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Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Editorial: For the love of Leo, hold your horses on seizing the pope's boyhood home, Dolton
Boy, did Dolton need that white smoke rising from the Vatican. The south suburb just outside Chicago has taken blow after blow in recent years. Former Mayor Tiffany Henyard's antics led to an FBI investigation and a separate investigation by former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who was appointed by village board members to look into allegations that Henyard had misused and mismanaged village funds. Tack on brawls in public meetings, and Dolton became a laughingstock, synonymous with dysfunction and corruption. But then came an unexpected win. Robert Prevost, a hometown boy, came seemingly out of nowhere to succeed Pope Francis as the next pontiff. That's right: Dolton nurtured the Holy Father, now one of the most famous and powerful leaders in the world. It's brought us all great pride. And now we must urge you, Dolton: Take the win. Take it, celebrate it, be proud of it. Don't let bad ideas muck it up. We were surprised and concerned by the news that Dolton plans to acquire Pope Leo XIV's childhood home either through direct purchase or by seizing it through eminent domain. The house on 141st Place in Dolton had been on the market since January. Once Leo was named pope, owner and Homer Glen-based rehabber Pawel Radzik planned to auction the home in mid-June, with a minimum asking price of $250,000. Radzik paid $66,000 for Prevost's old house and then overhauled it, saying that '80% of it is new — new flooring, new cabinets, new plumbing, new electrical, new kitchen.' Turns out, Radzik has a very determined would-be owner. 'Dolton is going to be the ultimate buyer,' village attorney Burt Odelson told Crain's Chicago Business earlier this week. It's unclear how the village would use the property, though the idea of turning it into a museum has been floated. The modest three-bedroom house is just a little over 1,000 square feet, and while it would suit a family fine, it's hard to imagine people crowding in for a guided tour. We much prefer recently sworn-in Mayor Jason House's other ideas to celebrate the village's connection to the Holy Father, which include granting landmark status to the home. We thought it made sense that the village board earlier this week approved naming the stretch of 141st Place that's home to Leo's former residence 'Pope Leo XIV Place.' And we certainly would support any and all protections to make sure nobody demolishes the childhood home of a pope. But we think it's a bad idea for the village to acquire the house. There's going to be plenty of demand — why not let someone buy it on the open market? We're particularly skeptical of the idea of using eminent domain to seize the property. The village would have to pay a fair market value if it does, but what's fair? A price tag of $250,000 seems awfully low for a home that suddenly holds so much cultural significance. Eminent domain is meant to serve the greater public good — building schools, roads or infrastructure. Using it to secure a modest home for an uncertain purpose risks setting a troubling precedent, and could expose the village to legal blowback. Not to mention another important question: Does it make financial sense for Dolton to do this? Lightfoot's investigation revealed that the village's general fund dropped to $3.65 million in debt, a sharp decline from the $5.6 million surplus it held when Henyard took office. There's a lot Dolton could do to infuse their papal ties into the village's culture that doesn't involve taking on debt and seizing private property. Hold your horses, Dolton. Celebrate your papal legacy — but do it wisely, transparently, and without burdening taxpayers or overstepping your authority. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@
Chicago Tribune
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Chicago Tribune
Editorial: For the love of Leo, hold your horses on seizing the pope's boyhood home, Dolton
Boy, did Dolton need that white smoke rising from the Vatican. The south suburb just outside Chicago has taken blow after blow in recent years. Former Mayor Tiffany Henyard's antics led to an FBI investigation and a separate investigation by former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who was appointed by village board members to look into allegations that Henyard had misused and mismanaged village funds. Tack on brawls in public meetings, and Dolton became a laughingstock, synonymous with dysfunction and corruption. But then came an unexpected win. Robert Prevost, a hometown boy, came seemingly out of nowhere to succeed Pope Francis as the next pontiff. That's right: Dolton nurtured the Holy Father, now one of the most famous and powerful leaders in the world. It's brought us all great pride. And now we must urge you, Dolton: Take the win. Take it, celebrate it, be proud of it. Don't let bad ideas muck it up. We were surprised and concerned by the news that Dolton plans to acquire Pope Leo XIV's childhood home either through direct purchase or by seizing it through eminent domain. The house on 141st Place in Dolton had been on the market since January. Once Leo was named pope, owner and Homer Glen-based rehabber Pawel Radzik planned to auction the home in mid-June, with a minimum asking price of $250,000. Radzik paid $66,000 for Prevost's old house and then overhauled it, saying that '80% of it is new — new flooring, new cabinets, new plumbing, new electrical, new kitchen.' Turns out, Radzik has a very determined would-be owner. 