Having village more beneficial than not

I have listened carefully to both sides of the village of Campton Hills debate. My opinion is to support the village.

Because of the incorporation, tax money we already pay returns to our area and this funds the village.

We have a police department with a focus on our community. We have a comprehensive plan that gets more money to the schools. We have the ability to plan for growth within our borders.

Incorporation creates paths for revenue not available to the unincorporated township. The village cannot tax without a referendum, though the anti-village people claimed taxes will go up. When they were unable to substantiate that claim, they turned to "fees" as a reason for opposition.

The village and the pro-village candidates have been up front with information and met with the press. The "Free Us" candidates refused to meet with the Daily Herald editorial board. Is this responsible candidate behavior?

Pro-village candidates received endorsement from the Daily Herald.

Voting for Patsy Smith, John Strauss, Jim Kopec, Susan George, Laura Andersen, Mike Millette, Al Lenkaitis Jr. and Karen Dowd will keep our children and families safe, get more impact fees to the schools, preserve our water and do this all without additional taxes.

Karen Kelly-Beith

Campton Hills