Get voter input on Mitchell property

Because Naperville Unit District 203 needs to decide on a plan for Naperville Central High School, discussion about the best use of the property that has come to Naperville through Caroline Martin Mitchell's will has reached a critical point.

Having observed the Sept. 20 presentation by Houseal Lavigne Associates of two options for the development of the property, the League of Women Voters urges the city, park district and School District 203 to seek voter input without delay on this urgent and far-reaching public decision.

In our view, the proposals offered at this meeting were inappropriately limited. The two plans offered that night were based on selective interviews with an "oversight committee" created on the basis of criteria that were too narrow. Members of the entire community are stakeholders in the complex decisions being made about this parcel of land, which is a Naperville treasure, and about essential community services and institutions.

It is clear that this view is shared by others, including elected officials, who directed the consulting firm to distribute to them all options that had been developed, not just the two plans presented that night.

This is a step in the right direction.

Now we need to see clear, publicized and ample opportunities for public comment before each of the primary government bodies. Open democratic discussion is vital to public trust in government.

The League of Women Voters urges the Naperville City Council, Naperville Park District Commissioners and the District 203 board of education to actively seek dialogue with all stakeholders on the best use of this irreplaceable acreage.

Judith Brodhead

President, League of Women Voters of Naperville