Our Base For Action

PREFACE

Our Base For Action is a publication of the League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area. It is a compendium of our local positions, background on development of these positions, and action taken to date. Our intent is to keep this publication up to date as we develop new local positions or take action on existing positions.

The original compilation of positions was prepared by the Local Action Committee which was established to accomplish goals set at the League's 1988 Annual Meeting. It was completed and distributed in May, 1989.

The Committee members included:

Lorraine H. Briggs

Mary Lou Flaherty

Marion Hubbard

Mary Alice Linde

Betty Strouse

The cover was designed by Jane Redman.

In May 2002, Our Base for Action was updated following a review of the archives. The following members contributed to the review and update:

Janet Agnoletti

Edith Auchter

Lorraine Briggs

Joyce Palmquist

Daria Sapp

Faye Sinnott

Dolores Wagner

Additionally, local Leagues are encouraged to take action in their communities based directly on positions from other levels of League. Positions of the State League, LWVIL, may be found in Where We Stand and positions of the National League, LWVUS, may be found in Impact on Issues. At each Annual Meeting, a report will be presented which reflects action taken by the LWVBA on positions from all levels of League.

CONTENTS

GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES; COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS................................. 1

BARRINGTON AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT........................................................... 6

DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES............................................................................................ 9

HOUSING............................................................................................................................... 13

JUVENILE RESPONSIBILITY............................................................................................... 17

COMMUNITY CHILD CARE................................................................................................ 20

LAND USE.............................................................................................................................. 22

WATER................................................................................................................................... 24

WASTE MANAGEMENT...................................................................................................... 27

POSITION: GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES; COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

Position in Brief:

GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES: SUPPORT OF GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES WHICH FOSTER AREA COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING POLICIES AND PROMOTE AREA UNITY.

COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS: SUPPORT AREA‑WIDE COOPERATION THROUGH A COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS.

* * * * *

SUPPORT:

I. Need of area comprehensive planning policies to cover:

A. Land Use

1. Preservation of countryside setting.

2. Provision for housing to accommodate a variety of income levels.

3. Allowance of higher density in some areas to retain open, green areas in others.

4. Consideration of a Planned Unit Development ordinance on a local area basis.

5. Formation of a local land bank corporation.

B. Transportation

1. Planning of local and express roads to coordinate with land use.

2. Facilitating the movement of traffic in and through the area with a by‑pass around the center of Barrington.

3. Alleviating congestion around railroad tracks.

4. Providing local public transportation.

C. Water Supply, Flood Plains, Waste Treatment

1. Enactment, enforcement, and coordination of flood plain ordinances in the area.

2. Future water supply sources.

3. Water treatment planning ‑ should be done in cooperation with the rest of the total basin of which it is a part.

D. Public Open Space and Conservation

1. Need for more public open space. Formation of a green belt circling Barrington area.

2. Formation of a land trust to conserve open space.

3. Expansion of land holdings by park districts and forest preserve districts.

E. Public Services

1. Study of ways to coordinate and consolidate public services in the area, such as regional service contracts, etc.

II. Promote Area Unity

A. Area‑wide cooperation through the Council of Governments.

B. Annexation of unincorporated land.

C. Consolidation of decision‑making governmental units.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, April 9, 1970

Position developed from member consensus at meetings, November 11 & 12, 1970

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, February 18, 1971

Support Position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 4, 1971

POSITION: GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES; COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

Background:

The growth of the Barrington Area with its multiple governmental bodies and its lack of unity and direction had been of concern to many Barrington area citizens since the mid‑1950's. By 1966 some school and municipal officials and private citizens met to address these problems and formed the Barrington Area Development Council (BADC). The Council was to provide a forum for studying area problems and setting long‑range goals. The League's representative on the board of BADC was Ruth Moor who was appointed in October 1966.

To provide the League, as well as Ruth, with a position from which to act, the League, at its Annual Meeting on April 4, 1967, adopted a study of intergovernmental relationships in the Barrington Area as generally defined by the boundaries of School District 224. Even before the first consensus was reached, Ruth Moor was contributing mightily to the BADC. In May 1967, she presented her research report on methods of determining community goals to BADC to spur them toward action and in July 1967, resigned from the League Board so she could act on BADC work in the absence of local League study and position.

Beginning in 1968, Betty Bresnahan chaired the government study. The first consensus was approved by the Board on March 4, 1969:

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area supports cooperation and coordination among governmental units and other services in the Barrington Area with emphasis on such items as: planning and zoning, transportation, police and fire, conservation and recreation, sanitation and pollution controls, library services and schools as they relate to the above categories.

Study on governmental issues continued through the years with a series of consensus meetings and rewriting of the positions. Our last consensus and detailing of position was approved at the Board meeting February 18, 1971. Our current position in brief was first adopted at the May 14, 1974 Annual Meeting. At this same meeting, the position in brief, Support of Methods to Encourage Citizen Participation in Determining and Implementing Area Goals, was dropped since citizen participation is an inherent part of the League principles.

Study Committee:

Betty Bresnahan, Chair

Jean Ost

POSITION: GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES; COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

League Action:

The League promoted and supported cooperation and coordination among governmental units through letters to village presidents and trustees and through testimony at all appropriate meetings.

In June 1970, the League sponsored a citizens meeting to discuss the Barton-Aschman report, commissioned by BADC, on "The Barrington Area Evaluation of Growth and Governmental Alternatives."

In October 1970, the League Board approved presentations to the municipalities of the area stressing the importance of developing and funding an area comprehensive plan, and urging additional funding for the hiring of an executive director for the Council of Governments.

League action through the years continued to promote area‑wide planning through the Barrington Area Council of Governments (BACOG) and urged better dissemination of information on BACOG actions to ensure citizen participation.

In 1974, the LWVBA joined with BADC and Citizens for Conservation to establish the Joint Committee on BACOG Ordinances for the purpose of promoting awareness and providing information regarding the Environmental and Land Use Ordinances proposed by BACOG for the Barrington Area. A pamphlet describing the committee along with a summary review of the ordinances was prepared. The committee was available also to provide information or additional resource for interested area groups. League members who served on this committee were Cora Lee Brannon, Lynne Johnson and Ethel Jacobson.

League president, Dolores Wagner, wrote to Nelson Forrest, chairman, BACOG Comprehensive Plan Committee in July 1975 supporting orderly comprehensive planning in regard to land use compatible with our goals of preservation of the countryside atmosphere and conservation of natural resources.

Similar letters were sent to Barrington area village presidents in February 1976 urging each village board to review and adopt the BACOG Comprehensive Plan.

