Dear Mayor Biss, Councilmembers, and City Staff,
I would like to express support for establishing a full-service, taxable restaurant at the corner of Dempster and Dodge in Evanston, Illinois. This site—formerly home to the Currency Exchange, Pay Loan store, and a rotating marketplace—deserves long-term investment that contributes meaningfully to Evanston’s tax base.
I am concerned about private entities attempting to purchase the property for tax-exempt purposes. Tax-free ownership may benefit a few, but it increases the burden on homeowners and limits resources for schools, parks, and public services.
I respectfully request:
- Transparent information on who is purchasing the site
- Data on current tax-exempt properties in Evanston and their impact
- Support for businesses that actively contribute to the city’s revenue
Let’s ensure the corner of Dempster and Dodge reflects our values: equity, transparency, and sustainable growth.
Respectfully,
Cindy Reed
Resident of Evanston, IL