OREGON – The Ogle County Board will continue looking into the possibility of accepting the Laredo Taft property from Northern Illinois University, despite several board members raising concerns about the cost and the county’s other priorities. Board Chairman Bruce Larson asked for consensus during Tuesday’s meeting on whether to continue exploring the property and said no taxpayer money would be committed at this time. Several board members said they did not support the county taking on the property, citing existing county needs, deferred maintenance and potential costs.
Others said the county should investigate available grants and other funding sources before making a final decision. Larson said an ad hoc committee or work group will examine the property’s potential uses, costs, funding options and possible partners. NIU has been exploring options for the future of the property after permanently closing the campus in December 2024. The Rock River property near Oregon was once home to the Eagle’s Nest Art Colony and later served as an outdoor education center.