Watching out for aesthetics of Lilacia Park

In November 2016 the residents voted for a tax increase for the Lombard library. Nowhere on the ballot did it mention a building or a location. I want the library and park boards to work together for a solution that is good for all residents. I don't see a need to have pro-park or pro-library people. I am pro-Lombard.

The international lilac society has called Lilacia Park the best cared for and highest quality lilac collection in the world. To dismiss any part of the collection as unimportant is an uninformed opinion.

The air rights are there to keep the property in the light and to keep the size of the neighboring building in proportion to the size of the park. The sound aesthetics are important as not to have a solid wall for the sound of the train to bounce off. I am concerned about not only the view into the park, but the view looking out from the park. Then I picture a 30-foot brick wall along Maple St. - that is not a good look for anyone. The density and size of the proposed building doesn't fit at the current parcel.

The park district has given land to the library for the building, land for the addition in 1977 and the driveway in 2007. To maintain the integrity of the park we do not desire to give up any more property.

The 1977 agreement was specifically designed to ensure that for the future, the view, aesthetics, integrity and beauty of Lilacia Park remain. The previous park board and library board thought the "property and air right" agreement was proper then and I believe the intent and spirit of that agreement was to look out for the best interests of the future. I will honor that agreement.

Dave Kundrot

President, Lombard park board