The June 4, 1991 Annual Meeting adopted a SURVEY of procedures and mechanisms of local governmental entities, i.e. municipalities, school districts, park districts, library districts, which foster intergovernmental cooperation. The May 19, 1992 General Meeting on Disaster Planning and Intergovernmental Cooperation featured panelists John Feit, Assistant Emergency Services and Disaster coordinator for the Barrington Fire Department and vice-president of the Lake County Emergency Management Council, Nancy Smith, Village of Lake Barrington President, and Ted Forsberg, Village of Barrington President. An organizational meeting of the survey committee was held on September 8, 1992. Members participating on the survey committee were Daria Sapp and Faye Sinnott (co-chairs), Edith Auchter, Lorraine Briggs, Mary Lou Flaherty, Marion Hubbard, Lenora Hylander, and Alan Roberts. The April 13, 1993 general meeting, "Is there a 'COG' in your future?", featured panelists Larry Christmas, Executive Director for the Northeastern Illinois Planning Council, Rita Athas, Northwest Municipal League, and Ders Anderson, municipal and county land use planner and former BACOG assistant director. Interviews with village presidents were held in the spring of 1993. The second tier

POSITION: GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES; COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

League Action (continued):

of interviews with library, school, park district, and township officials were conducted in the fall of 1993. The survey committee presented its findings and recommendations during the general meeting on November 16, 1993 which also featured Lori Williams, Project Success Specialist. She discussed successful strategies in getting cooperation among governmental bodies. The survey committee presented findings and recommendations to governmental entities at a meeting held February 10, 1994. The governmental entities held several followup meetings on June 15, 1994, September 21, 1994, November 2, 1994, and January 11, 1995 at which opportunities for intergovernmental cooperation were identified in four priority areas: substance abuse, shared facilities and services, shared technology, and transportation issues. The survey item was dropped from the Local Program for 1995-96.

Members at the May 14, 1996 Annual Meeting approved the following Action Agenda item: SEND LETTERS to Village governments, newspapers and the Barrington Area Development Council regarding the Barrington Area Council of Government's (BACOG's) role in facilitating discussion and action on areawide issues. An organization meeting was held on November 22, 1996 at Daria Sapp's. Participants in the committee were Daria Sapp, Sharon Advani, Janet Agnoletti, Jeannette Muench, Sam Oliver, Alan Roberts, Jennifer Rose, Faye Sinnott, and Dolores Wagner. The committee identified eighteen perceived weaknesses that exist in the BACOG structure. The committee planned a breakfast meeting on the topic "The Barrington Community: Past, Present and Future" which was held on April 26, 1997 at the Barn of Barrington. Invited to the meeting were all local elected and appointed village officials including village presidents and their boards, plan commission members, zoning board members, village managers and clerks. The Barrington Area Historical Society and Barrington Area Development Council co-sponsored the event. Michael Harkins, Executive Director of the Barrington Area Historical Society, and Robert Woodsome, co-President of the Barrington Area Historical Society, presented a history of BACOG and the role that BACOG has played in shaping our seven village community through its planning strategies and decisions. James Peterson, outgoing President of the Village of Deer Park, addressed issues that BACOG and member villages will need to face in the future. His remarks were reprinted in the June 12, 1997 issue of the Barrington Courier Review.

Members at the May 20, 1997 Annual Meeting revised the Action Agenda item to read: DEVELOP activities which strengthen the role of the Barrington Area Council of Government (BACOG) in the community, increase its visibility and encourage its continuation. The committee organized a year-long series of "In Our Towns" columns related to some aspect of regional planning which were printed in the Barrington Courier Review. The dates of publication, article titles, and authors are as follows:

Date Title Author(s)

11-6-97 Land-use policies preserve Barrington's quality of life Faye Sinnott

12-4-97 BACOG is Barrington's 'character' witness Daria Sapp & Janet Agnoletti interview BACOG Executive Director Don Klein

1-8-98 Villages need help to defend boundaries James Kempe, Barrington Hills Village President

POSITION: GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES; COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

League Action (continued):

2-12-98 Impact fees help pay for parks, roads, and schools Janet Agnoletti & Edith Auchter

4-2-98 Impact fees help growth pay its own way Ronald M. Hamelberg,

Barrington Village President

5-7-98 Area senior housing options are limited Joyce Palmquist, Executive Director of the Barrington Area Council on Aging

6-4-98 No simple solutions to traffic problems George Larrain, North Barrington Village President

7-2-98 Flint Creek is vital natural resource John Heinz, Barrington Public Works Director

8-6-98 Border 'treaties' promote harmony William Fitzpatrick, Tower Lakes Village President

10-1-98 Barrington bikeways - a dream coming true Joe Kelsch, 1^st Vice President and chairman of the Bikeways Commission for the Barrington Area Development Council

12-17-98 Water quality may go down the sewer if law is changed Alan Roberts

3-18-99 Federal official answers wetland mitigation questions Cyndi Duda, environmental education specialist at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

5-6-99 Wetland mitigation projects offer mixed results Cyndi Duda, environmental education specialist at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

6-10-99 Residents have recreation options Connie Schofield, Lake Barrington Village President

11-18-99 Push for alternatives to suburban sprawl Richard Karl, Deer Park Village President

On October 21, 1999, the Barrington Courier Review published a guest essay entitled "It's time to expand, revitalize BACOG" prepared by Norval Stephens, Jim Peterson of the Barrington Area Development Council, Barbara Benson of the Greater North Barrington Area Association, and Janet Agnoletti of the LWVBA.

POSITION: BARRINGTON AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT

Position in Brief: SUPPORT A LOCAL LIBRARY DISTRICT WHOSE SERVICES MEET THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY FOR KNOWLEDGE, INFORMATION AND IDEAS THROUGH ACCESS TO ORGANIZED COLLECTIONS OF ALL MEDIA. THESE COLLECTIONS SHOULD INCLUDE RESOURCE FOR RESEARCH, INFORMATION, RECREATION AND EDUCATION.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area recognizes the need for a library that is an integral part of the community. The staff of the library should present itself to the community as a service organization prepared to meet the educational, informational and recreational needs of the public. The physical and environmental facilities should be designed to provide an adequate level of service. In order to assure wise local management of the library, the League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area recommends:

1. Consider reorganizing current space prior to development of an expansion plan.

2. Involve the public in decisions regarding expansion through the referendum process.

3. Utilize the reserve fund (Working Cash Fund) for expansion. Maintain a small reserve fund for emergency cash flow purposes.

