Former Joliet Councilman Named in Federal Housing Discrimination Case Still Holds Public Office

A 2011 U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit documented inflammatory remarks attributed to a former Joliet councilman about predominantly African American residents. Today, he serves as Will County Treasurer.

JolietVotes | On the Record | October 28, 2026

In August 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a housing discrimination lawsuit against the City of Joliet over its attempt to condemn Evergreen Terrace, a 356-unit affordable housing complex where approximately 95.6% of residents were African American.

The federal complaint cited remarks attributed to then-Councilman **Tim Brophy**, who allegedly referred to residents as "rats" and "rats from Robert Taylor Homes" during discussions with federal housing officials.

The complaint also referenced statements from former Mayor Arthur Schultz advocating for the elimination of the development and relocation of its tenants.

What happened to the case?

The Justice Department argued that Joliet's actions threatened to displace hundreds of predominantly Black residents and could violate federal housing protections.

In November 2013, the federal government and Joliet reached a settlement establishing affordable housing protections.

However, in separate condemnation litigation, a federal court ruled in Joliet's favor in 2014. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that decision in 2016, finding insufficient evidence to establish that the City Council's condemnation decision was racially discriminatory.

The lawsuit did not result in a criminal conviction of Brophy or other city officials.

Where is Tim Brophy today?

As of October 2026, Brophy continues serving in positions of public authority:

- **Will County Treasurer**, an elected countywide office.
- **Chairman of the Joliet Arsenal Development Authority**, an organization involved in regional economic development.
- **Executive committee member of the Joliet City Center Partnership.**

He is also listed as an incumbent candidate for Will County Treasurer in the November 3, 2026 election.

Why this matters

The Evergreen Terrace controversy remains part of Joliet's public record, raising questions about racial equity, affordable housing, government accountability, and the standards expected of elected officials.

The legal record distinguishes allegations made against the city from the courts' ultimate findings. It also preserves statements attributed to an official who continues serving in government.

**Should past statements documented in federal litigation remain part of how residents evaluate public officials today?**