I have been so pleased to see Dan Haley, Editor of the Wednesday Journal, mentioning the economic opportunities in the Oak Park Arts District, in his columns over the last few weeks. There is SO much potential in this neighborhood it is palatable! Additionally, we are so well located near CTA, 290 and within a well established neighborhood with a decent amount of density. There are so many types of businesses that would thrive in our District—there is just ONE problem… The properties owned by the Kleronomos Family need to be set free and put into the hands of others who will take full advantage of their potential and fill our street with retail, restaurants, galleries, boutiques etc… In just a few days (March 3rd) I will be speaking before the VOP Board of Trustees to AGAIN ask for those who have the ability—the newly formed Economic Development arm of the VOP and the re-vamped Oak Park Development Corporation to do everything they can to make this 30+ year dream come true! I hope that with the Villages renewed focus on economic development, this will be the year. Our new Village President, Anan Abu-Taleb has pledged to make this his priority while in office. So far, he has made some very positive changes and I hope he can help us turn the corner.
March 3rd also happens to be the last day that Trustee Ray Johnson will be in office. Ray has been a huge supporter and friend to the Oak Park Arts District and he will be missed. In fact, we (OPAD) have been asking to speak before the trustees for over 6 months and because Ray recognized that this was the last opportunity on his watch to make that happen, he got us on the agenda!
I am grateful that smart, involved citizens and influential folks are beginning to turn their attention to, what could be a beautiful feather in Oak Park’s cap. At this point, we need more than talk, we need action.
Anan, Ray and Dan, “THANK YOU!” Village Trustees, Economic Development Leaders of Oak Park: “Roll up your sleeves and let’s get to work!”
