Bad idea before is still a bad idea now

In checking the July 6th agenda for the meeting of the Wheeling Village Board, I was dismayed to see "Discussion of Village-Owned South Milwaukee Avenue Parcels" listed. Witnessing the actual staff presentation and board response was even more discouraging.

This resurrection of a presentation made years ago made no more sense this time around. In its determination to develop this site, no matter how inappropriate, the village is grasping at straws to make this proposal look good.

The land at 635-769 S. Milwaukee Ave., along the Des Plaines River, was acquired by the village when the buildings there were removed. It is located in both the flood plain and floodway. Previous elected officials had seen this acquisition as an opportunity to preserve open space and provide a pleasant vista to those entering the village.

The village president is quoted as saying that doing something is smarter than doing nothing. Even when that "something" is not in the best interests of the residents? Doing "something" involves a expenditure of additional village funds to attract a private developer. The building pads, the clay to raise them, and an underground sewer system are estimated to cost $850,000. It must be rushed, we are told, to prevent the village from having to comply with new state and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District regulations.

The state and MWRD spent years of study and research to determine the best practices for protecting the residents, businesses, and property in the region from flooding damage. They enlisted environmentalists, engineers, elected officials and concerned citizens to help identify effective and reasonable requirements.

Once in the forefront of responsible stormwater management, it is disheartening to see the village rush into a development so clearly in conflict with best management practices. I sincerely hope that the village will reconsider this issue.

Sheila H. Schultz

Wheeling