Our recommendations on Fox Valley referendums
In this economy, government must do what families are doing: live within its means and spend only what's necessary. There are proposals we would have supported in a different economy. This doesn't mean all requests should be rejected; some are important enough that we believe they should be approved even in uncertain times.
Campton Hills
The village has come a long way in its first year as a municipality, though opponents continue to raise concerns there will eventually be new taxes and fees. In the meantime the village has built a police department from scratch, established its own municipal code and land-planning practices and provided residents with consistent services. The village has been guilty of naiveté at times. Leaders have had to redo votes because of inappropriate meeting practices, unfairly placed restrictions on the village clerk (who opposed incorporation) and spent enormous amounts of money fighting property disconnection cases. Overall, the village is off to a good start and it's too early to pull the plug. Vote no on the referendum asking residents to dissolve the village.
Batavia Recreation Center
Asking taxpayers for $36 million during the worst economic downturn in our lifetimes is not prudent. It's also unnecessary debt at a time when people are losing jobs and having difficulty paying day-to-day living expenses. Supporters might say a new rec center will cost you a cup of Starbucks each week to pay for it. Trouble is, a lot of people have already cut out the Starbucks. Don't end pursuit of the project, just shelve it for now. Let the economy settle. This is a want, not a need. The county (you, the taxpayer) just purchased the Fox Valley Ice Arena (which has a decent fitness center). Go work out there if you choose. Timing is everything and right now timing is unfortunate. Vote no.
Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Fire Protection
Vote no to adding two more commissioners to the district's board. Instead, elect trustees who make it to the board meetings.
Huntley Library
Three years ago voters shot down a tax hike. This time, plans are scaled back and less costly. Good choice. We think $5 a month is a fair price to pay for a reasonable expansion of the library. Vote yes.
West Dundee
To try and make up a $350,000 budget shortfall, the village wants a real estate transfer tax ($5 per $1,000) on the purchase of residential and commercial property. The village considered options such as increased property taxes, food and beverage taxes and a fee for garbage collection. This was deemed the most "palatable" for residents. Vote yes.
Sugar Grove Library
Vote yes to approve the request to increase the operating budget. There has been no increase since 1963. Consider this a good investment.
Sugar Grove Fire Protection District
The district wants to build two fire stations, hire personnel and buy new equipment. This is about response time and people's lives. Vote yes.
Cary Park District
The park board again is asking voters to approve the sale of 87 acres of Hoffman Park to pay for an indoor/outdoor sports center, a facility residents have said they wanted. Voters said no in 2007, but if a facility is to be built without further raising taxes, this would seem to be the opportunity. We supported it last year and again say yes.
Nearby referendums
Vote yes for Aurora Township mosquito abatement, Virgil Township roads and Harper College's building and renovation program.