Historic Preservation
Neal & Leroy has a depth of experience in historic preservation. We have represented municipalities such as Chicago, Evanston and Oak Park in the designation of historic landmarks and landmark districts. We have appeared on behalf of owners in administrative proceedings, seeking relief from landmark restrictions, and also in court, successfully defending injunction actions.
We guided one client through the zoning process for establishing a mini-hotel in an historic landmark. We are experts in the valuation and acquisition of landmarks, having acquired such historic properties as the Reliance Building and the Oliver Building for the City of Chicago. Our attorneys are recognized for their teaching in historic preservation and service to historic preservation organizations.
Our areas of concentration include:
- Designating historic properties as landmarks or placement on the National Register of Historic Places
- Changing or developing historic properties
- Assisting owners of landmark and historic properties with qualification for tax benefits, such as TIF (tax increment finance grants), federal historic tax credits, Illinois landmark tax freeze and donation of preservation easements on historic properties.