Fox Valley parks plan open houses to explain tax hike request

Fox Valley Park District leaders have big plans for capital projects in the next few years.

But most of those won't get done, leaders say, unless voters approve their request for a $44.8 million tax increase on Feb. 5.

Residents who want to know more about the plans, which include buying open space and updating facilities, will get a chance this month and next.

Leaders have scheduled five public sessions, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., to be held throughout the district. Staff will provide details on projects and answer questions.

Open houses will be:

• Dec. 18 at the Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave. in Aurora.

• Dec. 20 at the Messenger Public Library, 130 Oak St. in North Aurora.

• Jan. 10 at the Eola Community Center, 555 S. Eola Road in Aurora.

• Jan. 16 at the Vaughan Athletic Center, 2121 W. Indian Trail Road in Aurora.

• Jan. 17 at the Montgomery Police Department, 10 Civic Center Ave. in Montgomery.

The 1½-hour sessions will be informal, and residents can come in at any time, Executive Director Steve Messerli said.

"We want to provide an opportunity to see what the district's plans are for open space and park and recreation improvement projects so they can make an informed decision when they go to the polls," he said.

If approved, the request means the owner of a $200,000 home will pay an extra $24 a year.

About $22.5 million will be spent on land, open space and trail and nature area projects. About $22.3 million will go to park and recreation projects. Call (630) 897-0516 for more information.