4. Maintain a professional staff emphasizing responsiveness, service and cooperation with patrons.

5. Build a closer, personal, working relationship with area schools.

6. Reinforce leadership role of the Library Board.

7. Encourage use of volunteers, Friends of the Library, and advisory committees to the board.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 13, 1987

Position developed from member consensus at meeting, June 12, 1988

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, June 28, 1988

Support Position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 17, 1989

POSITION: BARRINGTON AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT

Background:

In response to continuing concern expressed by League members about the adequacy of the library for the Barrington Area as well as the existence of a large reserve fund, the League at its annual meeting adopted A Study of the Barrington Area Public Library District including but not limited to, its Fiscal Policies, Operations, and Service to the Community.

The process used for the study began with a comparison of libraries of similar size and economic background as well as neighboring libraries. They included: Barrington, Glen Ellyn, Northbrook, St. Charles, and Wilmette. Comparisons were also made with Ela Township, Palatine and Arlington Heights libraries. The comparisons were drawn from statistics published in library abstracts, personal visits and interviews with the head librarians at each location.

Research for other portions of the study included: Barrington Area Library District financial reports, textbooks, Illinois Library Statistics, 1987, and the community survey conducted by the Barrington Area Library District in October of 1987. Members of the League's Library Study Committee volunteered to assist with computer input in order to compile the results of this survey.

Study Committee:

Mary Lou Flaherty, Chair

Beth Liebman

Mary McLaughlin

Karen Redman

Betty Strouse

League Action:

The League's position and the complete report were presented to the Library Board at their regularly scheduled board meeting in July 1988 by Mary McLaughlin and Mary Lou Flaherty. Each board member was provided a copy of the full report.

Beth Liebman and Mary Lou Flaherty provided input for the October 1988 issue of the League of Women Voters of Illinois Illinois Voter for an article regarding library studies done by local Leagues in Illinois. The article highlighted the Barrington League's study.

Mary McLaughlin and Mary Lou Flaherty served as library observers.

POSITION: BARRINGTON AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT

Library Board and Staff Action:

The Library Board expressed appreciation of the League's report as it was evidence of dedicated work. They also agreed to send a copy to the consultant hired to study expansion of the library.

The Library Board arranged a special meeting to review and discuss the League's report.

The October 1988 Library Board meeting included a report to the League regarding actions to be taken. These actions include:

1. The Board agreed to provide nametags for the library staff.

2. The Board held a goals session which included preparation of goals for 1988‑89. These goals include community outreach as well as plans to develop a 3 to 5 year, long‑range plan.

3. The library staff compiled a report of school activities during 1981-1988 as well as a list of types of activities held in the past.

4. The Board agreed to restore the quiet room.

5. The Board discussed the League's recommendation for increased staff participation in community activities. The Board felt that the staff's current involvement is sufficient.

6. The Board expressed belief that communication among the staff, the Board and the Friends of the Barrington Area Library is on the increase and agrees that this trend should continue.

POSITION: DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES

Position in Brief: SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES THROUGHOUT THE BARRINGTON AREA COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (BACOG) AREA TO OFFSET THE COSTS OF NEW DEVELOPMENT.

* * * * *

Who should pay for the costs associated with new development? The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area (LWVBA) believes that some community infrastructure should and always will be funded through taxes, but development impact fees are also appropriate for capital improvement costs. Some combination of the developer, the home buyer, and the original land seller should pay for capital costs to the extent that these capital improvements benefit the new development. Growth in communities causes increased taxes, and impact fees on new development are preferable to tax increases. It would be appropriate to use impact fees for schools, libraries, parks/open space (including land donations or cash in lieu of land), transportation (roads), utilities (water/sewer), and emergency services (capital expenditures only).

Impact fees should be pre-determined by local ordinance and held in segregated accounts. There should be exclusions for low and moderate income housing in an effort to maintain affordability in the community. Although only municipalities have the authority to assess these fees, there should be input from the potential recipients of the fees (e.g. school, library, parks, and fire districts) in the structuring of the impact fee programs.

There should be standardized legislation regarding impact fees. At the State level, this legislation should be enabling only, and not directive. This may protect municipalities from legal challenges. The current state legislation is only for road impact fees, and should be broadened to include other types of capital improvements. The State guidelines should be regionally adaptable to home rule and non-home rule communities. The State should change the test for validity of impact fees to "rational nexus" from "specifically and uniquely attributable".

The LWVBA believes that BACOG should facilitate the development of the local impact fee program. There should be some consistency from one municipality's impact fee program to the next; a formula would be preferable to a set fee to accomplish a degree of standardization. Each municipality would enact its own ordinance consistent with State goals and regional plans.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 16, 1990

Position developed from member consensus at meeting, November 19, 1991

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, January 28, 1992

Support Position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, June 2, 1992

POSITION: DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES

Background:

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area recognized the need for development to pay its own way and the emerging use of impact fees by nearby communities. Faced with increasing development and finding itself in the situation of being unable to address the issue of development impact fees, at its May 16, 1990 Annual Meeting, LWVBA adopted:

STUDY of developer's impact fees in the Barrington area.

Study Committee:

Janet Agnoletti, Chair

Edith Auchter Joanne Larson

Darlene Boettger Judy McDowell

Diana Buecking Mary McLaughlin

Deesha Davis Alan Roberts

Carol Dunn Suzanne Smith

Lee Johnson

League Action:

In October of 1991, the Impact Fee Study Committee prepared a comprehensive twenty-three page report entitled "Development Impact Fees in the Barrington Area."

On January 26, 1993, the League coordinated a workshop on development impact fees for Barrington Area Council of Governments (BACOG) members and guests. Presenters at the workshop included Ms. Susan Connelly, Attorney from Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal, Mr. John Schockmel, Director of Finance for Mundelein High School, Mr. Harry Pillman, Cuba Township Tax Assessor, and Mr. Lee Brown, Teska and Associates, Inc. Planning Consultant.

Janet Agnoletti acted as a resource for Community Unit School District 220 efforts to lobby for uniform impact fees in the BACOG area during the latter half of 1994.

On December 1, 1994, the Barrington Courier Review published a guest essay entitled "Feeling the Impact: League Encourages Regional Impact Fees" prepared by Janet Agnoletti.

On December 13, 1994, the League held an update meeting on impact fees at the Barrington Library. Presenters at the meeting were State Representative Al Salvi, Community Unit School District 220 Assistant Superintendent Gerry Yeggy, and BACOG Executive Director Don Klein.

