Comments for Elburn Herald

Comment on Letter: A comment on the conduct of the present Sugar Grove Township administration by Just my opinion.

Just my opinion. — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:17:00 +0000

Jerry, I agree with you with one exception. It is not that the administration is against women and/or seniors. They are against those that are not on board with their agenda. I also know Marlene Wagner personally and it broke my heart to know how she was vilified by certain members of the board and individuals seeking to further their own agenda. I didn’t always see eye to eye with Dan Nagel but he is a good man. No one can say he didn’t have the Townships best interests at heart. Unfortunately, there are those within the Township that stooped to ridiculous levels to bring about his political demise and seemed to consider Marlene collateral damage. I believe this mess started with one individual with a large axe to grind. This person does not have the ability to effectively communicate or find compromise with those who disagree or have conflicting opinions. Emotional rampages and vendettas of one individual started this entire debacle and those that truly cared about the community are paying the price.

Comment on Township Board, residents clash over handling of former supervisor by Just my opinion.

Just my opinion. — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 19:13:00 +0000

Every
single one of the board members is responsible. Every month the
prior meetings minutes and the accounting for the Township was provided.
None of them felt it was their responsibility to READ the information
until one person with an axe to grind got involved (who, by the way,
isn’t even on the board). I am not defending any wrong doing on anyone’s
part however each member of that board, including Mr. Jessemen, must
take responsibility for their culpability. There is negligence and abuse of power throughout and not just within the Supervisor’s office. Unfortunately, the person with the axe to grind has had plenty of time to make sure nothing can come back on him/her. Politics is a very dirty business and I don’t believe any of them truly have the public’s best interest at heart.

Comment on Township Board, residents clash over handling of former supervisor by Mike B.

Mike B. — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 12:56:00 +0000

Jon, please. If you or I did what this “former Supervisor” is alleged to have done with public money, and all under his friend Tom Rowe’s “watchful eye,” do you really think we’d be publicly defended by County Board members and get off with a slap on the wrist? Only in Illinois…

Comment on Township Board, residents clash over handling of former supervisor by Jon A. Zahm

Jon A. Zahm — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Melisa Taylor is one of the best public servants in the region, Mike. Just because she did not join the witch hunt into the former Supervisor (which wasted a lot of money to find little of substance) does not give you the right to impugn her character. The best candidate In the Supervisor race is Tom Rowe. He brings the best combo of work experience and township experience to the table. He is level headed and well-respected.

Comment on Township Board, residents clash over handling of former supervisor by Tim Wilson

Tim Wilson — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 03:33:00 +0000

http://youtu.be/luBgiwQKbdU

Comment on Township Board, residents clash over handling of former supervisor by Tim Wilson

Tim Wilson — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 03:31:00 +0000

http://youtu.be/48N_ajb2i88

Comment on Letter: In support of Michels, Bohler and Montalto this spring by Jon A. Zahm

Jon A. Zahm — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 01:46:00 +0000

A group founded in 2009, called Simply Honest in Sugar Grove, has put together a web site that I have registered and promoted for them. It is called http://www.michelsethicsissues.com This site shines light onto Michels that should awaken even his blind followers like Bob Bohler and Mari Johnson.

Comment on Letter: In support of Geary for Sugar Grove village president by Jon A. Zahm

Jon A. Zahm — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 01:43:00 +0000

This statement is untrue. Go to http://michelsethicsissues.com/2013/04/07/michels-and-village-law-firm-proven-wrong/ and read the court case that proves this anonymous commenter totally wrong on the directing court precedent.

Comment on Mallard Point still an issue of contention for Geary by Jon A. Zahm

Jon A. Zahm — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 01:38:00 +0000

If you go to http://www.michelsethicsissues.com you will learn a lot about the problems with the current Village President and why Sugar Grove voters need to vote for change on Tuesday.
All posts are documented with links and/or pictures, including two audiotapes, that verify all the information there.

Comment on Township Board, residents clash over handling of former supervisor by Mike B.

Mike B. — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 16:01:00 +0000

So County Board Member Melisa Taylor believes that no potentially criminal activity in government should ever be investigated unless it’s first publicized for a public meeting? So that way the perps can have plenty of warning to get to cover their tracks with, say, doctored minutes and “lost and missing” documents? Bravo, Melisa. Is this the same brand of “ethics” and “integrity” you bring to your elected position on the Kane County Board..?

Comment on SGPD closes investigation of former township supervisor by Mike B.

Mike B. — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:06:00 +0000

And why exactly is now-resigned Supervisor Nagel aggressively backing Clerk Tom Rowe for Township Supervisor? Is there something that still needs to be covered up..?

Comment on Letter: In support of Michels, Bohler and Montalto this spring by April Widrick

April Widrick — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:09:00 +0000

Sean Michels does have a strong background as the Sugar Grove Political leader, but in recent years there have been too many questions. Many wonder if the Sugar Grove village council is following Illinois political tradition, a change of blood may ensure that the Village of Sugar Grove does not follow it’s bigger brothers down that path.

Comment on Election: Sugar Grove Village President by April Widrick

April Widrick — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 22:50:00 +0000

Mr Michels states “I truly believe this is what separates me from my opponent,” Michels
said. “My goals lead the village to a brighter future. He simply does
not have goals for the future of the village.”

Obviously he has not been reading anything about his opponent Mr. Kevin Geary, who clearly outlines his hopes and goals for the Village on his election website http://www.gearyforsugargrove.com/issues

Mr. Gearys stances are on several items that I could expound upon, but will leave the details for the general populace to decide. The basics are as follows:

Open and Honest Government
Diversify Tax Base
Improve Transportation
Improve Public Safety
Economic Growth

I would also like to point out that Mr. Geary makes it easy to contact him and post questions through use of his website. Mr. Michels, does not.

Comment on Letter: In support of Geary for Sugar Grove village president by April Widrick

April Widrick — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 21:57:00 +0000

I would like to stress the point that I have felt that our current village president is unresponsive to the demands of the people that have voted him in. He has continually dodged questions about the ‘no bid’ contracts, and there are frequently items put through that the citizens have previously said ‘no’ to. How many items have been slipped by us?

Comment on Letter: In support of Geary for Sugar Grove village president by Ken Wiesner

Ken Wiesner — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:32:00 +0000

I’m not an attorney but it appears that this statute implies that you don’t *have* to go out for bid but it doesn’t prohibit it.

Comment on Letter: In support of Geary for Sugar Grove village president by Guest

Guest — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:28:00 +0000

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=726&ChapterID=11

Could you please clarify which part of 50 ILCS 510 “prohibits” competitive bidding?

Comment on Letter: In support of Geary for Sugar Grove village president by disqus_IaBNOEtwLg

disqus_IaBNOEtwLg — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:21:00 +0000

As a point of clarification, that no one seems to acknowledge, is the fact that Illinois State Statutes prohibits the competitive bidding of professional services. (50 ILCS 510) local government professional services selection act.

Comment on Blackberry Township asks for more money for roads by rocket833

rocket833 — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 18:38:00 +0000

Ummm NO!

Better idea, Rod Feece should step down and or be replaced with someone that can muster a more innovative approach to the problem. The same old tax tax tax approach has seen its day.

OR,

Consider CLOSING the township like many villages are starting to do, it is an unnecessary expenditure which should be covered by the county!

Comment on SGPD closes investigation of former township supervisor by Tim Wilson

Tim Wilson — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 23:40:00 +0000

Thank You Dan Nagle for your decades of service. As a 20 year resident and voter I have nothing but praise for your dedication to the township.

