Too bad an ice rink can't be included as well. Lots of hockey fans around..

This idea baffles me. Lemont has a great park district and school athletic fields. Homer Glen tried this idea and their building sits empty most of the time.The Soccer complex in Bridgeview is about to go bankrupt. Fast tracking a $21 million dollar project seems reckless at a time when the economy is just starting to come back. What is the hurry? Yes the downtown could use a new business to bring more people to the area. How about a Top Golf driving range? It is a big hit in Schaumberg and wouldn't cost $21 million. You could add some additional playing fields for Soccer and Lacrosse, and in the winter have a nice ice skating rink. maybe even miniature golf and community gardens. Just because you have the ability to raise $21 million through a TiF doesn't mean you should.

Lisa....you're idea is the same type of idea you are criticizing, the only exception is that you want to add golf. This idea has pros and cons on each side. Mr. Reaves is correct about the revenue from traveling sports, my grandchildren have been involved with clubs, and I have witnessed the money exchange firsthand, and it is an awesome figure. However, these clubs are already established and operating in other communities. Lemont would have to attract/and or start up new clubs and operations, and that my friends, would be the hard part. It could be boom, or could be bust.

I can't speak to the alottment of monies, or how they are figured, but it sure as heck appears that Lemont is putting a lot of money into athletics and skipping academics. It makes me wonder where the priorities fall. JMO

Who will run this facility? The Village of Lemont staff?

The village did care about academics. They wanted the referendum to pass. The problem is not the village it is the people. And te academics at the high school is perfectly fine so why not try to help the kids get out get active and stay out of trouble

I would prefer to see some sort of economic development not a sports complex. We need Shops to come in to town generating tax revenue. A lot of our shopping goes out of town to Downers or Orland. With a 21 million incentive I am sure we could get a developer to get something started. We are still paying for the Core which is under utilized.

What on earth will this do for our town? We have Bambrick that is available all the time, the complex on 131st & Bell road, and virtually no activity. Our park district is great, but why spend more funds on things that are already available? In the big picture, its not about the money but the utilization.

How much will it cost to run the faciolity? How much will our property taxes go up?

Can a new and very large sports facility pay for itself? Very questionable and risky.
We should learn a lesson from the Core. It cost the town millions to build and operate. It does not pay for itself. Only a very small percentage of the village uses the Core facility.

Patrick
We need to draw attention to down town lemont. This is the first i have heard of this proposal and i think its a great plan. I agree about the hockey rink, very popular around here, too bad that is not included. You dont want to order food and drinks before the invites go out, you need to invite the crowd then accomidate. Great plan Brian we look forward to seeing it all come together...

I think it was a good investment over all. It will utilize a piece of land that has been an eyesore for years and greatly increase the downtown traffic so some of the businesses may not only make rent but actually produce a decent living and stay and grow. Good job to all those who worked on this. I hope it does well. Amy has a good question. Who will run the complex?

Maybe an ice rink in the future?? There is a lot of land down there and room for expansion.

Mike, the situation downtown will never change. Its landlocked, with a one way in one way out problem. We are also talking a park district build, wherein we already have all the same facilities available now. I see no way this brings anybody into the downtown to spend money. The only people that visit downtown already live here. The car show downtown works well because its a parklike setting. People know they are going to walk the streets in the middle of summer for a reason. Just like going to a baseball game. Kids playing sports isnt condusive to spending money.

Many other communities have tried this with Ice Arenas to no avail:

http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20130126/ISSUE01/301269974/suburban-ice-rink-finances-are-slip-sliding-away

Issuing $22M in bonds for this doesn't seem prudent at this time. What does this potentially do to Lemont's credit rating? Who ultimately bears the risk of this debt if there is a default by the complex? There are 2 competitors that neighbor us with similar facilities in Darien and Homer Glen. Is there room for a 3rd?

No mention of this on the Village website either. It seems if you are going to go public with this information you would put the details somewhere.

Wasn't the CORE just built? Weren't townspeople recently relieved when the schools re-opened facilities to the public for use/rentals? Isn't Central School just sitting there collecting dust AGAIN? Isn't the population declining in the number of children per household? Hasn't the complex in Homer changed hands quite frequently while sitting pretty desolate? What is prompting such quick action here without much thought? Need a better plan of action to attract people to Lemont... Right now, the "baby boomer" generation occupies a huge portion of the surrounding population. Will this attract such people? Maybe to view their grandchildrens' games here and there, but, other than that, will it?

This town is already buried financially. The numbers are from your first tax bill installment reads: Village of Lemont currently has a gross operating budget of $13.7M. It's total debts and liabilities are: $35.7M and their pensions are only 70% funded. That leaves 30% pensions unfunded. The Lemont Park District as a $6.5M budget and their debts and liabilities are $18M. The town of Lemont has an operating budget of $5M and their debts and liabilities are $6.1M. Honestly, do you believe that we have the ability to take a risk that another $21M and the potential for tax increases that the taxpayers are going to have to pay for out of our pockets. Last I checked the economy is still in crumbles and the TIS districts in that area honestly do not have the sales tax to cover for this project and will not as stated in this article. The businesses are closing down there. Which means there is no sales tax revenue coming from that TIS district. This project in essence will be supported in full by the taxpayers. Mayor Reaves and the village administration love to spend money we don't have. Over 10% of Lemont is in poverty. Have there been any projects in the Village or any governmental agency in Lemont that has dropped our taxes? Nope. Remember how we were told the CORE would be self-sustaining? Well, it isn't making money. Look at your tax bill. Take on projects that will DROP taxes. No wonder people won't move here with these disastrous financial decisions.

Hey Mayor Reaves, if you think this is such a great idea, how about putting it on the April ballot and let the townspeople decide. I for one, do not want to be on the hook for $21M.

Our grade school is suffering so much that they have to borrow funds from different departments to pay their bills. We built an athletic center (The Core), which is under utilized so we could be competitive with surrounding communities. We have dozens of empty retail buildings. The condo buildings and parking garage stuck in the middle of downtown Lemont didn't help the downtown area. This Village needs someone doing the planning that actually knows what they are doing. We need to concentrate on what we already have and make it better. Let's help the existing businesses to prosper before we go and build another huge project that most likely will flop. There are so many athletic centers in almost every neighboring town. Not to mention the infrastructure needed to accomodate the extra 650,000 of people to Lemont. That is where are tax dollars come in. You know that this can not be built without our taxes going up somewhere. Don't be naive, this will affect every citizen in this Village financially. We already have fields for soccer, lacrosse and football. We need more? When did academics start taking a back seat to athletics? Wouldn't it be nice to be known as a Village of outstanding education and academics? Our property value would go up if Lemont were known for the exceptional education given to our children. This is a ridiculous idea and urge the citizens of this quaint Village not to allow another commerical facility built that will be a waste of money.

So Mayor Reaves. why the fast track? Did you just come up with this overnight OR did you purposely withhold this proposal until the December petition filing deadline for mayor? By the way, anyone can still file as a write-in candidate until 2/7. This was a definite calculated effort to keep this quiet until the very last minute forcing our hand. This was intentional. As soon as this board approves the project, they will probably have the money in hand within 7-10 days.

Ann, I absolutely agree with all your statements. Let's put it on the ballot. I am tired of my taxes going up. We are taxing people right out of this Village, especially those with fixed incomes. The only people this project will help are the parents who cart their kids all over the state for a soccer league, or the contractors that will build this project. By the way, the general contractor will be Wight because they are always the contractor for all the projects in Lemont. Corruption isn't only in Chicago.
I cannot believe that this decison can be made without a vote to borrow these bonds? This will affect all of us and in a negative way. Sorry Mayor Reaves and the traveling soccer teams, this is a bad idea.

It looks to me just by the comments a majority of people feel this is a bad idea. Do we have the ability to turn this around? I see the next meeting is Feb. 11th, is there anyway to fight this decison? It looks to me like our Village is going to suffer from this terrible decison.

