DES PLAINES
Funding restored for senior center
The Des Plaines City Council has voted to restore $40,000 in funding for the Des Plaines Community Senior Center after complaints by residents and center officials.
Sharon Smith, the center’s executive director, had said that the cutbacks could start a funding “domino effect” that might force the center to eliminate programs and services. She said the center provides recreational activities, meals, blood-pressure and other health screenings, driver’s education and veterans assistance.
“When we compare ourselves to some neighboring communities, our city’s contribution to our senior center is quite low,” Ald. Carla Brookman said at a council meeting Monday.
— Mark Shuman
– – –
WHEELING
Redevelopment plan is halted
Wheeling officials say the slowing economy and concerns about the 10-acre site of a closed Kmart store near the town center have ended their latest efforts to redevelop the property. At a meeting Monday, Village Board members terminated a $10 million contract to buy the property at Elmhurst and Dundee Roads.
The village paid $125,000 in April for a six-month option on the property, which officials had hoped would give them enough time to arrange for its redevelopment.
In September, a potential developer outlined plans for demolishing the closed Kmart and building new retail space.
“The developer decided not to go forward,” Village Atty. James Ferolo said.
Ferolo said that after investigating the property, the village also decided not to push ahead with the purchase, though he declined to detail the concerns.
— Graydon Megan
– – –
More Top Picks Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs
PALATINE
Village road salting strategy is altered
Palatine plans to use more anti-icing chemicals on the roads and less salt this winter because of high salt prices, officials have said.
“When salt was priced at $40 to $50 a ton, it didn’t make sense to use this chemical, but with salt at $100 a ton, we think it will be viable,” Village Manager Reid Ottesen told Village Council members at a meeting Monday.
— Jeff Borgardt