Comment on Elburn Station negotiations hit a snag by Tomtinkerman@aol.com

Tomtinkerman@aol.com — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 20:25:00 +0000

“I’d hate to jeopardize the development if he can’t sell single-family homes when the bridge is done,” trustee Jerry Schmidt said. “If there is a market for single-family homes, let him build that. If there’s a market for condos or apartments, let him build that. We need this development.”
I seem to see it a bit differant .First there isn’t any market for single-family,condos,or apartments right now. If there was Blackberry Creek would have been built out by now.
I really can see why Jerry Schmidt is so bent on pushing through Elburn to annax in the Sho-Deen development. Really now why do we need it so bad as he seems to think. There are a lot of other issues that Elburn needs to complete even before any further development could happen.

A few other concerns our trusted servants should consider now we’ve seen the true colors of what is about to ( hopefully not) be brought upon the Village of Elburn if the Sho-Deen annexation is forced upon us.

1. The care and maintenance of Anderson road after 1 year will be forced onto the Elburn taxpayers if the project is annexed into Elburn’s boundary from what I read and understand.

2. The total infrastructure basically should be understood ( electrical,water,sewer,telephone,roads,etc.)for as it is now Elburn’s basic infrastructure is in very bad shape. Except for a few select areas. How about a fair estimate of cost .Note:Who will pay ? Sho-Deen or Village of Elburns tax payers? What was it projected to bring our current sanitation up to par ($14,000,000.00 ) of moneys that are short to come by lately.

3. All the connecting streets and roads need to be planned out on the north,and south side of the railroad tracks ( pedestrian and bike trails,also ) All this is a slow process that needs to be included with the Anderson Road overpass Note: Where are the plans What will be a new surprise? Keep in mind the W.C.Fields factor.

4 As many Elburn residents have noted is to let the Anderson Road be built by the county first so the burden of any unforseen problems come up,and to slowly work out from the bridge with proper planning. There is way to many unfinished developments that Jerry should focus on to get finished. The Anderson Road overpass will be taken care of by Kane county for they are the for the bypass of Elburn on Rt.47 that is a bottle neck for North South truck movement. For the county to give any indication that the grant money for the overpass will be gone along with Sho-Deens hostage senrio that if we don’t Annex in Anderson road the deals is off seems really strange.
Let the county deal with Sho-Deen on the land that is needed for Anderson road.Then let Sho-Deen come to Elburn on our terms after Anderson Road is built. We don’t need Sho-Deen for Anderson Road the county does. All the studys and enginering has been done and even the piers are in the ground with huge costs of county and goverrmental money. For them to say it won’t be built because of Elburn I can beleave. The bridge will be build even if Elburn didn’t want it .

Comment on SGPD closes investigation of former township supervisor by Jules Mitchel

Jules Mitchel — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 02:18:00 +0000

It is unfortunate that given the preponderance of the evidence, case history of the individual from former officials and residents in the community that had come forward as well as clear
and convincing evidence that was presented; it doesn’t surprise me during an election year that police action or State’s Attorney’s office took a step back because the dollar amount wasn’t large enough to prosecute or perhaps because of politics? If the investigation would have gone further into the financials of all accounts, could the taxpayers be assured that the police made the right decision? On a positive note, at least the trustee recognized the discrepancies and took action to do what was right for the people and not worry about the
politics. Honest government is rare and so are honorable officials.

Comment on Elburn Station negotiations hit a snag by Tomtinkerman@aol.com

Tomtinkerman@aol.com — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 16:30:00 +0000

As per Sho-Deen’s comments that they can’t really build until after Anderson road is built. Good point as per The October vote by the board to not to allow Sho-Deen’s project planned annexed into Elburn.until after Anderson Road is complete. That way will not be held hostage to Sho-Deens little games.Sho-Deen should be working with Kane county’s offer of 2.4 million a few years ago.From what I see the Anderson road overpass has already started except for the blockage of Sho-Deens demand that Elburn cover’s their financial needs to make a profit on the backs of Elburn tax payers. I feel its totally uncalled for to be held hostage and kind of feel we’re being the victims of W.C. Fields famous quots of always take advantage of a sucker there is one born every minute.
The bridge is a top priority to be build by Kane county and I feel will be build one way or the other. Watch how fast Kane county takes the land needed for the bridge when our trusted servants see the truth in their hearts and tell Sho-Deen to deal with the county in good faith first so Elburn can see where we stand.

Comment on Elburn Station negotiations hit a snag by disqus_mVWrED21DG

disqus_mVWrED21DG — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 01:51:00 +0000

I don’t know the full implications of changing language from “completed” to “started”, but I hope whoever is word-smithing the agreement considers all the implications of language modifications. Mr. Patzelt states he wants the market to decide what he builds. If the market wants Quonset huts, will he be allowed to build them?

Comment on Elburn’s ‘aqua man’ by milesmaxwell

milesmaxwell — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 20:29:00 +0000

Great article, Cheryl! I’ve gotten a chance to see some of their tanks and they are especially cool. I particularly like their new Betta Bowl as a gift idea.

http://zeroedge.myshopify.com/collections/desktop/products/betta-bowl #zeroEdge

Comment on ‘Meet the Candidates Night’ for Sugar Grove elections by April Carvelli

April Carvelli — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 16:11:00 +0000

Once again, an early event that makes it difficult for many of us to attend.

Comment on Editorial: Elburn Herald hosts SG village presidential debate by April Carvelli

April Carvelli — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 16:02:00 +0000

According to Sean Michels “… that the village has done a number of things to reinforce open and honest government, including posting Village Board meeting agendas and minutes online” … I’m sorry, I’ve read those minutes or meeting that I have and have not attended and those minutes are horrible. They are a basic outline and do not give details of any sort and frequently missing any important attachments. In fact I have even found some of the writing to be bias in one direction or another. To open and honest I think the meeting should either be video or audio recorded and made available to the public.

Comment on Village Board reviews Pace vanpool program by April Carvelli

April Carvelli — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:49:00 +0000

Sounds like a great idea to me, I would love to see more measures like that save the environment and money.

Comment on Village Board reaches consensus on Elburn Station plan changes by Tomtinkerman@aol.com

Tomtinkerman@aol.com — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:31:00 +0000

According to Village President Dave Anderson, most board members have a comfort level with the items discussed and the direction the village is taking.
——————————————————

Please !! How about the comfort level of the tax payers of Elburn Trustes are basically trusted servants to the tax paying residents of Elburn . PUT IT ON A BALLOT !! And let us vote either Yes or NO . Real simple if not Why !!

Comment on Michels kicks off re-election bid with fundraiser by disqus_NHF98sqm5O

disqus_NHF98sqm5O — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 00:07:00 +0000

Sean Michels gets the better part of pages one and two with four pictures where he is prominently placed and the article about candidate Kevin Geary makes page five along with one picture where Geary barely takes up one inch? that’s “responsible” reporting? Seems biased to me.

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by GM

GM — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 14:09:23 +0000

Let the county handle the bridge problems, if the money earmark is not there or lost, it IS the counties fault.

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by GM

GM — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 14:07:49 +0000

“We need (the public’s) input,” trustee Bill Grabarek said.

Well, look around, Over & Over the public’s input has been “NO”.

“No” to being held hostage for the bridge
“No” for extremely high density development.
“No” to apparently unstable developers finances.

Pronunciation: nō
a. 1. Not any; not one; none; as, yes, we have no bananas; – often used as a quantifier.
Let there be no strife . . . between me and thee.

Let the county handle the bridge problems, if the money…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:10:54 +0000

Lets not be held hostage by anyone.
Lets not be held hostage by anyone.Once the county builds the bridge their will be a number of privet and commercial builders waitting at out door to build on our terms and surely

Better Not Just Bigger

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:09:00 +0000

various other issues of public safety like getting from St.Gauls to Lions park safely.

Last year our board voted down the project till the bridge was build and various other issues were taken care of by Sho-Deen. The Blackberry problem is still an ongoing problem so how on earth can this issue even be considered.

