KANKAKEE – Yesterday, State Representative Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee) joined State Representative Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) and State Representative Nicole La Ha (R-Lemont) for a press conference that addressed Illinois’ critical need for property tax relief. The representatives discussed the skyrocketing property tax bills that recently shocked families across the Chicagoland area.
“I have received call after call and dozens of emails from constituents who are angry, upset, and scared,” said Rep. Haas. “Families are not able to stay together. Seniors cannot stay in the homes where they raised their families. Young families cannot afford to live in the communities they grew up in. Generational homes are lost.”
Rep. Haas also highlighted the effect of high property tax rates on minority communities, such as Park Forest, which is 70% African American and saw property tax bills as high as 43% of the assessed value. This comes in contrast to other communities, such as Winnetka, with rates around 8.3%.
“How is this fair to our communities?” said Rep. Haas. “Why are the supermajority legislators not advocating for the communities that have already seen a lack of investment and economic growth? We should be doing everything we can to ensure ALL Illinoisans have the opportunity to work hard, raise a family, even open a business, and be able to afford to do so.”
To watch Rep. Haas’ full remarks at the press conference, please click here.
For more information about Representative Haas, visit RepHaas.com.
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