Journal Editor

A former Des Plaines city attorney has been called on by city officials to help iron-out problems involving the billboard controversy.

Lawyer Mat DeLort and Des Plaines City Attorney Dave Wiltse have had some discussions in recent days about the city's involvement in the issuance of billboard rights and permits. DeLort, who served as interim city attorney before Wiltse was hired about 10 years ago, represented Des Plaines in a case involving the issuance of billboard permits in the city in the late 1980s and 90s. That case ended up in the Illinois Supreme Court and resulted in the city having to allow fewer billboards than what was previously agreed to.

City Manager Dave Niemeyer said DeLort's involvement is to offer the city an "outside opinion" on the billboard matter. He said DeLort is expected to issue a report on his findings.

A few Des Plaines aldermen recently suggested that DeLort be contacted.

Wiltse declined to comment on what specifically DeLort is looking into. Des Plaines council members Monday night met in a closed-to-the-public executive session to discuss the potential for litigation over the billboard matter. Media giant Viacom, which purchased the right to erect five billboards in the city from Premere Media, Inc., has indicated that it might sue the city if it is not allowed to erect those outdoor advertising signs. Aldermen will meet again on Monday, Nov. 29 to discuss the issue.