I cant wait to see the impact on traffic in the downtown area. Unless I am missing something, how will people access this ridiculous idea? Driving in AND out on Stephen?

Great idea, too expensive.... Are you aware that the rates at the Core just went up!

This facility if it is to be sucessful will have to generate a ton of usage which would benefit the downtown businesses as people will stay to eat, shop and drink. Just wondering how the downtown area will handle to parking and traffic flow needed to generate this usage.

Hopefully the Village has an understanding of how to operate a facility of this size and usage. The Park District is constantly increasing its upper management staff and turning people over at an alarming rate. I wonder how much the administrative costs have increased since the Core opened. Seems like they have a lot of high paid administrators. I was shocked to see the Core increase rates in a time when all I see are places lowering their rates. They haven't added any amenities just administrators, hopefully the Village doesn't bloat the staff and make the facility too expensive for the community to get use out of the facility.

I have faith in the people on the board. But some very good questions have been posed here. Why fund this project? We have The Core. Why did it happen so quickly? How many informal (off the books) conversations happened?

Mostly, though, I go back to asking the simple question: If 21 million dollars can be so quickly approved for a sporting complex -- what does that say about the education in this community? And what type of lesson are we teaching our children? Are we teaching them that "sports" are more important that education? And why don't we rent out space at The Core? To meet the same needs?

Maybe the mayor should consider using the complex for concerts or other special events to fill in the gaps for when the complex is not being used.

LIke it or not, groundbreaking will happen in March without a public vote. The fast track decision has been made and we are only told about this with weeks away of building. That was by design from our administation. If you think your tax bill looks bad now, just wait until this project ends up as another bail out for the taxpayers. The CORE was supposed to sustain it's own and look where that got us.

Read this weeks Crains and read the story Sports complexes default on contruction bonds... NICE....Conplex in Romeoville bond for 17.3 million. Bought out of foreclosure for 3.7 million...NICE....Lake Barrington bond 28.5 million foreclosure suit pending...NICE.... Center in West dundee 20 million bond... YES.... foreclosure...NICE....I do agree that area needs something, But I don't think this is the answer...I would rather hand it to a developer for a buck and let them build something of value..Just my opinion...

Don't forget about the $5 million the village has already spent buying unproductive properties at Main and Archer for "future development". So expect another tens of millions project coming soon. The village also did not feel it necessary to notify the voters of that project during planning or purchasing phases.
So much for
Transparency in government dealings here. Note that Reeves, in both instances, calls for people to contact him individually with questions and will not make public statements about the matter. I also note that the Patch just takes these announcements and prints them without any questions like the press used to do...

I don't think its fair to blame or single out one person. I do think it's fair to raise the questions that are posed in these threads. I guess its time to get involved. I for one, would like to meet Ann Paul. She has an interesting spin on things --- and raises totally valid points. Who ever she is --- I like her. And I like her ability to get us to critically think. Kudos to you Ann, whoever you are.

Is this complex revenue generating? If so how much?

Again, why are the people now just learning about this? A bond this size needs to be voted on by the people of Lemont, not just six board members. And just how are you Ron1, and how long have you been a resident of Lemont, or are you? I've been a resident for 67 years and the Downtown area died with the new bridge. That eliminated all traffic thru the downtown area. With execption of a couple of restaurants, there isn't much there. Also, what is wrong with the sports field on 131 and Bell Road. I believe this belongs to the High School, but is very much under utilized. The Core is presently also under utilized and is looking for additional tax money. Lets run our town like a business, and not by our wants. The tax payers are being hit hard enough, or haven't you received your latest Cook County Tax Bill?

I didn't single out anyone, just restating Mr. Reeves official comments. Yes he and everyone else should be responsible to their own actions and statements, as quoted in this article and others. It's called holding someone accountable

Sounds like the Village board is playing typical democratic Illinois state politics, Is Mike Madigan part of this project?

I think that many of you are mistaken about the success of the Core. The memberships and revenues have exceeded expectations and budgeted numbers. The Core is doing very well. You won't see the levy for the bonds eliminated from your tax bill until the bonds are fully retired.

Can someone explain to me exactly how this idea will generate money for Lemont? Is it going to be solely through the fees charged to the teams? A percentage of the commission from concession stands?

As others have stated, there are an awful lot of towns that tried similar ideas only to lose the money. Even the professional places (Toyota Park in Bridgeview comes to mind) have lost millions and the poor property owners out there are paying dearly for it.

As far as bringing any kind of money into the local businesses, I wouldn't count on that unless they are directly involved in this "arena". When my kids were in sports and bands we went to the events and then went home. There was no time for walking around a town, shopping etc., even at the all day events.

I will be attending that meeting as I want to know what studies, etc. were done on this idea, plans to recoup the money spent, etc. Way too many questions for this to be on the "fast track".

If the project "exceeded expectations and budgeted numbers" why increase the fees to the very people that made it successful, through taxes and fees... And the Pard District goes for more fees....
Aren't you the guy that said Marquette and co were going to save downtown Lemont for us, and then spent millions building a parking deck that's about 20% capacity?

As far as the the merits of the new sports complex go, I believe that it will be a huge success and shot in the arm for the community. If you talk to the business owners downtown, you will find that they are very excited about the likelihood of additional traffic.

The reality is that you won't see any increase in taxes on your tax bill from this venture. As the Village retires existing bonds, the levy for the new bonds will kick in but there will not be a net increase overall.

The worst action that the Village could take right now would be inaction. We have a tremendous opportunity in Lemont. It would be an injustice to compare our attributes to that of McCook or other instances of supposed failure.

To do this day, we have uninformed people citing the condo project on Front Street as a failure when in fact all of the residential units have been sold. The Village acquired the parking deck at one-third of the original cost and the project has been a success in spite of the economic downturn.

I would encourage everyone to get involved and ask the necessary questions in the appropriate forums (Village meetings) before you pass judgement

How is the parking deck a success? It doesn't make money and doesn't get used except by the residents and the 2 businesses at that location. You sold that project as a game changer for downtown, not just another project. Those units went into foreclosure. The last few just sold, for a fraction of the money that would have made the ORIGiNAL numbers work. That's why people are skeptical of this project meeting its ORiGiNAL numbers, not post bankruptcy and foreclosure numbers. That project, as you presented it years ago FAILED. What's happening now is post bankruptcy and post foreclosure. Lets try to avoid that

Has anybody who proposes this $21 million complex paid any attention to the fact that cars, supposedly hundreds of thousands, will need to pass under that bridge on Stephen Street being held together by a pile of rocks? Where does the money come from to replace that? How will construction equipment with (most likely) pre-fab concrete panels get to the construction site? Are they going to ferry them? The more I think about this proposal, the more ridiculous it gets.

What a great problem to have. Thousands of cars filled with people that will spend money in our town. As for the bridge, it is safe and a hundred years of construction equipment passed through there before the big bridge was built. That bridge is owned by BNSF.

How do the actuals compare to the original pre project projections? By that measure front street was an utter failure. As I recall there were multiple buildings planned, and on the model you sold the project under but that could be my mis information too!

I would like to have seen a detailed plan to accompany this announcement that would support many of the questions raised here today. Once something we are just hearing of is quoted to be on the Fast Track, it is normal for the public to have questions and uncertainty. A lot of this could have been avoided if we were more aware of the plans before this article was released and it was explained in a way that highlighted what this structure will mean to economic impact to to Lemont. So far we have a grand announcement that many of us just learned of today and not enough supporting information to help us have a clear shot of what this will mean to us as residents not only now but in the next couple of years, decades etc....

I have a tough time trying to have an intelligent conversation with a guy that uses a juvenile and offensive pseudonym such as yours. If you are serious about asking pertinent questions, use your real name.

Dick sounds a lot like a Hank...

Ha! That's funny!

