Although the property is zoned M-1-1, the department of planning and development hopes to control its fate by acquiring it and selling it to a developer through the request for proposal process. It will even consider selling it to Metra for use as another parking lot for its commuter rail stop to the west rather than see the property developed for residential use.

The current owner, Howard Haft of Rancho Mirage, CA, has been attempting to sell the property to residential developers, says department of planning and development commissioner Alicia Berg. However, the department prefers to see it developed for light industrial, office or commercial use. The community development commission has endorsed the attempt to acquire the property.

The site is surrounded by industrial users that include football helmet maker Riddell Manufacturing. The site also is near Schurz High School.

William Trumbull of the department of planning and development says a reliable work force is the top reason why companies relocate or expand industrial operations in the city. On the other hand, incompatible land uses such as encroaching residential development and inflated property values caused by speculation are the top detriments, he adds.

A 25,900-sf, one-story building was on the site, according to property records. However, city officials say it had been vacant, then demolished the 79-year-old building after its roof collapsed earlier this year.