Campton Hills critical of Elgin library annexation

Campton Hills officials were critical Tuesday of the Gail Borden Library's recent annexation of about 350 uninhabited acres just outside the village limits.

Village President Patsy Smith said that while legal, the annexation by the Elgin library district amounted to acquiring new, taxable properties without input from the owners.

"Basically, what we're looking at is taxation without representation," Smith said at a village board meeting. "They went around all the homes."

The annexed property is along Silver Glen and McDonald Roads and includes parts of Campton and Plato Township. The historic Corron Farm in Campton Township is among the parcels.

Denise Raleigh, the library's marketing manager, said the annexation targeted uninhabited areas that would add continuity to the library boundaries, and allow residents who are nearby to latch on if they want. Annexing vacant property did not require owner approval, although future development will be subject to library taxes.

"We truly believe everybody should have access to library services, especially in a time like this," Raleigh said. "We've experienced tremendous growth."

But Campton Hills officials said residents in the area have previously rejected the idea of forming or joining a library district in an effort to keep taxes low.

By annexing only uninhabited areas, Smith said, the library avoided having to get permission from the property owners, according to state law. She said none of the affected parties was notified.

"People in our area have chosen not to annex into a library district," Smith said.

She added she worries the annexation "will start a library war between Gail Borden and St. Charles' library district."