A letter dated April 24, 1995 was sent to all League Presidents transmitting an executive summary of the report and requesting that local Leagues allow LWVBA permission to act at the State level. Caucuses were held on April 26 and 27, 1995 at the LWVIL Legislative Seminar.

POSITION: DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES

League Action (continued):

Judy Berliant, LWVIL Vice President, and Betsy Lassar, LWVIL Program Committee, attended the April 1995 LWVBA Board meeting to discuss procedures associated with action at various levels of League.

A reminder letter dated June 2, 1995 was sent to all League Presidents clarifying our request for permission to act at the State level. Twenty-seven delegates signed in at caucuses which were held at the LWVIL Convention on June 2 and 3, 1995.

The responses to our request for permission to act were tabulated (15 Yes and 4 No) and forwarded to the LWVIL Program Committee. Betsy Lassar sent a follow-up note dated August 31, 1995 thanking the LWVBA for tabulating the responses for LWVIL Program Committee consideration. Mary McLaughlin advised us that the request for permission to act was denied on the basis that an insufficient number of Leagues responded.

A letter dated November 1, 1996 was sent with the State Program Planning packet to all Leagues. The LWVBA position statement and summary of consensus were transmitted with the letter which requested Leagues to concur with a position statement at the 48th Biennial Convention.

A reminder letter dated May 8, 1997 was sent to all Leagues requesting that they concur with a position statement at the 48th Biennial Convention. Thirty-six delegates signed in at caucuses which were held at the LWVIL Convention on May 16 and 17, 1997.

Delegates at the 48th Biennial LWVIL Convention overwhelmingly approved the following position statement on Development Impact Fees:

"The League of Women Voters of Illinois supports legislation at the State level regarding development impact fees. It is appropriate for such legislation to address fees for schools, libraries, parks/open space, transportation, utilities, and emergency services capital expenditures. Such legislation should be enabling only, and not directive. Only municipalities and counties should have authority to assess development impact fees, and State guidelines should be adaptable to home rule and non-home rule communities. The test for validity of impact fees in Illinois should be "rational nexus", and not "specifically and uniquely attributable". Enabling legislation should strive to effect some standardization of impact fee programs Statewide, with flexibility for each to be designed to meet local needs."

On November 18, 1997, the LWVBA held an informational forum on Development Impact Fees at the library. Presenters at the meeting were Janet Agnoletti and Edith Auchter, State Representative Mark Beaubien, Lake County Director of Planning Barry Hokanson, and Community Unit School District 220 Business Manager Alan Hahn.

League members Edith Auchter, Marianna Barr, Marion Hubbard, and Martha Rush participated in a development impact fee community "working group" which convened in 2001 under the direction of BACOG Executive Director Janet Agnoletti (also a League member).

POSITION: DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES

League Action (continued):

On August 23, 2001, the Barrington Courier Review published a guest essay entitled "Impact fees can be used to slow growth" prepared by Mary Anderson, Sarah Hoban, and Martha Rush. Much of this article was a reprint of the "In Our Towns" column (February 12, 1998) prepared by Janet Agnoletti and Edith Auchter.

On September 6, 2001, the Barrington Courier Review published a guest essay entitled "It's time to implement impact fee program" prepared by Mary Anderson, Sarah Hoban, and Martha Rush.

On January 17, 2002, the LWVBA, Greater North Barrington Area Association, and Barrington Area Development Council cosponsored an informational meeting on impact fees at the Barrington Library. Presenters at the meeting were Edith Auchter (historical perspective on the League's position), BACOG Executive Director Janet Agnoletti (summary of the comprehensive report on impact fees), and South Barrington Village Administrator David Pierce (reviewed issues of administration and accountability).

On March 19, 2002, the LWVBA Board voted to contribute $250 to the BACOG initiative to develop a model ordinance for the region.

POSITION: HOUSING

Position in Brief: SUPPORT DIVERSITY OF HOUSING TO MAINTAIN A HETEROGENEOUS RESIDENT POPULATION IN THE BARRINGTON AREA.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area believes that it is desirable to maintain a heterogeneous resident population. The Barrington area has been a relatively heterogeneous community both in terms of age and income groups. However, if present housing trends in the Barrington area continue, the community will become more homogeneous in character. The continuation of housing diversity is essential to maintain the heterogeneity of the community.

There are unmet housing needs in the Barrington area. Moderate income families such as teachers, policemen, sales and service people cannot find affordable housing here; the elderly and the young find housing for their needs inadequate and too expensive. Moderate and lower‑priced housing in the area would meet the needs of these groups and would allow them as residents to continue to contribute to and identify with the community. The League supports the proposals in the BACOG Housing Chapter for meeting the area's housing needs. The League will also consider support for other comprehensive housing plans (at regional or higher governmental levels, etc.) if such plans would assist in maintaining the heterogeneous character of the Barrington area. Both public and private financing should be used in meeting unmet housing needs, provided that the use of such funds is not subject to restrictions which are in conflict with the BACOG Housing Chapter.

* * * * *

Study adopted by the LWVBA Board as an emergency item at their meeting, Jan. 22, 1974

Position developed from member consensus at meetings, May 22 & 23, 1974

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, July 16, 1974

Support Position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 13, 1975

POSITION: HOUSING

Background:

At the December 1970 consensus on local government, it was decided that there was a need to include in the BACOG Barrington Area Comprehensive Plan a provision for housing to accommodate a variety of income levels. Assuming the population would continue to increase in the Barrington area requiring new housing stock and also assuming that the League agreed with the policy of maintaining the existing diversity, it was determined further that new housing additions should retain the diversity in type, occupancy, cost, and size that existed at that time in the Barrington area. Statistics had indicated that desirable housing in the Barrington area had been aimed almost exclusively at the higher income groups. It was felt that continuing that trend would have a profound effect on the socioeconomic diversity which had been a planning objective of the Barrington area.

In 1971, the Barrington League studied low and moderate housing needs in the Barrington area. The committee consisted of Taowi Wilder, Chair, Blanche Frey, Becky Luehring, and Betty McKee. A consensus meeting was held; however, the League Board did not approve a position. There were national and state positions on housing. The survey developed by the committee was used later by the Village of Barrington Board.

On January 22, 1974, the League Board passed an emergency item to be studied for the next three months: "Evaluation of the Housing Needs in the Barrington Area: A review of the 1970 census figures on housing, both for the BACOG villages and for the #220 school district. A comparison of these figures with present housing trends, a review of the building codes and zoning ordinances for the area, and evaluation of present and proposed plans for unmet housing needs." Consensus was reached in May 1974. It was presented to the Board in June and a position was approved by the Board in July 1974.

