Woodridge, IL Attorney News Archive

A tragic accident in Bartlett, Illinois, has left the community mourning the loss of 64-year-old Public Works employee David M. Hoday. He was killed while clearing snow at the intersection of Oak Avenue and Railroad Avenue when an Elgin-bound Metra MD-W train collided with the small snowplow he was operating. The collision resulted in significant disruptions to train services in the area.

Bartlett Mayor Daniel Gunsteen extended his condolences, emphasizing the critical and often dangerous role public employees play in ensuring safety during winter storms.

Authorities, including the Metra Police and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. They are particularly focused on whether Hoday was able to notice the approaching train.

Local officials from the surrounding Chicago suburbs are coming together to support Hoday's family as they face this heartbreaking tragedy.

Prominent homebuilder Pulte Home Co. is making strategic moves to improve housing availability in DuPage County. The company has initiated plans to purchase a 75th Street property from the DuPage Water Commission for $14 million. This acquisition is seen as a critical step in addressing the urgent housing needs in the area, especially close to the highly regarded Naperville school district.

Jim Zay, chair of the DuPage Water Commission, has underscored the significant demand for housing in the region. While Pulte has remained silent during its due diligence phase, the outcome of zoning negotiations will play a crucial role in determining whether the unincorporated land will be annexed into Woodridge, Naperville, or the county itself.

The property does face challenges, as it is partially impacted by wetland concerns. An appraisal recently valued the site at $10.8 million, raising expectations of financial benefits if more than 60 residential lots are developed. Commissioner David Russo has been pivotal in advancing this proposal, helping the commission secure advantageous offers amid ongoing civil litigation and real estate law considerations.