Judge rejects restraining order in mural suit

Posted on June 12, 2019

By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – The 13 artists who filed a federal lawsuit against the Town of Normal to save their Uptown mural have failed at least temporarily to win over the judge.

The artists sought a temporary restraining order blocking demolition of the mural, which decorates the exterior of one of three old buildings set for demolition to make way for the $30 million Trail East project.

However, Judge Joe Billy McDade rejected the request, indicating a restraining order is not necessary because the town pledged to give artists seven days notice before demolition.

The government in prior court filings said the mural will be moved and not demolished. Moving the mural would cost taxpayers about $100,000.

The judge ordered the town and the artists to continue negotiating an out of court settlement.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]

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