The Annual Meeting, May 5, 1981, adopted an addition to the housing position, Update Statistics regarding Barrington Area Housing Needs for Persons with Low and Moderate Incomes. No activity occurred on this item.

In 1982 when BACOG was updating their comprehensive plan, at its Annual Meeting, May 11, 1982, the League adopted Reevaluation of our Support Position on the BACOG Housing Chapter. There was a need to identify any changes which had been made in the chapter and inform our members. At the May 10, 1983 Annual Meeting, both the statistical update and this reevaluation were dropped since they had not been pursued and interest had waned.

Study Committee:

Taowi Wilder, Chair

Becky Luehring

Betty McKee

Lois Seedorf

Andrea Skeen

POSITION: HOUSING

League Action:

Several letters were written to explain the League's housing position:

October 28, 1974 ‑ letter to Cyril Wagner, Chairman of BACOG

October 30, 1974 ‑ letter to Harold Lipofsky, Chairman of Barrington's Human Relations Commission

October 30, 1974 ‑ letter to Dean Maiben, Barrington Village Manager

On April 1, 1975, testimony concerning the League's housing position was given before BACOG.

On January 7, 1978, Jane Armstrong presented, both orally and in writing, the first paragraph of the League's housing position at the Village of Barrington's special meeting, Problems Which Village Government Should Solve. She urged the Village to do everything possible to help support this position.

The Annual Meeting on May 16, 1990 adopted as a survey "(2) DEVELOP an ACTION FOCUS to address unmet low and moderate income housing needs in the Barrington area, including, but not limited to the needs of the elderly, the young, the mentally and physically disabled." LWVBA members involved in the Housing and Related Needs Survey Committee were Mary Lou Flaherty (co-chair), Joyce Palmquist (co-chair), Isabelle Fisher, Lee Johnson, Peg Matthias, Betty McKee, Mary McLaughlin, Lorna McMullen, Dolores Wagner, and Taowi Wilder.

The housing needs survey done in 1990-91 confirmed that there were unmet housing needs for the elderly, the physically and/or mentally disabled, and young persons recognized as needing affordable housing in the BACOG communities. The LWVBA recognized that the BACOG Plan, which also generally has acknowledged such needs, had not been effectively implemented. The survey also reinforced the LWVBA housing position. Therefore, the action program recommended by the Housing Survey Committee was as follows:

A. Education to heighten community awareness about the unmet housing needs of the identified special populations and resulting problems; (This would be accomplished by offering educational programs to church and civic groups through a speaker's bureau, which might consist of LWV members and outside persons.)

B. Education of public officials, particularly those dealing with planning and zoning, regarding the legal issues raised by recent federal and state housing legislation; (The LWVIL should be utilized to assist LWVBA in its action agenda.)

C. Encourage the awareness and/or utilization of all available funding sources by relevant agencies for unmet housing needs in the BACOG area;

D. Assistance in community education in the event that any responsible agency proposes to provide housing to meet identified unmet housing needs in the BACOG communities.

POSITION: HOUSING

League Action (continued):

Based on the recommended action plan, the Housing and Related Needs Survey Committee decided to focus primarily on the needs of older adults. In the summer of 1993, the group decided that a good way to better understand the scope of services available and/or unmet needs of the older adult population was

to visit various senior service providers. Site visits were made to the Resource Center for the Elderly (RCE) in Arlington Heights and the Highland Park Department of Senior Services which also housed a shared housing program. Committee also members also arranged to meet with the Case Coordination Units for Lake and Northwest Suburban Cook Counties, Help Our Seniors Thrive (HOST) a shared housing program in Lake County, and the Barrington Area Council on Aging (BACOA).

As a result of meeting with these various providers, the committee recognized there was a need for better coordination of existing services, particularly across county and township lines (an ongoing issue in the Barrington area). In an effort to educate the community regarding these issues, the LWVBA held a series of "Senior Summit" meetings on October 19, 1993, November 18, 1993 and January 21, 1994 to discuss programs and services needed by Barrington area seniors if they are to "age in place." The response and attendance of concerned individuals, senior citizens, community organizations, village and township officials, business, and service providers was impressive and wonderful.

In May 1994, the Barrington Area Senior Coalition formed as a result of this initiative with its mission being "to improve coordination, networking and centralized access to senior services in the Barrington Area." As the result of a facilitated session conducted by Norval Stephens, six needs area work groups were identified. These areas included Education, Health, Housing, Recreation and Leisure Activities, Service, and Volunteer Needs/Options.

Additional LWVBA members joining the organization as a result of this study were Nancy Janssen, Mary Alice Linde, Cindy Parker, and Martha Rush. In 1994, the LWVBA co-sponsored Senior Speak Outs on October 6, October 13, and October 20, with the intent of getting input from seniors to validate the issues and concerns identified by the area work groups. Senior information was also used to validate work group observations and to assist in future planning efforts to prioritize and address unmet senior needs.

POSITION: JUVENILE RESPONSIBILITY

Position in Brief: SUPPORT DEVELOPMENT AND ENCOURAGEMENT OF PROGRAMS WHICH FOSTER JUVENILE RESPONSIBILITY AND ENCOURAGE PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area recognizes that vandalism is a growing problem in our community. Any ordinance dealing with vandalism should be designed to meet the needs of the offender, the victim, and the whole community. The public must be educated to the provisions and operation of an ordinance in order for it to be effective.

While the League supports the parental responsibility ordinances so that the victim can be made whole without delay, parental responsibility should in no way diminish the child's responsibility and accountability for its own actions. The League questions whether the ordinances as enforced meet the needs of the offender, and strongly supports the establishment of a public works program which is designed to meet this need. The League of Women Voters realizes that a public works program is more feasible where there is a public victim. However, it is in the best interest of both the offender and the community that some form of public work be available in the restitution agreement to the private victim as well.

The League supports the option of station adjustment on the first offense, but believes that the case should be brought to court when there is a second offense within a twelve‑month period. We do not support the inclusion of injury to person within the terms of these ordinances, since we believe personal injury to be a much more serious matter.

The League of Women Voters recommends that the following additional steps be taken to foster juvenile responsibility in the Barrington area:

1. The formation of a community group made up of a cross‑section of young people and adults representative of neighborhoods. This group would function under the auspices of a community agency such as BADC or BACOG) to promote the knowledge of the ordinances, to serve as a watchdog for the neighborhoods, and to make a public statement by its actions that we as a community value our young people and community and that one 's person and property are respected by people who live in the Barrington area. We will no longer condone, ignore, or excuse the abuse of our neighbors (known or unknown) by anyone.

