Committee stresses opposition to proposed LGDF cuts, seeks county coalition

Chair Michelle Gums told the committee she and others are opposing proposals that would lower the county's share of the Local Government Distribution Fund (LGDF). She said Kane County seeks restoration toward a historical 10 percent share and that the administration's proposed reduction (discussed in Springfield) would move the county's share from about 6.4% to 6.2%. "We are opposed to this and we have drafted and sent out a letter," Gums said.

Members said the county is coordinating with the Illinois State Association of County Officials, UCCCI and neighboring counties to build a coalition and present shared positions when meeting legislators. Gums noted a recent regional meeting was both "part business, part social" and helped unify messaging; members said the next regional meeting is planned for September and will be hosted by Will County.

The committee also discussed the possibility that removing certain taxes (for example the grocery tax at the state level) can reduce county revenues and create pressure for local services. Members asked that the committee continue monitoring bills in Springfield and participate in coordinated advocacy rather than acting alone.

Chair Gums directed members to continue drafting position letters and to work with lobbyist teams and partner counties to protect local control and county revenue streams. No formal resolution was taken at the meeting.