'Dolton is going to be the ultimate buyer,' village attorney Burt Odelson told Crain's Chicago Business earlier this week. It's unclear how the village would use the property, though the idea of turning it into a museum has been floated. The modest three-bedroom house is just a little over 1,000 square feet, and while it would suit a family fine, it's hard to imagine people crowding in for a guided tour. We much prefer recently sworn-in Mayor Jason House's other ideas to celebrate the village's connection to the Holy Father, which include granting landmark status to the home. We thought it made sense that the village board earlier this week approved naming the stretch of 141st Place that's home to Leo's former residence 'Pope Leo XIV Place.' And we certainly would support any and all protections to make sure nobody demolishes the childhood home of a pope. But we think it's a bad idea for the village to acquire the house. There's going to be plenty of demand — why not let someone buy it on the open market? We're particularly skeptical of the idea of using eminent domain to seize the property. The village would have to pay a fair market value if it does, but what's fair? A price tag of $250,000 seems awfully low for a home that suddenly holds so much cultural significance. Eminent domain is meant to serve the greater public good — building schools, roads or infrastructure. Using it to secure a modest home for an uncertain purpose risks setting a troubling precedent, and could expose the village to legal blowback. Not to mention another important question: Does it make financial sense for Dolton to do this? Lightfoot's investigation revealed that the village's general fund dropped to $3.65 million in debt, a sharp decline from the $5.6 million surplus it held when Henyard took office. There's a lot Dolton could do to infuse their papal ties into the village's culture that doesn't involve taking on debt and seizing private property. Hold your horses, Dolton. Celebrate your papal legacy — but do it wisely, transparently, and without burdening taxpayers or overstepping your authority.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Dolton Mayor Jason House won't rule out public purchase of Pope Leo XIV's childhood home
Despite Pope Leo XIV's childhood home being recently listed for auction, Dolton Mayor Jason House said Friday he has not ruled out taking public ownership of the property via eminent domain. 'I'm interested in a peaceful transfer,' House, who was sworn in as mayor May 5, told the Daily Southtown. He said he is excited for the property's potential as an attraction and historical landmark, and is prioritizing ensuring it is 'honored in the proper way.' House said it's too early to say how much the village would be willing to pay for the 1,050-square-foot home on 141st Place or whether it should be converted into a museum or historical landmark. He said he plans to speak with the homeowner early next week to discuss the property. Homer Glen-based home rehabber Pawel Radzik paid $66,000 for the modest, three-bedroom, ranch-style brick house without knowing just a year later its former occupant would be named the leader of the Catholic church. Real estate broker Steve Budzik said Friday Radzik listed the home in January for $219,000 but pulled it after the pope's election generated a high volume of interest. Budzik said he heard rumors circulating about interest in public ownership before he and Radzik decided to list the home for auction. 'I don't know if that's — I don't know the word I would use — a justifiable means of getting the property,' Budzik said. 'So that's again why we did an auction.' While the auction is set to close on June 18, Budzik emphasized the seller can choose to accept an offer, which are entered privately through Paramount auction house, at any time. 'The auction gives everybody a fair chance at putting in a bid,' Budzik explained. 'And even with eminent domain, I think the question is, what's the value?' Budzik believes for a home with such an important historical connection, the just compensation required in exchange for the property is 'totally subjective.' Excitement surrounding the unassuming Dolton home was hard to avoid Friday afternoon. Neighbors and visitors parked on side streets to stand on the sidewalk facing the building, taking videos and photos with their phones as an energetic Budzik led news reporters inside the renovated space. Donna Sagna and her mother, Peggy, said they are Catholics who lived next door to the house for eight years before learning of Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. As they projected church music on a speaker in their backyard, the younger Sagna said she had begun holding prayer vigils to honor their local connection to the religious leader. Sagna and Amarcia Garcia, a former Dolton resident who visited the home with her own mother, both said individually they hoped 212 East 141st Place would be preserved as a museum, bringing tourism and attention to the community. 'It'd be good for Dolton, to bring more positivity, more people and more revenue,' Garcia said. Budzik said he understands the interest in creating a museum, and 'there's still possibly some interest' in that on the part of the seller, who through Budzik declined to speak with the Daily Southtown. But, at the end of the day, 'he really wants to see where the auction goes,' Budzik said. 'The next person, who is obviously going to love it, can do whatever they want with it,' Budzik said. ostevens@
Chicago Tribune
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Chicago Tribune
Dolton Mayor Jason House won't rule out public purchase of Pope Leo XIV's childhood home
