Preserve positive legacy for our children

Open space plays an important role in preserving our quality of life. People expect their homes to be good investments for their future. We value clean water, clean air and a healthy environment, and we love to hike, bike, camp, fish and enjoy natural areas minutes from home.

On April 4, voters will be asked to support a $50 million bond referendum allowing the Forest Preserve District of Kane County to expand and connect existing preserves, create trails, and preserve wildlife habitat on land along rivers and streams with the purchase of an additional 2,000 acres of open space.

The good news is taxpayers will see their taxes go down on savings from bond payoffs and refinancing, making support of this referendum even easier. Homes valued at $250,000 will see a permanent tax reduction of $102 over the next two years.

The referendum will cost about $1.83 each month for a home with that value. That's just $22 a year. So by investing in the environment, you'll still see your taxes go down $80 every year (instead of $102), while also preserving an additional 2,000 acres of open space for families and future generations.

Everyone benefits from open space, whether you use the forest preserves or not. Open space improves our water and air quality, helps alleviate flooding, and helps reduce traffic congestion and noise pollution.

Please help preserve a positive legacy for our children by voting "yes."

Patricia Piper Golden

West Dundee