Sangamon Sun

Chicago's property tax rates are set to rise following a proposal by Mayor Brandon Johnson. The Year 2025 budget, submitted to the City Council, outlines a $17.3 billion spending plan that includes a $300 million increase in property taxes. This move breaks a promise made by Johnson during his mayoral campaign in early 2023. Chicago, as Illinois' largest city, has significant influence on state policies and its economic environment.

State Representative Mike Coffey has expressed concern over the rising taxes across Illinois, stating, "To move our state in the right direction, we must have fiscal responsibility, public policies that benefit residents, and lower taxes for individuals, families, and employers."

The Illinois State Board of Education released its 2024 Report Card assessing school performance across various metrics such as English proficiency and graduation rates. While some areas showed improvement, concerns remain about math proficiency levels.

Unemployment remains high in most of Illinois' metro areas compared to the national average of 3.9%. Danville recorded the highest rate at 6.3%, while Chicago's unemployment figure was slightly better at 5.2%. However, job growth across the state lags behind national trends.

PepsiCo recently closed its South Side plant in Chicago without prior notice to employees but promised to maintain pay and benefits for affected workers for two months.

In law enforcement news, an officer at Sangamon County Jail was hospitalized after exposure to fentanyl during an arrest processing incident involving Samantha Witty.

As November begins, Illinoisans prepare for Daylight Saving Time's end with clocks moving back one hour. The practice continues despite ongoing discussions about making Daylight Saving Time permanent through legislation like the Sunshine Protection Act.