That the Illinois Housing Development Authority approved two tax-credit fundings for the affordable housing project on Madison Street at a meeting in June is an indication of the tenacity of a nonprofit entity and the inherent spirit of Oak Park to be as open-minded and inclusive as possible.
As with all decisions, there are inherent third- and fourth-order effects that should be considered. Regarding this decision, the effects upon the economic survival of Mama Thai and Al’s Grill need to be taken into consideration and protected.
Even a person with an elementary reading of Aristotle’s work on logic understands that tax credits are a by-product of taxes being paid. These businesses pay a portion of those taxes based on all of the taxing systems currently in place.
They are also sources of gathering, fellowship, and convenience. Not to mention excellent food and service. The question to be addressed is how will Perry Vietti, head of the Interfaith Housing Development Corporation and Keystone Apartments ensure the economic viability of these businesses during what will be, at best, a disruptive construction process?
There is an empiric conflict between pragmatism and idealism. Pragmatism without introspection is not as dangerous as idealism without accountability.
Joseph Smith
Oak Park