WASHINGTON PARK, Ill. – Three years ago, a community lost its buildings for police, firefighters, and public works to a massive. And the mayor says there is still a long road ahead.
It’s a day Washington Park Mayor Leonard Moore will never forget. In October 2021, a fire destroyed the headquarters for the village on Forest Boulevard.
“I’m looking at the village. Everything, the essential departments, burning down. I was at a loss—like, what do I do?” Moore said.
In a news conference Thursday, it was announced the village has secured state funding to start phase one of rebuilding.
“We have the funds to move forward with the fire department. It’s a blessing; it’s been a long time coming. We need it and it’s so important because it’s the safety of the citizens,” Moore said.
Since the buildings have burned down, the fire department has operated out of a private warehouse, and the police department has been using a space at the village hall. Residents, along with the mayor, are hopeful the board of trustees will approve funding to move the process forward for rebuilding other departments.
“It’s not fair…we have to have everybody else come in,” resident Florence Barfield said. “I’ll be so happy because when they get to your house now…it’s going to be burnt down by the time (the fire department) gets there.”
Washington Park officials say the City of East St. Louis, which borders the village, is lending a helping hand as well.
“It’s time we come together for the betterment of this community, no matter what side of politics you’re on. Come help the village because they need it,” Councilman Courtney Hoffman II said.
