Politics & Government

A Brighter Future for Vacant Auto Dealership Property? Officials Hope So

With the creation of a special taxing incentive district, city officials hope to restore the value of the former Community Motors property and attract new businesses.

Oak Forest will try to entice business back to the vacant Community Motors property with a special taxing incentive district, officials decided Tuesday.

The city council forged ahead with the measure, which includes reduced tax rules, for the area near 159th and Terrace Drive to try to restore some of the property's lost value. The area encompasses the former dealership, Oak Forest Dental, Bjorklund Group Home and a church.

The special taxing district could lure new business by helping fund various project costs. The goal is to attract private investors to the area, which has seen a significant decline since the closure of the dealership.

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"The property owner wanted to help the city and business owners," said Community Development Director Adam Dotson. "We need to find another use for this property, we believe this TIF is going to help."

Last year, the city was considering a baseball academy on the eight-acre property. It was one option to draw people and revenue into the city.

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"The objective is to have a higher value, better outlook on the property," Dotson said. "Our key role is to help usher in and foster redevelopment with property owners willing to do it."


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