Former Mayor Piazza,
As for the taxes, when villages' existing bonds retire, I am sure the Lemont taxpayers would have appreciated if our taxes would have gone down. To take this project o to replace the retired bonds is what I think egregious government behavior, especially if the public has no voice on whether we want it or not. Taxpayers are not to be used as a bottomless put for money. The fact that this has been hidden until the last 30 days before it breaks ground leaves taxpaers with nothing but to scrutinizethe project. If it was transparent and an honest to goodness benefit for all, then it is usually known well before 30 days. So in part what you say is true, we are uninformed - but it was done on purpose. Taxpayer funds should NEVER be on a Fast Track. Typically that is when huge mistakes are made.

Welcome. To the Internet, where no one really knows who, what of where the other party is! Does it matter who I am to ask the question what were the original projections of the "successful" project was versus the actual numbers? Wouldn't that go a long way to cure my "uninformed" status? The answers to these simple questions should be the same no matter who I am. Doubt my identity, as I do yours because this is after all the Internet. Feel free to replace any of my "uninformed" comments with the real numbers at any time

As for the downtown condo's, it has failed. It failed to bring the vitality to the downtown district we were sold on. While some individuals bought at the $400k asking price, the bulk of the condos were sold for $200k. We were lucky it didn't end up in Section 8 housing. So that it did not go that direction, you can say was a success. But that is where the success ends.

If the bonds are retired and paid off, that would've resulted in a much needed tax break for all of us. Why wasn't this bond issue even mentioned in the article then? Because would rather forfeit any tax relief and would rather spending tax payer money and take out more bonds.ssues. THEY ARE PLACING THE OLD DEBT (The expired bonds) with NEW DEBT. (New Bonds) If this project fails (as other communites are finding out with sports complexes and foreclosed on for pennies on the dollar), the taxpayers would have to bail it out or be foreclosed on. In these hard economic times with federal tax increases, do you honestly believe that people have money to pay sports complexes when we have the CORE and other facilities that are under utilized. Why couldn't the public vote on this?????

Ann and Dick, I assume your are related. I also assume that you haven't set foot in any of the downtown restaurants or retail shops. I would venture to guess that you haven't made a single effort to get involved with or be productive in the community.

Ann, your comments about section 8 housing are offensive and repulsive. You seem to believe that you have some inkling on what section 8 housing consists of and apparently you are prejudice.

If you knew anything about the economics of housing you would know that subsidized housing doesn't work at the levels required for the Front Street building.

Lemont,

I first want to thank everyone who has taken time to express there thoughts on the sports complex. I first want to take a minute and clear up a few facts. The sport facility is not in the TIF district and will not use TIF funds to build the facility. Second the bonds that the Village of Lemont issue due not go on your taxes. I repeat they do not go on your taxes. We abate them every year so that you do not have an increase on the Village portion of your taxes. Please keep in mind that we are the second lowest portion of the bill. The only taxing body that is smaller is the libary district. The village board has not asked for any increase in the percent it receives on your tax bill in over 25 years. We ask for the same portion of the EAV of the town as we always have. My boards and the boards before me have been fiscally responsible even through the rough years. We have always had a balanced budget and have put money back into our fund balances for when the next rainy day occurs. So when we retire bonds that's why you do not see any decrease in your village portion of your bill.

As far as some question in regards to the Park District, or money for education that is what the other taxing bodies due in town. The Park District is in place for Lemont citizens and I personally think they due a great job. We are trying to capture the group of people that due compete in the travel leagues, and spur business development in town.

Mayor Brian Reaves

The Core is hardly under utilized. Apparently you have never stepped foot in there. It is getting harder to rent the facilities because it is so busy.

Also if anyone would like to set up a time and meet with me directly please contact my office at Village Hall and I would be happy to meet and answer any question you may have.

Thanks again,

Brian Reaves
Mayor

Mr Piazza, I have been very vocal about not supporting the Lemont downtown area whether it be a restaurant, store, or $21 million sports complex, do to the fact that our street infrastructure prevents me to do so. You were a huge supporter of the gates on 1st & 4th St to remain in place. These very gates prevent me from directly accessing the area you now support development on. I find it comical that you now ask me to support the businesses that you (and now Mayor Reeves) having me driving out of my way to get to. I have attended village board meetings Mr. Piazza, many to which you resided over. Time & time again, I have pleaded with the village board that when a community grows your street infrastructure must grow as well. Every time I have heard how there was no money to address the problem. So I ask you, Where is the money going to come from to develop the street infrastructure for these additional 650,000 people? Perhaps we should solve our current community traffic problems before we create new ones? Our police dept. can not handle the current traffic volume on Covington Drive much less the traffic volume that comes with an additional 650,000 people. The Lemont Village Board chooses everyday to send me in the direction of Orland every time I leave my subdivision to shop by continuing to block streets with gates. Unfortunately, until that changes, I (along with MANY of my neighbors) will continue to bring all of our business to other towns.

Ginger 1397,

Another pseudonym? I live in Eagle Crest not Eagle Ridge. The only personal attacks have been from the other aisle. I typically refrain from these types of forums because they are not productive.

I do take offense at those who criticize and defame others that are trying to make a contribution when the criticizer has no answer or has never contributed.

Like it or not, those that have volunteered their time and sacrificed their personal lives deserve the respect. If you did the same I would give you that consideration.

By the way, thanks for the grammar correction.

Anyone who pays taxes in Lemont has a right to question this project. (Whether you have served Lemont directly or not) In order to bid and do renderings, it apparently has been planned for at least 6 months if not longer. You have to question why it was only brought to our attention a couple weeks before a board vote. I would ask why a $21 million complex from the start? Why not phase this in and see if successful? What's the rush? Can't $3-$5 million buy anything? In my opinion its too expensive and too risky in a fragile economy.

Other towns have taken similar risks and have failed, leaving the taxpayers on the hook. The mayors and boards always promise property taxes will not increase with risky ventures such as this, but in the end they will. This issue should be put on the ballot for a vote. How can something this large and expensive with all the ramifications to our community be fast tracked and approved by only a few people?
I have included a link to an article in the Tribune relating to villages and risky real estate ventures. I own commercial property in the town of Bellwood, which is the focus of the article, and the property taxes have skyrocketed. The same thing will happen here, if this venture fails. Are we all willing to take that risk? I'm not.
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-09-09/news/ct-met-debt-bellwood-option-b-main-20120909_1_tax-bill-property-tax-tax-rate

Ginger1397

Not worthy of a comment. Everybody else, gets involved and vioice your opinion in public meetings.

Peace.

Yes, to DJB's point, how is the maintenance and staffing of this complex paid for following construction? If the revenues generated fall short, I assume taxpayers are on the hook??

Ginger, replying to your earlier post to Mayor Reaves He is running unopposed in the next election, however, there is still time for a write-in candidate to file petitions to run against him until 2/7/2013. This whole project was withhold from the public on purpose until very last minute.

People,,
All we have to do is follow the money. Who's relative is the contractor or contractors, surveyors etc. I would bet that someone close to the Mayor is gonna get paid well and a big cushy JOB for the mayor will follow. This is how Illinois works isnt it?

I asked a question earlier and have not received an answer. Is this complex revenue generating and how much?

Yes it is business as usual in Illinois. Only now we the taxpayers of Lemont will bear the financial burden if it fails. Spread the word about this project and plan on attending the hearing Feb.11 and making our voices heard.

Just wondering if this project will be constructed by non-union workers? There are plenty of Lemont Union workers who would gladly step forward to make sure this project meets and exceeds everyone's expectations.

Where is the DOWNTOWN RENAISSANCE at in its implementation? Where is the river walk atmosphere instead of the green/toxic looking canal? Why are there still empty town home lots all down Talcott? How about finish what you started first before taking on another massive project?

