Curbed Chicago: A look back at Chicago’s 7 biggest preservation wins of 2018
In July, Rachel Freundt documented the controversial series of events which led to the landmarked Harley Clarke Mansion to face demolition by the Evanston City Council, which was to be financed by a privately funded group of fifty “concerned citizens” called Evanston Lighthouse Dunes.
After months of contentious city council meetings and an outpouring of support in the community, a non-binding referendum was put on the ballot, organized by a volunteer preservation group Save Harley Clarke, resulting in overwhelming support for reuse.
Landmarks Illinois@landmarksill
80% of Evanston voters favored preservation of Harley Clarke House. We hope Evanston City Officials listen to this majority of residents who want this historic mansion saved! https://twitter.com/chicagotribune/status/1060273457487900672 …
Chicago Tribune✔@chicagotribune
Column: Evanston voters overwhelmingly want to save the historic lakefront Harley Clarke Mansion from demolition. Will their elected officials listen? via @BlairKamin https://trib.al/EdDQblg
In mid-December, the tides turned and Evanston City Council voted 9-0 after motion to appeal was denied.
Evanston’s Harley Clarke mansion saved by unanimous 9-0 vote after extensive hand-wringing by City Council. Motion to consider appeal to Preservation Commission rejection of demolition denied.
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