What’s being called an unprecedented agreement will eventually turn over control of the former Chrysler engine plant site to the City of Kenosha for redevelopment, at virtually no cost to taxpayers.
EPA Region-5 Executive Margaret Guerrierro called the deal unique to the country because of so many players. She says the agreement will provide significant benefits to the city, both financial and environmental.
DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp notes $10 million in federal grant money is already committed toward site revival. She says an additional $1.5 million from the DNR will assist with environmental work that is yet to be done.
Several state and federal agencies were involved in the talks with local leaders, and Attorney General J-B Van Hollen says he can’t remember a more successful negotiation. Van Hollen says people “gave up their egos at the door and worked together” and that cooperation was essential to working out a deal.
A federal bankruptcy judge is expected to approve the deal, setting the stage for an auction of equipment inside. The buildings will then be razed over the next year.
Janet Hoff, WRJN