Let Kane County take the land that is required for the Anderson road overpass by eminent domain. That way Elburn tax payer will be safe and save money. Please protect out town…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:03:45 +0000

Then too the infrastructure of our waste water can’t handle what Sho-Deen wants and who’s going to flip the bill…Yes you Elburn Tax Payer’s will prolly add another 10 to 20% onto your city bills.
But wait from what I understand too is that Elburn would be flipping the bill to maintain that multi-million dollar bridge if that project is anaxed .Really now please someone explain on how is that going to happen when we are having problems to maintain our broken down streets ( in some ares) and…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:02:24 +0000

land that is required for the Anderson road overpass by eminent domain. That way Elburn tax payer will be safe and save money,but cost a lot more if Sho-Deen get its way. Dang Get Sho-Deen to work of finishing the South side of Kesslienger road. You know that Blackberry thing that was worked out into bankruptcy.

Now too what about all the cluster on parking issues downtown when that are just a small problem (wink)can you see any problems with 20% more cars /30% more cares in an area that you…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:01:12 +0000

to build let them work with Blackberry creek that is more than 1/4 incomplete. To even consider approving more development with all the foreclosures and lack of commercial tax base is insane to go forward.

The board voted it down months ago as per the wishes of most Elburn residents who live here and pay taxes. Question now is how on earth has this been brought up again till after the bridige is built by Kane county. Anderson road/bridge isn’t an Elburn project!!

Let Kane County take the…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:58:34 +0000

Question I’d like to know is how on earth was the Sho-Deen thing brought back the the table when it was voted down last year?
Well…the question a lot of folks prolly want to know is back in May of 2011 when it was standing room only were 4:1 against the huge development yet it keeps getting moved on and on to the point Shodeen is trying to make you and people believe the Anderson Bridge is hinged on approval on their money pit on the backs of Elburn tax payers. Again I say if Shodeen wants…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:56:21 +0000

could we as taxpayers possibly be trusted with such an important decision? Face it, most of us are just simple people, but we are intelligent enough to know when a developer is railroading an entire village for their own purposes.

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:54:30 +0000

holding Elburn hostage in some way? Which leads me to another question, why are the voters of Elburn and the county not given a chance to vote on the Anderson Road bridge? I have heard that the reason the Anderson Road bridge issue will not be placed on the ballot has to do with the taxpayers not having all of the information that our village trustees do. I know that the mayor and trustees have worked long and hard on the bridge and the TOD issue, and I appreciate all of their efforts. How…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:47:29 +0000

It was always my understanding under Roberts rules of order, only the members whom voted aye are allowed to re-open a tabled topic. Do they use different rules of conduct?
As far as I I know,
Mr Anderson should have never allowed it to be discussed at Haserts request.

The Anderson Road project isn’t an Elburn issue its a county issue. Sho-deen who owns the land now turned down an offer from Kane county of over 2.4 million for 70 or so acres needed for the over pass. WHY ?? Could it be…

Comment on Discussion on Elburn Station will wait another week by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:41:47 +0000

The original vote was as follows to table Sho-deens project till after Kane County’s Anderson Road Extention/Bridge is built from last year>>

“aye” votes from trustees Dave Gualdoni, Bill Grabarek, and Jeff Walter, with trustees Ken Anderson, Ethan Hastert, and Jerry Schmidt casting “nay” votes.

Aye votes were to table the project until the following took place.
A: Shodeen rectified their financial conflict with a bank.
B: The bridge is built.

It was always my understanding under…

Comment on Board attempts consensus on Elburn Station change recommendations by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 07:25:13 +0000

tax $$$$ ? Then too drive down E.Railroad Ave. by the turn and you can see and take your own pictures of the concrete foundation already in place. Now please take a bit of info to an Elburn board meeting and try to have them explain the true story

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl

Comment on Board attempts consensus on Elburn Station change recommendations by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 07:23:26 +0000

blocks are the piers. From what I feel is that people are getting pure double talk from the village of Eblurn for the benefits of a select few.Now I could be wrong on this ,but please prove me wrong

Below is a link to Google map . Look to the left of the large building there is a small building . To the left of that is a concrete foundation for a 6 lane bridge to go over the tracks . Look on the north side directly north and you’ll see the other side Hmmmm Whos blowing smoke up your…

Comment on Board attempts consensus on Elburn Station change recommendations by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 07:22:10 +0000

after the Anderson bridge/road extension was built. Like the old saying build it and they will come,but first let the county do their part. The $186,000,000.00 grant for the Elburn extension for metra included the Anderson road extension from what I understand. One thing most people don’t know is that the piers for a six lane overpass are already installed in the Metra Train yard on both side of the tracks . Do A google search and look by the building where the cars park . Those huge concrete…

Comment on Board attempts consensus on Elburn Station change recommendations by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 07:21:00 +0000

registration in ,but nothing of any sort of a ballot about railroading an entire village with Sho-Deen money pit. Really kind of makes a person wonder.
I wish someone would start a petition against the purposed and have it posted in several other news papers other than the Elburn paper. Then too the have several investigative reporters zero in in the fleshing of Elburn. Now this is just my thoughts.
The village board should be reminded that they voted down the Sho-Deen project until…

Comment on Board attempts consensus on Elburn Station change recommendations by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 07:18:19 +0000

The people of Elburn I feel are being taken for a ride with out all the total facts being kept up with. The Elburn Harald ( local misconception,and one sided) basically only prints what seems to be lopsided reporting.
From my reading on Elburn Station project in the local paper. Last year Mr .Anderson the village president commented that there was no time to get it on the ballot for a vote last year. Hmmmm what seems to have been the problem as of now. He was sure to get his ballot…

Comment on Letter: Public reaction to latest Sandy Hook shooting tragically wrong by outdoor1

outdoor1 — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 18:51:55 +0000

Very well said. I totally agree. I hope people are watching and are prepared for tyranny. So sad considering how magnificant this country once was. What a shame.

Comment on Village trustees renew Elburn Station development discussion by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 05:27:54 +0000

Well…the question a lot of folks prolly want to know is back in May of 2011 when it was standing room only were 4:1 against the huge development yet it keeps getting moved on and on to the point Shodeen is trying to make you and people believe the Anderson Bridge is hinged on approval on their money pit on the backs of Elburn tax payers. Again I say if Shodeen wants to build let them work with Blackberry creek that is more than 1/4 incomplete. To even consider approving more development with all the foreclosures and lack of commercial tax base is insane to go forward.

Let Kane County take the land that is required for the Anderson road overpass by eminent domain. That way Elburn tax payer will be safe and save money,but cost a lot more if Sho-Deen get its way. Dang Get Sho-Deen to work of finishing the South side of Kesslienger road. You know that Blackberry thing that was worked out into bankruptcy.

Now too what about all the cluster on parking issues downtown when that are just a small problem (wink)can you see any problems with 20% more cars /30% more cares in an area that you put your life on the line now if on foot.

Most people in Elburn DON’T WANT Sho-Deen’s Greed driven project to upset our fragile town so letSho-Deen Go somewhere else and will let the county deal with the Anderson Road extension that we were promised 6 years ago

Let Kane County take the land that is required for the Anderson road overpass by eminent domain. That way Elburn tax payer will be safe and save money. Please protect out town Better Not Bigger. Lets not be held hostage by anyone.

Comment on Elburn looks ahead to the new year by GM

GM — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 15:32:26 +0000

“There’s a reason that the rear view mirror is only 1/25 the size of the windshield,” he said. “You’ve got to keep looking ahead.”

More like its difficult enough to see past your own nose let alone the future with that pesky mirror hanging there.
Seems like several of these board members would be better off working as TV weather people in Chicago.

