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La Grange Today
By the People, for the People
La Grange Buys West End Parking Lot, Considers Future Development
The short-term need is parking, but the site could be developed in the long run, an official said.
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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The Village of La Grange, Illinois has purchased a parking lot in the 700 block of Burlington Avenue for $915,000 from FNBC Bank & Trust. Village President Mark Kuchler stated that the purchase will allow the village more control over any future development in the area, though the immediate need is for additional parking in the West End neighborhood.
Why it matters
The West End of La Grange has long faced a shortage of parking, which has been a concern for both residents and local businesses. By purchasing this parking lot, the village aims to address this issue in the short term, while also positioning itself to potentially guide future development in the area.
The details
The village owns a neighboring plot of land that is irregularly shaped, coming off of Brainard Avenue and expanding midblock on Burlington Avenue. Charity Jones, the village's community development director, noted that other users have been infringing on the village's parcel. While the stated purpose of the purchase was to address the parking shortage, Village President Kuchler acknowledged that the land could increase in value and that the village may consider development options in the future.
- On Monday, February 24, 2026, the La Grange Village Board unanimously voted to purchase the parking lot.
- In late January 2026, the Village Board discussed the purchase of the property behind closed doors, as allowed under Illinois' open meetings law.
The players
Mark Kuchler
The Village President of La Grange, Illinois.
Charity Jones
The Community Development Director for the Village of La Grange.
Beth Augustine
A Trustee on the La Grange Village Board.
Jonathan Robinson
A resident of La Grange who questioned the village's purchase of the parking lot during a Village Board meeting.
FNBC Bank & Trust
The bank that sold the parking lot to the Village of La Grange for $915,000.
What they’re saying
“That will allow us more say in controlling any future development that goes on in that area.”
— Mark Kuchler, Village President (Patch.com)
“For me, it wasn't an easy decision to just say yes to this opportunity.”
— Beth Augustine, Trustee (Patch.com)
“That portion of the meeting can be given back to the public.”
— Jonathan Robinson, Resident (Patch.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
