m. Residents are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions.
Anyone interested in getting a sign opposing the proposed repo lot can pick one up at Orland Township located at 14807 S. Ravinia Avenue.