Comment on Elburn looks ahead to the new year by Carrie Frantz

Carrie Frantz — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 05:31:51 +0000

In response to “Elburn Looks Ahead To A New Year” and the Northside Bar being sold…If the closing of the Northside Bar is considered “progress”…then the Village of Elburn really needs to re-evaluate what it stands for. The loss of ANY business is dissapointing in itself, however, to see a thriving local business more or less “bullied” out…under “less than forthcoming cicumstances” is unexcusable. If “progress” is two business owners pouring their hearts, souls and personal finances into a business, only to have the building it is located in be sold out from underneath them…I’ll take a pass on “progress”…EIGHT employees stand to lose their jobs and income. Is this progress? A business that supported local community programs, charity events and opened their doors on holidays and provided free meals to any locals that either could not afford a meal or otherwise had no where to go…Is THIS progress? The Village of Elburn and the Elburn Herald should be ashamed of themselves for touting the words “Progress” at the loss of Northside. Northside exemplified what a small town local business SHOULD be.

Comment on Elburn looks ahead to the new year by traceyj1224

traceyj1224 — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 20:40:48 +0000

I find it interesting on how a article titled “Elburn looks a head to a new year” you mention that Northside has been sold. How exactly is that a good thing? We are being pushed out of a business for no reason except a building being sold and conveniently a new revision that we receive NOTHING…What exactly did we do to deserve to be treated like trash? We donated to many events, held charity raffles for Conley outreach, and brought back a bar that previously no one wanted to visit. Also mentioned was the new owners are putting in a full service restaurant? I’m pretty sure we had more food then alcohol sales, but how exciting that there’s going to be a new restaurant in town. Not only are we loosing our job, but so are others who put their heart into this bar as well. I find it extremely irritating and shame on all of you who know nothing about what we have gone through with this sale. We put our entire savings into this bar only to be sold and left high and dry. Did anyone bother to think about what impact this bar being sold is going to have on the lives of others? Didn’t think so….but yay for Elburn your moving forward…
Tracey Jacobsen

Comment on Letter: Newtown tragedy highlights two issues by Zombieeye

Zombieeye — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 04:44:29 +0000

A great man once said, “We must reject the idea that every time a laws broken, society is guilty rather than the lawbreaker. It is time to restore the American precept that each individual is accountable for his actions.”

Throughout American history civilians have ALWAYS had their own versions of military weapons. Yes do we really need 30+ round magazines? Do we really need weapons that shoot many rounds per second? Well you have your own opinion. But I make this case, why do we now? Because we can!!! We are Americans and that is who we are. We as Americans have always had the biggest and best over any other country. They build a car, we build a better one. They build a ship, we build a better ship. They build a gun we build a bigger gun and so on and so on.

Yes horrible things happen to people. That is the world we live in. People who are crazy to do horrible things will find ways regardless of regulations and restrictions. Mentally ill people are not accountable for the actions they choose. Most never see a jail cell why? Because they are mentally ill. People make excuses and then they send them away where they are medicated and then sent back out into the world only to do something else and get sent back to institutions. Mental illness cannot be cured only suppressed by medication.

So as a gun owner I am upset that there may be a gun ban. I understand the politics and see both sides. But it upsets me more because I am an American and because of that I want to have the best car, biggest boat, and biggest GUN I can. Not because I need these things but because I have the right to do so. That is the point. There are a lot of things you don’t need. A Lexus, a gold watch, ect. But you buy these things and crave these things because you have the right to.

Americans crave these things because that is who we are. If you tell us you cannot have this, then we crave it more and find any way to get it.

Comment on Board to discuss Elburn Station in new year by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 06:54:24 +0000

Well lets not be held hostage by the greed of a developer that if you send out a certified letter to respond to ALL home owner’s that pay the taxes for our town with the question are you for or against the project. My understanding is that you’ll get 4:1 against the project just like when it was first presented with all the fancy promises of a bridge to get to the train station(hut)lol. Then too what about all the parks that were talked about? But wait how about the walkway(bike path) that was to be a center hub for Elburn residents to get from the north side of the track to the Elburn Hut (station) I personally feel that the whole scenario is being kept quit so a select few can get it passed. If not send out the certified letter to all tax paying home owners and get a yes or no response. Seems very simple to me and REALLY wouldn’t cost that much to get the respect and consideration of the people who are really responsible for Elburn.
Please notify the county to take the land necessary by eminent domain for the bridge and will deal with the developer after the bridge and connections are in place then we can deal with any and ALL development projects that have interest on our terms or tell them to go pound sand.
A lot of the people that I’ve talked to agree with Ron Rosecky

Comment on Board to discuss Elburn Station in new year by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 06:26:00 +0000

We’ll totally agree with you on the ( How Odd ) issues that need to be addressed on our better not bigger.I’d kind of like to know where the money is from the sale of the land to Shodeen is that were held hostage to now.Hmmm Let see ball park figures from what I understand is Kane county will give Shodeen 1.5 to 2 million for to 70 or so acre’s needed for the bridge.Wasn’t the total acreage 500 plus acres sold to Shodeen.So basically the land sold to Shodeen has had a value of 12.4 million dollars.Does anyone have the figure?
Our streets are in very bad shape. Your life is on the line to get from the North side to the south side of the tracks with broken cracked and no sidewalks in some parts.Now that is in the main part of Elburn.
There are various rentals where the owners really don’t care where their tennents park. I’ve read lately of a couple of large drug busts in our small town.The local bar on the corner of 47 and North Ave. has the new city parking lot for most of the 50 to 100 cars that use the bar.Now between the drugs and booze that seems to be of more concern to the center of Elburn than the safety of the basic service our tax payers should have all should be taken into consideration before any Shodeen development.
Our basic infrastructure is badly maintained as it is and there is an old saying if you can’t take care of what you got you won’t take care of what you get.The tax payer’s in Elburn are nearly taped out and some are struggling to keep what they got so how on earth and where are the funds going to be when needed? Please someone explain.
From what I understand is that if Elburn (Shodeen development and Anderson road project)goes forward the tax payers will be responsible for the maintence of the multimillion dollar bridge.With all the empty homes and a lot in foreclosure wouldn’t it be better for the county to take the land from Shodeen by eminent domain and let the county be the check book instead of Elburn.Holding Elburn hostage that no Shodeen approval of the housing plans the bridge may be lost is totally unbelievable. The Anderson Road Bridge has been a County project that is being milked for various interests that have nothing to do with the bridge.The Elburn board’s decision the let the bridge be build first than maybe…maybe We may consider Shodeen to build onto Elburn on our terms not theirs.
A few years down the road after the County builds the bridge various builders will be knocking at our doors for a chance to build. Let Shodeen get in line with the other builders on building sites.Not just by Train Station!! Blackberry creek has a lot of vacant land to build on right now. I don’t see Shodeen working on interest to build there.Hmmmmm I wonder why?? There are a lots of unanswered questions that need to be addressed.

Comment on Board to discuss Elburn Station in new year by GM

GM — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 20:25:32 +0000

Did the bridge get built?
Has Shodeen resolved their legal matters concerning legal proceedings at Tanna Farms?

Mr Grabarek’s motion to table the discussion was fairly easy to follow.
Seems to me that a NAY voting member re-opening a tabled discussion is a bit outside normal parliamentary procedure.

Is Shodeen still holding out on the county deal for the bridge/property? If So, there is nothing to talk about.
Some Elburn residents & board members want this bridge,this part is obvious.
Shodeen wants his money maker project, this part is obvious as well.
Continue to follow Mr Grabarek’s
Table the discussion until ” both ” maters are resolved.
#1 The bridge is built.
#2 Legal/financial proceedings resolved.

