GLENCOE RESIDENTS TO DETERMINE FUTURE OF PARKS WITH $14.7 MILLION BOND REFERENDUM IN NOVEMBER 2024 BALLOT
Residents of Glencoe are facing a decision that will shape the future of their community's parks and facilities. A $14.7 million bond referendum will appear on the November 2024 ballot, tantalizing voters with visions of updated playgrounds, improved accessibility, and modernized maintenance facilities. According to the Chicago Tribune, the Glencoe Park District Board unanimously voted on July 17 to put the 25-year bond sale referendum to a vote, aiming to enhance the district without increasing property taxes.
The bond proposal intends to robustly replace aging infrastructure without adding additional tax burdens. "The proposed bond referendum would protect and improve some of our most important assets," Lisa Sheppard, Park District Executive Director, told the Chicago Tribune. The existing bonds for the 2005 Takiff Center renovation are due to be retired next year and officials are batting for the idea that it's better to act now than later when costs could escalate. Meanwhile, residents ponder whether these upgrades necessitate the hefty price tag, especially when they could see a decrease in taxes if the bond doesn't pass.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of Glencoe Park District's approach as highlighted by The Record North Shore. Park officials considered the feedback from numerous community meetings and concluded to keep the current proposed projects in the referendum. Responses collected through various forums showed that 72% support the current form of the bond, with a mail survey indicating that Glencoe Beach is a top priority for renovators, while projects like Perlman Boating Beach and the greenhouse at Shelton Park ranked lower on the community's wish list.
Debate emerged over what to include in the project list with Friends Park taking center stage. The park, in dire need of a facelift by 2033, has sentimental value as "the park for everybody," Park Board Treasurer Michael Covey explained in a session detailed by The Record North Shore. Ultimately, the board agreed to deliberately move forward without adjusting the slated upgrades, thus holding firm to the initial plan buoyed by strong survey support.
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