Sangamon Sun

Over the past month, property taxes in Montgomery County have seen a significant increase. A resident of Hillsboro experienced her timberland property taxes rise from $750 to $10,000 following a land assessment. This surge is attributed to a 2007 Illinois law mandating that farmland and timberland be taxed at the same rate as residential properties.

State Representative Wayne Rosenthal addressed the issue after attending a Montgomery County Board meeting with residents and leaders. He stated, “The 2007 law, if applied would be devastating for many families across Montgomery County, and possibly force homeowners to sell their property.” Rep. Rosenthal expressed confidence that "the Illinois General Assembly and the Ad Hoc Committee can work together to establish a long-term solution that eliminates risks of future assessments that would lead to unintended consequences.”

Montgomery County Board Chairman Doug Donaldson announced that the tax hikes resulting from the 2007 law will not be implemented. An ad hoc committee will be formed to investigate the matter further.

Rep. Rosenthal also highlighted concerns about wasteful spending, limited job opportunities, and high taxes affecting small-town communities' values. He noted that Illinois is experiencing population decline as families move elsewhere for better prospects. Rep. Rosenthal supports initiatives aimed at safeguarding families' livelihoods and encouraging them to remain in Illinois.