Harvey symbolically breaks ground on Turlington Homes project, approved before Mayor Christopher Clark’s death

March 1, 2026

Harvey officials came out in frigid weather Feb. 24 for a symbolic groundbreaking on Turlington Homes, a redevelopment project approved last year under the late Mayor Christopher Clark.

The Turlington Homes project is one of the only initiatives Harvey has undertaken since declaring a state of financial distress in October. The Turlington Homes project was approved at the first City Council meeting after that declaration, where it was the only item of new business.

Acting Mayor Shirley Drewenski was elected by the City Council Feb. 23 to serve out the remainder of Clark’s term.

“These homes will strengthen our community, support growth and help move the city forward,” Drewenski said at the ground-breaking.

Speakers commemorated the late mayor, praising his drive and vision.

John Groff, vice president of Global Real Estate Development, the project’s developer, called Clark’s vision for Harvey outstanding.

“When we got the call about Harvey, we looked up Harvey, we said, it’s a small little borough, let’s go out there and let’s see what they have to say,” Groff said. “Meeting the former mayor, Mayor Clark, was an inspiration, because even though you didn’t want to hear what he had to say, he told you.”

However, some residents opposed the project, criticizing its suddenness and lack of public input. There was no debate on the proposed development agreement when it was approved, as 3rd Ward Ald. Telanee Smith called the question, bringing the issue to an immediate vote.


At that meeting, resident Amanda Askew accused the city of hastily selling off assets while in financial distress.

“It just feels like we’re doing a fire sale to some legal friends downtown,” Askew said. “We just continue to act like this is a liquidation sale for the city of Harvey.”

Another resident, Mauzkie Ervin, argued that because the city appealed for state financial aid, transactions involving city assets like the Turlington Homes agreement should be subject to state approval.

While Harvey has applied for a state takeover of its troubled finances under the Illinois Financially Distressed City Law, the state has yet to take any action.


Turlington Homes will acquire 10 unused city-owned properties on the 15100 block of Turlington Avenue in order to construct a development, according to the redevelopment agreement approved by the City Council. Homes will be based off three model plans. A sign advertising the development at the planned site states home prices will start at $180,000.

The redevelopment agreement stated the city was “willing to assist the developer by selling the Redevelopment Property at a discounted sale price,” though a final sale price was not specified.

“The document speaks for itself,” Groff told the Daily Southtown. “This is a redevelopment project, so they’re basically coming to the table, their investment is the land, our investment is building the homes.”

The Turlington Homes website state the project requires “municipal support and infrastructure incentives.” Groff said that refers to items such as plumbing and electricity, which he doesn’t anticipate the project needing much support on.

“We don’t anticipate the city having to invest much, if anything,” Groff said. “It’s a developed area, it’s not like it’s on a dirt road street.”

Global Real Estate Development’s website also lists projects in New Jersey, Florida, Michigan and Ohio.


The developer was connected to Harvey by Jedidiah Brown, an activist in the south suburbs and friend of Clark. Brown participated in the groundbreaking alongside Drewenski, other city officials and the developers.

“(Clark) said that even though the city was declared in distress, it was not desperate,” Brown said. “He wanted development in this community that would represent the hope that he held for this city, that it would be independent and just as respected as any other southern suburb, like Flossmoor, Orland Park or Homewood.”

The redevelopment agreement estimated the project would be completed in the final quarter of 2027. David Haislip, the president of Global Real Estate Development, said the timeline would depend partially on sales.

“There’s been such an interest,” Haislip said. “For the most part, this is the first week that the average person knows this is even a project.”

Haislip said the developers have received an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from the community.

“The response has been so great, we kind of have to go through all of that, because there’s a possibility that these will sell out even before building a model home,” Haislip said.

The developers said they anticipate being able to begin construction in March. The project still requires permit approval, Haislip said.

Harvey had development partnerships fall through in the past. Under former Mayor Eric Kellogg, the city lost millions on a scheme to rehabilitate a disused hotel.

More recently, a project to construct community hubs for each of Harvey’s six wards has been in limbo, with residents complaining about the blight created by the unfinished construction sites at the most recent City Council meeting.


