Dolton Board Poised to Approve Purchase of Pope Leo XIV Childhood Home

The Village of Dolton is moving forward with plans to purchase the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV, located at 212 E. 141st Place, with the intention of turning it into a historic site and public attraction. The property, which gained significant value and attention following Robert Prevost's election as pope, has become a local tourist destination, attracting visitors and Catholic faithful. The purchase, facilitated directly between the village and the current owners—avoiding the use of eminent domain—was made possible with secured financing from Wintrust Bank, and the final price settled between the original $199,000 asking price and a hoped-for $1 million. The village is also seeking state and federal funding for the project and considering ways to use the site to benefit the local economy, such as creating jobs and supporting businesses. A new roof was donated by a local construction company, and the village plans to provide 24/7 police protection and possibly expand the historic district. However, the purchase has faced opposition, including a motion from a former employee alleging misuse of taxpayer funds, and the final approval is pending a board vote at a special public meeting.