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player ready...A series of ordinances hiking builders’ fees was approved by the New Lenox Village Board Tuesday night, despite objections from a builders’ representative.
Increases in the figure used to calculate land exaction fees for new development, along with higher water connection, annexation and inspection fees, are aimed at making growth pay for itself, village officials said.
Resolutions setting additional fees for road projects and a new Village Hall are also intended to soften the financial impact of a growing population, according to village officials.
Patrick McSteen, of the Will-Grundy Counties Homeowners Association, said the higher development costs will make new homes more expensive and could slow growth in New Lenox.
Village officials said they are not seeking to cut the growth rate but merely are endeavoring to make it manageable.
School officials said they supported the increase in developer fees.
“The taxpayers are saying, `Pass it on. Let the developers and the new people pay,’ ” said Elementary School District 122 Supt. Thomas Mullins. “The only way we can get the money is from the developer fees.”