“Hastert on Monday said the village can get on with addressing the infrastructure issue, referring to the Anderson Road extension and bridge.”
Well, seems to me they had said previously the project is ready to break ground, Now the infrastructure needs discussed?
How Odd.

Comment on Board to discuss Elburn Station in new year by rak40

rak40 — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:00:52 +0000

What I feel is absent at many Village meetings, particularly Committee of the Whole meetings, is in-depth discussion among the trustees about their observations on issues, and debate about the pros and cons thereof. In my view, all 7 of the board members should be interacting with each other and Staff so as to give citizen observers some comfort that decisions arrived at are thoroughly thought through. The Elburn Station Project is a complex one. Therefore it deserves thorough examination and testing to avoid unintended consequences, whether approved, reconfigured or disapproved.

Comment on Elburn Village Board approves 2012 tax levy by elburn skeptic

elburn skeptic — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 14:46:03 +0000

How ridiculous ! What will it cost the Village when that mini van full of kids slides into a busy intersection. Who is liable when granny gets T-boned by a semi. Here’s an idea, jusy stop plowing snow. Fire all the snowplow drivers, that will save tons of money.

Comment on Letter: Consider chiropractic treatment by whiskeymac

whiskeymac — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 14:31:34 +0000

Is it now the editorial policy of the Elburn Herald to allow free advertising in “Letters to the Editor” to the paper?

Comment on Wilma Jeannette Keller by Judyscheibly

Judyscheibly — Sat, 24 Nov 2012 01:27:16 +0000

Jeannette and family: So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was one of my favorite people ever. A special lady for sure. Judy Leifheit Scheibly

Comment on Two spirits by risyrawks_11

risyrawks_11 — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 00:26:05 +0000

Tell Preston i said Hi!

Comment on Two spirits by risyrawks_11

risyrawks_11 — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 00:25:17 +0000

hey Madi! its marissa from your homeroom!!!! U r awesome and your story is interesting!!!!!!!!!!
Marissa

Comment on Elburn still attempting to complete Blackberry Creek work by rak40

rak40 — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 14:57:45 +0000

If we “cite the bank with an ordinance violation”, will that pave the streets and deal with the wetland restoration?

Comment on Elburn still attempting to complete Blackberry Creek work by rak40

rak40 — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 14:55:05 +0000

This report should serve as an alert to those of us concerned about the Elburn Station Project. The devil is, indeed, in the details. Unintended consequences abound! It seems no matter how one tries to protect oneself, as in bonding and “air tight” contracts, we still end up with unfulfilled promises, such as are reported in this article. I hope the Village Board Trustees, individually as well as a board, will have dotted ALL the i’s and crossed ALL the t’s in the Shodeen deal for Elburn Station.

Comment on Elburn Station vote set for Oct. 15 by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 04:27:26 +0000

Residents Of Elburn…. You Better Wake Up And Stop This Massive Housing (apartment complex) Development Project

There was info many months ago about this big developer fighting foreclosure proceedings and having legal action being taken for BIG BUCKS…. and the information is now being put on the streets for all to see.ShoDeen fights bank in foreclosure
In Geneva – The 120-acre Tanna Farms Golf Club owned by Geneva developer Kent Shodeen was placed in receivership over a default on a nearly $3.6 million loan borrowed against the golf course in 2009, records show.
ShoDeen built Tanna Farms, 39W804 Hughes Road, Blackberry Township, in 2001.
Bank of America is suing ShoDeen in Kane County for default on that loan and another loan on a different property in Kane County, together totaling nearly $40 million.This is from my understanding

LISTEN UP ELBURN…. You don’t let a developer come into your community who’s financial integrity is in question and who want’s to build 1000′s of apartment units which will only attract UNDESIRABLES… and don’t forget that a certain portion of these need to be LOW INCOME HOUSING UNITS. Why doesn’t your village board in Elburn bring up this point about low incoming housing units?????? Are they afraid that more residents would be fighting against this development???
The last of the big developers want to make fast cash and apartment buildings are the way to do it. We don’t have many apartment complexes in the Fox Valley area that are of any quality. St. Charles, Batavia, North Aurora, Elgin, Sycamore, Dekalb, have plenty of large apartment complexes that are plagued with trouble and plenty of 911 calls. Do you really want this in Elburn?????

When Mr.Grabarek said… “We did not expect B&B and Blackberry Creek to go off the cliff,” Grabarek said at Monday’s meeting. “ShoDeen did not expect Tanna Farms to off the cliff.”

Grabarek said that, once the development is annexed, the village is responsible for it.

“Once you bring it in, whoever owns it, owns it, and we no longer have the control we have before annexation,” Grabarek said. “Once it’s annexed, we’re stuck with the highest and best use of whatever that property may be. That worries me in view of the Tanna Farm news.”
A very good point indeed ,and also the Anderson bridge hostage scenario will be taken care of by Kane county eminent domain and Elburn won’t be responsible of the upkeep of the bridge.
There are so many negative and basically no positive reasons to give ShoDeen the approval for a massive uncertain project until many many unanswered questions and funding of ALL infrastructure is in place so the current tax paying residents of Elburn aren’t hit with surprise in the future year’s on the tax bills.

Comment on Annexation hearing closed by GM

GM — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 11:43:50 +0000

Based on the recent article in another local county newspaper I would think that any village official that even considers this development should be replaced.
It was this same borrow from Peter to pay Paul business model that killed B&B when the building boom slowed.

Let the county handle the bridge and related property issues, but hand Shodeen their walking papers on this development just as other villages are doing.

Comment on Annexation hearing closed by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 06:27:52 +0000

“Development is necessary We welcome new people, but also I don’t want to burden the existing community with new folks coming in. I want the bridge done for the existing residents and central Kane County,” Dave Anderson said. “We will make our decision on the best facts and information that we have at the time.”

Well said ! The fact is the bridge WILL be build if Elburn likes it or not.The land needed will be taken by Kane county for the reason the bridge was,and IS a kane county project.The decision of the future section 8 housing could happen if the rentals are built.
The people of Elburn flocked the May meeting and were against the build out around the metra station untill the Blackberry division has some sort of a direction to be finished.

To tell you the truth let Elburn Station development. Sho-Deen representative Dave Patzelt go back to the rat pack with a fee of $12,000.00 per unit or build Elburn a new school with the project. If they don’t like it tell them to go pound sand and try to build somewhere else and let Kane County take the land that is required for the Anderson road overpass by eminent domain.Sure it may cost Elburn money,but a lot less if Sho-Deen get its way. Dang Get Sho-Deen to work of finishing the South side of Kesslienger road. You know that Blackberry thing that was worked out into bankruptcy.
Then too the infrastructure of our waste water can’t handle what Sho-Deen wants and who’s going to flip the bill…Yes you Elburn Tax Payer’s will prolly add another 10 to 20% onto your city bills.
Most people in Elburn DON’T WANT Sho-Deen’s Greed driven project to upset our fragile town so Sho-Deen Go somewhere else and will let the county deal with the Anderson Road extension that we were promised 6 years ago

Comment on Letter: Obama, Democrats receive preferential treatment by RM

RM — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 22:33:09 +0000

The article in Rolling Stone is well written and carefully researched but you’ll never know if you refuse to look at it because you’re afraid of what it says. We know the election is about jobs. Government doesn’t create jobs except by expanding government. How can Republicans complain about big government and cry about lost government jobs at the same time? How can you honestly call Obama an utter failure when the country IS better off than it was 4 years ago. The mess he started with wasn’t created overnight. Amusing how clowns support Romney paying half what he should in taxes because he could “legally” avoid taxes by setting aside his income and pay only a 15% capital gains tax. How can the rest of us get a ride on that band wagon? Let’s see, first I have to come up with a couple million, get a loan for millions more, do a leveraged buyout, steal all the assets, pay myself a hefty consulting fee, move all the money offshore and leave the business to declare bankruptcy and fire all the employees. Oh, almost forgot, have to payoff the management too. Technically, it’s all legal. But is this the kind of President you people want?

