Illinois Quick Hits: County study reflects massive property tax hikes
(The Center Square) – According to a study by Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, property taxes in the county increased at twice the rate of inflation and well above the rate of wage growth from 1995 to 2024.
The report says local officials took advantage of loopholes in a state law designed to limit tax increases to 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.
School districts, which accounted for nearly 55% of the county’s property taxes in 2024, hiked taxes by 189.4% during the past 30 years.
CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOLS CEO TO REMAIN
The Chicago Board of Education has chosen Macquline King to lead Chicago Public Schools for the next three years.
King has served as interim superintendent/CEO since last June.
When her new three-year contract takes effect on July 1, King will receive a taxpayer-funded salary of $380,000 per year.
O’FALLON POLICE CAPTURE ALLEGED BANK ROBBER
Federal authorities are crediting O’Fallon police for nabbing a bank robbery suspect.
George E. Habermehl Jr., 62, is accused of robbing a bank on Highway 50 on March 20.
Prosecutors say the O’Fallon Police Department released still images on social media and received tips identifying Habermehl, who was on probation for bank robbery and recently absconded.
Latest News Stories
Public Works Committee Considers Taking Over Kankakee County Line Road to Expedite Bridge Repairs
Peotone Man Charged With Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Damage at New Lenox Target
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Beecher School District 200U Board for December 10, 2025
Executive Committee: Update to Land Resource Management Plan; Solar Farms and Rural Zoning Dominate Discussion
Will County Committee Adds Path to Citizenship Support to Federal Agenda
Health Department Outlines Major Reduction in Consensus Vaccine Schedule
Board Approves Safety Funding Amendment, Hires Bus Driver
Public Works Committee Forwards Condemnation Proceedings for Francis and Marley Road Improvements
Finance Committee: Scholarship Tax Credit Discussion Halts
Will County Health Department Reports Rise in Respiratory Illnesses, Updates on Facility Issues
Public Works Committee Delays Vote on State Police License Plate Cameras Amid Privacy Concerns
Beecher School Board Reviews New Policies on AI, Student Privacy