In a recent special meeting of the District 100 Board, Mayor Clint Morris of Belvidere addressed the board regarding the importance of impact fees collected from new developments to support local education. Since 1995, the city has imposed these fees specifically to aid the school district, particularly in light of the challenges posed by rapid growth and the need for adequate educational facilities.

Morris emphasized that the impact fees are crucial for funding education, as they help offset the costs associated with accommodating new students resulting from local development. He expressed concern over the county's moratorium on collecting impact fees, arguing that it shifts the financial burden onto existing taxpayers and undermines the ability to maintain and improve educational infrastructure.

During his address, Morris presented a check for $520,728.82, representing the city's contribution to educational funding, and urged the board to consider how these funds could be utilized, particularly for the Perry School, which he noted has seen little investment in maintenance over the years. He described his recent visit to the school as disheartening, highlighting the need for immediate attention to its condition.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of the county's moratorium on impact fees, with board members expressing interest in understanding the potential revenue that could have been generated had the fees continued to be collected. The board acknowledged the importance of maintaining facilities for the 200 students currently enrolled at Perry School, with community members advocating for necessary upkeep and improvements.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the district in balancing growth, funding, and the maintenance of educational facilities, as well as the critical role of local government in supporting these efforts.