The Highland Park City Council on Monday night moved to continue the discussion on the proposed future of the Michael Jordan’s former home with reservations.
But neighbors in the area say they do not stand by this project moving forward.
The property’s new owner, John Cooper, proposed a zoning change to the home, known as Champions Point, to transform the 7-acre property into a museum with “living classrooms,” aiming to deliver an “immersive, multi-sensory experience focused on personal transformation.”
“The theme of the tour is going to be ‘greatness,’ and our goal is to kind of teach people what it means to be great at life,” Cooper said.
Cooper’s proposal aims to partner with the park district, schools, and nonprofit youth organizations, offering dedicated days to provide free admission.
“Although it is a commercial enterprise, I believe there will be great benefit to the community and anybody who gets to experience the museum,” Cooper said.
Several city council members say the proposal, which is still in its early stages, needs more work.
“There has been this emphasis on charitable approaches, but it’s not truly the majority of this place,” said Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering.
At Monday night’s city council meeting, neighbors who are concerned about the crowds this could bring, as well as supporters of the plan, were given an opportunity to speak.
“The thought of a large number of strangers coming in and out right next to our door brings us a lot of fear,” one speaker said.
“This project not only celebrate the legacy of a Chicago icon but brings eco-growth and opportunity,” said Claudia Martin, who supports the proposal.
No decisions were made on Monday night. City council members have requested more information and more discussion to see if there is a way forward with this proposal.
The Park District of Highland Park issued a statement, saying, “The Park District has received a proposal from resident Mr. Cooper at 2700 Point Lane, and the Park Board has authorized the Executive Director to explore the possibility of a partnership with Champions Point that would provide public benefit to the community, congruent with the district’s Mission and board approved policies.”
