Casey to Oppose State Legislation Impacting TIF District Projects

Casey City Council Meeting | October 20, 2025

Article Summary: Casey officials will contact state legislators to voice opposition to a proposed amendment to the Prevailing Wage Act that could increase costs for private projects within Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee warned the council that the change could hinder local investment and development.

Prevailing Wage Act Legislation Key Points:

• The proposed state-level legislation would redefine “public works” to include private projects in TIF districts that receive any public funds.

• City officials fear this would significantly raise project costs and make it harder to attract development and optimize TIF revenues.

• The council unanimously agreed to have Daughhetee communicate its opposition to their state senator and representative.

The City of Casey on Monday, October 20, 2025, decided to formally oppose a potential state law that officials believe could stifle economic development by increasing construction costs.

Economic Development Director Tom Daughhetee alerted the council to a legislative proposal, originating from the Chicago area, that seeks to amend the Prevailing Wage Act. The change would expand the definition of “public works” to cover all private projects located within a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district that receive any form of public financial assistance.

Daughhetee, citing an alert from the Illinois Municipal League, warned that this would significantly raise the cost of TIF-supported projects. “If passed and signed into law, it will make it [harder] for communities to optimize TIF revenues and maximize investment in communities by raising the cost of TIF projects,” he explained. He added that the change could also negatively impact business district finances.

After a brief discussion, the council reached a consensus to oppose the bill. Mayor Mike Nichols voiced his skepticism, stating, “If it’s from Chicago… it’s a no.”

Daughhetee will now contact the region’s state representative and senator to communicate the city’s opposition to the proposed legislation.