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
Casey-Westfield High School Students Secure Top Honors at Regional Academic Competitions
Comptroller, state lawmaker call for federal tax credit scholarships
Early Surge and Defensive Miscues Propel Casey-Westfield Past Centennial 11-1
Karras and Goble Lead the Way as Casey-Westfield Softball Downs Clifton Central 6-1
Power Surge and Goble’s Arm Lead Casey-Westfield Softball Past St. Anthony, 7-1
Marshall School Board Approves Adjusted 2025-26 Schedule, Sets 2026-27 Calendar
Gilbert’s Shutout and Seven-Run Fourth Inning Propel Casey-Westfield Past Centennial, 10-0
District to Purchase Discounted Floor Burnisher for Junior/Senior High School
Casey-Westfield Capitalizes on Oakwood Errors, Holds On for 6-3 Victory
Casey-Westfield Capitalizes on Free Bases in 14-1 Rout of ALAH
Board Grants Fire Department Building Access, Upholds Wednesday and Sunday Sports Restrictions
Marshall Board of Education Approves Over $88,000 in Emergency Repairs and Fine Arts Upgrades
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Casey Township Library Board for February 5, 2026
Casey Township Library Announces “Plant a Seed, Read” Summer Program and Imagination Library Milestones