Overview
- The Village of Dolton, Illinois, plans to acquire Pope Leo XIV's childhood home through negotiation or eminent domain to preserve it as a public historic site.
- Negotiations with the current owner have stalled over pricing, leading the village to formally signal its intent to begin eminent domain proceedings.
- The house, located at 212 East 141st Place, is currently listed for private auction with a $250,000 reserve price and a bidding deadline of June 18.
- Dolton has informed prospective bidders that any purchase may be temporary due to the village's legal plans to take ownership.
- The village intends to collaborate with the Chicago Archdiocese to convert the property into a publicly accessible historic site honoring Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff.