Naperville referendums merit support

As the chairman Naperville/Aurora Residents for Lower Taxes, I am concerned at the growing amount of misinformation circulating around the advisory referendums concerning Naperville Township road services and consolidation of township services.

I think it's safe to say that no one wants higher taxes. The real estate tax burden endured by the residents of Naperville is at a threshold that we simply cannot take any longer. NARLT was formed this spring to bring awareness to the community and decision-makers that change is needed. Our mission is to show support for the long term consolidation of the Naperville Township highway services as one means of reducing taxes.

Government is a service industry - with the greatest expense being labor, which includes benefits and pensions. If we are to save tax dollars while delivering quality service, responsible government must seek the highest value for labor expenses. The city of Naperville uses 1 employee for every 10 miles of road whereas the township road district uses three employees for every 10 miles. This is because the township oversees 14.8 miles of road compared to the city, which oversees 500-plus miles. The city estimates a potential financial tax savings of over $8 million in the next 10 years if city employees are used to maintain that additional 14.8 miles. It only makes sense to spend that wisely.

The preliminary 2017 city budgets are currently being discussed. As it stands, there are several opportunities to reduce the budgets. This PAC strongly supports all measures necessary to review and reduce the proposed budgets to ensure residents receive a savings on their 2017 real estate tax bill.

Consolidation of government is an opportunity for tax savings. Please support lower real estate taxes for all Naperville Township residents by supporting the advisory referendums.

Mike Isaac

Naperville