Carol Stream Park District eyes rec center referendum question

Carol Stream Park District officials are expected to discuss a possible $30 million to $40 million referendum proposal Monday that would allow them to build a recreation center and indoor pool, as well as an off-leash dog park and trail improvements.

Director of Marketing Services Julie Vogl said Wednesday that residents have consistently supported the idea of a new rec center as long as their tax rate doesn't increase.

"We have heard the citizens of the community's input," she said. "These are some tough economic times right now. We're making sure we're proceeding with the community's blessing."

Park commissioners will meet at 7 p.m. Monday at the Aldrin Community Center in Armstrong Park, 391 Illini Drive.

The district has held several community forums and conducted a survey that Vogl said shows "overwhelming" support for the plan. The recreation center would include an indoor pool and multi-court gymnasium. It also would have exercise equipment to be used by residents.

Vogl said officials hoped to raise the money by refinancing bonds at a lower level as well as issuing new ones. She said residents' tax rates would remain unchanged.

A steering committee of district residents has worked for the past 18 months to offer its input. It presented its results to the commission Oct. 26.

The group recommended moving forward with the plans.

"The steering committee did a great job providing information," board Vice President Tim Powers said. "There's pretty much an agreement that they want us to pursue this referendum."

The location for the recreation center has not been decided, although surveys have helped focus the possibilities to four locations. The preferred site at the Town Center at the corner of Lies Road and Gary Avenue, however, is owned by the village.

"These are real needs that people have," Vogl said. "It's affordable recreation. It appears to be something the community wants."