Comment on Letter: Obama, Democrats receive preferential treatment by elburn skeptic

elburn skeptic — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 18:41:29 +0000

BRAVO…. the best letter published this cycle. The double standard is blatant and embarrassing. This election is about jobs, and the economy and the utter failure of Obama. By almost every metric the economy has NOT recovered and won’t if we spend four more years punishing the successful, demagogueing the rich and squelching the oil and gas industry that could singled handedly bring us back.

Comment on Letter: Obama, Democrats receive preferential treatment by rak40

rak40 — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 16:13:55 +0000

Well written letter by Mr. Ryan. On the other hand, RM references Rolling Stone as a source. What else would one expect from a liberal magazine?

Don’t kid yourself. Mr. Obama follows the philosophy of ..from those according to their means, to those according to their needs.

Comment on Letter: Obama, Democrats receive preferential treatment by RM

RM — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 22:42:42 +0000

Preferential treatment?? Obama has been abused and obstructed by the Tea Party and Republicans since he’s been in office. We’re still hearing nonsense about where Obama was born. He’s constantly called a Socialist by people who don’t the first thing about what it even means. Who do you think you’re kidding Dennis? Don’t know where you’ve been the past few years but we ARE back on track despite the non-efforts of the House majority to work to move things forward. Stock market is back, 401Ks have regained value, auto industry has been saved, jobs are slowly being created. Was the Great Depression fixed in 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 years?

It’s laughable that anyone would actually believe that Romney will create a job. He’s a master of job destruction and he’s made millions leaving a wake of bankruptcy. Semantically, there may be a difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion and legally Romney is doing what he is required to do. However, morally, the man has no scruples and he’s a total schmuck. Read the story in the latest issue of Rolling Stone and tell us if you still think he’s fit for any public office.

Comment on Residents speak: Elburn Station public hearing remains open by rak40

rak40 — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 14:12:02 +0000

To lburnlifer: Yes, I have spoken one-on-one. No, I don’t necessarily look for an answer in a public forum…just answers. I’m not challenging the project, just trying to improve my understanding. Isn’t that how one develops an informed opinion?

Comment on Residents speak: Elburn Station public hearing remains open by lburnlifer

lburnlifer — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 19:31:17 +0000

To rak40: Did you personally speak with the mayor or any of the Village board on your concerns via e-mail, or one on one? Or are you expecting answers in a public forum? This is a complex issue that none of the people in Elburn take lightly. I can personally remember the same question being brought up before the subdivision was built behind lions park, prairie highlands, and even blackberry creek. With changes you must adapt or get out of the way. Those of us that have lived here our whole lives have gotten use to the fact that change thus far has been good. No one can help the economy. This subdivision wont change the fact that homes are still going to be forclosed or moved out of regardless. Im sure shodeen wont build houses that arent sold or even pre-sold. I look forward to your response.

Comment on Residents speak: Elburn Station public hearing remains open by rak40

rak40 — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 17:38:08 +0000

Upon re-reading my earlier post, I find it improper and unfair. Simply put, I should have said that I expect a response when such promises are made…or I should not have commented at all.

Comment on Residents speak: Elburn Station public hearing remains open by rak40

rak40 — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 16:00:22 +0000

On several occasions Mr. David Anderson has clearly stated that he and/or the Board would respond to questions asked in person, phone or via email regarding the Elburn Station Project or any other issue for that matter. I’m still waiting for any response to recent questions. I recognize the complexity of the Elburn Station issue, but I’m concerned over what may be a lack of sincerity, dedication or commitment on the part of the Board in serving this community.

Comment on Residents speak: Elburn Station public hearing remains open by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 19:26:24 +0000

“Get out of Elburn and drive around in the suburbs. You will find areas that are pristine, townhouses with alleys that I would love to live in,” Houdak said. “Whether it’s apartments, condos or homes, you find (this is) the current way of developing – open area, open streets and open development. Chicago is coming out here. DeKalb and Sycamore are coming this way. We’re smack dab in the middle. I see Elburn as the golden spot in the Fox Valley.”

—————————-

Very interesting to say the least. ” townhouses with alleys that I would love to live in,” Houdak said ” Well Sr. Park your car in one of the alleys and set up camp there.
One thing surely is that if you don’t build it they(Chicago,Dekalb and Sycamore) would have to buy the existing homes in our area to make golden homes out of and build up and on of what we already have.The county will take the right of way for Anderson Rd. by eminent domain so You Mr.Houdak look for a nice place on the North or South side of the bridge. Then too why did you leave Chicago to come out to our pleasant country setting town? If you don’t like the slower ( Better Not Bigger ) town go back to Chicago

_______________________________________________
“This issue is not about us (the board),” Village President Dave Anderson said. “It’s about us (the community).We continue to look at the facts. Not one of us will make this decision based on innuendo or rumor. We don’t take it lightly.

“We’ve kept the hearing open since May. We want to hear what you have to say. Know that we have a vested interest here. We raised our families here. My grand kids go to school here. We may not always make decisions that are pleasing to all of you, but we make it based on the facts. We do listen.”

Well…the question a lot of folks prolly want to know is back in May when it was standing room only were 4:1 against the huge development yet it keeps getting moved on and on to the point Shodeen is trying to make you and people believe the Anderson Bridge is hinged on approval on their money pit on the backs of Elburn tax payers. Again I say if Shodeen wants to build let them work with Blackberry creek that is more than 1/4 incomplete. To even consider approving more development with all the foreclosures and lack of commercial tax base is insane to go forward.

The board should have voted it down months ago as per the wishes of most Elburn residents who live here and pay taxes.

Comment on Race to the (re)finish by naelee

naelee — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 21:42:45 +0000

Great article!

Comment on Eagle Scout completes police shooting range project by EddieLebeck

EddieLebeck — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:37:52 +0000

Great job on the completion of the Eagle Scout project, I have the highest respect for Eagle Scouts.

It is a shame that it had to be the nuisance firing range that was improved.

Comment on No vote yet by rak40

rak40 — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 13:24:54 +0000

Of great concern to me is that it appears that the Trustees are not “on the same page” with respect to their understanding of the details of the Elburn Station Project. Indeed, some are not even in the same book! My sense is that the vast majority of Elburnites don’t want this to proceed.

Comment on No vote yet by elburn skeptic

elburn skeptic — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 13:21:11 +0000

They heard your complaints, they know the project is not wanted and they are going to ignore you.

Development never pays for it’s self, ever! This will cost the Village tax payers in the long run. As they continue to dip into savings to balance the budget how will future services be paid for ? Higher taxes and fees !

Comment on No vote yet by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 01:02:24 +0000

“That is a pressure we should not have let ourselves get into. We’ve been held hostage to this whole damn thing. The county has been hesitant to take it by eminent domain,” Grabarek said. “We’ve been talking about a bridge for years and years, but I don’t want to be held hostage with a symbolic gun to my head.”

————————

———————-

Elburn resident Ron Rosecky expressed his lack of understanding that the board has been hearing negative feedback and yet is appearing to go forward.

“I’m bewildered that, on hearing the responses from the general population, I don’t know if it’s going to affect your decision or not,” Rosecky said. “I’ve found out (by hearing other negative responses) that I’m not the only one. There are other people. I don’t know if you’re listening or not.”

—————-

From what I’ve heard by people is that you can’t fight city hall even though the people tat did voice their concerns against the project where basically ignored and made to feel small as if why did they make fools out of themselves by notifying against the project.
From what I see its 4:1 against the project with what people that have voiced a concern So again I say lets send out certified letter’s and get a true consensus of the feelings of for or against the project.Real simple and would END THE CONFUSION of the member’s the misinformed board of trustees.

