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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