The historical St. Adalbert Church in Pilsen is at a crossroads between preservation and development, as the City’s Zoning Committee has postponed the vote on its landmark status. Despite the entreaties of local Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th), who has been vocally pushing for the landmark designation to protect the structure from potential redevelopers, the committee chose to delay the decision, effectively leaving the church’s fate hanging in the balance for the next several months. As reported by Block Club Chicago, the delay was decided after a lengthy debate, giving all parties until June to find consensus or otherwise the designation will automatically take effect.
The church complex, which includes the sanctuary, rectory, convent, school, and parking lot, is reflective of Pilsen's diverse heritage, having served both its Polish and Mexican-American communities over the years. Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) specifically requested to postpone voting on the landmarking "until all involved parties can find a consensus," securing support from other members in a 10-4 vote as mentioned by the Chicago Sun-Times. Opponents of the landmarking, including representatives for the Archdiocese of Chicago, have raised concerns about the financial implications and challenges that could arise in selling the property should it be designated a landmark.
Currently, the Archdiocese of Chicago manages the church as part of a trust, while St. Paul’s Parish owns the property. James Geoly, general counsel for the Archdiocese of Chicago, explained the critical nature of any potential development funds for the future of St. Paul’s Parish. Auxiliary Bishop Robert J. Lombardo, as quoted by Block Club Chicago, also emphasized the need "take some time and have cooler heads prevail," suggesting further discussions could yield a productive path forward for all parties involved.
While the landmark proposal is currently stalled, it's worth noting that the church’s deconsecrated status makes owner consent advisory rather than mandatory according to city rules. The church, founded in 1874 and central to the area's Polish immigrants, later became an important locale for Pilsen’s Mexican-American community. Ald. Sigcho-Lopez informed the Chicago Sun-Times, “I am asking my colleagues to respect due process. There must be closure on something that has created unnecessary controversy.” His concerns reflect a broader dialogue on the community's right to decide on the preservation of their historical sites, a conversation that is to definitely continue.