Comment on Public speaks at annexation hearing by Zombieeye

Zombieeye — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 23:51:47 +0000

Well people have posted in the past that “The village of Elburn Does not want this Shodeen anyway” Well i can tell you this the village has had MINIMAL contact with the public who are in disagreement with this. So if those people who do not want this to happen need to put forth some effort and email, call, post artical, and/or show up for the village meetings and voice there pro or con for this. The village has been on record in stating that only around 50 people in the past 6 months have voiced their cons against this. That is not even a blip on a radar from a village of over 5000 residents. This is our town and if we don’t let it known PUBLICLY then the village will have to figure that since there is not enough “recorded” cons, that the majority of the village must think it is ok to proceed. The August meeting is probably going to be the last meeting before they close the open forum for good. I suggest you GO and fill the HALL with either yay or nay for this. 50 people is not enough. It is too late for the village to spend the money on a vote, so this is going to be the only way.
The bridge is going to be built soon enough so if it takes another 5 years then it does. But it will be built reguardless if Shodeen gets the approval or not. PERIOD. Hope to see a packed room at the next meeting!!!

Comment on Public speaks at annexation hearing by informed

informed — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 18:50:12 +0000

@BBCreekRes – the fees mentioned were collected specifically to finish roads in BBC. In this case, the connection of Anderson Road to Keslinger. This is not funding a Shodeen project. If the residents of BBC don’t want to connect Anderson to Keslinger they should take it up with the Board.

As to your suggestion that “Elburn officials need to start stepping up and taking care of what they ALREADY have, this includes a fair attempt at correcting the last failed development”, what do you condsider a fair attempt? I don’t agree with the Shodeen development but I am definitely not in favor of the Village getting into the development business. It has been proven time and time again that government at any level doesn’t succeed in business matters. The last thing we need is a Village Board trying to develop land.

Comment on Water, sewer fees get fresh look by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 05:01:24 +0000

“From the water and sewer standpoint, we’ve been told that the (agreed upon) numbers are incorrect. We worked for two years with staff, the board and Rempe-Sharpe. The board approved the concept, and now at the last minute, we have new engineers, and (what they say) contradicts Rempe-Sharpe’s analysis,” Skidmore said. “We’ve taken a two-year step back in time, and ShoDeen has wasted $188,000, not including our time.”

—————————————————

Well…Mr Skidmore Your time is looking for a place to build,and make money isn’t it? Not really caring on who or where you get your margin. The tax payer’s of Elburn don’t want your dream to make our town your cash cow.Your company trys to hold hostage the startting of the Anderson bridge that will get built with you or without you This is out town and if you don’t like it go build somewhere else. I really hope you get fined for dragging your feet by Kane County on the strong arm tactic’s your trying to pull with the people of Elburn.I personally feel to let the county of Kane take the land that is needed by eminent domain.Sure it may cost Elburn money,but a lot less if Sho-Deen get its way. Dang Get Sho-Deen to work of finishing the South side of Kesslienger road left by another develpoer You know that Blackberry thing that was worked out into bankruptcy.
Then too the infrastructure of our waste water can’t handle what Sho-Deen wants and who’s going to flip the bill…Yes you Elburn Tax Payer’s will prolly add another 10 to 20% onto your city bills.
Most people in Elburn DON’T WANT Sho-Deen’s Greed drive project to upset our fragile town so Sho-Deen Go somewhere else and will let the county deal with the Anderson Road extension that we were promised 6 years ago

Comment on Public speaks at annexation hearing by BBCreekRes

BBCreekRes — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 12:28:51 +0000

About this Question & Quote;
Another concern expressed was the $400,000 fee that the village must pay if the Anderson Road extension is approved.
Question “Do we have that budgeted for next year?” Elburn resident Jim Peterson asked. “It’s asking a lot of citizens to come up with that.”

Quote;”Village Administrator Erin Willrett said that the money is there. It was collected in a transportation impact fee from the Blackberry Creek subdivision.”

Blackberry Creek is INCOMPLETE, the roads are INCOMPLETE, the Pond system is INCOMPLETE, and it was mentioned recently that the original developer bonds are not enough to complete the work.

So WHY are we taking Impact fee’s generated by Blackberry Creek to fund a Shodeen project?
In Blackberry Creek we pay an SSA, we also pay an HOA to handle a good number of items that most villages have a park district for.
Shouldn’t the impact fee go for the roads here?

Elburn officials need to start stepping up and taking care of what they ALREADY have, this includes a fair attempt at correcting the last failed development.

Comment on Public speaks at annexation hearing by Zombieeye

Zombieeye — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 20:28:12 +0000

Well I for one don’t like that Shodeen is crying in the sand box, saying they will not give the land to the county for the road unless Elburn annexes the property.

There are a lot of new developers who are saving money and cashing in on HUGE tax cuts offered by the government for low income housing. So here is how i see these apartments playing out. All built up and only half get filled. The rest will be labeled as low income housing and bam!!! Shodeen gets paid and we just inherited our very own Jericho Circle!!! Shodeen moves on with pockets lined and Huge Tax breaks and we get stuck with bottomed property values and crime… Shodeen cannot guarantee that these properties will not be low income nor would it even be legal for them to do so. With most developments a percentage must be acclimated for section 8.

My vote would be to wait. There will be other developers. What is the rush, and wait for the market to make a comeback. Then we will be fighting off developers with a stick. When the market is in shambles why build? Other villages are building and look at what they are ending up with. LOW INCOME HOUSING. Why does the village feel that it won’t happen to them? Are they that high and mighty on their ivory tower to not see what is going on? We are no different than any other community so let’s learn from their mistakes and NOT DO THIS!!!

Growth is great and I am all for it, but it should be on OUR terms not some developer and when they choose.

Comment on Public speaks at annexation hearing by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 16:57:05 +0000

“I feel we need this bridge in the village of Elburn more than we need anything. Not everyone is negative,” trustee Jerry Schmidt said. “Are we postponing this project (by not approving the annexation agreement now)? I’m worried we’re going to lose the bridge. Without the bridge, I don’t see how we can get more development.”
——————————————
Let the county take the land by eminent domain,and tell ShoDeen clan to go pound sand. Better yet let’s see what they can do with all the vacant Blackberry Creek subdivision ( still undeveloped)there was no value in bringing in another large development

For what ever reason there is still consideration of more development to add to the burden of Elburn tax payer’s is insane. The current people of Elburn don’t want it and don’t need it until maybe if and when all the current financial and cutbacks are taken care of.
If the village board wants the development lets take it to the Elburn voter’s and maybe…just maybe they will understand that we don’t want more development until the answer’s are plainly in place on just WHO IS GOING TO PAY for all the added sew and water needs for one . Then too what about taking care of out streets and sidewalks that in some areas are kind of dangerous.I could go on but I’m sure that many folks feel the same way.

Comment on Public hearing to remain open through July 2 by Zombieeye

Zombieeye — Sat, 30 Jun 2012 21:01:36 +0000

Why don’t we just call it the next Jericho Circle. This is a big mistake, too much too soon especially when so many homes are forclosing and for sale in Elburn, why add more when we cannot get the ones we currently have filled.

Comment on Public hearing to remain open through July 2 by rak40

rak40 — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 16:46:54 +0000

Generally, I believe development is a good thing for the community. However, in this particular case, I’m concerned that the proximity of a portion of this development to the railroad tracks will, over time,find many of those units vacant and lacking care and maintenance.

Comment on Public hearing to remain open through July 2 by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 21:33:13 +0000

A public hearing that was opened at the Village Board meeting on Monday will remain open until the next meeting, Monday, July 2.
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Comment on Charting the course for Elburn by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 20:39:34 +0000

“We need to take advantage of what we have – neighborhood parks, two Forest Preserves, one to the east and one to the west. We need to focus on promoting and finishing the existing parks,” Anderson said.