Although I would love to see funds allocated toward education, that is not an option in this case. We had that opportunity, but I am confident the same negative voices used the same scare tactics to oppose the referendum. My family and I support our community. We are Core Members, we eat at Tap House, Orange 13, Front Street Cantina and 3 Corners regularly. I am curious if Ann and Ginger do the same? I was at the Core at 7 this evening and had to park toward the the back of the lot. I'm at the Darien SportsPlex twice a week for indoor soccer. In fact, after I left the Core, I picked up my son & drove there. His practice is from 9-10pm because all other spots are taken!! Both of my kids have indoor soccer games at The Max in McCook. No matter if a game is at 7am or 7pm, the place is packed. They have 4 indoor fields & 4 volleyball courts....all utilized every time I am there...which is just about every Saturday or Sunday. Let's see....how about the Westmont Yard....same there. They have 3 indoor fields and again, very utilized by soccer and LaCrosse teams. Due to the fact that I use these facilities and see how packed they are, I am excited about this project and what it can bring to Lemont. I also wanted to mention this facility HAS been talked about. I heard about it over a year ago. Maybe if Ann, Ginger and others were out supporting our community or volunteered with local clubs, they would have known as well.

Interesting that Ginger, Victor and Ann Paul all write the same thing in the same style, they all say the Core is "under utilized", who says that? Seems like someone has a split personality. How embarrassing that you waste your day posting as multiple people, even more embarrassing that you make comments to each other on the board. What facts do you have that the Core is underutilized other than the fact that you don't use it.

Ann Paul / Victor / Ginger get a life and do something positive, because the role of Village Idiot isn't working for you. You fail at everything you do, lawsuits...fail, candidate for elected office...fail, videographer...fail. You send out email blasts to try to get people to go to Village meetings and like one person shows up and the only reason that person attends is they think there are free refreshments served.

You are a nobody in the Village, no one listens to you, no one follows you BUT everyone laughs at you!

Another thought this morning. I am curious if there is a NICE insurance deal for the former mayor or maybe some contracting work for his family. Just a thought. I am perplexed by why so much money is being spent so fast.

Manti Te'o
I like to troll the internet and check out what people in their communities have to say. My girlfriend pointed me to this site and I do enjoy the spirited conversation. My ND education says to avoid this $21M dollar money pit. Most village mayors mean well but are in way over their heads when it comes to financing, constructing and then guiding the overall operations of a venture of this magnitude. Failure is a very likely result and taxpayers will likely have to fund an under performing business.
Got to go, Katie Couric is calling.

who was the concrete company that built the lofts?? Lemont lifer, good questions!!
I completely agree, the CORE is a flop..a useless pool that was supposed to be used for competion and cant!!
I guarantee taxpayers will get screwed here, you have to fill that place with employees, TAX MONEY.
Put it on the ballet, this was all sneaky.

Well said, Dorothy!

I applaud Mayor Reaves (and former Mayor John Piazza as well) for being bold and innovative in addressing an issue that has vexed the people of Lemont for many years, that being, of course, reinvigorating the downtown area. This latest proposal will take derelict land and put it to use in a very imaginative way.

The potential for a facility like this is tremendous. One example is the annual college showcase for high school lacrosse players, an event that draws people from all over the midwest. This new facility will be a top candidate to host that event (and similar events like it for other sports), being newly constructed and being easily accessible from all over the area--and close to Midway for visiting coaches and out of town players.

There's certainly no guarantees with any new venture, but this idea appears promising!

As for the few who complain about everything and do nothing -- under their various inane and transparent internet personnae -- you might try to get out and get involved in a positive way, creating something beneficial for the community. It's a lot more rewarding --for the community and for you--than sitting around making up "facts" and constructing new conspiracy theories.

I find it interesting that the same tactics are used against anyone questioning government spending as we did against that referendum fiasco. Ann Baker and Ron1 you offer nothing of substance. You are wrong when you assume anyone disagreeing with you is the same person? Check the election results to see where you fit. If you want a sports complex you pay for it. I hear that you can buy one cheap in Homer. Dorothy and Susan how much of your property taxes are paid to the Village of Lemont?

Add Lemont Lifer, Life Lemonter also, Rose Baker to the Ann Paul / Victor / Ginger list. I am predicting double digit online person for the Village Idiot by the end of the day.

There is like two actual people against this posting on this board.

Steve,
Sorry to break it to you but not everyone has the time to 'get out and get involved in something beneficial in the community' besides that is a matter of opinion. Your benefical and my beneficial may be very different. Like I'm active in cancer support groups because my son is a cancer survivor who has special needs. Would you consider that beneficial? Also, forgive me for not having the time to get out participate in all the sporting events but he isn't able to play soccer because he had total body irradiation and high dose chemotherapy that left him with restricted lung disease which is one of the many medical problems I deal with on a daily basis. Does this mean I don't have a right to question what is going on in my Village that I have lived in for 16 yrs. Forgive me for throwing out 'conspiracy theories' as I obviously don't know as much as you do about the "facts"
I do know that like Ann Baker and Dorothy Retzke, you are quick to judge the participants on this forum and assume everyones lives are the same as yours. My concern is that I won't be able to pay my tax bill when it continues to rise. After all, all my spare change goes to medical bills since my life savings is gone.
It is a sad world we live in when you cannot put yourself in the shoes of someone who is less fortunate than you are and can only make personal digs instead an intelligent conversation.

Mr. Reaves: Would it have not been easier to conduct a proper public forum to debate the pros and cons of the proposed project? Instead, the Lemont residents learn of this significant expenditure onlys weeks before it is implemented and categorized as "fast track." Now if I and others want my questions or concerns addressed, I need to schedule a private meeting. That is symptomatic of the entire problem. Apparently most if not all of the discussion and planning on this project has been in private. That is not the proper forum. This is a public project, affecting all of Lemont's residents, who are on the hook financially if this project/development does not perform. It needs to be fully explained, debated and analyzed, by the residents of Lemont. It is very disconcerting to hear that a project of this financial magnitude is already a fore gone conclusion, without any of the requisite debate and full transparency. Let's not create another "Bridgeview Stadium" where the residents are left holding the financial bag. It too was promoted by their mayor as not ever costing the residents any money. Please explain publicly why this must be done on a "fast track" and pushed through without serious analytical debate. If this is such a "can't fail" money making development, how come there are not any private sector firms trying to capitalize on this great financial opportunity? Have you tried to find a private sector partner who might share some of the $ risk?

It's fair to ask why this has been in the works for a year and the taxpayers knew nothing about it. When did the trustees and mayor discuss this project. Where there any violations of open meetings?

It's fair to question the timing of making it public soon after it was too late for anyone to throw their hat into the election.

It's fair to question the studies used that conclude a sports complex is viable. Why the fast track?

There has to be a way to get this on the ballot. If voters approve it then so be it. At least we had our say. If not, Ann Baker/Ron1 will know just how out of teouch he/she is.

I do not believe this complex will increase revenue for Lemont in any significant way. After parents have paid league fees, equipment fees, uniform fees, and fees to use the facility for their child or children...your dreaming if you think there stopping in downtown Lemont for dinner! maybe if the complex caters to adult leagues, and that's a big maybe! It sounds like there is no time to stop this from happening I only hope someone has come up with something ours will offer that other facilities don't, or they may as well add us to the list right now of other towns who tried this and failed.

Here's another question to add to the list: Who owns the parcel of land that this project is being built on because I don't see anywhere in the past village minutes that there was a vote taken by the village board to purchase this land?

When it comes to spending tax dollars, politicians know best, anyone who dares question them is uneducated.

Please have a public forum educate everyone and let's vote on it. Isn't this the right thing to do? If this is a profitable venture for the village and this can be demonstrated, it will not take much convincing to get peoples support. Surely before taking on a project of this magnitude there must be some analysis already available on how much revenue will be generated?

This could all end if someone (or a group of people) went down to Village Hall and get the petitions, obtain 200 signatures (200 total signatures I believe would accomplish the goal) from registered village taxpayers and submit them by the deadline (and the village has to provide a deadline is when the petitions are picked up.) . This would stop them cold in their tracks from voting on this on 2/11 and force them to put it on the April ballot so the taxpayers can vote on it and have a say so. The statute can be found by googling Illinois Statues and type in Alternative Revenue Bonds.

