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
Costco faces lawsuit as consumers seek refunds from invalid tariffs
Insurer won’t back Gori defense vs asbestos lawsuit fraud claims
With teachers union support, committee approves charter school mandates
Allstate can’t delete class action over alleged secret app tracking
Chicago voters view housing affordability as bigger issue than crime
New Illinois gun bill aims at glock switches; critics say it misses the real problem
Illinois quick hits: Cook County spends nearly $20 million on food, housing services; Chicago Teachers Union tells teachers, students to skip school; Russell Dickerson to play Du Quoin State Fair
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Casey-Westfield School Board for Feb. 23, 2026
Illinois quick hits: Services Saturday for teen killed by line drive
Critics concerned seizure detection bill impacts Illinois’ small businesses
CTA security enhancement plan follows federal push, complaints
Lawyers who specialize in suing Chicago cops seek special prosecutor to go after ICE
IL Labor Relations Board director: Rideshare unionization bill could double budget
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Casey City Council for March 2, 2026