Big dividends on our quality of life

I am writing in support of the Kane County Forest Preserve Land Preservation and Preserve Improvement referendum on April 4.

It wasn't that long ago this area was more rural and less developed. The widespread congestion we have now is a stark reminder of the rapid changes Kane County has undergone in recent years, to the point where we now face increased flooding, depletion of our underground water supplies, a shortage of open space, and higher taxes for schools and roads.

Now we have the opportunity to make a very small investment - only $1.83 per month ($22/year) - that will pay big dividends in our quality of life. The Kane Forest Preserve District is lowering property taxes at the same time due to their responsible financial management. So even if this referendum passes, our forest preserve tax bills still will be going down significantly, while preserving an additional 2,000 acres of open space to be enjoyed by our families and future generations.

This $50 million bond will be paid off in 20 years and will be used for increasing wildlife habitat particularly along rivers and streams, increasing aquifer recharge, and adding to existing forest preserves for more outdoor recreation for us all.

Land prices remain at bargain levels, so it is with a sense of urgency that I suggest that now is the time to catch up to the other counties in the Chicago Metropolitan area, all of which have more forest preserve land than Kane does.

Jon Duerr

St. Charles