River Forest, IL — Village officials attended a pivotal hearing yesterday in the long-running foreclosure case between Wintrust Bank and Lake Lathrop Partners, where the court issued its strongest warning yet regarding the persistent delays that have stalled progress at the Lake & Lathrop site.
During the hearing, Village President Cathy Adduci addressed Judge Kyriakopoulos directly, urging the court to impose firm deadlines and hold both litigating parties accountable for what she described as “ dysfunction, unnecessary banter, lies and delays.” President Adduci emphasized that River Forest residents have been patient, but the lack of movement has become unacceptable.
For years, the Village has pressed both sides to resolve their disputes so that long-promised redevelopment can move forward. Instead, the case has been marked by repeated continuances, incomplete filings, and procedural maneuvering that has prevented meaningful progress. At the hearing, Judge Kyriakopoulos made clear that the court’s patience had run out.
The judge scheduled the next hearing for July 9, issuing a pointed warning to the parties to “stop playing games” and signaling that further delays will not be tolerated. At that hearing, the court is expected to set a firm schedule and trial date, an important step toward finally resolving the foreclosure and clearing the way for future action at the site.
The Village has no legal authority over the foreclosure proceedings themselves, but officials have consistently advocated for timely resolution and taken steps to motivate progress. The Village’s past efforts to force the demolition of the existing structures were rejected by the court. Judge Kyriakopoulos stated at the hearing that “There is nothing I can do regarding building on the property until I get [the foreclosure case] settled.” The Lake & Lathrop corner is a central property on the Lake Street Corridor and its prolonged stagnation has been a source of frustration for residents and businesses alike.
“River Forest will continue to pursue progress and advocate for our residents before Judge Kyriakopoulos.” President Adduci said following the hearing.
In the meantime, the Village continues to monitor the property closely to ensure the site remains safe and maintained.
The Village will provide additional updates as new information becomes available through the court.