Fox Valley parks lowers tax hike request

Hoping to avoid a case of "sticker shock," Fox Valley Park District leaders cut their initial request for a $57 million tax increase to $44.8 million.

Trustees on Monday made the request official, voting unanimously -- and with virtually no discussion -- to place it on the Feb. 5 ballot.

Last month, leaders indicated they wanted to seek a $57 million tax increase to help pay for an estimated $71 million list of capital projects.

Their funds are nearly depleted, they said, and they're at a crossroads where facilities will continue to deteriorate unless they can find more money.

But after taking a closer look at costs, leaders were able to shave off about $12 million from their first plan.

That amount includes $3 million planned for aquatic park improvements. That work still could be done, leaders said, but funds will have to come from other revenue sources.

"If people see too big of a number, there could be sticker shock," said Executive Director Steve Messerli.

A district study also had showed residents would support a tax increase in the $30 million to $40 million range, he said. The $45 million request is easier to sell, he said.

The money would help pay for buying open land, improving regional trails, updating parks, renovating athletic fields and expanding Blackberry Farm.

About $22.5 million will be devoted to land, open space and trail and nature area projects. And $22.3 million will be devoted to park and recreation projects.

If the request is approved, the owner of a $200,000 home will pay an extra $24 a year, or $2 a month. The owner of a $250,000 home will pay an extra $30 a year.

"I'm very comfortable moving forward with this amount," Trustee Linda Cole said. "It's up to the residents of the park district now to work toward achieving it."

Several people spoke in favor of the increase, including Tim Pollowy, who said now's a great time to build. "I'd support the first amount," he said. "I hope the public gets on board."

History has shown voters are willing to pay to preserve open space, Brook McDonald of the Conservation Foundation said. And their tolerance seems to hover around $2 a month, he said.

A separate resident group will push for the referendum, Messerli said. Meanwhile, district leaders will launch a public relations campaign and send informational brochures to residents.