2. Formation of Parent‑support and Parent‑education groups, to help parents to cope with the difficult job of being parents.

3. Formation of Youth‑support and Youth‑education groups, to help young people in their quest to be effective and contributing human beings.

4. Formation of an advisory committee, made up of parents and other community members, to be supportive to the high school in exploring positive ways of reducing vandalism in the school.

5. Recognition of young people for their achievements. The League feels that, in keeping with the idea of fostering pride and respect for our community and its people, it is essential that young people be recognized for their achievements and contributions and that opportunities be provided for young people to be contributing members of our community. We encourage the media to publicize the accomplishments of our young people (not just in sports or academic areas). We are fully aware that a young person who can make his or her mark positively will not be nearly so tempted to do it negatively. * * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 17, 1978

Position developed from member consensus at meeting, March 14, 1979

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors at meeting, April 5, 1979

Support position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 9, 1980

Position amended at Annual Meeting, May 15, 2001

POSITION: JUVENILE RESPONSIBILITY

Background:

Over a period of time, business people in the downtown Barrington area were experiencing escalating disruption to business activities as well as high costs resulting from acts of vandalism performed by juveniles. In response to this growing problem facing both the business community and the community at large, the League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area adopted a Study of Juvenile Vandalism in the Barrington Area at its Annual Meeting, May 17, 1978. The scope of the study included a consideration of the nature and extent of local ordinances, enforcement, parental and juvenile responsibility, community awareness and what can be done to curb this growing problem.

Study Committee:

Mary Guttery, Chair

Carol Beese Yvonne Knepp Lorna McMullen Pat Solano

Judy Cardell Fay Ligon Gretchen O'Leary Barbara Sugden

Peg Cullen Peg Matthias Sue Sell Louise Valverde

Linda Hackendahl

League Action:

The Home and School Committee was established at the Barrington High School with an advisory group in the Fall of 1979. In 1980, it was cochaired by two League members, Mary Guttery and Peg Matthias. It continues in existence today and addresses a wide spectrum of student needs. Monthly forums are held for parents as well as occasional special events on topics of interest. Positive programs were initiated including freshman orientation, counseling support, and the "Brown Bag Rap", held the first Wednesday of every month. The committee acts as a viable communication channel for students, parents, and school staff rather than focusing on vandalism per se.

During 1981‑1982, the League along with the Barrington Area Development Council sponsored a student forum with adult participation to address students' concerns.

POSITION: JUVENILE RESPONSIBILITY

Community Action:

A Youth Network Council was established to act as a forum for youth-support and youth‑education groups in the community. This group includes school counselors, special education teachers, the ministerial association, private therapists, hospital social workers and League members. The group began in 1981‑1982 and is still functioning today with significant support from Family Service of South Lake County as well as Barrington Youth Services.

The Alliance of Barrington Communities for Drug Education (ABCDE) was formed to act as a community support group to address substance abuse issues. Activities include peer programs, a neighborhood parent network and publication of a newsletter. The group began in the 1984 timeframe and has a fairly wide base of community support and the active participation of key administrators of Community Unit School District 220.

The Annual Meeting on May 15, 2001 amended the title of the position from JUVENILE VANDALISM to JUVENILE RESPONSIBILITY to present the issue more positively. Also, item (2) SUPPORT CONTINUED COMMUNITY AWARENESS OF JUVENILE VANDALISM was dropped.

POSITION: COMMUNITY CHILD CARE

Position in Brief: SUPPORT A VARIETY OF SERVICES TO PROVIDE RESPONSIBLE DAILY CARE FOR CHILDREN WHOSE PARENTS MUST BE ABSENT FROM HOME DUE TO EMPLOYMENT OR FURTHER SCHOOLING.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area recognizes the need for an increase in the variety of services to care for children in the Barrington area whose parents must be absent from home due to employment or further schooling. The League supports making available to these parents such services as:

a. Telephone Help‑Line

b. Licensed Day and/or Home Care Centers

c. Before and After School Care

d. Provision for child care on school holidays, vacations, and Saturdays

These increased services could be implemented in the following manner:

a. A telephone help‑line could be initiated by the League in cooperation with other community resources.

b. A before and after school program could be initiated by the District 220 Board of Education in cooperation with other community resources.

Any services provided for child care should be supported by user fees on a sliding scale. Scholarships for those less able to afford services should be made available.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 4, 1984

Position developed from member consensus at meeting, April 16, 1985

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, April 23, 1985

Support Position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 14, 1985

POSITION: COMMUNITY CHILD CARE

Background:

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area recognized the need for an increase in the variety of services available to care for children in our area whose parents must be absent from home due to employment or further schooling and proposed at the May 4, 1984 Annual Meeting the study, Child Care Services. The study was adopted at this meeting with a change of title to Community Child Care.

The study was endorsed and supported by the Community Unit School District 220 Board of Education. School board members and school staff members participated on the study committee along with League members. A concerned parent participated also.

Study Committee:

Lenora W. Hylander‑‑Chair, LWVBA, Board of Education

Jennifer Buehler ‑‑Board of Education

Vivian Fernbacher ‑‑LWVBA

Jane Gisselquist ‑‑LWVBA

Polly Krimmel ‑‑LWVBA, Teacher

Alice Kilpatrick ‑‑LWVBA, School Psychologist

Peg Matthias ‑‑LWVBA

Suzy Palmer ‑‑Concerned Parent

Betty Strouse ‑‑LWVBA

League and Community Action:

In September 1985, Kids Enrichment Experience Program (KEEP) was organized to provide before and after school care. This was a partnership which included Community Unit School District 220, the Lutheran Church of the Atonement, the Barrington Transportation Company and the Barrington Park District. Each entity provided its services without any direct costs to the program. The enrollment has included up to 125 children and there continues to be a waiting list.

Arrangements were made for a local hookup to Kidsline, a 24‑hour childrens' hot line. This was initially funded by $3,000 donated by the Barrington Area United Drive.

POSITION: LAND USE

Position in Brief: SUPPORT TECHNIQUES OF ORDERLY PLANNING WHICH RESULT IN LAND USE DECISIONS COMPATIBLE WITH OUR GOALS OF PRESERVATION OF THE COUNTRYSIDE ATMOSPHERE AND CONSERVATION OF THE NATURAL RESOURCES OF THE BARRINGTON AREA.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area supports techniques of orderly planning which result in land use decisions compatible with our goals of preservation of the countryside atmosphere and conservation of the natural resources of the Barrington area.

