Endorsement: Addison aquatic center

There's a vision for a new Addison featuring a charming downtown that will lure people with shopping, eateries and gathering spots like the public library and a place for events or evening strolls. The idea is to improve the town image and provide amenities that bring the community together. It would also improve property values and generate new tax revenue.

The plan calls for removing an existing 35-year-old pool to transform Community Park into that central gathering location. The current pool provides the basics: a place to swim and play on summer days. The slides are closed because they need repairs. It's an older pool, so it doesn't offer the amenities at water parks in nearby Bloomingdale or Itasca.

The Addison Park District is asking voters for permission to borrow $14 million to build a new aquatic center at Centennial Park adding amenities like slides, a lazy river and wheelchair-accessible zero-depth entrance. The request also includes a regulation-size turf field and two smaller grass fields. The turf field also would be accessible to those with disabilities.

The proposal would cost the owner of a $300,000 house about $66 more in property taxes the first year. These projects will add amenities that will further enhance Addison's image and improve quality of life for those who use them. Still, at a time when the economy may be sliding into recession, we question whether it is the right time to raise taxes for a project that is not essential, at least at this time.

Again, we believe the plan has merit. But the time isn't right to raise taxes for something that, ultimately, is not necessary right now. We recommend a no vote.