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Higher use at Harlem-Roosevelt
Would anyone be disappointed if the currency exchange at Harlem and Roosevelt just disappeared? Didn’t think so. Not the highest and best use for that spot.
Now Forest Park, rather remarkably, is on course to add its third marijuana dispensary at the corner. Last week the Planning and Zoning Commission offered its support after the owner of the Mint dispensary came back around with more detailed floor plans, security plans and traffic plans. Next up we expect the village council to welcome the powerful economic engine that a pot dispensary represents to a small town. Property taxes, sales taxes, special local taxes all add up to a cash bonanza for a village that really needs new revenue streams.
The Park with no name
The Park District of Forest Park is about to celebrate its 90th anniversary. This is a nothing-but-upside moment for a local government body that has been operating on all cylinders for a good long time now.
The successful Roos Recreation Center, the updated pool complex, the savvy remakes of the four pocket parks spread across the village, the expansion of The Park’s footprint along Harrison all reflect park leadership that is very much attuned to what Forest Parkers want and need.
Is it too late to add a contest to give The Park an actual name?