Jones Proposes Plan to in Invest South Suburbs, Cut Property Taxes on Middle-Class Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Thaddeus Jones, D-Calumet City, is laying out a comprehensive economic development strategy to invest in new economic development in underserved South Suburban communities, create jobs and provide tax relief for families. Jones’ resolution urges the state to invest in local health infrastructure, prioritize local economic development projects like the Illiana Expressway and Peotone Airport, and take steps to ease the property tax burden.

“Chicago’s south suburbs have long been ignored and neglected for new economic development plans,” said Jones. “I cannot wait around any longer hoping that my residents will be bailed out and cared for when we need relief and jobs now. That’s what my plan asks for.”

Jones is sponsoring House Resolution 56, which details his plan to revitalize the economy for the area and also foster more job growth. The plan calls for the expansion of the Illiana Expressway to be constructed, which would connect Illinois to Indiana between I-55 and I-65 and contribute $4 billion economic output to the region. Another component of the proposal includes the construction of the Peotone Airport, which would not only create easier travel for residents to fly from but create long-lasting local jobs.  

Property tax relief and the protection of the Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) are also included in Jones’ proposal. Asking the wealthiest in Illinois and having the state pay for its schools will help ease the massive burden on local homeowners and allow them to keep more of their money. Jones also wants to maintain funding from the LGDF, which cities and villages desperately rely on to fund local projects, schools and services.

A final critical element in Jones’ plan is to construct a local trauma center. The center would be tasked with addressing mental health needs and chronic gun violence that continues to plague local families. Jones is calling on Gov. J.B. Pritzker and his fellow south suburban legislators to join him in this effort to rebuild this region in Illinois.

“All of these projects will make our community a more vibrant place to live and work,” said Jones. “It’s not fair that a majority of residents pay high taxes and receive little services and attention in return. It is imperative that we invest in this part of the state too.”