Some facts on new FRG garage

There are many false ideas being floated around Fox River Grove regarding the public works garage, which is needed in anticipation of the IEPA regulations about clean water going into the Fox River.

Here are some real facts:

The facility is needed to protect the vehicles that keep the streets repaired, etc. The village is in good financial shape. That is why it received a AA Bond Rating and did not have to cut back services or lay off people like other local governments.

A pole barn will not last as long, and so dollar for dollar the pre-cast concrete wall panels are a better value. The cost is reasonable. For example, the new train depot with two shelters and extended platform will also cost approximately $3 million.

Nearby residents want a reasonably attractive building. The area is not a swamp.

As taxpayers, and as your elected officials, we did research the space needs, locations and design options for the facility over a period of many years without finding a good alternative.

The village does not have 99 vehicles. It has a combination of vehicles and equipment close to 99.

The majority of the cost is being repaid by water and sewer funds. The cost to residents who do use the village water and sewer system is offset by the use of this system by the Lake Barrington Industrial Park and Good Shepherd Hospital.

The bonds are part of the Build America Bond Program with very low interest rates and a 35-percent rebate on the interest paid. Construction costs are at a low point at this time. To build later would be much more expensive to the taxpayers of Fox River Grove.

Gerald D. Menzel

Trustee

Fox River Grove