Foundation ready for pool to be a reality

After 40 years in existence, the Wauconda Pool Foundation believes it is closer than ever to the sounds of kids playing in a village pool.

"We're really plugging for it," foundation president Jean Whitely said. "People want it. It's just a matter of making it happen."

And with a ballot initiative approaching on a water park proposal, the foundation donated what remains of its money -- about $190,000 -- to the Wauconda Park District last month.

"It's great to know they're supporting our project," said park Director Nancy Burton, who estimated the foundation has donated nearly $283,600 to make the pool a reality. "They believe in what we're doing."

The proposed water park would include a zero-depth entry area, a "lazy river" with a slow-moving current, water slides, lap lanes, picnic spots and concession areas.

To pay for the entire project, which also would include an expansion of the current park district facility, the park district plans to borrow $12 million.

A referendum request will appear on the Feb. 5 ballot to sell bonds for the project.

If voters approve, the tax rate will increase by about 17 cents per $100 of equalized assessed valuation, according to the park district. The resulting bond would cost the owner of a $265,000 home about $142 per year, the park district said.

An open house at the park district office, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda, is planned for Jan. 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. to discuss the water park proposal and get input from residents.

Whitely said members of the foundation, which has been in existence since 1968, have gotten older and look forward to bringing the facility to a new generation of Wauconda residents.

"They want to see their grandkids in it and they want to see themselves in it," she said. "We really hope the residents come out and support it."