I'm voting NO on the Brainerd tax increase

I understand and respect the nostalgia and love of community that motivates the passionate supporters of the Brainerd renovation. Yet, the project must be considered within the context of a community whose taxes are already a heavy burden and an economy not yet fully recovered from a long recession. Libertyville residents pay high property taxes willingly because we value the excellent education provided by our schools and the services provided by the Village. Unfortunately, the supporters of the Brainerd renovation haven't proven that this expensive project is even needed, and neither can they guarantee that it will eventually be self-supporting. And if it can't attract tenants and rental business, the Village will be left paying the $11.5 million loan back (plus interest) out of its general fund. We are already paying for an ill-conceived Sports Complex, compliments of some of the same folks who are supporting the Brainerd tax hike. Libertyville taxpayers must vote NO on March 18 because nostalgia just isn't a good enough reason to pay millions for a project that isn't needed and whose numbers just don't add up. Especially in light of the money that is going to be needed to fix all the potholes in our roads.
Ellen Jennings
Libertyville, IL