Endorsement: Yes to improve Bloomingdale parks facilities: Yes
On Nov. 8, voters will be asked to support Bloomingdale Park District's request to borrow $9.9 million to repair and improve three facilities.
District officials have long wanted to repair and improve the Springfield Park ball fields and wetlands, Oasis Water Park and the Johnston Recreation Center. If voters authorize the district's request, their property tax bill would increase by about $66 a year for the owner of a home worth $246,500, the median value of a Bloomingdale house.
Renovating the rec center for seniors, child care and security issues, along with fixing ballpark flooding and protecting local wet lands, are pressing issues that won't go away. Sixty-six dollars a year is a small price to pay for important repairs and updates.
The district has responsible fiscal management and disciplined spending. Officials have done their research with surveys and community discussions, and they've developed a strategic plan that is well thought-out, smart and reasonable. We recommend a "yes" vote.