$1.7 million given to Bensenville schools

To compensate for Bensenville's declining tax base under the O'Hare Modernization Program, airport officials Monday gave a total of $1.7 million to two area school districts and College of DuPage.

Officials said the contribution represents money from the 2007 tax year that would have been lost due to acquiring land for expanding O'Hare International Airport.

Bensenville Elementary District 2 received more than $1 million, Fenton High School District 100 received more than $600,000 and more than $86,000 went to College of DuPage.

"Progress can be painful," said state Sen. Don Harmon, who worked with state Rep. Angelo "Skip" Saviano to push legislation that brought the money back to Bensenville schools. "But it's good to see people put aside the politics in order to ensure the future of our children."

The O'Hare program acquired its first home in Bensenville in 2006. It now owns the land of 565 homes and businesses, all which would have generated tax revenue for Bensenville schools and College of DuPage. The city of Chicago needs 611 parcels to complete the project that will reduce delays and increase air traffic, said O'Hare program spokeswoman Rosemarie Andolino.

Officials from District 2 and District 100 said they are unsure what specific programs would benefit from the money, but the funds will definitely be applied toward classroom use. College of Dupage will put the money in its general operating fund, said Tom Ryan, vice president of administrative affairs.

"I think it's great (O'Hare) held up their end of the deal," Saviano said. "No matter what you read, the city of Chicago does care about surrounding communities."