This is why I strongly believe that the Hoppe Building should not be knocked down. It generates property taxes and the village-operated garage planned in its place won’t, and it will just increase the tax burden for everyone else.
Demolishing the Hoppe Building is, in fact, removing affordable housing and replacing it with luxury housing, making a mockery of the village trustees’ stated goal of maintaining diversity. The building has historical significance, being managed by Ernest Hemingway’s uncle during the 1920s and 1930s. The building is well-maintained, attractive, and has architectural value. In fact, it blocks out the view of the Holley Court parking structure.
The garden behind the building has dozens of trees and shrubs and is home to a multitude of wildlife. The use of TIF money to buy the building was done without public hearing, in violation of the law.
As much as anything, the building has character and has historic value. This is Oak Park, not Oak Brook. Let’s keep our connection to our past.
Lauren Totten
Oak Park
