Story perspectives

Obama Center Opens, Subcontractors Lose $4 M, Reserve $1 M

6/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Obama Presidential Center opened Friday despite unpaid subcontractor bills.
Adamson Plumbing President Mike Owen said his firm is nearly $4 million in the red after 100 change-order requests and that several Black-owned contractors also face financial difficulty.
Illinois GOP Chairman Bob Grogan warned the foundation has $1 million in reserve while costs are about $40 million.
The foundation replied it complied with the agreement, paid Lakeside Alliance, and has no disputed charges.

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Story summary

The Obama Presidential Center opened Friday despite unpaid subcontractor bills.
Adamson Plumbing President Mike Owen said his firm is nearly $4 million in the red after 100 change-order requests and that several Black-owned contractors also face financial difficulty.
Illinois GOP Chairman Bob Grogan warned the foundation has $1 million in reserve while costs are about $40 million.
The foundation replied it complied with the agreement, paid Lakeside Alliance, and has no disputed charges.