Bears running option: Team eyes Naperville amid horse track’s tax fight

The Bears have made a pump fake on their drive for a new stadium.

The NFL squad’s planned $5 billion development of a new football field and entertainment district at the former Arlington International Racecourse is suddenly up in the air, and Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli wants to snag an interception, the Chicago Tribune reported.

“We will continue the ongoing demolition activity and work toward a path forward in Arlington Heights, but it is no longer our singular focus,” the team said in a statement to the outlet. Demolition began on the former horse racing venue this week, but the team met Friday with Naperville’s mayor about planning a new stadium in their town.

The Bears closed a deal in February to purchase the Arlington Heights property for $197.2 million. Less than three months later, Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi reset the land value to $197 million, up from its previous tax value of roughly $33.5 million. The team has filed an appeal, asserting that the assessment is far too high for a property that’s been vacated for more than a year. Plus, it’s unclear if the team will attain adequate public subsidies to help build infrastructure for the project.

With these challenges in mind, Wehrli sent a letter to Bears president and CEO Kevin Warren, the outlet reported. The newly-elected official acknowledged the team’s commitment to a new stadium, saying it’s “essential for on-field success and pursuing championships.”

“I would like to formally introduce our community to your organization as you consider or reassess your planned relocation,” Wehrli wrote.

The potential sites for a new stadium were not disclosed, but one possibility is the former BP campus property at Washington Street and Diehl Road.

Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes understands that the team is weighing all of its options, but still thinks his town’s property is the best option, he told the outlet. Hayes encouraged the Bears to continue negotiations with surrounding school districts that get property taxes stemming from the racecourse site. The three districts recently suggested a $95 million valuation, while the Bears are still pushing for a lower tax bill based on a $37 million assessment.

While Arlington Heights has been touted by some as a gameday location, Naperville has some appealing features. Its economy is the second-largest in Illinois. Still, much of the Bears’ threats to switch focus could be political posturing as the team fights to secure cheaper carrying costs for the Arlington Heights property while it’s redeveloped.

— Quinn Donoghue

Read more

Chicago

Bears finalize $197M deal to buy Arlington Heights site

Chicago

Bears fight back after $197M assessment of new stadium site

Chicago

Demolition permit issued for Bears’ new stadium site in Arlington Heights