Despite Pope Leo XIV's childhood home being recently listed for auction, Dolton Mayor Jason House said Friday he has not ruled out taking public ownership of the property via eminent domain. 'I'm interested in a peaceful transfer,' House, who was sworn in as mayor May 5, told the Daily Southtown. He said he is excited for the property's potential as an attraction and historical landmark, and is prioritizing ensuring it is 'honored in the proper way.' House said it's too early to say how much the village would be willing to pay for the 1,050-square-foot home on 141st Place or whether it should be converted into a museum or historical landmark. He said he plans to speak with the homeowner early next week to discuss the property. Homer Glen-based home rehabber Pawel Radzik paid $66,000 for the modest, three-bedroom, ranch-style brick house without knowing just a year later its former occupant would be named the leader of the Catholic church. Real estate broker Steve Budzik said Friday Radzik listed the home in January for $219,000 but pulled it after the pope's election generated a high volume of interest. Budzik said he heard rumors circulating about interest in public ownership before he and Radzik decided to list the home for auction. 'I don't know if that's — I don't know the word I would use — a justifiable means of getting the property,' Budzik said. 'So that's again why we did an auction.' While the auction is set to close on June 18, Budzik emphasized the seller can choose to accept an offer, which are entered privately through Paramount auction house, at any time. 'The auction gives everybody a fair chance at putting in a bid,' Budzik explained. 'And even with eminent domain, I think the question is, what's the value?' Budzik believes for a home with such an important historical connection, the just compensation required in exchange for the property is 'totally subjective.' Excitement surrounding the unassuming Dolton home was hard to avoid Friday afternoon. Neighbors and visitors parked on side streets to stand on the sidewalk facing the building, taking videos and photos with their phones as an energetic Budzik led news reporters inside the renovated space. Donna Sagna and her mother, Peggy, said they are Catholics who lived next door to the house for eight years before learning of Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. As they projected church music on a speaker in their backyard, the younger Sagna said she had begun holding prayer vigils to honor their local connection to the religious leader. Sagna and Amarcia Garcia, a former Dolton resident who visited the home with her own mother, both said individually they hoped 212 East 141st Place would be preserved as a museum, bringing tourism and attention to the community. 'It'd be good for Dolton, to bring more positivity, more people and more revenue,' Garcia said. Budzik said he understands the interest in creating a museum, and 'there's still possibly some interest' in that on the part of the seller, who through Budzik declined to speak with the Daily Southtown. But, at the end of the day, 'he really wants to see where the auction goes,' Budzik said. 'The next person, who is obviously going to love it, can do whatever they want with it,' Budzik said.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Afternoon Briefing: Rev. Michael Pfleger reflects on 50 years as a priest
Good afternoon, Chicago. The Chicago Bears are shifting their focus to a new stadium in Arlington Heights, a project that would depend on state legislation allowing for negotiated financing of large-scale development projects. 'Over the last few months, we have made significant progress with the leaders in Arlington Heights, and look forward to continuing to work with state and local leaders on making a transformative economic development project for the region a reality,' the team said in a statement to the Tribune on Friday. Here's what to know about the Bears' new era since the team purchased the Arlington Heights site in 2023. And here's what else is happening today. And remember, for the latest breaking news in Chicago, visit and sign up to get our alerts on all your devices. Subscribe to more newsletters | Asking Eric | Horoscopes | Puzzles & Games | Today in History The Chicago-born priest has been a fixture at the predominantly Black St. Sabina Church — and in the Auburn Gresham community — since being assigned to the parish more than 40 years ago. Read more here. More top news stories: Mayor Brandon Johnson's team defended failed property tax hike plan to investors Suburban accountant accused in $10 million COVID-19 unemployment fraud scheme Investigation 'ongoing' after man shot outside popular Wrigleyville bar, police say Homer Glen-based home rehabber Pawel Radzik paid $66,000 last year for the modest, three-bedroom ranch-style brick house on 141st Place. Read more here. More top business stories: These retailers have announced higher prices amid President Trump's tariffs Will County Board rejects solar facilities near New Lenox, Wilmington For many prospects, combine week can be a reminder of the work left to do before they can become truly competitive NBA players. Kasparas Jakučionis was no exception. Read more here. More top sports stories: Chicago Sky's 2025 season is all about change and growth — 'but the goal is to make the playoffs' Julius 'Dr. J' Erving will coach Chicago Triplets, the BIG3's 3-on-3 team where trash-talking is encouraged Turns out one thing remains outside of Beyoncé's superhuman control: The weather. Threats of severe storms that failed to fully materialize in the South Loop, apart from wind and rain, delayed the start of the first of the megastar's three-night residency Thursday at Soldier Field. Read more here. More top Eat. Watch. Do. stories: Photos: 'Union Station Music' takes over the Great Hall at Chicago's Union Station Sandburg High School freshman is youngest nominated filmmaker in Chicago Horror Film Festival In a massive setback, House Republicans failed to push their big package of tax breaks and spending cuts through the Budget Committee, as a handful of conservatives joined all Democrats in a stunning vote against it. Read more here. More top stories from around the world: Wisconsin judge accused of helping a man dodge immigration agents seeks donations for attorneys Kid Rock's Nashville restaurant sends staff home to avoid ICE raid, according to report
