Abandoned House 127th

Despite numerous letters throughout the past couple of years, Village of Plainfield officials continue to act as though the rules don't apply to Village officials.

The following is an abbreviated version of a letter sent to the Village Administrator, Brian Murphy (bmurphy@goplainfield.com / (815) 439-4253) and Mayor Collins (mcollins@goplainfield.com / (815) 609-6100).

Approximately two years ago, the city of Plainfield public safety officials, i.e., police and fire, began using this uninhabited structure for training purposes.  During those drills, windows, walls, the building’s façade. etc., were destroyed leaving local residents with compromised safety and degradation of the surrounding neighborhood.

Despite improvements in some segments of the economy, the real estate market remains lethargic.  To that end, it seems logical that municipalities throughout the country would do all they could to retain property values and increase the likelihood that prospective residents, i.e., taxpayers, would view the city in a positive light.  Every day that my neighbors and I leave and return to our subdivision, we see the partially destroyed house and dilapidated lot.  Consequently, anyone interested in purchasing property within our area would have that same view.  Moreover, the westbound view of the Kings Bridge community that has struggled throughout the past six years to sell homes is blocked by the distressed property.  If I were a prospective buyer within that or the neighboring Shenandoah subdivision, I might think twice about purchasing a house within either of these neighborhoods after seeing the condition of the neighboring lot.

It is worth noting that the Northwest Community Park is located directly across the street from the abandoned house.  Incidentally, I frequently witness teenager crossing 127th to ‘explore’ or vandalize the deserted home.  Clearly, there are a variety of hazardous conditions that were in this instance, created by Plainfield public safety personnel that could lead to minor or serious injury.  This community park hosts enumerable sporting events and practices for youth throughout the Plainfield and surrounding area.  Consequently, the likelihood for curious  youth to venture across the street is only increased by its location.

Looking for community support!  Please send a letter and/or make a phone call before other kids are hit by cars! http://plainfield.patch.com/groups/police-and-fire/p/boy-struck-by-vehicle-in-plainfield).

Eric Thompson