What are the referendum projects?
The referendum projects are $37 million of improvements to the Carl Stream Park District, which will include a new recreation center with larger exercise center and indoor track; an indoor pool; more walking and biking trails; lighting for key parks and trails; sports field improvements, including McCaslin Park; development and lights on key fields; an off-leash dog park, and a plan for long-term care and maintenance.
Why have these improvements been planned?
Our community has changed. We have 12,000 more people now than when Simkus Recreation Center was built in 1989 (a 38% increase), and the community’s only indoor pool was permanently shut down in 2006 due to age.
Residents also asked for these improvements. The proposed projects are based on community-wide surveys in 2004 and 2008, and from talking to hundreds of residents in focus groups, public forums and open houses in 2008 and 2009.
Why now in this economy?
Due to the poor economy we will get a lot for the money. Bond rates are extremely low, so this is a great time for a long-term bond issue. Construction prices are also very, very competitive right now.
This referendum will stimulate the local economy – short and long term. The construction of the projects will immediately give work to many local companies and their employees who really need it. The recreation center and pool will create many local jobs – the majority of park district employees are also residents. The recreation center and pool will also pump hundreds of thousands of dollars back into the local economy in the form of purchased equipment, supplies and services. The new amenities and improved sports fields will also attract visitors from neighboring communities for tournaments, games, lessons, and events. This also helps support businesses in the area.
This referendum will make this community an even more desirable place to live. People cite available recreation amenities as one of the key influencers in choosing where to live – whether buying or renting.
What was the result of the referendum in 2010?
The referendum took place on Feb 2, 2010 and passed with a 57% yes vote.
Will these projects mean higher tax payments?
No, this referendum will not increase the annual tax rate that property owners now pay. Property owners will pay the tax for about 10 years beyond the existing current retirement date of 2029. But, the rate of tax paid monthly or annually will remain the same. The plan is being funded with refinanced bonds. We are re-financing and then re-issuing bonds at much lower interest rate, similar to remortgaging your house at a lower rate and taking cash out.
The same technique was used in the 2000 referendum and it worked. The same “no rate increase promise” was made, and in actuality, the rate dropped nearly 10%. The new plan extends payment by several years.
Resident Comments
“I have been a resident of Carol Stream for 11-years, I love our community. I believe that a recreation center such as the one being proposed is just what this community needs! It will be great for kids as well as adults to have a facility like this that can be use year-around. I support this project 100%” – Javier Martinez
“I have been a resident of Carol Stream for 11-years, I love our community. I believe that a recreation center such as the one being proposed is just what this community needs! It will be great for kids as well as adults to have a facility like this that can be use year-around.”
“I am very excited about these improvements and future recreation center. I have always thought the park district in Carol Stream was one of the best. Keep up the good work.”
“I love the idea of lighted paths. It’s perfect for those of us that work but still need to get out after dark in the fall and winter. The more paths the better!”
“I really would like an indoor pool. The indoor track would be great to for running during the winter. Beats the treadmill!”