South Cook News

Mayor Keith Pekau of the Village of Orland Park has voiced criticism against the governor's proposed budget, citing concerns over reduced state funding for municipalities. The reduction in state income tax allocated to local governments could potentially lead to an increase in local taxes.

"The Governor's proposed budget cuts muncipal funding yet again," said Keith I Pekau, according to X. "Now the shortfall will reach $10.5M in Orland Park. Covering this requires massive cuts or a 78% property tax increase. JB will not be happy until IL and all its towns are bankrupt."

Governor JB Pritzker has proposed a decrease in the funding that local municipalities receive from the state’s Local Government Distribution Fund (LGDF) for another year. The LGDF was established with the purpose of distributing 10% of the state income tax to local municipalities on a per capita basis, according to the Village of Orland Park. However, cuts were made to this program in 2011, reducing it to 6%. Despite minor increases that resulted in municipalities receiving just under 6.5% in 2023, they will continue to receive significantly less than the original 10% in 2024.

An article from AP News reports that Pritzker’s budget proposal includes an additional $182 million intended for addressing the migrant crisis. This fund is planned to be used for establishing and operating "welcoming centers" and providing services such as legal aid, housing, and food. The proposal also includes a provision for $150 million to fund "universal preschool" across the state by 2027. K12 spending is expected to increase by $450 million under this proposal. Furthermore, Pritzker has proposed an increase in sports betting tax from 15% to 35%, aimed at addressing deficits.

Pekau, who is also a Republican Congressional candidate (IL-6), has made significant contributions during his term as mayor. According to his website, he managed to double investments in the village's infrastructure while simultaneously reducing total operating costs by 14%. Additionally, Pekau succeeded in lowering property tax rates and paid down more than $50 million of the village's debt.