Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

No. 2 no more: Illinois property taxes rank highest in U.S.

No. 2 no more: Illinois property taxes rank highest in U.S.

Illinois just ranked as having the highest property tax rate in the country. Property taxes in Illinois are an especially heavy burden without the tradeoff seen in states such as Texas or New Hampshire, where there are either no sales taxes or income taxes.

By Charlotte Rotkis

Chicago Teachers Union president fails to pay her bills… again

Chicago Teachers Union president fails to pay her bills… again

Despite Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates’ constant demands for “wealthy” taxpayers to pay their “fair share,” she is behind on her city water, sewer and trash bills once again. She makes $265,150 a year.

By Lilly Rossi

Oak Park natural gas ban faces legal challenge

Oak Park natural gas ban faces legal challenge

In 2024, Oak Park, Illinois, went where Mayor Brandon Johnson tried to take Chicago – banning all natural gas connections in new building projects. The high cost of this inconsequential, feel-good move is getting legal pushback.

By Jerry Barmore

Chicago aldermanic control issue again stalls granny flats

Chicago aldermanic control issue again stalls granny flats

Residential permits across Chicago remained low in 2024, and efforts to increase housing on existing lots have been put off. Some of Chicago’s aldermen want to maintain power over their wards, including thwarting a popular housing solution.

By LyLena Estabine

7 ways Illinois lawmakers just made it easier to work

7 ways Illinois lawmakers just made it easier to work

The Illinois General Assembly passed seven bills that expand the ability of professionals to work in Illinois. Lawmakers need to keep going and reduce the number of government permission slips needed to earn a living.

By Rich Witzel