Opening of Mundelein's new village hall delayed until June 23

The much-anticipated opening of Mundelein's new village hall has been postponed two weeks because the building at 300 Plaza Circle isn't yet ready, officials said.

The 32,000-square-foot building, which is on a new road just south of Hawley Street, should open to the public June 23. It was supposed to open at noon on June 9.

Some elements of the construction haven't been completed yet, officials said. For example, some furniture components haven't arrived and more exterior landscaping needs to be done, Village Administrator John Lobaito said.

"You only get one chance to make a good first impression," Lobaito said in an email to the Daily Herald. "We want to make sure everything is done before we start conducting business."

The delay has no impact on the estimated $10 million cost of the project, or on customer services. The current village hall at 440 E. Hawley St. - just a short walk from the new building - will remain open two weeks longer to accommodate people who need to conduct village business.

It now will close June 20.

"We have the luxury of not being under pressure to leave our current location," Lobaito said.

Mayor Steve Lentz didn't sound bothered by the projects that prompted the delay.

"My understanding is that it's an accumulation of minor things," Lentz said.

Crews actually need only one additional week to finish the work, he said, but the company handling the move wasn't available June 13. The delay was extended to the following week.

A Vernon Hills firm called Weston Solutions has overseen construction. As part of the town's deal with Weston, the company will move into offices on the second floor of the building when it's complete.

Rent payments from Weston will help pay for construction.

The current village hall has operated since the 1920s. Officials have said the space is cramped and not easily accessible by people with disabilities.

The fate of the building hasn't been determined.