UPDATE: The Elgin City Council has just approved a staggering 13.2% increase in property taxes for the upcoming year, marking the first hike in over a decade. Residents will feel the impact immediately, with homeowners seeing an increase of approximately $180.83 annually on properties assessed at $300,000.
This urgent budget decision, finalized on December 17, 2025, comes as the city grapples with escalating costs and inflation. City Manager Rick Kozal highlighted that “inflationary pressures” necessitated this increase to fund essential services. The new tax measure will generate an additional $4.2 million for the city’s $407.6 million budget, aimed at bolstering public safety and funding capital projects.
Alongside the property tax increase, Elgin residents will also see a rise in water and sewer rates by 9% and 4% respectively, as part of a long-term infrastructure improvement plan. Garbage fees are set to rise from $24.95 to $25.95, with sticker costs for excess trash increasing from $4.00 to $4.16.
Lifelong resident David Teas voiced concerns about the cumulative financial burden on families, noting, “Every year we are getting hit by taxes. It’s starting to hurt us.” He emphasized the struggles faced by seniors in the community, urging the council to explore alternative revenue solutions.
Despite the push for increased funding, council members considered the potential negative impact of raising sales and gas taxes on the local economy. Ultimately, the budget passed with a vote of 8-1, with Councilwoman Diana Alfaro opposing it, stating, “I’ll be voting against this to be transparent with the community.”
As Elgin residents prepare for these financial changes, the city’s budget details can be accessed on the official website at elginil.gov. The implications of this tax hike will resonate throughout the community as families adjust to the new financial landscape.
Stay tuned for developing updates on how this budget will affect Elgin’s residents moving forward.
