Petition Requesting Transparency, Public Education, and a Community Referendum Regarding the Proposed Village of Northfield Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District

To the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Northfield, Illinois:

We, the undersigned residents, property owners, taxpayers, business owners, concerned citizens, friends, and stakeholders of the Village of Northfield, respectfully request that the Village Board slow the current Tax Increment Financing (TIF) process and provide residents with a meaningful opportunity to become fully informed before any final decisions are made regarding the establishment of a TIF district.

A TIF district is a significant public policy decision that may influence redevelopment priorities, property tax revenue allocation, public services, infrastructure planning, schools, parks, libraries, police, fire protection, and other taxing bodies for decades. Given the potential long-term implications, we believe residents deserve sufficient time, clear information, and meaningful participation in the decision-making process.

Therefore, we respectfully request that the Village Board:

1. Pause and Slow the TIF Process

Delay any final action regarding the proposed TIF district until residents have had adequate time to review, understand, and discuss the proposal.

2. Increase Transparency and Public Education

Provide comprehensive public education regarding:

• The proposed TIF district boundaries.
• The legal basis for TIF eligibility.
• The redevelopment objectives and anticipated projects.
• Financial projections and assumptions.
• Potential impacts on local taxing districts.
• Alternatives to a TIF district.
• Risks, benefits, and long-term ramifications associated with TIF financing.

3. Conduct Additional Public Engagement

Hold multiple public information sessions, workshops, and community forums where residents can ask questions and receive factual, unbiased information before any final action is taken.

4. Provide Independent Analysis

Obtain and publicly present independent financial and economic analyses regarding the proposed TIF district and its potential impacts on the Village and overlapping taxing bodies.

5. Allow Residents to Vote Through a Referendum

Place the question of whether the Village should proceed with the proposed TIF district on a public advisory referendum so that Northfield residents may formally express their support for or opposition to the proposal.

While we understand that Illinois law generally authorizes municipalities to establish TIF districts through legislative action of the Village Board, we believe a matter of this magnitude warrants direct public input. An advisory referendum would provide valuable guidance to elected officials and demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement.

Statement of Principle

We believe that major decisions affecting the future of Northfield should be made with residents, not merely for residents. Public trust is strengthened when citizens are informed, heard, and meaningfully involved in decisions that may affect their community for generations.

We respectfully request that the Village Board slow the TIF process, expand public outreach and education efforts, and submit the proposed TIF district to an advisory referendum before proceeding with final approval.

By signing below, I affirm my support of this petition.