IL SB1499

Forest preserve districts gain authority to acquire land through easements in addition to fee simple ownership for creating and maintaining forest preserves.

Districts may acquire easements for consolidating preserves into unit areas, connecting preserves with forested ways or links, and acquiring land along water courses and adjacent to forest preserves.

Forest preserve district property and property subject to conservation easements or conservation rights granted to the district become protected from eminent domain or condemnation proceedings.

Districts retain existing powers to lease up to 40 acres to veterans' organizations or counties, grant licenses and easements for public utilities, and vacate streets or driveways within forest preserves with 3/4 board approval.