Elgin takes action on troubled Buena Vista

Members of an Elgin neighborhood group have been calling for action in the wake of several recent drug arrests at Buena Vista Tower, a low-income high-rise building.

Now it looks like the Near West Neighbors Association have the attention of city leaders.

Councilman David Kaptain told about 25 residents Thursday night that city leaders are meeting with members of the Chicago group that manages the 96-unit, nine-story building at 222 Locust St.

"The city has started to look at some issues," said Kaptain, who also has the support of council member Juan Figueroa. "There's problems at 222 Locust -- it's going to be a long-term project because what's involved is a federally funded building."

The Department of Housing and Urban Development recently extended its lease on the building until 2021.

If torn down, the city would have to find alternate housing for each resident.

But on April 17, city leaders and staff members, police and others will tour the building that many see as a source of crime, drugs and as a general blight on their neighborhood.

"There's nothing wrong with the physical building; it's a tenant problem," said resident Roy Chapman.

NWNA President Chuck Keysor urged homeowners to write letters and attend the tour.

"It has been an issue for many, many years. No one has worked to focus energy to bring it to the attention of the city," he said. "It is still incumbent upon us to let the city know we are not satisfied."