AutoNation Acquires Four Acres of Land in Libertyville

A national automotive retailer has acquired four acres of land in Libertyville for future expansion, according to a village press release.

AutoNation has purchased land adjoining the site of its subsidiary Libertyville Toyota Scion at 1180 S. Milwaukee Ave. Village officials say Libertyville Toyota Scion is the largest volume dealership in the village.

The expansion will allow the business to house additional inventory and provide expanded services to customers. Information about their specific plans will be released in the coming months, according to the press release.

“This land purchase shows that Libertyville’s Mile of Cars is a strong auto retail area and that Libertyville provides the level of support that allows businesses to thrive,” Mayor Terry Weppler said in a statement. “We are thrilled that AutoNation has made this investment.”

Village officials say they have been working with AutoNation for several years to help meet its site needs and keep its business in Libertyville. As part of the village’s retention efforts, preliminary discussions have been held with AutoNation about its eligibility for incentives.

Libertyville’s car dealers represent about 59 percent of the total sales tax base, which are crucial funds for village operations, according to the release. In 2008, the village designated business districts, which cover the 14 auto dealership properties and provide incentives for the businesses to expand or update their properties.