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Fantastic plan ! The park across from the First Street parking lot needs to be corrected from the Boy Scouts Victory Garden work. The park has a lot of ornaments tree’s and vegetation and needs to be maintained to where it was before the Boy Scouts put a garden in the center of the newly established lawn that was graded and seeded at a cost of 12,000.00 several years ago.

The chess table is a nice place to sit and watch the locals,and trains ( Train City Award) we would like to see some sort of play equipment for our kids. Being close to the Fire Dept,and right on path to our west Forest Preserves on North Ave. A prefect park for tranquility and improvement

Comment on Elburn recognized as a Train Town USA by BBCreekRes

BBCreekRes — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 13:23:58 +0000

Gee,
150 years,
not to mention the noise,
the delays
the overnight runway lights that currently pollute the night sky,
the constant overnight noise from the maintenance yard
and lets not forget the lovely smell of diesel in the morning.
All we got was another eye-sore sign & this stupid coin?
Not even a Tee Shirt??

Thanks U.P. its been a slice

Comment on Moving forward by BBCreekRes

BBCreekRes — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 19:31:43 +0000

OneWhoCares, you are spot on in your assessment. EVERY newspaper pole that pertained to the Elburn Station has reflected that residents do NOT want this high density development.

BB Creek residents have voiced their complaints about Shodeen linking into the water/sewer system as well. You be be certain that there are several self serving aspects to this project.

It really bothers me that all of these Villages the County & School Board fought so hard to get the impact fee’s up to a near suitable level only to back pedal now, especially on a 10-15 year project!

One thing certain,
Elburn is on the Developers Maps,
As long as they continue roll out the Red Carpet, hand them the deed to the village & let the resident taxes cover any downfalls that may occur later we will only see more of the same.

Comment on Moving forward by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 19:44:32 +0000

“What’s the incentive to come to Elburn?” Trustee Jerry Schmidt asked. “If we approve this, we’re throwing three years work (to get the Elburn Station development approved) out the window. It’s not a level playing field, and I just can’t vote for it.”

Hastert agreed that if all municipalities weren’t party to it, the agreement was imperfect.

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Ya know that is an old saying and I quote>>

“No form of government can ever succeed, as long as greed exists” Gandhi

Is it possible that there are self serving interests among our trusted servants? One thing is sure that the people of Elburn DO NOT WANT MORE DEVELOPMANT !! Yet some of our trusted servants seems to ignore that fact.

Kind of like the need for the city to buy the church parking lot when there is more than enough parking with in a 300/500 foot proximity of the local establishments.

Comment on Moving forward by OneWhoCares

OneWhoCares — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 16:03:33 +0000

Ken Anderson voted to enter into the IGA based on the concern that the taxpayers will be asked to pay for schools if the developers don’t.

“We need to protect our existing residents,” Anderson said.

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To tell you the truth let Elburn Station development. Sho-Deen representative Dave Patzelt go back to the rat pack with a fee of $12,000.00 per unit or build Elburn a new school with the project. If they don’t like it tell them to go pound sand and try to build somewhere else and let Kane County take the land that is required for the Anderson road overpass by eminent domain.Sure it may cost Elburn money,but a lot less if Sho-Deen get its way. Dang Get Sho-Deen to work of finishing the South side of Keslinger road. You know that Blackberry thing that was worked out into bankruptcy.
Then too the infrastructure of our waste water can’t handle what Sho-Deen wants and who’s going to flip the bill…Yes you Elburn Tax Payer’s will prolly add another 10 to 20% onto your city bills.
Most people in Elburn DON’T WANT Sho-Deen’s Greed drive project to upset our fragile town so Sho-Deen Go somewhere else and will let the county deal with the Anderson Road extension that we were promised 6 years ago.The rail road extension came in $43,000,000.00 under budget,but also out people/bike over pass for people to get to the train station and Anderson Road was in that budget if I remember. The concret pier’s for a 6 lane road were in place buy the coach yard for metra. Google mape it and you’ll see them
Sho-Deen… the eminent domain senerio is one option. My feeling our just that.

Comment on Moving forward by BBCreekRes

BBCreekRes — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 01:46:28 +0000

Well, look at it this way. You rally can’t blame villages for wanting to remain competitive with each other.
You really cant blame developers for wanting to trim their bottom line, there is no limit to the greed involved there.

You CAN blame the school district. Giving up an inch on fee’s was a huge mistake.
Nearly EVERY year they come holding out their hands for MORE & More & More. Then they threaten to make the children suffer by making cuts.

Well remember Kaneland, You gave away impact fee’s, put your hands back in your pockets! Is that a lint ball? GOOD, that is whats in my pocket as well.

Comment on Moving forward by rak40

rak40 — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 20:45:28 +0000

First, I must confess to possessing limited knowledge of “impact fees” and how they are established. However, listening to the discussion that took place on Monday regarding the IGA, I was somewhat concerned that not all board members appeared to grasp the consequences of the wording in the agreement and, indeed, the meaning of certain words. by this time in the process, I feel they should all have been much more conversant and knowledgeable on the subject.

Comment on SG resident lives up to Conley Angel Award by barbarathavis

barbarathavis — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:49:39 +0000

Willy King is the real deal. He is smart, kind, and funny. Kids love him like no tomorrow. He is respected by the community and desperately loved by his family. We are so lucky to have Grandpa King in our life!

Comment on School impact fee agreement delayed by BBCreekRes

BBCreekRes — Thu, 17 May 2012 12:19:49 +0000

I certainly hope that the school district re-thinks this absurd reduction. I hope they remember this HUGE mistake the next time they are holding out their hands for another levy!(I know I Will)
Shodeen knew the fee’s involved when they started this project several years back.
Just another example of big money stacking the deck against taxpayers.

Comment on Elburn looks at emergency lockdown procedures after police chase by Beagle

Beagle — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 16:43:17 +0000

I do realize that this could have turned into a very ugly situation. Fortunately for all involved, it did not and the person was taken into custody peacefully. Not only do I wonder about the lock down procedures that are needed, I also wonder about a police presence that can turn out badly in and of itself.

From my office window in downtown Elburn, I witnessed a county sheriff squad car roll through doing at least 100 MPH. As he went through town, I heard only a short blip of his siren. Since all of Rt.47 through town is parallel parking, I shudder at the thought of someone opening a car door or stepping out from 2 parked cars into the path of this squad. It could have been truly devastating.

Comment on Elburn Station project chugs along by BBCreekRes

BBCreekRes — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:32:57 +0000

Comment by informed on 16 April 2012:

“Sad days ahead for our small bedroom community.
Funny, that’s what people said before BBCreek was built.”

Yes, I have no doubt of that however, we got the ” your not wanted here” impression from locals for several years.

BBC is “primarily” single family homes that are on lower density spacing lots more common to already existing development in Elbun.
There are no huge multilevel apartments,no high density spacings & and no business complexes.
IF BBC were to be built out tonight, it would represent approximately 1/5th the population of Elburn.
Elburn Station would represent approximately 1/3rd of the Elburn population on completion.
Elburn station is a “Transit Orientated Development” meaning URBAN HIGH Density.
What Drives TOD?
-Rapidly growing, mind-numbing traffic congestion nation-wide
-Growing >>>>distaste for suburbia<<<>>urban lifestyle<<<
-Growing desire for more walkable lifestyles away from traffic
-Changes in family structures: more singles, empty-nesters, etc
-Growing national support for Smart Growth
-New focus of Federal policy

Well, I can tell you I for 1 did not move to Elburn 8 years ago to live an urban lifestyle or deal with the associated crime that follows it..