Week in Review: Readers Like Deerbrook Stories

Patch’s two most popular stories this week were about the efforts of the group trying to redevelop the and the Village to breathe new life into the more than 40-year old shopping center.

After the at its Monday meeting to help with a potential sales tax rebate program, Patch was able to talk to people affiliated with the redevelopment effort.

A few readers chimed in on the Village’s efforts when the story was published Tuesday, but a lot of readers offered their thoughts Wednesday when Patch reported which .

The idea of becoming more prominent was criticized by a number of readers. “T.J. Maxx in the prime spot is stupid,” writes Carol Kraines. “It's a rather crummy store, and will certainly not add class or cachet to the place.”

One reader likes the idea of modeling the center on Lincoln Square near the intersection of Lincoln and Peterson Avenues in Chicago.

Another reader, Amy Parker, is also not thrilled with T.J. Maxx in a prime location but likes the Lincoln Square model. She defends Village officials because of their limited role in the development of private property.

“I'd be hesitant to blame the Mayor or the Board,” Parker writes. “The Village is limited in terms of how much it can dictate to the property owner. I wish the owners of Deerbrook would re-think the whole concept of that space, break up the parking lot, add trees and landscaping, and cluster the businesses into a more town-like configuration.”

If you have not added your opinion, feel free to do it now. The debate may continue beyond the breaking of ground.