Politics & Government

Palatine Case Against Kostka Makes Progress

Former councilman Warren Kostka has adhered to a judge's order to fix dangerous and hazardous on his property. The case will be revisited in mid-January to ensure all compliance issues are taken care of.

After months, and even years of issues, the home owned by Warren Kostka, former Palatine village councilman, at 108 N. Forest Avenue is currently in compliance with a court order issued by a Cook County Circuit Court judge. 

During a Thursday hearing in the case, which was initially filed by the Village of Palatine in March, Judge Margarita Kulys Hoffman accepted testimony from Village of Palatine Attorney, Patrick Brankin. 

"The previous order entered required that certain work be performed by November 23 and that has been taken care of by Mr. Kostka," Brankin said.

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That work included the . 

The case against Kostka, who did not attend the hearing, was continued until January 11 to give him time to remedy other identified issues at the home. 

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Those relate to exposed plywood on the roof that was previously covered by the tarp which is now in need of siding, installation of gutters and downspouts and addressing the gravel driveway, said Reid Ottesen, village manager. 

"There is more work to be done, the village is willing to work with Mr. Kostka," Ottesen said.

Village inspectors will be looking at the property on or before December 31, the time frame Kostka was given by Judge Hoffman to address the rest of the issues. 

Ottesen said the village will take into account what cannot be handled immediately due to cold weather, such as putting asphault down on the currently gravel driveway.   

"I am pleased we are making progress, it's been a long road, our goal has always been to reach compliance on this property," Ottesen said. 


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