What's Happening?
Ryan Companies, a real estate development firm known for its collaborations with major corporations like Amazon and Target, has expressed interest in developing the Calumet Country Club. This announcement
has reignited a long-standing debate over the future of the site. Kyle Schott, Vice President of Real Estate Development at Ryan Companies, presented the company's interest to the Hazel Crest Village Board, emphasizing the potential for industrial development. However, the community has shown significant resistance, valuing the green space and its environmental benefits. The site, previously owned by Walt Brown, Jr., was intended for industrial use, but faced public opposition leading to its annexation by Hazel Crest. Community groups, such as South Suburbs for Greenspace, argue for the preservation of the land as public space, citing the lack of green areas in the region.
Why It's Important?
The development of the Calumet Country Club is a contentious issue, highlighting the tension between economic development and environmental preservation. For Hazel Crest, a predominantly Black community, the proposal raises concerns about socio-economic impacts and potential racial undertones in development decisions. Industrial development could bring jobs but might also lower property values and affect the local tax base negatively. The use of tax increment financing (TIF) is also controversial, as it could freeze property taxes, limiting revenue for public services. The outcome of this development could set a precedent for how similar urban green spaces are managed and developed in the future, impacting local economies and community dynamics.
What's Next?
Ryan Companies plans to engage in dialogue with the community to align on the site's future. However, community advocates are pushing for the land to be acquired by a government entity, such as the Forest Preserves of Cook County, to maintain it as public land. The ongoing discussions and potential legal or zoning challenges could influence the project's trajectory. The community's strong opposition may lead Ryan Companies to reconsider or modify their development plans, especially if zoning approvals become difficult to obtain.
Beyond the Headlines
The situation at Calumet Country Club reflects broader issues of environmental justice and urban planning. The resistance to industrial development in favor of preserving green spaces highlights the community's desire for sustainable development that respects local needs and environmental health. This case could influence future policies on land use and community engagement in development projects, emphasizing the importance of considering social and environmental factors in urban planning.
