Children’s Memorial Heliport: Speak Up!

I haven’t seen anything spark this much controversy and sniping since I witnessed a debate on whether guests’ shoes should be removed before entering a host’s home!

It’s been a hot topic in the neighborhood for months.  It’s brought out the worst in Streeterville citizens who feel passionately about protecting their neighborhood’s best interests.   The Children’s Memorial Hospital heliport proposal is still pending approval.  But beginning Wednesday, July 22,  a series of four meetings is planned, in which all “sides” will be offered time to speak.

WHERE

Hughes Auditorium, Robert W. Lurie Medical Research Center, 303 E. Superior St., Streeterville

WHEN

Wednesday, July 22 – 6-10 p.m., Presentation by Children’s Memorial Hospital

Thursday, July 23 – 6-10 p.m., Presentation by Streeterville Organization of Active Residents

Friday, July 24 – 6-10 p.m., Public statements

Saturday, July 25 – 1-5 p.m., Public statements

The SOAR announcement says  anyone wishing to submit materials or make a public statement should contact Gary Stevens to schedule his/her testimony:  Gary D. Stevens, Illinois Department of Transportation, (217) 785-5746.  Or e-mail him at gary.d.stevens@illinois.gov

You are asked to send a copy of your materials to issues@soarchicago.org

If you have something to say but you’re not comfortable sharing it in public, IDOT will accommodate you!  Just mention your preference to Mr. Stevens when you contact him.

And from Alderman Reilly’s office:  “The Administrative Law Judge has determined that cross examination of witnesses, whether citizens, attorneys, public officials, or experts, will NOT be allowed.  As this is an informational process, the Judge will not be making any rulings on the core issues, cross examination is not warranted.  However, if questions are submitted to the Judge either before or during the hearing, he will ask those questions which in his discretion advance the information to be gathered during the hearing.”