Open house to show details of proposed aquatic center

The last time the Wauconda Park District went to referendum to ask for more tax money to build a pool, the difference between success and failure was just 80 votes.

But with a 2005 study the park district commissioned showing more residents were in favor of creating an outdoor aquatic center, the district decided to roll the dice again.

"We really hope the residents come out and support it," said Jean Whitely, president of the Wauconda Pool Foundation.

The proposed water park would include a zero-depth entry area, a "lazy river" with a slow-moving current, water slides, lap lanes, picnic spots and concession areas.

To pay for the project, which also would expand the current park district facility, the park district plans to borrow $12 million.

A referendum request will appear on the Feb. 5 ballot to sell bonds for the project.

If voters approve it, the tax rate will increase by about 17 cents per $100 of equalized assessed valuation. The resulting bond would cost the owner of a $265,000 home about $142 per year.

Currently, there is no public swimming area in the area other than at nearby lakes. The last referendum on the pool issue came in 2000.

Scott Merrill, a long-time Wauconda resident, said he won't use a pool and doesn't approve of a property tax hike to build one.

"I don't know if there's enough people in the town that would actually benefit," Merrill said. "I just don't think it's appropriate to use my property taxes for that."

Residents on both sides of the issue will have an opportunity to ask questions and weigh in at a park district open house Saturday.

Merrill said he will be there to get more information.

"I'm really looking forward to going to the meeting Saturday," he said. "I really don't know the details on how they plan to run it on an ongoing basis."