How can you pass up this land deal?

On Tuesday, we have an opportunity to positively shape the future of our communities by supporting the Kane County Forest Preserve District's $50 million Land Preservation and Preserve Improvement Referendum.

Studies continue to show that natural areas like forest preserves have a positive impact on property values of nearby homes. Studies also show that spending time outdoors has a very positive effect on our mental and physical well-being and overall health. Open space is also the ultimate tax cap. Saving land is often cheaper for taxpayers compared to paying for schools, infrastructure and other public services.

As with any investment, there is a cost- $1.83 each month or $22 a year - for a home valued at $250,000, will allow the Forest Preserve District to purchase an additional 2,000 acres of land to improve the environment, help keep our water clean, and continue to preserve the quality of life in Kane County we all enjoy.

Based on savings from current bond payoffs and refinancing, Kane County homeowners will see their taxes already go down $102 the next two years. That means if this new open space referendum passes, everyone still will see their taxes go down, while also preserving an additional 2,000 acres of protected open space for families and future generations.

How can you pass that up?

Land is being offered for sale at a fraction of the cost from a few years ago. We must act now to preserve the last remaining open spaces and natural lands for our children and grandchildren before the land becomes too expensive again or lost forever.

Join me in charting a beneficial course for our county and legacy for our children by voting "yes" for the Forest Preserve District Land Preservation and Preserve Improvement Referendum on April 4.

Shauna Wiet

Co-Chair, Kane County Neighbors for Open Space, Clean Water and Clean Air

Aurora