Representatives from the Helen Plum Library, Lombard Park District, and Village of Lombard have been working collaboratively to develop agreements related to the transfer of several Maple Street properties currently owned by the Library. The agreements provide for Park District acquisition of four parcels totaling 52,675 square feet and Village of Lombard acquisition of the parking lot at 25 W Maple Street and are based upon values established through property appraisals.
Under the agreements, the Park District will contribute toward demolition costs of the Library building at 110 W Maple and subsequent to demolition, the Library will transfer the deed for this parcel to the Park District. The Park District will also acquire the library-owned vacant lots to the west of the existing building. The intent of the Library Trustees is to apply funds received to subsequently provide for a levy reduction, abatement, or equivalent alternative to return the amount currently budgeted for demolition to the taxpayers, subject to the actual demolition costs incurred. The Village will acquire the Library owned parking lot at 25 West Maple. The Village will further enter into a long-term lease agreement with the Park District for use of the additional parking spaces within the Edwards Elmhurst Health Center site.
The contractual agreements providing for the transfer of these properties will be considered by each entity at the following public meetings: at the Library Board Meeting on March 21, the Park Board Meeting on March 28, and the Village Board Meeting on April 6.
As the Helen Plum Library begins relocating materials to 411 S. Main Street, the Library Trustees and staff are excited for the opening of the new Library this spring. The Lombard community has invested in a 21st century library facility that, consistent with the Library’s mission, will inspire people to “connect, discover, and grow”. In determining the disposition of the Maple Street Library site, Library Board President Allison Pinkett Floyd stated: “Each of the Library Board members agreed that our decision would serve the best interests of the Lombard community, be fiscally responsible, and align with the mission of the Helen Plum Library. The agreements we have reached align with each of these principles.”
“The Park District will be able to expand Lilacia Park while at the same time protect the open space that Colonel and Mrs. Plum bequeathed to the community almost a century ago” stated Lombard Park District Board President Dave Lemar. In the spirit of continued intergovernmental cooperation, the Park District will be partnering with the Library regarding the disposition of the existing facility to ensure we protect the historic Coach House. “While no development determination has been made regarding the additional 1.2 acres at this time, ultimately it will be consistent with the mission of the Park District.”
“These property transfers are a win-win for our community,” said Village President Keith Giagnorio. “This partnership is a great opportunity for the Village to acquire public parking in close proximity to downtown Lombard, public facilities, and area businesses. Ownership of this property by the Village will ensure that public parking continues to be available for our residents and area visitors well into the future. All of these property transfers are in the best interests of our community and I am so pleased that we were able to work together with the Library and Park District to benefit our residents.”
For additional information, please contact Claudia Krauspe, Helen Plum Library Executive Director, ckrauspe@helenplum.org; Paul Friedrichs, Lombard Park District Executive Director, pfriedrichs@lombardparks.com; or Scott Niehaus, Village of Lombard, Village Manager, NiehausS@villageoflombard.org.