North Cook News

Jillian Rose Bernas said the fact that Illinois has the second highest property tax burden and combined tax burden in the nation is not something that happened overnight.

“This is the result of failed leadership in Springfield,” Bernas, who is vying against Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg) for the 56th District seat, recently told the North Cook News. 

That is why the House hopeful said she wants to go to Springfield to oppose House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) and work on installing a successful 1-percent property tax cap, similar to those implemented in other states.      

Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg)

“The livelihood and well-being of the families in my area are under attack,” Bernas said. “They are very concerned about being able to keep up with the increasing property taxes because they see no end in sight.”

Many citizens fear they will not be able to stay in their homes, while others are planning to move out of state, according to the candidate, who said when she walks door-to-door, her neighbors are making it clear they are planning their exit strategy from Illinois.

“They no longer want to pay for the inaction of lawmakers over the years,” Bernas said.

As an Illinois native, Bernas noted she relates to resident’s fears, but will not give up without a fight.

“I am running for State Representative to keep families in Illinois,” she said. “My husband and I are from Illinois and want to stay here; however, we have seen our friends make the hard decision to leave.”

Bernas added Mussman is very much aware of the problem, but instead of acting to help her district, she supports Madigan and is complicit in the political games.

“For example, she has sponsored 18 pieces of legislation to freeze property taxes,” she said. “They have all failed because they were designed to fail and serve only to help her re-election efforts.”

Mussman’s actions demonstrate her lack of integrity, according to Bernas, who added her opponent “doesn’t care about us, she cares about herself.”

“We have lawmakers that are not accountable to the families in their districts, lack integrity and do not act on principle,” Bernas said.  

The 56th District includes Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Palatine, Roselle and Schaumburg.