In response to the first “Boomer-coded” letter [Oak Park vs. Forest Park, Viewpoints, June 4] and the subsequent response [Getting his and getting out, Viewpoints, June 18], I would like to add my own perspective.
We just celebrated 50 years in our one-and-only home in Oak Park. We loved raising our children here and being part of, and contributing to, such a wonderful and diverse community. But our real estate taxes have grown significantly from $800 in 1974 to $18,000 in 2025 (the majority of the money goes to the school districts). Our children have been out of the school system for 25 years, and I think there has to be some tax reform/relief regarding longtime owners and retired folks whose retirement income does not keep pace with working salaries.
My proposal would be to grant homeowners who have lived a minimum of 25 years in one home (if you move to a different house in Oak Park the clock starts over) and have no kids in the schools system a freeze. When the home is sold, it could be reassessed for current levels. Long-term residents with no children or retired folks who no longer have children in the school system are not a drain on the village coffers but provide our community with age diversity, volunteers and perspective.
We don’t all want to move to Forest Park because we love it here, but I do agree the parking signs could be a lot simpler … ; )
Mary Vostal
Oak Park