Joliet to seek three‑year extension for control of old prison property with state

City staff recommended the council authorize an intergovernmental agreement with the Illinois Department of Corrections and Central Management Services to continue the city's temporary possession and control of the old Joliet Prison (Joliet Correctional Center) for stabilization, maintenance and redevelopment purposes.

Staff said the proposed agreement is a proposed extension that would add three years to the city's possession under similar property descriptions as previous agreements. The extension was presented as a way to continue negotiations, pursue environmental and stabilization work and explore funding support from state representatives and senators.

A council member asked whether the agreement affected property on the east side of the road; staff clarified that the property descriptions are the same as prior agreements and that, going forward, certain activities (for example by the museum) would require applications to the state under the new terms.

Staff characterized the extension as preferable to an immediate transfer because significant work remains to ready the property for conveyance and because the state has expressed a willingness to continue supporting stabilization and environmental work.