Tax Hike Vote OK'd In Western Springs

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – Western Springs voters are set to decide in November whether to increase the sales tax rate by 1 percent to pay for infrastructure.

Now, the sales tax rate in the village is 9 percent. Of that, 1 percentage point goes to the village. The state gets most of the rest.

This week, the Village Board voted unanimously to put the tax hike question on the Nov. 8 ballot.

"No one likes to add to our taxes, but we don't have options on how we're going to pay for our infrastructure needs," Trustee Nicole Rudolph told the Village Board.

Nearby towns such as La Grange, Burr Ridge, Hinsdale, Westchester, Indian Head Park and Brookfield already charge the tax.

"This is not something that is unusual that Western Springs is looking at," Rudolph said. "In fact, we're unusual for not having it."

Added Trustee Al Fink, "I do feel comfort that we're not the first ones doing this. We're catching up to everyone else."

Trustees also noted visitors would pay the tax.

"To me, diversifying our revenue sources is important because you can't just keep burdening property taxes," Trustee Wendy Chen said. "When I eat in Brookfield or Hinsdale, I'm helping pay for their infrastructure. It would be helpful for people who come to our community to help us."

The sales tax does not apply to groceries, prescription or nonprescription drugs, and medical appliances.

The village is also considering a stormwater fee for residents. Officials say more money is needed for street and drainage improvements.