Norton Illinois Land Bank expands with grants and growing property portfolio

June 27, 2025 | Winnebago County, Illinois

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Norton Illinois Land Bank expands with grants and growing property portfolio

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

In a recent meeting of the Winnebago County Board, a representative provided an insightful update on the Norton Illinois Land Bank, highlighting its significant growth and impact on the community. Established in 2020, the land bank began with three counties—Boone, Winnebago, and Stephenson—and has since expanded to include McHenry and Lake Counties, now encompassing eight cities in total. This growth positions it as the second largest land bank in Illinois.

The land bank operates without direct funding from its member counties or cities. Its financial foundation includes a $400,000 state grant from its inception and a recent $2 million grant from the Illinois legislature for 2026. Additionally, it benefits from "strong community program grants," which have provided $337,000 and a subsequent $250,000 for property acquisitions. The land bank also generates revenue through the sale of abandoned properties, with a reported net profit of $236,000 in 2025 after expenses.

Since its inception, the land bank has sold 47 properties, with a notable 38 of those located in Winnebago County. While the number of properties sold may seem modest, the land bank's ability to revitalize distressed properties has made a tangible difference in the community. One board member shared a personal experience of how a call to the land bank led to the swift rehabilitation of an abandoned building in their neighborhood, illustrating the proactive role the land bank can play in addressing property issues.

Residents are encouraged to report any abandoned properties to the land bank, as it can act more quickly than traditional trustee programs, which often involve lengthy processes. The meeting underscored the land bank's potential to transform neglected spaces into valuable community assets, fostering a sense of hope and renewal in Winnebago County.

Converted from Winnebago County IL Board 06/26/25 meeting on June 27, 2025
Link to Full Meeting

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