Chicago mayor reportedly encouraged Northwestern to do a PR blitz to tear down Prentice
By Cassidy HerringtonChicago mayor reportedly encouraged Northwestern to do a PR blitz to tear down Prentice
By Cassidy HerringtonThe preservationists are suing the Chicago Landmarks Commission on the grounds that it violated its own ordinance when it voted to demolish Prentice just a few hours after approving preliminary landmark designation – in the same meeting.
Preservationists argue the building is iconic and should be reused, while Northwestern argues it cannot build the kind of medical research facility it needs.
Calls to President Schapiro’s office to verify the mayor’s comments went unanswered.
The mayor’s spokesperson, Tom Alexander, said the mayor was involved in discussions with all parties involved, preservationists included.
“That was the sole focus of his effort throughout,” Alexander said in an e-mail. “At the end of the process, after hearing from all groups, he made his viewpoint known.”
Rachlis said the preservationists are more focused on the lawsuit than the mayor’s alleged comments.
“We don’t know, and all that we’re prepared to deal with here are the allegations in the lawsuit. And those we have confidence in and believe that those stand on their own,” Rachlis said.
The status hearing for the lawsuit is Dec. 7.