Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Nicole La Ha Zwiercan has called for property tax relief, stating that "high property tax rates are crushing Illinois families and making our state an unaffordable and unattractive place to live." She made this statement in an August 1 Facebook post.

"High property tax rates are crushing Illinois families and making our state an unaffordable and unattractive place to live," said La Ha Zwiercan, State Representative for 82nd District (R), according to Facebook. "Our residents need relief now so they can stay and grow here at home."

In her post, Zwiercan shared a link to an Illinois Policy article. According to the article, the average Illinois property tax bill increased by $756 from 2018 to 2022 across 61 Illinois counties, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2022, the typical Illinois homeowner paid $5,055 in property taxes, which is more than double the typical American homeowner’s $2,457 bill. The report also noted that Illinois homeowners paid more in property taxes than those in Alabama, West Virginia, Arkansas, Louisiana, and South Carolina combined.

Screenshot of State Rep. Nicole La Ha Zwiercan's Aug.1 Facebook post | Rep. Nicole La Ha's Facebook page

According to Illinois Policy, property value is not the only factor affecting property taxes in Illinois; taxing districts’ funding goals also play a role. These entities include schools, airport authorities, fire protection districts, and others. There are approximately 7,000 such entities across the state.

Schools levy about two-thirds of property taxes; however, a significant portion of these funds is increasingly allocated to government pensions. The state's $211 billion unfunded state and local pension liabilities significantly impact property taxes.

The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) states there is no set property tax rate in the state. Most properties are assessed at one-third of their fair market value. Farmland is assessed based on its ability to produce income; farm buildings are assessed at one-third of their contribution to farm productivity; home sites and dwellings are assessed at one-third of their market value. According to the IDOR Taxpayer Answer Center page on property tax rates, Cook County residents may see assessments of 10% for residential properties and 25% for commercial properties.

La Ha was recently appointed to fill the vacancy in the 82nd State House District following John Egofske's resignation. The former Mrs. America previously served as press secretary for Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods). She brings an extensive background in public advocacy and active involvement in charitable committees. La Ha received the 2018 International Humanitarian Award for exceptional community service. Her campaign website highlights her commitment to community service and her election to the Village of Homer Glen Board of Trustees in 2021. Throughout her term, she opposed tax increases and played a pivotal role in enhancing life quality for residents with disabilities.