Architect Randy Brockway says the Courthouse Revitalization Committee has sent a letter to the Illinois EPA. In it the group claims the county has violated the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding. It's a legally binding agreement with two state agencies which became effective after an appellate court ruling in 2020.
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Brockway says the memo requires Rock Island County to provide reports to the state every three months including status reports, plus schedule changes, complaints, and objections. The committee filed a Freedom of Information Act request for the reports, but the state said there are no reports to send.
In June, the Courthouse Revitalization Committee held a rally to protest the demolition of the 125-year-old building. Members also formally objected during a board meeting in August.
Brockway says the committee asked the Illinois EPA to take action. And if it does not, the group will formally complain to the state Attorney General.
A key issue during the long conflict has been the county's application to the Illinois EPA for a storm water permit. The agency issued that permit in September. And earlier this month, a Peoria County judge cleared the way for demolition.