October 1, 2024
Dear editor;
November 5, we will have an opportunity to positively shape the future of our communities by supporting the Kane County Forest Preserve District’s Land Preservation and Preserve Improvement Referendum.
Studies continue to show that natural areas such as forest preserves have a positive impact on property values of nearby homes. Studies show that spending time outdoors has a very positive effect on our mental and physical well-being and overall health. Open space is the ultimate tax cap. Saving land is often cheaper for taxpayers compared to paying for schools, infrastructure and other public services.
As with any investment, there is a cost, but only $3 each month, for a home valued at $360,000. This small investment will allow the Forest Preserve District to purchase additional woodlands, wetlands and prairie lands to improve the environment, help keep our air and water clean, and continue to preserve the quality of life in Kane County we all enjoy.
Based on savings from current forest preserve bond payoffs beginning in 2026, Kane County homeowners will see their taxes go down by $47 in two years. That means if this new referendum passes, everyone still will see their taxes go down beginning in 2026, while also preserving additional open space for families and future generations, and improving our local environment.
How can we pass that up?
With land prices skyrocketing and the amount of natural lands dwindling, we must act now to preserve our last remaining open space for our children and our grandchildren before they are lost to development.
Join me in charting a beneficial course for our county and legacy for our children by voting “yes” for the Forest Preserve District Land Preservation and Preserve Improvement Referendum November 5.
John Hoscheit, Shauna Wiet, co-chairs, Kane County Neighbors for Open Space, Clean Water, and Clean Air