Need to evict long term horder tenant in Logan Square neighborhood Chicago

[Mike Nelson]

A friend of a relative has a problem with a long-term (30 year) tenant.  The owner was moved to Florida and "managed" it remotely.  He passed away a few years ago and he family in Chicago is managing it.  I understand they have been unsuccessful in evicting the tenant through the court system. He is paying rent, $1,000 for a property worth perhaps $3000, occupying two units.  I assume the property has not been maintained to standards, perhaps that is reason for the extension.  There is a recent "anti-gentrification ordinance in Logan Square", perhaps this is a hurdle.

I suggested a few solutions:  1) talk to a lawyer.  What I am told is no lawyer would take this case, because of the complexity.  2)  Cash for keys.  This has been tried without success.  3)  Try talking to the person.  This has not been successful.  I am not sure about their negotiation skills.   My guess is the tenant is so attached to their stuff and the apartment they cannot visualize leaving.  

I was wondering if the fact that this person is a horder, which might be somehow illegal or hazardous to the tenant or property.  Can a social worker intervene?  Does anyone know of any possible solutions?

[James McGovern]

Go to O block and pay a few residents there to give your tenant a visit