Questions about Scott AFB (O'Fallon, Edwardsville: houses, transfer, neighborhoods)

[albus87]

Good morning. My husband is considering a position at Scott AFB (civilian, not military). I have searched this thread for relocation recommendations and it looks like O'Fallon, IL (and surrounding areas) and perhaps even Edwardsville, are good places to start looking at houses. I have a few specific questions tho.

1) Where are the best public schools? We have an 8th grader and a 1st grader. Excellent schools are paramount. Generally speaking, how are the schools in the area? We currently live in an area with top rated public schools and don't want to compromise on schools if he accepts the position.

2) How does property tax work? We are currently in a high property tax area (anywhere from about 2.3% - 3% per $1000 of assessed property value depending on neighborhood and school district). I know Illinois is a high property tax state as well but I haven't been able to figure out how it is calculated or where to find rates.

3) Is there annual property tax on cars? Any other state specific taxes I need to be aware of? (I know there is income tax).

4) Is it worth making the drive from Edwardsville to Scott AFB? We prefer to live where neighborhoods are more stable instead of our neighbors moving every couple of years due to military transfer. How bad is the traffic from Edwardsville to Scott AFB?

5) What is the general quality of life in the area? From what I've read, it seems like a very nice area and the base certainly is rated highly. Proximity to St. Louis also seems like a plus (we have never been to St. Louis but I've heard there is a lot to do there). Are there any major negatives we need to be aware of? We are very family oriented and having lots of options for family activities is a major plus.

Thanks in advance for the information. I also posted same questions in the St Louis forum.

[1grin_g0]

I also commented on your post in the STL forum, LOL. Just wanted to reiterate, that I'd consider Waterloo, Columbia, and Edwardsville, in that order based on your criteria, especially if you were planning to stay in the area for a while and were looking to buy a home.

[felix0215]

hi im one of the peoples friend who lives there i need to know his address he goes to governor french academy with me

[felix0215]

hi im one of the peoples friend who lives there i need to know his address he goes to governor french academy with me his name is mathew carrou