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Robbins approves MWRD flood-control agreement after split 4–2 vote
Summary
Trustees voted 4–2 to adopt a resolution approving a first amendment to an intergovernmental agreement with MWRD for a Midlothian Creek flood-control project; supporters said the project could stop flooding and convey parcels to the village while opponents voiced concerns about the deal and local impacts.
The Village of Robbins board voted 4–2 on Dec. 14 to approve a resolution authorizing a first amendment to an intergovernmental agreement with MWRD to support a flood-control project along Midlothian Creek.
Trustee Ernest Maxey Jr. moved to approve the resolution. Trustee George Brewton, who spoke in favor, said the agreement could deliver land and flood-risk reductions to the village and create opportunities for recreational reuse. "MWRD is a big deal and very controversial," Brewton said, urging trustees to separate "facts from feelings." Mayor Darren E. Bryant added that the village would retain spoils and emphasized the project’s potential economic benefit.
Trustee David R. Dyson and Trustee Gregory N. Jackson voted against the measure. The meeting record shows opponents raised concerns about the project particulars and potential impacts on property owners; the mayor stated that no language in the agreement requires citizens to forfeit their homes. The resolution passed with AYES from Maxey, Brewton, Robinson and Collier and NAYS from Dyson and Jackson.
Supporters told the board the project could eliminate the need for flood insurance for some properties and place parcels in the village’s control, potentially improving the village’s prospects for future development. Trustee Brewton said officials had discussed rezoning with planning and zoning staff as a follow-up step if the project proceeds.
The board also approved a related purchase-and-sale agreement with the Cook County Land Bank Authority to facilitate parcel transfers tied to the project. The transcript used the acronym "MWRD" throughout the discussion; the meeting record did not expand that acronym, and the board did not read a full intergovernmental agreement text aloud at the podium.
Next steps were not specified in detail during the public portion of the meeting; trustees indicated further planning and coordination with partner agencies and village staff would follow implementation of the resolution.
