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Next year, a law requires the Illinois Department of Revenue and
Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to conduct a
comprehensive study evaluating the entire property tax system in
the state, but some are doubtful it will make a difference.
State Rep. Dan Ugaste, R-Geneva, said high taxes are one reason
people are leaving Illinois.
“Skyrocketing property taxes are placing huge burdens on
existing homeowners and inhibiting commercial growth,” said
Ugaste. “These high property taxes are creating opportunity
deserts and are decimating once thriving neighborhoods and
communities.”
Homeowners in parts of Cook County saw their property tax bills
rise this year by 20% to 30%, the largest increase in 30 years.
“South suburban homeowners already pay some of the highest
property taxes in the county, and these increases will make
paying those bills even more difficult,” Cook County Treasurer
Maria Pappas said in a statement.
State Rep. Nicole La Ha, R-Homer Glen, said one solution is to
change how schools are funded and redirect funds previously
allocated for pension obligations.
"With the percentage of our state budget dedicated to pensions
decreasing over time, there's an opportunity to redirect those
savings to property tax relief," said La Ha.
Another measure would require local governments to return excess
funds to residents.
“Why are the supermajority legislators not advocating for the
communities that have already seen a lack of investment and
economic growth,” said State Rep. Jackie Haas, R-Kankakee. “We
should be doing everything we can to ensure all Illinoisans have
the opportunity to work hard, raise a family, even open a
business, and be able to afford to do so.”
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