The Orland Park Board of Trustees voted to authorize the acquisition of two adjacent properties on 159th Street by eminent domain to allow intersection improvements and remove deed restrictions that staff said have limited redevelopment.

Staff described the former BP (9401 159th) as an eyesore that has been vacant since March 2020, with deed restrictions that, in staff's assessment, prohibit many development options. Engineering staff said a three-jurisdiction intersection (IDOT, county, village) at 159th and 94th will require additional right-of-way for improved turn lanes and safety.

Trustees discussed the ethical discomfort some feel with eminent domain but noted a pattern of non-maintenance, unpaid fines and long-term vacancy that has cost the village for maintenance and public-safety concerns. Staff explained the eminent-domain process involves appraisals (village and owner), judicial review, and just-compensation; they also said negotiation remains possible and could precede any court action.

On the KFC property (9441 159th), trustees examined whether parts of the parcel would be needed for intersection changes and learned the site carries a long-term master lease and sublease (reported through 2040) that complicates near-term redevelopment. Staff said negotiations are ongoing but the ordinance to authorize eminent domain begins the legal pathway if needed.

Both ordinances passed after roll-call votes. Trustees asked staff to continue negotiations with owners where possible and to prioritize returning the parcels to productive use while ensuring fair compensation through the judicial eminent-domain process.

The board also discussed potential short-term impacts for tenants who have applied for permits; staff said permit reviews and enforcement remain active and that any tenant work proceeds at the property's risk if the village is actively pursuing acquisition.