Reliable Support For Municipal, Park Law & Library Districts
Cities and counties throughout Illinois have monumental civic obligations. The challenges you face as a leader of your community are complicated. In certain situations, seeking experienced legal guidance may be essential.
The Law Office of Michelle Broughton-Fountain frequently assists municipalities, park districts and other governmental entities. Keeping your community running smoothly is not always easy, but we can bring you effective legal insight to guide the way forward.
We Help Municipalities Navigate Delicate Legal Matters
Our practice includes a wide range of services, such as:
- Drafting ordinances and resolutions
- Counseling local officials about their legal responsibilities
- Attending board meetings and conducting public hearings
- Advising police and fire commissions
- Planning, zoning and real estate matters
- Administrative law
You have significant responsibilities, and our mission is to help you uphold them. Whether you require legal advice for a city project, a dispute or a contract, we understand the stakes. Based in Flossmoor, the Law Office of Michelle Broughton-Fountain is ready to provide dependable guidance and support.
The Law Office of Michelle Broughton-Fountain has also worked closely with housing departments in municipalities to obtain injunctions and judicial deeds. The firm has petitioned the Cook County Board of Review to exempt municipal-owned properties on numerous occasions. The firm has worked with municipalities to lease, sell and purchase real estate. In addition, the firm has obtained over hundreds of properties with tax deeds to municipalities who worked with the Cook County No Cash Bid Program. On behalf of municipalities, it has prosecuted traffic court, served as a Hearing Officer in Administrative Hearings, and represent municipalities in Administrative Hearings. Also, this firm does represent a library district. This firm has sued and defended municipalities in litigation.
FAQ: Municipal, Park And Library Districts
Local governments and special districts often face complex statutory and operational questions. The following information can help public bodies in Illinois make informed decisions.
How can our municipality initiate the process of acquiring abandoned or tax-delinquent properties to return them to the tax rolls?
Municipalities may begin the process by identifying eligible parcels and working with the county to determine the status of delinquent taxes and prior forfeitures. After confirming eligibility, the municipality may pursue acquisition through statutory tools such as scavenger sales or petitions for deed. These mechanisms transfer long‑neglected properties back into productive use and support neighborhood revitalization.
What legal mechanisms are available to address “nuisance” structures or unsafe occupied properties within our jurisdiction?
Illinois offers tools such as demolition orders, repair mandates and enforcement actions to address hazardous or uninhabitable structures. When properties are occupied but unsafe, municipalities may seek court intervention to compel compliance with building and safety codes. This helps protect public health and encourages owners to meet their legal obligations.
In what ways does your firm assist park and library districts with long-term strategic growth and regulatory compliance?
We counsel districts on governance, statutory authority and policy development to support sustainable operations and future expansion. Our lawyers’ experience includes reviewing capital plans and evaluating land acquisition strategies. We also facilitate compliance with laws governing district powers and financial management to help districts maintain strong administrative practices while planning for evolving community needs.
How does the judicial tax deed proceeding work to clear titles for developers without the municipality assuming back-tax burdens?
A judicial tax deed proceeding allows a tax purchaser to obtain a clear title after meeting notice and redemption requirements. Once the court issues the deed, prior tax liabilities are extinguished, enabling developers to acquire marketable titles without shifting unpaid taxes to the municipality. This helps encourage the redevelopment of distressed parcels while also protecting municipal budgets.
Does the firm provide guidance on zoning adjustments and land-use strategies for large-scale industrial or commercial redevelopment projects?
Yes. Our team assists municipalities with evaluating zoning classifications, drafting amendments and coordinating with planning commissions to support major redevelopment initiatives. We can also review site plans, counsel on special use requests and help meet compliance with state and local land‑use regulations. Our support allows municipalities to manage growth while aligning projects with their long‑term planning goals.
Receive Confident And Capable Representation
With over seven decades of combined experience, the municipal law attorneys at the Law Office of Michelle Broughton-Fountain are fully prepared for the challenges ahead. For a consultation, send us an online inquiry or call 708-831-1629.