Appeals court affirms South Beloit Garden Hotel demolition, officials rejoice

SOUTH BELOIT, Ill. (WTVO) — The Illinois Appellate Court of the Fourth District ruled in favor of the City of South Beloit’s request for the Garden Hotel to be demolished on Wednesday.

City administrators rejoiced and said they see victory on the horizon.

“2025 is the year for the city to finally gain control,” said City of South Beloit Administrator Sonya Hoppes.

Hoppes said uncertainty began to swirl when the owners, New Chapter Group, appealed a demolition order by Winnebago County that was given in 2024.

“It seems a little confusing having a decision upheld on a demolition process that’s already taken place. But the truth is that that’s just part of the legal process,” said Hoppes. “Anybody can challenge a ruling. And so it is an intimidating thing to have your decision be challenged at the appellate level. But for a small town, this is a huge win.”

City officials explained why the corner where the decaying hotel sits is so important.

“That corner is critical for all of us. It’s a heavily trafficked corner,” Hoppes continued. “There’s just too many moving parts right now to let that continue to be in disrepair.”

Local business owners expressed how thrilled they are about the court ruling.

“We’re thrilled. I mean, this has been an eyesore and an issue for years,” said Chuck Persico of Angela’s Antique Mall. “We’ve owned Angela’s for 18 years, so to see something happening is great. Now, I hope they can get a business in here to actually operate it again.”

Hoppes said the current vision is to turn the property into a mixed-use site.

“That’s the gateway to the city of Beloit. It’s the gateway to South Beloit. It’s the primary exit off of exit one to get to the downtown area,” said Hoppe. “We’re just looking forward to putting some pieces together, bringing some partners to the table, and getting something in that corridor.”

The city said they expect to gain control of the property by fall 2025, with building plans in 2026.