Voting For Youth Campus Could Cost Us Less

As a neighbor to the property, I say let’s not be short-sighted about the Youth Campus park potential.

It’s tax season and many, including myself shudder at the words “tax increase”.  Yet, I hope we’re not short-sighted about making the Campus a park.  The tax increase is $72 a year for the average Park Ridge home.  I cannot think of anywhere else I could spend $72 that would provide as great a long term return.

Some believe that houses on the land would provide a better return. There is significant evidence that documents  the opposite to be true - homes do generate tax revenue yet the cost of providing public services, schooling and infrastructure to these developments often exceeds the tax revenue they generate for their municipality.

Whereas parks bring value as a place for family and neighbors to come together. They beautify the area and are proven to increase neighborhood desirability and property values.

This is the last piece of undeveloped land of its size and quality in our area. Are we willing to lose it for $72? I encourage everyone to temper the natural reaction of “no tax increase no matter what” and to consider the economic, environmental, historical and community value of keeping this asset.

Next year, heck in 10, 20 years, I guarantee we will still be complaining about taxes but I hope we’ll have this beautiful park to enjoy.

Gemma Bolech

Park Ridge