A ballot question asking voters whether to eliminate Capital Township could bring savings to Springfield taxpayers – but that would just be one of many steps worth taking to lower Springfield’s high property taxes.

Alton residents are paying for two overlapping units of government – the city of Alton and Alton Township. But voters will soon have the chance to slash costs by dissolving the city’s redundant township.

An investigation into the office of a former township official concluded with no criminal charges. But the probe did find evidence that calls into question the merits of township governance.

The appearance of patronage hires in some McHenry County townships highlights consolidation efforts at the state and local level.

A House bill that would allow communities to consolidate local township governments has earned support from both parties – and the opposition of township officials.