Grayslake mayor acted too quickly on tollway

The League of Women Voters - Lake County is disappointed that the mayor of Grayslake did not follow the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Advisory Council regarding the proposed extension of Rt. 53.

From the Blue Ribbon Advisory Council report of June 2012: "Any steps forward with the proposed Illinois Route 53/120 project will involve the local communities of central Lake County as partners. The project shall engage the public and stakeholders at each stage, and opportunities for input and involvement will be tailored to the project stage and level of activity."

The League's own position for transportation and land use also states the need for public education and involvement every step of the planning process.

Impacts on citizens, roads, businesses, schools, and natural resources must be made public. Projects must show cost to each level of government.

The proposed financing and land use in the corridor are very controversial. Residents, taxpayers, school districts, etc., should have been notified and encouraged to provide feedback before the mayor signed Lake County's form letter to the Toll Authority agreeing to move the project forward.

This was a major step, taken without village board approval, or public notice and input.

Mary Mathews

League of Women Voters - Lake County