DIY alternative to proposed Libertyville tax hike suggested
A do-it-yourself suggestion involving ponds that hold stormwater could offset the need for a proposed tax increase in one Libertyville neighborhood.
Although switching responsibility to residents for three ponds in the Timber Creek subdivision is a longshot, research is underway to see if it is feasible.
"We want to do some fact finding on that," said Brad Jones, one of several residents who attended a public hearing Tuesday on the proposed tax levy. One aspect to be determined is whether the move would require the approval of all 68 homeowners.
"The practical feasibility of doing that is pretty low (but) we do want to entertain the idea and see what's involved," he added.
Timber Creek and Concord at Interlaken are two special service areas subject to an added village tax to fund upkeep, repair and other costs associated with the ponds.
During a discussion Nov. 3, village officials suggested a 33 percent increase in the tax levies for both to begin building a cushion or for potentially costly future work. That strategy is one of several actions that have been taken or are being considered by the village to minimize flooding throughout town.
As proposed, the increase would amount to $85 per lot in Interlaken. In Timber Creek, the increase would be about $99 for a $500,000 home. The 33 percent amount was selected as a way to fund an engineering study of the basins for three years.
"That didn't sit well," said Jones who was among more than a dozen residents who attended the public hearing. No one from Interlaken addressed the board.
"They're asking us to spend one third of the surplus that's already there to tell us how much more we need to put into our fund," Jones said.
On average, he added, the current tax generates a surplus of about $8,000 each year. According to the village, there will be a $58,910 balance in the Timber Creek fund as of April 30. Jones noted a $22,000 pond aeration project completed this year is not a typical expense.
"They just were wondering (about) the timing of it - is there something wrong with our ponds that you need to do this now?" explained Village Administrator Chris Clark.
"We're somewhat focused on making sure our ponds are in good order so we don't have issues moving forward with storms," he added.
The village board is willing to consider transferring responsibility for the ponds and may delay the levy increase if there is serious interest from residents. Votes on the special service levies are expected Dec. 12.
"We need to understand the legal aspect of folding up an SSA or two. If the neighbors are open to it, we'd definitely like to get out of the business," Clark said.
The village board on Nov. 28 will vote on the corporate tax levy, which funds day to day operations. If approved, the owner of a home valued at $500,000 would pay about $16 more than last year. No one spoke on the proposal during the public hearing Tuesday.