Schaumburg manager replies to letter

This letter responds to one from Schaumburg resident Antonella Iacoviello, published Jan. 9.Regarding your concerns about rising property taxes, Schaumburg#146;s airport, increased spending and employee compensation:

In 2009 the village enacted its first property tax. The village board has decreased that tax every year since, keeping its rate significantly lower than its eight surrounding communities.

A major factor for property tax increases was the decrease in assessment of commercial properties, shifting their tax burden onto residents. This Daily Herald article discusses this in greater detail: dailyherald.com/article/20110922/news/709229811/.

As for the airport, no tax dollars fund it. Charges for airport services pay for operations. Like all other public properties, it is tax exempt. Businesses there pay property taxes just as any other business in town. The positive economic impact of the airport is $16.5 million annually.

Regarding spending and compensation, since 2003 the village has eliminated over 120 full time positions and numerous part time positions.

Saying that the village increased spending by $30.7 million is misleading. When all village funds are considered, spending rose in the General Fund by $8.1 million. Many village funds are restricted, and revenues received in one year may be spent in another year, giving the impression that overall expenditures have increased.

In fact the general fund experienced a surplus which was used to replenish reserves depleted during the height of the recession.

The village completed a two-year study to revise nonunion employees#146; compensation insuring salary levels are not out of sync with prevailing wages in the public and private sector. On Nov. 22 the board approved the new plan.

I hope this helps you understand the issues the village has faced and continues to face to provide its residents the best community it can to live, work and play.

Ken Fritz

Schaumburg village manager