Elmwood Park- Just how conservative? (Oak Park, River Forest: good schools, living, move to)

[mia220]

My husband and I are looking for inner ring suburbs with good schools that we can afford.

Can anyone tell me a little bit about Elmwood Park? I like the housing stock and it's in a good location. The schools seem okay.

However, I've heard that it's very Republican and that it's not very tolerant of minorities, especially Blacks. That would be a dealbreaker.

Any opinions?

[Chinolala]

I have several black neighbors, we get along fine and they seem happy living here. The majority of EP is white and Republican, however, other groups such as Latinos, Asians and African Americans live here and everyone seems happy. EP is pretty tidy and orderly. As long as residents keep their properties kept up and maintain their lawns and follow the rules of the Village, the Village is accepting of everyone. That's not to say that there aren't some "closet racists" living amongst us, but unfortunately, I think you'll find them in any town. Put it this way, EP is not a town of "white flight" residents. We border the city, Oak Park and River Forest...all municipalities with minorities. If someone was really intolerant, EP would not be the place for them. Hope that eases your mind.

[ncc]

Originally Posted by mia220

My husband and I are looking for inner ring suburbs with good schools that we can afford.

Can anyone tell me a little bit about Elmwood Park? I like the housing stock and it's in a good location. The schools seem okay.

However, I've heard that it's very Republican and that it's not very tolerant of minorities, especially Blacks. That would be a dealbreaker.

Any opinions?

The schools have gone down a great deal.. If you're the slightest bit worried about what you've mentioned, I'd suggest Oak Park. I wouldn't move to place and not be comfortable.