Dalton Village to Acquire Childhood Home of Pope Leo XIV

The village of Dalton is positioned to gain ownership of the childhood residence of Pope Leo XIV. This follows the decision by the current owner to place the property up for auction.

The auction is managed by Paramount Realty and is set to conclude on June 18. However, it’s important to note that the owner can cancel the auction at any time. According to a report by ABC7 Chicago, the Prevost family, who has owned the home for nearly 50 years, raised their family there.

This property is noteworthy as it will be the first home owned by an American pope. Currently, bidding starts at $250,000 as the village prepares to secure the property.

The village attorney, Bert Odelson, has communicated the village’s interest in acquiring the house either directly or through the process of eminent domain. In a letter to the auction company, Odelson stated that prospective buyers should be aware the ownership could be temporary since the village intends to initiate eminent domain proceedings soon.

Odelson mentioned attempts to negotiate directly with the current owner. The negotiations have been challenging, as the asking price is viewed as too high. They are now either negotiating with the auction house or planning to use their rights as a village to enforce eminent domain to acquire the property.

Mayor Jason House explained the rationale behind the government’s involvement, stating that if the village has a need for the property, it has the legal right to compensate the owners fairly. He cautioned potential bidders that any purchase would be short-lived as the village is likely to take over the property.

House elaborated, “Most people don’t prefer to buy a place when they know there are other circumstances at play.”

In collaboration with the Archdiocese of Chicago, officials aim to transform the three-bedroom, two-bathroom house into a significant historical site at 212 East 141st Street. House expressed optimism that this project would bring positive developments to Dalton.

Despite the village’s warning, the auction remains active. Records indicate that the house was previously listed for around $200,000.