There has been a common theme among Downers Grove residents, voicing their concerns about the town of Downers Grove losing the charm that has been known and loved by residents since the beginning.

The Village Council meeting on Dec. 3 2024, was filled to the brim with many residents speaking on the issue of the “Future Land Use map” or the Prince Pond neighborhood.

First up to the stand was resident Robin Tryloff fighting to have the “inclusion of the northwest corner of Warren and Saratoga” removed from the downtown transition map.

“Although the change to include these six lots in downtown transition was made in 2005, that does not change the fact that the neighborhood is against this decision,” Tryloff said.

Tryloff argues that the inclusion of this on the transition map, will lead to the neighborhood’s loss of its character and deep rooted history.

“Prince Pond is a community focal point that reaches far beyond its perimeters… and holds great historical significance. . . The Downers Grove Park District and the Downers Grove Historical society designated Prince Pond as a historic site in 2002,” Tryloff said.

To further this idea Tryloff added some specific examples of historical landmarks located in the Prince Pond area.

“Two of the homes next to these six lots are tied to local history. One of the houses was built by Charles Blodgett, the son of prominent local figure, Israel Blodgett, and what was his barn next door is now a landmarked historic home,” Tryloff said.

Continuing the idea of Downers Grove’s loss of charm, resident and business owner, Klarna Brekco shared similar thoughts on the topic, but in a different context. Brekco focused on the parking aspect around the town rather than the zoning maps.

“We have a parking issue here, and I understand development as a business owner. I would like more customers in my business all the time, but we are losing the charm of the reason why everyone loves Downtown Downers Grove,” Brekco said.

Brekco believes the continuation of advancements being made is turning the town into a “concrete jungle,” and “If people wanted to live downtown, they would have bought downtown.”

“We used to win awards all the time; the friendliest town, the most versatile downtown, I do not see that happening anymore,” Brekco said.

Like Tryloff and Brekco shined light on, the concern for Downers Grove’s future is a primary issue for residents. Although the concern was not on the agenda for Dec. 3, it will be further discussed at the village meeting on Dec. 16, 2024.