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A Resolution Requesting Approval of Legislation by the General Assembly Authorizing the Village of Oak Park Eminent Domain Quick-Take Authority to Acquire 3-31 Madison Street and 509 S. Humphrey Avenue (Sometimes Known as 11 Madison Street), Oak Park, Illinois
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Introduction
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This is a resolution requesting approval of legislation by the Illinois General Assembly to authorize the Village of Oak Park to utilize eminent domain “quick-take” authority to acquire 3-31 Madison Street and 509 S. Humphrey Avenue (sometimes known as 11 Madison Street).
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Recommended Action
Approve the Resolution.
Prior Board Action
The Village Board conducted a public hearing earlier in tonight’s meeting to solicit feedback from the public.
Background
The Village Board selected the property at 11 Madison Street as the location for the new Police Station. The Village has been unable to reach terms for a voluntary sale with the owner, U.S. Bank. On November 11, 2025, the Village Board approved Ordinance No. 25-207, in which it authorized the acquisition of the property through eminent domain proceedings.
In order to proceed with development of the new facility in a timely manner, the Village intends to request approval of legislation by the Illinois General Assembly authorizing the Village to acquire the property by eminent domain using “quick-take” powers under Section 20-5-5 et seq of the Illinois Eminent Domain Act, 735 ILCS 30/20-5-5 et seq. This purpose of this hearing is to allow the public an opportunity to give input regarding the use of quick-take powers by the Village to acquire the property.
Timing Considerations
A public hearing must be held prior to the approval of use of quick-take powers.
Budget Impact
The Village will have to fund the acquisition of the property and an appraiser valued the property at $2,300,000.
Operating Impact
The item aligns with the Village’s core service delivery. The Office of Economic Vitality assisted with the Village’s negotiations in pursuit of property acquisition for a new Police Station.
The Village Manager’s Office and Economic Vitality staff allocated approximately 100 staff hours toward this item and will likely require additional staff time to acquire the property. The Public Works department also allocated staff hours and resources to assess the property.
DEI Impact
The proposed purchase and adaptive reuse of the building at 11 Madison St. for the Oak Park Police Department is more than a capital project. It is a community-building opportunity. A modern, accessible facility can support operational needs while also signaling respect, openness, and inclusion for everyone in Oak Park.
Oak Park will intentionally integrate DEI principles into the design, community engagement, and ongoing use of the space, ensuring it reflects our commitment to accessibility, equitable policing, and trust-building with all residents. This includes prioritizing inclusive spaces, transparent communication, and meaningful opportunities for people from across our diverse community to help shape how public safety works for them.
Community Input
The Board conducted a public hearing earlier in tonight’s meeting to solicit feedback from the public on this matter.
Staff Recommendation
Approve the resolution.
Advantages:
• This action will allow the Village to advance its request with the Illinois General Assembly to obtain “quick-take” powers.
Disadvantages:
• There are no disadvantages associated with this item.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
The Board can reject the resolution.
Advantages:
• There are no advantages to this alternative.
Disadvantages:
• The Village will be unable to acquire the property as soon as possible and would likely experience significant cost increases for constructing a new police station due to delay.
Alternative 2:
The Board can request additional information.
Advantages:
• The Board will be provided with the additional information requested.
Disadvantages:
• There are no disadvantages to this action.
Anticipated Future Actions
Staff will continue to pursue acquisition of the property per Village Board direction.
Prepared By: John C. Melaniphy, Assistant Village Manager of Economic Vitality
Reviewed By: Ahmad M. Zayyad, Deputy Village Manager
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Resolution