Ahead of the November 3rd election, Bourbonnais Township voters will decide whether to abolish the Bourbonnais Township Road District. In this special report from the WVLI News Update, host Jake LaMore sits down with Bourbonnais Township Highway Commissioner Jason Diaz to discuss his perspective on the referendum and why he is encouraging residents to vote "No."
In this interview, Diaz addresses key arguments surrounding the ballot initiative, including:
- The daily responsibilities, jurisdiction, and maintenance operations of the Road District across roughly 41 centerline miles.
- His response to projected taxpayer savings claims of $500,000 to $600,000.
- Explanations regarding township fund reserves, recent tax levies, and future levy reductions.
- Clarifications on recent equipment purchases, vehicle maintenance, and the county reimbursement program.
- His perspective on the disputed fuel tank and facility project, competitive bidding thresholds, and mileage reimbursement policies.
- The governance relationship between the Highway Department and the Township Board, as well as the proposed forensic audit.
Note: This report is part one of a two-part series examining the Bourbonnais Township Referendum. Part two features Bourbonnais Township Supervisor Jeff Umphrey presenting the perspective in favor of a "Yes" vote.