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area supports the following techniques which are presently employed by some area villages:

Floodplain Ordinances

Health and Sanitation Ordinances

Soil and Sedimentation Ordinances

Subdivision Regulations

Zoning Ordinances

Planned Unit Development Ordinances

The League encourages adoption of these ordinances by all area villages.

The League of Women Voters urges the villages of the Barrington area to employ these additional techniques which are applicable to their individual circumstance and which will enhance area goals:

Boundary Agreements/Orderly Annexations ‑ guide to planning for and development of area

Environmental Impact Statements ‑ essential to analysis of development impact, conservation of natural resources

Agricultural Zoning ‑ preservation of open space, countryside density

Conservancy Zoning ‑ preservation of natural resources; '"highest and best" standard not reflective of present values

Land Banking ‑ achieve planned goals by holding and combining land parcels

Cost‑Revenue Analysis ‑ factor in land use proposals and plans

Phased Capital Development ‑ guide to phasing and siting of proposed land

Park and Forest Preserve Acquisitions ‑ enhances countryside atmosphere, preserves low density.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 1, 1973

Position developed from member consensus at meetings, April 9 & 10, 1975

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, June 17, 1975

Support position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 18, 1976

POSITION: LAND USE

Background:

The issue of local land use was addressed in 1970‑71 as part of a local government study and consensus of the recommendations and alternatives proposed in the Barton‑Aschman Report. As related to land use, our League accepted the report's recommendations concerning area comprehensive plan policies. This LWVBA position was approved by the Board on February 18, 1971, and supported the need for an area comprehensive plan to cover specified land use issues.

Following a League of Women Voters of Illinois land use study in 1972‑73, there was concern regarding continuing and growing area‑wide pressures for development. A Study of Techniques and Controls of Land Use for the Barrington Area was proposed and approved at the LWVBA Annual Meeting in May 1973. Its scope included, but was not limited to, the study of planned unit developments (PUD's), cluster development, zoning, easements, park district consolidation, open space retention and housing diversity. After an initial general meeting was held, a subsequent League of Women Voters of the United States land use study delayed work on this local item. At the Annual Meeting of May 14, 1974, the scope of the study was amended to replace "park district consolidation" with "recreational lands" and to delete "housing diversity", the issue of housing having been approved in January 1974 as an emergency item.

As originally adopted in 1975, the land use position included the sentence "Open space and current density patterns are characteristic of the countryside atmosphere." This sentence was deleted at the Annual Meeting, May 11, 1985, since it was believed that both of these factors had changed since they were incorporated as part of the position, thus their inclusion was confusing.

Study Committee:

Lynne Johnson Chair

Cora Lee Brannon

Betty Bresnahan

Jean Ost

League Action:

On January 10, 1976, a letter was sent to the Cook County Forest Preserve District supporting their purchase of the LaBuy property. A copy of this letter was sent to the editor of the Barrington Courier Review.

In May, 1976, a letter of support was sent to the Cook County Zoning & Building Commission concerning the proposed soil erosion and sedimentation control ordinance.

At the LWVBA Board meeting, June 1976, it was reported that a letter had been sent to the Cook County Zoning & Building Commission expressing our opposition to the Di Mucci project. Our letter stated that the property should be for public use.

In 1987, Adrienne Kalmes testified for the League at hearings held by the Plan Commission of the Village of Barrington expressing the LWVBA's opposition to the Gateway shopping center which was proposed at Northwest Highway and Eastern Avenue.

POSITION: WATER

Position in Brief: (1) SUPPORT OF THE PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE CONSERVATION OF WATER RESOURCES IN THE BARRINGTON AREA. (2) SUPPORT FOR THE SETTING AND ENFORCEMENT OF MINIMUM UNIFORM STANDARDS FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS IN THE AREA.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area supports the planning and development of policies and procedures for the conservation of water resources in the Barrington area. The League encourages all governmental units in the Barrington area to cooperate and coordinate their planning to insure protection of the water resources and to support high water quality. The League believes all water resource policies should consider the effect on the environment.

Policies the League supports:

1. Floodplain policy which controls or restricts building on the 50‑year floodplain.

2. Policy which favors leaving land adjacent to water bodies and streams in as natural a state as possible with changes subject to expert opinion.

3. Policy to not alter natural drainage courses unless absolutely necessary, and then only if consideration is given to the ecological consequences.

4. Policy to restrict areas with severe soil and geological limitations for waste disposal to low density development.

5. Policy to protect recharge areas.

6. Any water policy should consider the effect on environment.

Procedures the League supports for implementation of the above policies:

1. Floodplain ordinances using 50‑year floodplain

2. Environmental corridors along waterways and water bodies.

3. More restrictive septic regulations ‑ septic ordinances which will support high water quality.

4. Subdivision regulations requiring protection and dedication of water courses ‑ require protection around water bodies and streams from pollution during the time of development.

5. Development of districts, particularly on a regional basis, if they promote protection of water resources or improvement of water quality.

The League supports implementation of these policies and procedures as soon as possible.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 4, 1971

Position developed from consensus at meetings, November 10 & 11, 1971

Position approved by the LWVBA Board of Directors, December 7, 1971

Support position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 24, 1972

"Implementation" added to Position in Brief at Annual Meeting, May 11, 1982

POSITION: WATER

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area supports minimum uniform standards for septic systems in the area. Since the soils of the Barrington area vary greatly, proper analysis is needed prior to the construction of a septic system. Increased education of the general public, contractors and inspectors concerning the engineering, building, use and maintenance of septic systems is essential to the preservation of the water quality in the BACOG area.

The possibility of a state land use statute based on the BACOG ordinances should be explored. This should include the requirement that realtors provide information to prospective buyers concerning wells and septic systems where applicable. At this point, quantity and quality of water remains good.

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 17, 1978

Position developed from consensus at meetings, May 17, 1979

Position approved by the LWVBA Board of Directors, May 22, 1979

Support position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 9, 1980

POSITION: WATER

Background:

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area has had a long history of involvement in water policy. In 1971, the League used the LWVUS water position to help study local water resources in relation to the planning policies and procedures that were being developed in the Barrington area. According to the Barton-Aschman Report, the Barrington area had a high potential for pollution because of an increase in growth. At the same time, there existed a national interest in water quality. Some marshlands were being filled in for development and the wildlife that inhabited the marshlands were being eliminated. The League decided to study this problem at the local level so that a position could be stated as to how best to preserve an abundant supply of water for consumption and also to protect recreational waters.

