From 2005 to 2015, home values are down, property taxes are up and educational outcomes haven't seen a big improvement.

Since 1990, the owners of 671 Lincoln Avenue have paid more than $783,000 in property taxes when adjusting for inflation.

Cook County governments have now amassed $139 billion in debt, a 30 percent increase over the last 5 years.

Cities and villages across the state are raising taxes or implementing new ones for a variety of functions, from attracting a fast-food restaurant to catching up on rising pension costs.

Consolidating governments in the collar counties could help lower residents’ high property taxes.

Lucrative compensation for government workers stands in stark contrast to the city’s budgetary struggles and a flagging local economy.

Senate Bill 3 marks an important step in the right direction for local government consolidation, but there’s more to be done.