Chambana Sun

Dan Caulkins sees the issue of rising property taxes as being at the center of many of the state’s most pressing issues.

“It’s a big problem and part of much of what ails the state,” he told the Chambana Sun. “The people that are leaving the state because of these taxes have the ability to own their homes. That tax-paying base is rapidly leaving Illinois and taking their skills with them. People just aren’t willing to keep paying these kinds of rates and that’s playing a role in depressing the entire housing market.”

Indeed, a new report by property data experts ATTOM Data Solutions recently found that 387,854 property owners across the state now owe mortgages of at least 25 percent more on their loans than their property is worth.

Jennifer McMillin | Jen McMillin for State Representative

“Lower property taxes will make homes a lot more attractive and will also help people and businesses make the decision of deciding to stay or relocate here,” said Caulkins, a Republican running against Democrat Jennifer McMillin in Illinois’ 101st District. “I saw ... where Rep. (Jim) Durkin (R-Western Springs) and other Republicans introduced legislation aimed at capping and reducing property taxes. It would allow voters in the community to finally have a say on the issue.”

Among Illinois counties, Boone, Montgomery and Bond had the highest percentage of property owners saddled with mortgages of at least 25 percent more than their property is worth, with 2 in 5 Boone-area property owners impacted and an average of 38 percent of those in Montgomery and Bond.

Caulkins said he hasn’t seen or heard of any proposals put forth by McMillin to help remedy the situation.

“I don’t know much about what she thinks on the issue, but I do know she supports a progressive income tax and is a big (Democratic candidate for governor J.B.) Pritzker fan," he said. "All instituting a progressive tax will do is drive more people out of state and serve as yet another job killer that keeps businesses from coming back to the state.”