The Barrington Area League adopted Evaluation of Planning Policies and Procedures of all Governmental Units in the Barrington Area at their May 4, 1971 Annual Meeting. From this study, a consensus was developed and a support position was adopted at the Annual Meeting, May 24, 1972.

An update of the water position was proposed and adopted at the Annual Meeting which was held on May 17, 1978. It was titled An Update of the Status of Water Quality and Quantity in the Barrington Area. Its scope stated that "This update should pertain in particular to factors involving both sources and quantity of water and to factors involving sewage and septic problems with reference to local ordinances, means of enforcement, county inspection methods and standards, and criteria for evaluating contractors' performances." From member consensus, a position was adopted at the Annual Meeting, May 9, 1980.

At the Annual Meeting in May of 1982, the word "implementation" was added to the position in brief.

Study Committee:

Cora Lee Brannon, Chair

Marge Anderson Di Kieckhefer

Marion Hubbard Jean Ost

League Action:

On November 21, 1973, the League presented a statement to the Village of Barrington's Plan Commission supporting the proposed amendment to their zoning ordinance soil overlay district.

A statement was presented to the Village of Barrington Hills supporting the proposed floodplain and soil overlay district amendments to their zoning ordinance.

In October 1974, the League presented a statement to BACOG supporting Governor Walker's veto of Senate Bill 589.

In June 1979, Marge Anderson was appointed as League representative to the BACOG 208 committee.

In June 1980, League member Pat Foersterling became chair of BACOG's 208 committee. In 1981, she trained to test water turbidity as part of the 208 program.

In 2001, League member Lorraine Briggs was appointed to the BACOG Water Resources Committee which was formed to study the surface and ground water, especially the shallow aquifer.

POSITION: WASTE MANAGEMENT

Position in Brief: (1) SUPPORT POLICIES WHICH WILL PROMOTE REDUCTION OF THE WASTE STREAM THROUGH SELECTIVE PURCHASING AND RECYCLING. (2) SUPPORT MONITORING AND ENCOURAGING LOCAL PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL PLANNING FOR WASTE DISPOSAL.

* * * * *

The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area supports policies which will promote reduction of the waste stream through selective purchasing and widespread participation in a recycling program. In order to protect air, water, and land, the League considers the safe storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal of all wastes to be essential.

Specific policies supported by the League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area in order to assure wise local management of the waste stream:

1. Recycling by the public, private industry, and municipal sectors in order to reduce the waste stream

2. Beverage container legislation

3. Education emphasizing active involvement of the public in waste management

* * * * *

In order to implement the above policies, the League recommends:

1. That incentives be provided to reduce and recycle the waste stream, for example:

a. Rebates, such as beverage container legislation

b. Penalties such as municipal refuse fees based on quantity of waste generated

2. Development of local education programs through citizen groups, the media, and school curricula and projects

3. Use of the recycling industry's public education services

4. Encouraging local governments to contract with haulers who promote recycling

5. Encouraging individuals to purchase items that are not excessively packaged and to avoid plastics where choices are offered

6. Encouraging local participation in regional planning organization for solid waste disposal

* * * * *

Study adopted at Annual Meeting, May 14, 1985

Position developed from member consensus at meeting, February 18, 1986

Position approved by LWVBA Board of Directors, April 22, 1986

Support position adopted with program at Annual Meeting, May 20, 1986

POSITION: WASTE MANAGEMENT

Background:

With the closing of the South Barrington Landfill and challenges to siting of new landfills, the Barrington area became aware of local problems with waste management. Judy McDowell urged the LWVBA to adopt a local study on waste management since she had participated in League action in Maine when that state was confronted with similar problems.

Study Committee:

Cheryl Barnett, Chair

Diana Buecking Dolores Wagner

Di Kieckhefer Taowi Wilder

Mary McLaughlin

League Action:

Recycling was promoted in the Village of Barrington beginning in December 1986. Discussions were held with the Village President and a presentation was made to the Village Board.

LWVBA committee members were appointed in April 1987 to the Village's Ad Hoc Committee to address the issue.

The League surveyed 236 Barrington Village residents. Residents were queried regarding their awareness of waste disposal and landfill problems. They were asked also about their willingness to participate in a recycling program even if it increased their collection fees. Survey responses were positive for a recycling program.

A float was entered in Barrington's 1987 Fourth of July Parade depicting the garbage barge which was then making news as a place to dump its contents was sought. The float and accompanying signs urged recycling.

Committee members observed Barrington Village Board meetings.

Committee members participated in the Barrington Village's Ad Hoc Committee.

A recycling lesson plan was developed for students in grades 3‑4 of Community Unit School District 220. It included required materials.

A recycling poster contest was sponsored among students in School District 220's grades 3‑4 providing class parties for the winners. Funding for these prizes was solicited from area village governments.

The LWVBA committee developed a recycling game.

The League focused on recycling using Barrington's curbside recycling containers as part of their entry in the 1988 Fourth of July parade.

POSITION: WASTE MANAGEMENT

Community Action:

In April 1987, the Barrington Village Board appointed an Ad Hoc Committee to address the issue. In January 1988, the Village Board approved a curbside recycling program. This program began in June 1988 and included composting of yard wastes at the urging of the hauler to reduce landfill dumping fees.

On February 16, 1989, Citizens for Conservation awarded to the LWVBA the William H. Miller Conservation Award in recognition of the League bringing to fruition the Barrington curbside recycling program.

In March 1989, the Village of Barrington began its first commercial collection of bottles and cans from the Barn of Barrington restaurant.

In the spring of 1989, Barrington's Ad Hoc Committee began investigating markets for plastics to enable the Village's Recycling Center to accept plastic containers starting in June 1989. It was Barrington's goal to provide curbside pickup of plastic containers in September 1989.

It was not long after that plastic, glass, and cardboard were included in curbside pickup.

In subsequent years, villages in the Barrington area adopted recycling programs.

On two consecutive weekends in May, 1991, in coalition with the Barrington Area Development Council (BADC) and Citizens for Conservation (CFC), a successful paint exchange was held in the vacated Brans Nuts facility on Lageschulte Avenue. Hundreds of gallons of latex paint were brought. What was not given free to citizens the next weekend was mixed and donated to a school in Chicago and to Habitat International in Waukegan. A total community mailing was funded by the BADC and environmental information was handed out. More than 50 volunteers participated.

In April, 1992, in coalition with the BADC and CFC, a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day was held behind the Barn of Barrington. An application for a state grant had been made three years previously and Barrington was one of six communities finally awarded it from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). There was good coverage by local and metropolitan newspapers, village newsletters and a mailing to community leaders. Our community scored in the high end of community response in a report by the IEPA.