Campton Hills plan is working

My husband and I moved into the St. Charles area over 20 years ago. We moved out of St. Charles proper to our current home 11 years ago because we wanted space and a more rural atmosphere. We have found that here.

However, in recent years, we have seen the unchecked growth by developers as we drive through the area. Land that was once open is being drastically changed with rows upon rows of houses. Staying unincorporated allowed for little regulation of growth. It also did not give the residents a say in the raising of taxes. Now, as a village, the only way taxes can be raised is if we, the residents, vote for them.

I have listened at meetings and read the issues involved in the Campton Hills controversy, and have come away with these observations.

I rarely saw a Sheriff's Police car in the area. Since the police force was hired, I have seen the Campton Hills' Police numerous times on the roads. This is a definite positive as it relates to the safety of all of us, even though I saw them giving tickets that is the price of safety.

I also know that the cost for educating the future leaders will go up because we want good schools. This will occur whether or not Campton Hills continues as a village. With unregulated growth, taxes will go up at a faster pace.

I am not opposed to development if it is controlled. A municipality can determine how the land is used, set zoning, put regulations on developers and receive tax money that normally would go to the county flow instead to the municipality. I have also observed that those who are trying to make the Village of Campton Hills a success have an interest only in preserving the lifestyle that many who moved here wish to maintain. They are not looking for financial gain or for lining their pockets.

I have seen and heard the current leadership try to answer questions in a respectful manner even when those in opposition are rude and appear to be present not to listen and get questions answered but to demean and bully those in leadership. In April, the residents voted to become the Village of Campton Hills. The decision of the voters should be final. I am firm in my belief that the Village of Campton Hills is best for us all.

Joanna Medwick

Campton Hills