Once again, as a life long resident and there is only one of me. In my opinion, the only way to revitalize the downtown area is:
1) Rebuild the Stephan St. Bridges so traffic has an opportunity to go through the downtown area off of Lemont Rd.
2) Most important, Get the Metra to run more than 1-2x/day. I work in downtown Downers and that area is poppin because of it. There are plenty of people in Lemont, Lockport, and Joliet that would LOVE to use that line for commuting. We have the population now to support it. I know that METRA does not own the rail lines but something has to be done. The Mayors of all the towns need to get together and do something about this, we need leadership. I believe if those 2 things can get done LEMONT would have capability to rival Naperville/Downers. We are better than this people. We dont need an underused complex built by cronyism and patronage. But this money to good use, Frickin lobby Metra and the rail company, CRAP even though I not a abig fan of the federal administration but maybe some DOT money could build a paralell line to the others. That will get this town going.

I think its pretty obvious we feel unheard and undermined. This is by far the most response I have read on the Patch board.

My best recollection is that the land is owned by the MWRD. That would lead one to believe the Village has approval to lease the parcel for a very long period of time and at a very favorable cost. When the front street condo project was in it's "dream" stages the developer spent about a million working with the MWRD to secure leases on that land. They were so optomistic they planned on building some 400 units in Lemont going all the way to the shipping canal. So, that lease is held by one of the two...the Village or the Marquette Company who were the developers. It should be a matter of record. Either ask or FOID the info.

Bunch of Fox News watching, Glen Beck loving mindless sheep on this board.

MS. Kay,
Yes developing the land is a good idea, too bad the choice of what to put there is bad and the cowardly way it will be rammed down the throats of the citizens is awful. Actually, we can "fast track" this sneaky administration out of office in the upcoming election.Vote them ALL out. They've all been in office too long anyway as the stagnation in this town clearly shows. Ron 1: if you have nothing productive to say,which so far you haven't, then be quiet and just go away. Citizens of Lemont, it's time to start questioning everything around here.

Not sure why this is such a surprise to everyone.
The The "Lemont Redevelopment Master Plan" has included an athletics complex with a soccer & baseball field since the beginning - (over 6 years ago)
While I don't plan on using the facility (& my kids are older) I think it is really going improve the appearance of Lemont as you enter town coming over the bridge. Right now it looks kind of crappy - like the overgrown former industrial area this property is.

It is unbelieveable that the village board would do something this big without having a referendum. There seems to be a disconnect between what the people of Lemont need and what the village board wants. I agree with the previous poster who suggested that we need some rules for the board to follow. There need to be checks and balances, not just blank checks for the board to use. Where can one find a list of rules and laws that govern village boards?
Mayor Reeves, how could you let this happen without including the citizens of Lemont at the start of the discussion process?

I think the fact that the project is "Fast Tracked" but we have had no transparency is the thing that is really making this seem fishy to me and many others. I would like more of the questions raised here to be answered. But I also feel like this will happen no matter if this is what we want or not. I think the way we learned of this and the circumstances of how it was presented make this feel like it might be something underhanded. I would like a discussion to take place publicly that outlines the plans, the goals of this facility and how it will be paid for. And by paid for, I mean what happens if it goes over budget, what happens if it is a failure, what happens if it is successful. We don't know enough about this to be comfortable, but we would like the opportunity to be informed so we can have clear understanding of this will mean.

Mayor Reaves allowed this to happen on purpose for a couple of reasons:
1. He needed to make sure he was running unopposed in the next election before he wanted this leak.
2. He wanted to make sure this was a fast track decision in order to bypass any referendum allowing taxpayer input. Trust me, the contractors are ready with shovels in their hands waiting for the green light to start digging. Reaves knew there would be public questions and backlash. This was all done on purpose.

But, there is one last hope for the taxpayers to stop this and get it on the April ballot for referendum. According to Illinois statute, It would take someone (or people) to go to the village and request petitions. I believe it may take a little more than 200 signatures, but need to confirm that. The village is mandated to give a due date for the signatures, and I would guess it would be before the 2/11 meeting. If the # of required signatures are submitted, the village is REQUIRED to put it on the April ballot and no vote would be taken on 2/11 village meeting.

I say let the people decide. If the majority wants it, so be it.

Also, there is still time for a write-in candidate to run against Reaves. I believe that deadline is 2/7. Maybe we can get someone who won't be so underhanded.

Make no mistake this was done on purpose. He knew there would be these very questions and I have to wonder if he can even give us straight answers.

Ann, that is very interesting to know. Great ideas. I agree with you. The people should decide what the people want, not the mayor and his buddies. Let's start a petition to get this on the ballot as a referendum and see what the peoople want.
Also, what can we do about geting more people to run for mayor and some new cnadidates for trustees, since we can't trust the old trustees?
Come on people, let's spread this around and get more people involved. Talk to your friends and neighbors. This is our town. If we don't stand up and voice our opinions we don't deserve to have one. If we don't get some new people running the town we will continue to watch our real estate taxes go up and our property values go down.

Time is running short, get to the Village Hall and get petitions now. Let's stop the 2/11 vote and get it on the referendum.

Also, Joe, the Lemont Reporter has a list of all election positions of who is running and what is seats are still available. There is still time to run as a write-in candidate. I would vote for you Joe!

Go see the newly remodeled Village Hall and get your petitions! Let's get some signatures.

If anyone is interested, Google "Illinois Statutues" and search "Alternative Revenue Bonds". That will lay out what we need to do to get this to referendum.

Let us know where to sign

Again... I want to point out that a sports complex was in the plan at least SIX years ago - Long before the current administration
The drawings for the plan (showing the sports complex) have been on the village website since at least 9/28/2009. It was cleverly hidden from the public with the title "Downtown Master Plan"
They have been on the Loft's website since 2006.
I also recall the rendering being part of a mailing the Lofts sent out when they started selling the units before they were finished.
This rendering was also blown up & on the wall of the Lofts sales office for years (might still be there)
Again, I don't believe I will use the complex, but I look forward to the improved appearance of this main gateway to Lemont as people drive over the bridge.

Ahh, the Ann and Joe rallying cry: Come on people, lets start a petition, come on people lets run for Mayor and village board. Can't wait to see the cast of characters you line up for that. Anyone (stupid enough) you get to run will be destroyed in the election, that is a guarantee. So go ahead and waste your time on that. You really have to stop living in this fantasy world that posting nonsense on the Patch gives you a shred of credibility or carries any weight in the Village.

Interesting conversation you are having with yourself here, Ann & Joe. Can't wait to see Laura, I mean Ann out trying to get signatures. Remember 20 fake Patch names does not equal 20 names on any petition.

Have you taken Mayor Reaves up on his offer to call him if you have any questions? My guess, probably not, too many voices and names in your head to keep straight with no time to make that call.

Another use of wasted space by Ann Baker. I am not the only one asking questions, so I guess that is meaningless to you. Your innuendos are also laughable. You really don't have a clue. Go crawl back under from the rock you came from. We will send your tax bill there.

Due dlligence and soil samples, of course.

As I said before, I wish they would finish the downtown renaissance because I have been living down in the trenches (no pun intended) here since 2009 and not much has happened with that since 2007-2008. Of course, the economy has been and continues to be terrible, despite what the media is reporting on. The town homes not being finished is a contracting thing (many lost out and packed up), not really a village thing. I am guessing the thought process is businesses will come to downtown Lemont if we can show them something that brings customers into the area. I think it is a neat idea, but it seems to hve failed in other towns when tried, namely Bridgeview with Toyota Park. Will it work? I sure hope so.

At the risk of being personally attacked even further, I have decided to make one last post. First, my family and I have never profited a single penny from any project that was funded by any tax payer or private money within the Village. I challenge anyone to provide one bit of factual information that would prove otherwise.
I have no vested interest in the proposed project other than a tax paying citizen and concerned resident.

