Dolton, Illinois Buys Pope Leo XIV's Childhood Home for $375K, Sparking Debate
The Village of Dolton, Illinois, has made headlines with its recent purchase of Pope Leo XIV's former childhood home for $375,000. The acquisition, finalised on July 8, has sparked both interest and debate among residents. The property, not obtained through eminent domain, included all relevant fees.
Foot traffic has surged at the site, with locals and visitors alike stopping to pay their respects. However, the village's poverty rate stands at 20%, nearly double that of Illinois, according to the 2023 U.S. census community survey. Residents have expressed mixed feelings about the purchase, with some voicing concerns about revenue generation and infrastructure needs at a village board meeting prior to the deal.
The village aims to list the property as a historical site to attract funding and partnerships. So far, no organisations have been named as potential collaborators for cultural and scientific initiatives. Donna Sagna Davis, a long-time neighbour, has welcomed the village's plans to make the property a historical site. Officials view the acquisition as a step towards strengthening Dolton's history and boosting economic activity.
The purchase of Pope Leo XIV's childhood home has sparked both interest and debate in Dolton. While the village works to secure historical status for the property, residents await the potential economic benefits and address their infrastructure concerns.
