MJ Illinois LLC sets the record straight on Riverview Plaza

Company calls for release of escrowed repair funds, authorization of the final sprinkler test, and equal treatment under the law.

PEORIA, IL — MJ Illinois LLC, owner of Riverview Plaza at 411 Hamilton Boulevard, responds to recent news coverage that the company believes has presented a one-sided and materially incomplete picture of the situation at the building.

MJ Illinois welcomes scrutiny, but asks that scrutiny be applied to all of the facts. The following points reflect the company’s position as of the date of this release.

The company’s stated facts

Sprinkler work

MJ Illinois states that the fire-suppression repair has been completed and paid for, with the fill and final water test remaining.

Fire-alarm scope

The company states that an initial panel-replacement estimate of approximately $140,000 expanded into a building-wide system requirement costing roughly $700,000.

Construction escrow

MJ Illinois states that it deposited $500,000 into a court-supervised construction escrow and that approximately $350,000 remained in the account when this statement was issued.

Electrical evaluation

The company states that a NETA-certified testing firm found the main breaker usable and that MJ Illinois retained an independent engineer at its own expense.

Building occupancy

MJ Illinois denies that the building has been operated as a residence and states that people present were connected to security or construction work.

Contractor access

The company raises concerns about contractor choice, costs, and what it describes as pressure affecting outside contractors.

Enforcement

MJ Illinois requests consistent code standards, timelines, and vendor freedom comparable to other downtown properties.

“We did not walk away from this building—we have been trying to finish it. We are asking the City to let us finish, and we are asking the media to report the whole story, not just the City’s side of it.”Dr. Paul J. Kim, speaking for MJ Illinois LLC

What MJ Illinois is asking for

Authorize the final sprinkler fill and water test.
Release escrowed funds for approved repair work.
Apply consistent code standards, timelines, and contractor freedom.

MJ Illinois states that the company and its ownership have spent, deposited, or committed more than two million dollars toward the property’s restoration and remain committed to reopening it.

Documentation

MJ Illinois states that supporting documentation—including escrow accounting, electrical testing, contractor records, phased construction planning, and correspondence with public officials—is available to journalists upon request.