Secondly, I believe that there are a lot of legitimate comments and questions presented on this post if you can filter out all of the personal attacks.

When the Downtown Renovation plan was proposed we had numerous public hearings and discussions on it and there was overwhelming support from the community. Whether you agree with the project or not, there is factual data that supports the success of the project.

I can guarantee you that there is nothing nefarious or corrupt going on with the proposed project. I have known all of the board members personally for many years and they only have the best interest of Lemont as their main priority.

You can disagree with the proposal on whatever grounds you feel are appropriate, but misconduct and personal gain from the Mayor and Board Members is just plain wrong.
I encourage all those with any issues or questions to attend the upcoming meetings. Let your voice be heard and your questions be answered.

A civil and respectful debate about the merits of the project is what is needed.

I hope it works because that means the downtown will be able to justify itself to more businesses/restaurants looking for somewhere to set up shop, thus bringing in more sales tax revenue. Plus, it would help fund the rest of the downtown renaissance project, which in turn, would help my real estate value. My fingers are crossed...

any mention of the parking plans?

We all need to settle down. This is a matter of numbers. Emotion needs to be kept out of the mix until we see what the business plan discloses and I assume the Village has "the numbers" to back up their idea. The 21 mil is a mind blower and some *unofficial* math seems to indicate that the 650,000 people they say the complex will draw might have to spend about $$450.00 each before this breaks even.
So, let's see the numbers and then make an informed decision. You can't win an argument for or against without knowing costs and probability of meeting them.
(I hope there is a provision in this Sports Complex financial plan for broken balls)

For DJB and others who asked, reposting comment from above:

Anyone and everyone who has an interest in slowing this down for a referendum should show up at the village hall for petitions. They should be able to tell you how many signature will be needed to be put to referendum (It is a percentage of population/taxpayers, not quite sure). They will also give you a deadline for when signatures. Even if a few start circulating petitions I think we should be able to make it happen. Time is not on our side and realize it may be a challenge to get to village hall during business hours due to work schedules. People please also familiarize yourself with the statute too. If this is going to work, we need to follow to the letter. Unforunately, the timing was deliberate leaving us very little time to react.

All I am asking is to slow this thing down, put it to a public vote and let's get some answers to very important questions. Then we will become informed.

This is an interestin read. We need to find out current alternate revenue bond practices and how we can capitalize on this now:

http://illinoisreview.typepad.com/illinoisreview/2013/01/mcsweeney-franks-aim-to-end-alternate-revenue-bond-abuses.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+typepad%2Fdlacomb%2Fillinoisreview+(illinoisreview)

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=983&GAID=12&GA=98&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=71368&SessionID=85

I still want to know (and is has already been asked) who is going to run it? How are the expenses, payroll, utilities paid for? I would bet the bond won't cover that.

I wonder what are the contingency plans for the complex if it’s built and nobody comes ? Seems to me it took at least 15 years to have someone move into the old True Value location on State street, even under years with a good economy. Sure it will be years for something to happen with the K-Mart on Bell when it closes this week. So what would happen to a defunct Sports Facility if the revenue/expense projections don't meet expectations? Rent it out for an October Halloween party store? Hold a once a year Home Show? Hold a weekend Flea market? Hope the 2/11 meeting can answer everyone’s concerns with FACTS.

For anyone else interested in the petition process here are a few links.
http://minooka201.blogspot.com/2010/11/back-door-referendum.html
http://www.citizenadvocacycenter.org/uploads/8/8/4/0/8840743/2004_1st_q.pdf

DJB and Ann Paul, why are you expecting others to do the petition? Push yourselves away from the computer and do it yourselves. Sounds alot like Reigle is behind this. Never saw her do anything for her campaign against Durkin but she got a couple of suckers to hand out some lame business cards for her. No wonder she got smoked in that election she thought she could sit in her election HQ LOL and win on her charm and charisma. How that work out for you Laura? Same here, trying to push her dirty work off on others. I almost felt bad for the couple of mopes who wasted their time on her.

John, glad to see your comments. Its a shame so many folks just don't get it, but I'm not surprised. I too think the complex is a great idea. As a parent that had four children play travel sports for many years I know exactly what a well designed complex can bring to a community. Rockford has a wonderful facility for soccer and softball and the amout of money it pulls in for the community is amazing. They keep that complex full much of the year. When families visit for events such as tournaments they will spend money in the community as they very often have to play multiple games within hours, so they can't go to far. McCook has also done very well and is packed from 7:00 am until 9:00 pm most every night with soccer, baseball, volleyball, basketball, football, clinics, ect. A drive across the bridge would be much easier. They may want to consiider serving beer and food just as the complex in Rockford & McCook do. I think it is a great idea and could keep alot of money in Lemont that is going elsewhere as travel sports have become a year round commitment for those of us that believe sports are a close second to education. Brian, let me know if I can assist in any way.

Its comments like some of those on this story that have cost Patch their credibility. Patch’s terms of service formerly require an actual name to be used & Amanda tried to enforce that. Now Patch only “encourages” posters to use their real name. Allowing posters to hide behind fake usernames facilitates inflammatory and inaccurate comments. Patch encourages these types of dialogs because it increases page views & they use those numbers when trying to sell advertising. Based on the declining number of local businesses buying ads, thankfully, this is not working for them.
There is no value to the comments from the people using fake or incomplete names on Patch. If you are not going to honest about whom you are, why should anyone believe what you say?
Patch is doing a disservice to Lemont by allowing the fake names. This is not journalism.

It's always interesting how a "new" crop of fake posters join Patch when there is a story like this to comment on.
Foster Brooks joined Patch 1/29, Joseph Mansell 1/30, "Mike" 1/29, Ron1 1/29, "Joe" 1/30, Tom Walsh 1/29, Kris Howard 1/29, rich collins 1/29, J.L. 1/30, Al Beaudreau 1/30, JKL 1/30, Gavin Sebastian 1/29, DJB 1/29, Lemont Lifer 1/29, Officer Friendly 1/29, Life Lemonter also 1/30, Rose Baker 1/30, Gers 1/30

Mike & Tim...I could not agree with you more. If using a real name, first and last were enforced, I wonder how few comments would remain?  At Ginger, i never said you did not eat in Lemont, I said I was curious if you did. I am sorry to hear of your son's medical condition, but am happy to hear he is a cancer survivor.  Unfortunately I cannot say the same for my very close family members who have battled and lost to the disease.  There are groups in Lemont that help families in situations such as yours by providing weekly meals, helping with odd jobs, lifting family spirit with "secret Santa", etc.  If you provide your real name & age of son, I will be happy to personally submit your family for consideration.  To answer your questions....there is much more to my life than soccer.  I work 50+ hours a week, volunteer on a BOD for a not for profit organization and volunteer, when possible, in my community.  With a lot of help from my husband, we tend to the needs of our children.  Due to my many obligations, I did not have time to post all day long.  Yes, we do eat at or near the venues that host games/tournaments.  It is the most convenient and often the only way we'd have time to eat.  At away tournaments eating at or near the facility is always best.  This project has vast potential for Lemont. At Rose..... I do pay taxes to Lemont, do better research. 

Ann Paul, Ginger, Rose and others that have the ability to post all day, I invite you to put as much time and energy into helping a family in our community. Walk with Andrew is a fundraiser to help a15 year old LHS student walk again.  In June 2012, a sudden, extreme windstorm caused a tree to fall on Andrew.  He suffered multiple fractures, the worst being of his spine.  With surgery and time, the other fractures have healed, but Andrew remains paralyzed from waist down.  He undergoes intense physical therapy in hopes of walking again.  Unfortunately, his medical needs surpass his insurance benefits.  His family, together with Lemont's Hope and Friendship Foundation have put together a fundraiser to help Andrew attain his dream of walking again.   You can help by attending the event on March 16 (approximately $35), by making a financial donation, by buying a TShirt ($15), by soliciting donations from business you frequent, or by volunteering your time.  I do not know this family at all, but cannot imagine knowing about it and doing nothing.  So Ann, Rose, Ginger, etc., let's put aside the debate of the Sports Complex and fight for a greater cause.  Information can be found at www.walkwithandrew.com.

