WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Darin LaHood introduced H.R. 5708 yesterday, which would convey a one-acre parcel of land in Quincy, Illinois to the American Legion Post #37 from land currently owned by the General Services Administration (GSA).
“Over 60 years ago, the Quincy American Legion generously donated this parcel of land to the US government and now that the government no longer has a need for this property, it is appropriate that a small portion of this land be returned to the local American Legion to help in their mission to serve all veterans in the Quincy area,” stated Rep. LaHood. “I am happy to introduce this legislation this week to begin the process in transferring this parcel back to dedicated veterans within our Quincy community and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to efficiently pass this bill.”
“I applaud Congressman LaHood for his continued support and advocacy for our veteran community. By introducing this legislation, the path to providing a larger space and upgraded resources for our local veterans is in sight. It is my hope that this legislation passes swiftly so Post #37 can continue our mission to serve all veterans in the Quincy area,” stated American Legion Post #37 Commander Dale Hill.
“I am very pleased that Congressman LaHood has introduced legislation to return land that the American Legion so graciously gave to the federal government decades ago. The American Legion has outgrown their existing building and a new, modern building will not only help them bring more people through their doors but will give them space to offer services and programs to our veterans,” stated Quincy mayor Kyle Moore.
State Senator Jil Tracy (IL-47) added, “I am grateful that Rep. LaHood is helping the Legion with this issue and working to assist our local veterans. I look forward to working together as a community to best serve our veterans.”
“I stand in full support of Rep. LaHood’s effort to convey a parcel of land from the old Army Reserve Center back to Post #37. I look forward to working together to put our veterans first,” said State Representative Randy Frese (IL-94).
Background on the Quincy American Legion Land Transfer:
- In 1956, the Quincy American Legion donated a 5-acre parcel of land to the US government for an Army Reserve Training Center facility for $1.
- Now, the government no longer needs the facility or land and about seven months ago, returned the land to the General Services Administration (GSA) to dispose.
- Under Federal law, the GSA initiates their processes for disposal of the land that ultimately ends in public auction. Currently there are no other parties interested in acquiring this land.
- However, Members of Congress may introduce legislation to direct the GSA to dispose of land in a specific manner or direct the GSA to parcel land for a specific property transfer.
- This is what this legislation aims to accomplish. While the bill directs the GSA to parcel one acre, it does not interfere the GSA’s process to sell the remainder of the land.
