Budget

Despite previously suggesting it, the DeKalb County Board this week declined to move forward with a proposed 2022 ballot referendum which would have asked voters to consider a tax levy to help the financially struggling DeKalb County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

The DeKalb County Board is considering a 2022 ballot referendum to ask voters to consider a tax levy which would aid the financially struggling DeKalb County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. If approved, the referendum would be on the June primary ballot.

Gov. JB Pritzker made a stop in DeKalb Thursday to tout a plan for funding more Illinois students in higher education, including at Northern Illinois University. He said his $200 million plan will address the state's "exodus of young people."

Proposed 2022 Joliet budget projects increased revenues, includes 29 new positions

County officials originally proposed a larger property tax levy increase for 2022, but many board members were uncomfortable with the idea

“At this point in our trajectory, I think it’s not going to send a proper statement to the residents at this time in the middle of a pandemic to raise taxes,” board member Jeff Thorsen, R-Crystal Lake, said

Sales tax receipts also grew by $1.1 billion as consumer demand, boosted by federal stimulus payments as well as an improved job market, helped lift retail spending. That was $179 million more than CGFA had forecast and $250 million more than GOMB’s estimate.