Committee of the Whole members discussed a request on July 21 for tax-increment finance (TIF) funds to demolish a dilapidated house at 137 N. Lincoln Way.

Steve, a village staff member, told trustees that the property owner holds multiple buildings on the parcel and that the rear house at 137 N. Lincoln Way “is in very bad shape” with building-code violations and zoning nonconformities. He said the village’s TIF program allows a grant of 50% of demolition costs “up to $20,000,” and that the owner obtained two demolition quotes that both exceeded $40,000, prompting the owner to request the full $20,000 TIF contribution.

The item was presented as part of the village’s broader effort to beautify the 31 Corridor by removing visual blight. Trustee Lowery said she viewed the demolition positively after visiting the site, saying it “makes it look really nice.” No vote or formal motion was recorded during the Committee of the Whole discussion.

Why it matters: staff described the proposal as a code-compliance and corridor-improvement measure and framed the requested TIF contribution as the program cap for demolition assistance. Trustees signaled informal support but did not take a formal action; any grant award or contract would require follow-up as part of the village’s formal approval process.

Discussion and next steps: staff said community development staff, including Nathan’s department, have been working with the property owner on code issues and are handling the paperwork and quotes. The discussion concluded with no recorded motion; staff will carry the item forward to the appropriate upcoming village-board agenda or follow the village’s standard administrative approval process.

No formal vote or binding decision was recorded at the Committee of the Whole meeting.