Among the properties is a vacant 87-year-old bank building, and the Department of Planning and Development wants to see the facade preserved, says Lisa Hope-Washington. Other properties include a storage facility, mixed-use building and vacant lots, Hope-Washington says.

Although no specific development plan is on the table, city officials have talked with potential developers, who all have been stymied in attempts to begin work. Foremost among the hurdles has been the ability to acquire properties at prices close to fair market value. While the city has had acquisition authority for as long as eight years, owners of the properties have set unrealistic prices, says at least one developer.

Meanwhile, attempts to get the current owners to improve their properties have been unsuccessful. "We've tried to engage the owners of the properties to become a part of the community to invest in their businesses. That has failed to materialize," says 5th Ward Alderman Leslie A. Hairston. "The failure to develop their properties indicate a disinterest in the community at large. This has been like running up against a brick wall."

While renewing the department's acquisition authority, the community development commission's decision came on a rare less than unanimous vote. Commission member Rafael Leon voted against the measure.

With acquisition authority, the Department of Planning and Development can order appraisals to determine the cost of buying the properties, Hope-Washington says. In addition, the department could prepare a request for proposals, which could be used to solicit developers.

The abandoned bank building at 6760 S. Stony Island Ave. changed hands last year for $75,000, according to property records.

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