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
Lincoln-Way East Cheerleaders Honored for 8th State Championship
Executive Committee Advances “Project Northwinds”: 2,475 Jobs and $346 Million Investment Proposed for Former Caterpillar, Lion Electric Sites
Land Use Committee Advances Mokena Scrap Yard and Homer Glen Landscape Business Over Local Objections
District 210 Reports Insurance Deficit Amid National Healthcare Cost Spikes; Finances Remain Stable
Planning Commission Backs 5-MW Peotone Solar Farm; Developer Pledges Pollinator Habitat and Community Funds
Joliet Junior College Board Approves $2 Tuition Increase Amidst Heated Debate Over Enrollment and Spending
Lincoln-Way Board Ratifies Three-Year Support Staff Contract with Significant Hourly Raises
Frankfort Seeks Public Vision for Downtown Urban Design
Green Garden Residents Seek Frankfort’s Support in Opposing 6,000-Acre Solar Farm
State of the College: Local Legislators Bolster Student Support Services
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Public Health & Safety Committee for February 5, 2026
State of the College: Dual Credit Program Enrollment Hits 6,000 Students
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Finance Committee for February 3, 2026
Fairmont Neighborhood Plan Update Prioritizes Infrastructure and Beautification Following Demographic Shift