< Older Post

Newer Post >

Why Buying Your First Home Beats Renting — And How Turlington Homes Makes It Possible

By Umamah Siddiqui • March 31, 2026
For many people, renting feels like the easiest option. It’s flexible, requires less upfront commitment, and avoids the perceived complexity of buying a home. But what most renters don’t realize is that renting is often the most expensive long-term decision they can make. If you’re currently renting and considering your next move, especially in today’s market, it’s time to seriously evaluate the benefits of homeownership—particularly with new construction opportunities from Turlington Homes. With homes starting in the $180s, first-time homebuyers have a realistic and achievable path to ownership—and a smarter financial future. Renting vs. Buying: The Real Financial Difference When you rent, your monthly payment builds zero equity. You are effectively paying your landlord’s mortgage, not your own. When you buy, every payment contributes to: Building equity Increasing your net worth Creating long-term financial stability Renting: Monthly payments go to your landlord Rent often increases annually No ownership or return on investment Limited control over your living space Buying: Fixed monthly payments (in most cases) Equity growth over time Property appreciation potential Full control over your home With interest rates and financing programs designed to assist first-time buyers, the gap between renting and owning is smaller than most people think. Why First-Time Buyers Are in a Strong Position Right Now Many buyers assume they need perfect credit, large down payments, or years of savings to purchase a home. That’s simply not the case anymore. First-time homebuyer programs often include: Low down payment options Flexible credit requirements Grant and assistance programs Competitive interest rates Seller or builder incentives Turlington Homes works with buyers to help navigate these programs, making ownership accessible even if you’re just starting your financial journey. The Advantage of Buying New Construction with Turlington Homes Not all homes are created equal. One of the biggest advantages of choosing Turlington Homes is that you are purchasing brand new construction, not inheriting someone else’s problems. What that means for you: No costly repairs or outdated systems Energy-efficient construction (lower utility bills) Modern layouts designed for today’s lifestyle Builder-backed quality and reliability Instead of worrying about replacing a roof, furnace, or plumbing, you can focus on enjoying your home. Designed for First-Time Homebuyers Turlington Homes offers thoughtfully designed models that balance affordability, comfort, and style. Prairie Ranch Model Approximately 1,200 sq ft 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms Single-story living Optional garage Perfect for buyers looking for low maintenance and efficient living. Barclay Model (Cape Cod Style) Approximately 1,300+ sq ft 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms 1.5-story layout Optional fireplace and garage Ideal for buyers who want character and flexibility in their home design. Southland Model (Modern Farmhouse) Approximately 1,900+ sq ft 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms Two-story home Front and back porches Garage and optional bonus space A great option for growing families or buyers planning for the future. Monthly Payments May Be Closer Than You Think One of the biggest misconceptions is that buying is significantly more expensive than renting. In reality: Rent in many areas is already $1,200–$2,000+ per month Mortgage payments on homes in the $180s can be comparable, depending on financing The key difference? One builds wealth. The other does not. Stability, Control, and Pride of Ownership Beyond finances, homeownership offers something renting never can: Stability for you and your family Freedom to customize your space A sense of accomplishment and pride Long-term security You’re no longer subject to lease renewals, rent increases, or landlord restrictions. Why Act Now? Waiting often costs more than acting. Home prices tend to increase over time Rent continues to rise Interest rates fluctuate Opportunities for incentives may not last Buying now allows you to lock in your cost of living and start building equity immediately. Turlington Homes Makes the Process Simple For first-time buyers, the process can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Turlington Homes works with you every step of the way: Guidance through financing options Assistance with first-time buyer programs Transparent pricing and model selection Streamlined building and closing process The goal is simple: make homeownership achievable and stress-free. Take the First Step Toward Ownership If you’re currently renting, ask yourself one question: Do you want to keep paying someone else’s mortgage—or start building your own future? With affordable pricing, modern designs, and first-time buyer support, Turlington Homes offers a clear path forward. Start Your Journey Today Visit www.turlingtonhomes.com to explore available models, learn about financing options, and take the first step toward owning your home. Turlington Homes You Dream It. You Design It. We Build It. You Live It.

The First-Time Homebuyer Blueprint: How to Own a New Home Starting in the $180s

March 16, 2026
Presented by Turlington Homes | Global Real Estate Development
More Posts