1. Dorothy, a tragic story and yes is very deserving of our support.

2. For the Lemont loons who keep insinuating that I am Mrs. Reigle couldn't be farther from the truth. I get a laugh everytime it gets brought up. By the way, since you all know her so well, you already know that she does not live in the Village of Lemont so this project will have no impact on her. My guess she wouldn't bother with this. Move on people.

3. I have every right to voice my opinion on this matter just as everyone has an equal voice. Disagree with me all you want, that is your right. I have voiced my opinion and backed it up with facts (tax bill data) and links to websites to get informed. But personal attacks leave you with no credibility and a poor example as parents. I just hope your children have more sense that than you do.

4. Put this $21M project to a vote of the people. Why were the taxpayers left out of this all together? Why no referendum? Why is this fast track so different from the CORE referendum? If the majority wants it, then so be it. Why that position continues to stun some people is baffling.

Very sad story to hear about Andrew, thank you for bringing it to our attention. Thoughts and prayers to him and his family.

Good Morning Linda Ozbolt:
Would Patch give any consideration to streaming the 2/11 Village Board Meeting live? I am sure the mayor would have no problem addressing the questions and issues to a larger audience as many people would not be able to physically make the meeting. At that time, people are getting home from work, dinner, homework, etc. Plus, there isn't a whole lot of seating. This way the entire community can see the meeting first hand and witness the board vote. THank you.

The 2/11 meeting...you can "chip your teeth" about how this was presented to the people and introduce a lot of side issues but the real issue concerns the 21mil as an investment. In simple terms if the Villages numbers are overwhelming good and the project will not burden tax payers...who can object. I say stay focused on this as a business venture/investment. If the business plan makes sense, or not, should be the determining factor. I doubt the Village would cook the books and set themselves up for failure. We should assume this has been checked over and over and "computes" out. Pay attention to the detail in the financial plan!

FOCUS on the conversation. $21 million on a maybe proposition! Ed A seems to get it.
I cannot understand how this would ever bring in the funds required to make it feasible. Just because something LOOKS better than what is there now does not make it a good idea. Whether this was part of the plan six years ago is also irrelevant. That was then, this is now. Ask all the builders in the area how much of a beating they are taking.

I am not sure if I have EVER read such a big bunch of babies and complainers in all my life. Its a wonder between the politicians and the posters, how anything gets accomplished. We have people calling each other names, old pols calling those people names, people with fake names calling the others names etc etc etc..... Grow up.

Linda, I believe there is a loss of credibility to this comment section on contiversial issues when people don't use their real names. My father told me several times that if some one writes a letter and doesn't sign it, it's not worth the paper it is written on. I respect everyone's opinion but they should identify themselves and hopefully make constructive comments for the good of our town....... just a thought.

I will continue to ignore the personal attacks. I am one person with only one blog name. If people continue to slander me otherwise, I really don't care. I will also continue to stick to the business at hand here. Too much time is being wasted on frivulous personal attacks. Move on.

The issue remains this project. It is obvious that there are a number of people upset on how the mayor and village has handled this situation. If there was transparency, from the beginning, it would have given taxpayers ample time to logically discuss the issues, get our questions answered and could make a more informed decision on whether or not this is something we should support via a referendum. I, for one, would like to make damn sure this is worth a $21M bond that I am going have to continue paying for. Has anyone ever considered other projects for this parcel of land that would have no outlay of funds for the village? Wouldn't those possibilities be worth entertaining? Good things come from people listening to each other's ideas and having open minds. We need to think outside the box. Do we really need more soccer fields in addition to the Park District, Bambrick Field and the 131st Street Lemont High School fields? All of these are ready to be rented out. Did the village hire a consultant to study this land and what restrictions it has? Why wasn't the community asked what they would like to see on this land? What is going on with the other land purchased?

Like I said, not worth the paper or "cyber paper" that it is written on...................

First, I am glad to see our Village try to improve the downtown area. Right now, unfortunately it looks like a slum in many parts. Before I am attacked for that comment, I want to say I applaud the businesses/property owners who keep up their properties (Salon 312 -great new windows!). BUT, there are way too many properties in the downtown that are simply not maintained (some vacant) to tight standards. Visual appeal is everything with a downtown. A coat of paint and flowers in the summer is a start. The drive from McCarthy into the downtown is not enticing unfortunately. It's an eyesore. I know so many residents love to keep "the Lemont history" and cement this Village in 1930 and that's great - If these bulidings ARE MAINTAINED. There is a white fence panel on the west side of Steven St on the north side of Illinois that is falling over, the old RPM building looks condemned, the "AIMEE"S martini bar is decaying as well. Old frame buildings need to be maintained otherwise they are just eyesores. I look forward to hearing more about this venture at the 2/11 meeting. I will keep my mind open and listen to this proposal. But I am happy to see something new proposed in the downtown.

Second....why do people say the CORE is a failure? Have you hit your head? Most evenings the parking lot is completely full. And for the record, the Lemont Dolphins are hosting the South Suburban Swim conference next Saturday at the CORE. So all these "negative Nellies" who complain that the pool is a waste and not used - please come out and cheer your swim team on! Children have swim lessons in that pool all winter long. The CORE is a gem of this village. I am so happy this community invested in the CORE. Property values are directly tied to Village amenities. You can have all the brick homes oozing with granite...but it's the good schools, libraries, the arts, safety, transportation, park district, etc. that make a community desirable (and higher property values).

Ya know Ann...the previous Village attorney was no friend of mine and as a result my 500 site campground and interest in the marina in the quarry area all got shot down! I have no "friends" in Village government. Having said that, you will wonder why I seem to be on the side of the Village on this one. I try to be a very fair minded individual. I have also served on enough Boards to feel this Boards pain. What happens is these projects ARE discussed, they go into committee for study, the people are asked for input and essentially all those things you think did not happen...really did. The fact is nobody gives a dam until, after a lot of hard work, the Board solidifies it's best effort and is ready to vote it and implement it. Then and only then do the people come alive with all kinds of ideas and complaints. It's human nature it seems. It drove me nuts as a Board member!
For the record...if I had 21 mil to spend in the"river bed area" I would do something very different. But on this proposal I say...if it costs out and pays for itself and all it's expenses...why not go for it. The key question is will it pay for itself? Is the work up and operating budget reflecting income and costs ACCURATE. That is what deserves all our attention at this point. Our Mayor is a sucsssful business man. He understands profit and loss. Cut him some slack and listen to the final numbers and proposal. I'm reserving judgement until I see the detail.

It makes me sick to my stomach how much money is wasted!!
Just about as much as it made me sick when I opened my tax bill.
21 MILLION??? are you serious? Oh, wait. It's not YOUR money, it's OURS, the taxpayers.
Yes, this may have been approved years back, but what was the status of the economy back then, compaired to now?
.
You say The village did care about academics. They wanted the referendum to pass. The problem is not the village it is the people running things....

The people are SICK of wasting money! How's the old superinendent? Oh wait...he nearly ruined our schools, wasting money, like he did at the school before Lemont.

What will this do for OUR TOWN? I would prefer to see some sort of economic development...This doen't even address bringing in people from the surrounding the area, to want to visit our town, and spur economic growth.
Going to the movies? You spend money OUTSIDE of our town.
Going bowling? Spend money OUTSIDE of our town.
Lemonts looses, out on our spending, and from others that might come here.

