(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — People who sued over the botched demolition of smokestacks in Little Village should receive compensation in June after a federal judge approved a $12.25 million settlement on Monday.
The agreement will allow Hilco Redevelopment not to admit any wrongdoing while settling the class action lawsuit.
CBS 2 reports that more than 21,000 residents are expected to get part of the settlement, projected to be just over $300. Activist and resident Edith Tovar said the move is positive but not enough.
“This settlement case allowed people to voice our concerns in a courtroom, but it’s still not enough for the long-term effects that our residents are bearing right now,” Tovar said.
Attorney Scott Rauscher said it’s not just about the money.
“It’s more about sending a message that people are going to hold you responsible if you go out and do something wrong in the city and you cause damage,” Rauscher said.
The announcement came one week after the City Council approved Deputy Commissioner Marlene Hopkins — who was among those found to be negligent in the implosion of the old Crawford Power Plant — as the new commissioner of the Buildings Department.
Listen to our new podcast Looped In: Chicago
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok