Illinois

Cook County property tax bills up 78% as values rise 7%

By Patrick Andriesen, Jon Josko
03/27/2025
Typical property tax bill increased 78% on a Cook County residence since 2007. Median property values only rose 7.3%. That leaves residents paying $2,558 more a year in property taxes while their biggest investment fails to keep up with inflation.

TAGS: property taxes

How Chicago’s election timing suppresses voting

By Gerrin Alexander, Austin Berg, Jon Josko
03/26/2025
Disproportionate and low voter turnout presents challenges for municipal democracy nationwide. However, a straightforward reform acknowledged by scholars and policymakers – aligning the timing of municipal elections to coincide with general elections – offers a clear solution to enhance voter participation significantly. Research shows the timing of local elections influences voter turnout, which subsequently impacts...