Despite concerns from residents, the Joliet City Council adopted an intergovernmental agreement between the municipality and the State of Illinois for the continued use of the Joliet Correctional Center on Collins Street as it recognizes the historical, cultural and economic significance of the building. 

The center ceased operations in 2002 and has remained largely unused since that time.

The city first leased the property in 2017 to address security and maintenance issues and to prevent arson, trespassing and other criminal activities. The Joliet Area Historical Museum manages the site for tours and events. The Illinois Department of Corrections is the property owner.

The city has undertaken efforts to stabilize and maintain the prison, including providing security, maintenance, and limited public access activities.

But some residents who spoke during the public comments portion of the meeting on Tuesday claim the Joliet Area Historical Museum is not allowing access to former employees, particularly two who worked for the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Christine Johnson, who described herself as a “prison historian,” said she moved to Joliet for its history. She claims her husband, who worked for Department of Corrections prior to retiring, should be part of the conversation as he oversaw mass murderer Richard Speck while he was incarcerated in Joliet. She told the council her husband has stories the community would be interested in hearing.

“Why are we ignoring history?” she asked. “The Illinois Department of Corrections banned two employees. Why are we being denied our constitutional rights and not be allowed to go on state property?”

A representative for the historical museum said all concerns raised by residents are issues that can be resolved with further discussion.

City Manager Beth Beatty claims the cease and desists order the residents alluded to occurred under the previous administration and is not part of the current three-year lease agreement. Additionally, the agreement does not include any provisions regarding the 135 acres the Forest Preserve District of Will County is interested in buying. She said that is part of future discussions.

Larry Hug, District 1, said the agreement is a “financial albatross” for the city. He was the only council member to vote against the agreement.

“This is a financial drain for the city,” he said. “It cannot be financially successfully on its own.”