D211 should rethink approach to finances

As a result of a recent taxpayer protest against another escalating tax increase, the District Board 211 stated it was time to vote on a discussion of a strategic plan during their next January meeting.

I find it puzzling that a strategic plan has just now been considered, something a board is supposed to be doing all along as good stewards of our tax dollars. The board states that by not raising taxes (1.7 percent over the levy) the district would suffer a compound loss of $19 million within five years - what they don't state is the compounding gain they will realize over five years with the automatic increases, not to mention inordinately high reserve funds far beyond the 30 percent practical ratio of reserve funds.

The board is also cautious of SB16 impact which has a proposed weighted formula that will likely place District 211 (with such a high reserve) in an unfavorable position with the ability to pay MORE.

I would like to applaud the one lone "no" vote by one of the longer seated board members. The election for new board members comes around in April and I encourage taxpayers to seek out candidates that can change a pattern that has become far too repetitive and painful for residents that want to remain in the district. The power of your vote is the only viable option for real change.

Gerald Bromley

Schaumburg