The City of Pekin’s recent annexation of the 1,000-acre Lutticken property, purchased for $14 million, has caused confusion and concern for Groveland Township officials. Despite Pekin’s assertion that the annexation is straightforward, the township raised questions about land jurisdiction and the planned development of a data center on a portion of the property.
Key Takeaways
- Groveland Township officials sought to delay the annexation vote to clarify land ownership and data center plans.
- Pekin officials assured the township that the land would remain within Groveland Township’s jurisdiction.
- Concerns were raised about communication breakdowns between the city and township.
Annexation Process and Township Concerns
The Pekin City Council approved the annexation of the Lutticken property with a 5-2 vote. This decision came after Groveland Township Supervisor David Horton requested a delay to allow for a meeting between city and township officials to address unanswered questions. The primary concerns revolved around whether the annexed land would still be considered part of Groveland Township and the implications of a planned data center on approximately 320 acres of the property. Pekin intends to sell this portion of land to a developer for about $4.5 million after due diligence.
Pekin’s Perspective on Jurisdiction and Development
Pekin’s economic development director, Josh Wray, assured Groveland Township officials present at the meeting that the land would indeed remain within the township’s boundaries. Mayor Mary Burress highlighted that Pekin itself spans multiple townships, including Pekin, Cincinnati, Elm Grove, and Groveland, emphasizing the layered nature of government within the city. She expressed disappointment over rumors suggesting Groveland Township would lose the land, stating these were untrue. Pekin City Manager John Dossey noted that information regarding the data center is still limited, as the project is not as far along as some believe.
Wray explained that as the owner of the land, which has no inhabitants, the city could annex it through a simple ordinance. He stated that further discussions with the township would occur as projects on the property progress. Wray also calculated that the township would experience an annual revenue loss of approximately $180 due to Pekin’s purchase of the land, not the annexation itself, but projected future growth on the property would offset this loss.
Communication Challenges and Dissenting Votes
A specific parcel at 3501 Sheridan Road is excluded from the current annexation because it is occupied by a renter, requiring a separate annexation petition and public hearing. Council members Jake Fletcher and Rick Hilst voted against the annexation. A motion to table the vote until January 12 to facilitate meetings between city and township officials failed with a 4-3 vote, with Fletcher, Hilst, and Dave Nutter voting in favor of the delay. Pekin officials indicated a willingness to meet with their township counterparts, but acknowledged past communication difficulties, with Councilman Nutter citing an instance where a voicemail box was full, preventing him from leaving a message.