Spend a few minutes looking at this, better yet, take your family out here...something to be proud of in your town. A town gem.

http://lagrangetheatre-com.securec7.ezhostingserver.com/

Or how about a small outdoor amphitheater, and bring families together??
Not just a place that you have to be monthly members. Or that pay to enroll their kids in Every sport? ~paying more fees?
Check out this weekly event by a neighboring park district....and see this great family draw! there's even a picture on the second link. Family fun, not just eating out, or a bar, or playing sports.

http://cpdlagrangepark.com/index.php/rental-parks/

http://www.festing.com/detail.cfm?festid=27085

small family movie theater/bowling area. voted best theater 5 years in a row! in Downers Grove. http://www.classiccinemas.com/location.aspx?house=912

I challenge you to fast track it to a vote......to the people paying the bill.

Can this be a transparent transaction? As in the community knows where all the money is going and to whom?

I think it's interesting that all these people have opinions, but only one resident has been at each of the last two meetings. I know that because I was that resident.

I wanted to bring to your attention a new Patch entry submitted today:
"Residents Seek Answers on Sports Complex Proposal" It does quote a few 'poster' entries and Mayor Reaves. It seems these forums do accomplish something afterall. I hope you will all take the time to read the newest submission and I also look forward to the releasing of the public statement and if I read correctly, there will be a public meeting prior to the February 11th meeting.
I've enjoyed having a meaninful debate with all of you.

We need to do what is best for Lemont!! Stop all the bit**ing and look at the positive outcome. If the numbers work they work!! I don't believe you all realize how many families in this town have children in sports. All of those children travel to other towns to play on teams because we do not have this facility. We could be making this money instead of giving it to other towns!! If you are so concerned goto a meeting with open minds, hear the details, then make your decisions. Stop complaining, open your ears and listen to the facts, then make your comments. To many of you think you know it all. LISTEN to what they are trying to say. This will bring jobs, and more traffic flow to our downtown businesses without raising taxes. What's the problem. I think you have nothing better to do than complain about things hidden behind a computer. Go to a meeting and voice your opinion!!!!!

Like Ed said why would the village want to set themselves up for failure?!?!

Ms. Kay
It is quite obvious that the mayor is following these postings. So, why does he just not make a statement here on the patch answering the questions? Wouldn't that be better than all the silliness about what's a rumor; what's speculation; who is real and who is fake etc.etc.? Mr. mayor, we await your '"public statement" on the subject with the answers everyone is asking for. No private meetings necessary. Thank you.

Lemont needs forward thinking ideas like this one to drive visitors to Lemont. There is a reason why our businesses have struggled to succeed: not a large population of citizens in Lemont, lack of visitors because there isn’t a specific reason to visit (as there is in downtown Naperville) and casual thoroughfare traffic (since the Lemont Bridge was built and I-355). I commend the Mayor and all those that participated n the development of the project.

If a private party wishes to build something ,great. Let them assume the risk and reward.

I am encouraged. It is more than a Sports Complex. It is the begining of a new way of thinking to bring growth to our town.The essance of a deal. An example. If I had a plan to open a horse boarding stable with indoor riding arena, regular events, shows etc and, wanted to be in the right area where I could access forest preserve trails...I might pick a spot in lemont along the I and M Canal. Opps, that land is owned or leased from the MWRD by Lemont. So, I put a business plan together and show them that if they build the facility I need on their land, I will pay them a sum of money monthly and lease the place, at a profit to the Village, for fifteen years or more. They float the bond and build...I get the facility...the horse people get a place to recreate...the Village gets an influx of people who spend a few bucks in town and generate some sales tax revenue and, all in all, that land use becomes a productive winner. Everybody is happy! This is an example of what the Sports Complex represents in terms of creative land use and creative development to the benifit of the community. I hope this example shows you how we might be able to develop a lot of idle land into super recreational uses and grow our economy downtown. A marina, a campground, and *what ever else you can imagine* that best fits into the landscape we have here in Lemont would be possible. We need to look at this proposal with some glee for what doors it might open to the future use of otherwise unusable land.

Ed, have you seen the Q & A statement that the Patch just put on the website? I trust your judgement and would like to see what you think of it? There have been some comments already, but none with actual facts.
Thanks

I encourage all Lemont residents to look into the details of this project. In my opinion,the only way it will be a success is to have enough long term contracts with "customers" who will lease the complex and pay enough to cover the debt and the operating expenses. This has to be run like a business. Also,Bridgeview did a sports complex and it is bankrupt. The tax payers of Bridgeview have to now cover the bonds and expenses with higher real estate taxes. On the surface, this does not sound like a project that will pay for itself. The cost, benefit is not there.

J.Rooney (real name)

In reading many of the comments,a lot of the comments talk of putting more toward education. I want to point out that our high school in Lemont,spends about 40% more per student ( on the last report I read) than Naperville high schools and we pay our teachers and administrators substantially more than Naperville. Naperville also has higher graduating rates.

Jim R

How many contracts have been signed with the potential users to justify the borrowing of $21,000,000 and all the maintenance and upkeep dollars of this
project ? They must be enough to cover the expenses without going into village funds.

Jim R

It is disturbing to see the mayor and village board commit the town to a risky multimillion dollar project without having the people of Lemont vote at a referendum.

People of Lemont: if you are not outraged by this, then you are not paying attention.

We need to have a referendum on this project so the people of Lemont can have their say. People, please petition the mayor so you can have a choice in what happens in this village. We have men and women in our military who are risking their lives so that we can have the “freedom to choose” in America. Don’t let that go to waste. Don’t give up your right to choose. Let’s all petition city hall for a referendum. Let’s all call the mayor’s office to let him know how we feel. Let’s all write our opinions in editorial columns so the mayor and the whole town can see that we want the freedom to choose what happens in our village.

If you can’t do that now then you have no right to complain if this project fails and the taxpayers have to pay for it.

I think we should be doing a cost benefit analysis on this project and factor in probabilities. We know that if we borrow the money, develop the land, install the infrastructure, build the building, hire a company to staff and operate the building and the business, beef up our streets and our police force we will be guaranteed an expense that will cost Lemont millions of dollars annually. There is a 100% probability of that. What we don’t know is if we build it, will they come? In other words I don’t think it is possible to accurately estimate income for this venture.

People in town have written editorial comments indicating that the proposed facility is not capable of servicing the 650,000 annual draw that the mayor estimates. Other people have tried to translate attendance into revenue and believe that income will not be enough to cover expenses. Has anyone taken into account competition for the facility? I think this may need more attention before we take the plunge. I also think that Lemonters should have the right to vote on this project. We need a referendum.

Does anyone know if a referendum petition can be assembled electronically?

If not what else can be done to stop the village board from proceeding with this project?

I personally think this is a stupid plan. If they can waste that much money on another sports complex, they should be spending it on the schools. I mean we already have the park district and the core. Does Lemont not care about education? Because if I remember correctly, Old Quarry had to cut all its arts and music programs and after school activities. We don't need another sports complex, and this money should be spent on our schools.

Mayor Reaves et all, being in the financial and investing industry, I follow municipal offerings and have some familiarly. Also, being a resident of Lemont, Im paying attention to village financing.

With that said, Im highly suspect of most decisions to take on debt by elected officials. If the project is a success, you are heros. If it fails, you move on and the burden is everyone's. This should ring an ominous bell in light of what we have seen occurring the last decade or so.

We all are aware of the various states of debt problems across the region and country. Villages that do not encumber themselves are going to clearly stand out as attractive destinations in the years to come. I worry that we are moving in the opposite direction.

If the investing market is desperate for projects to put money to work and this is Lemont taking advantage of that scenario to lock in low rates, I could see supporting this. However, like so many other community projects, I worry that this complex will become a white elephant and burden the communities future.

In that case, let another community shoot themselves in the foot and let our elected officals focus on running a financailly sound village.

IL Lawmaker wants to ban anonymous comments from Internet-
The bill, called the Internet Posting Removal Act, is sponsored by Illinois state Sen. Ira Silverstein. It states that a “web site administrator upon request shall remove any comments posted on his or her web site by an anonymous poster unless the anonymous poster agrees to attach his or her name to the post and confirms that his or her IP address, legal name, and home address are accurate.”