City of Prospect Heights issued the following announcement on Sept. 18.
On Tuesday, November 6th, Prospect Heights voters will be asked to answer the ballot question: “Shall the City of Prospect Heights, Illinois become a home rule unit?”
HOME RULE Frequently Asked Questions
What is Home rule?
Home rule would allow a local government like Prospect Heights to have more local control over how it operates rather, than have Cook County (which is a Home Rule County) or the State of Illinois making some decisions for it.
How do local governments get Home rule?
The Illinois Constitution allows any municipality which has a population of more than 25,000 to automatically become a home rule unit of government, or they may elect by referendum to become a home rule unit of government.
What other communities have Home Rule?
Most of our surrounding neighbors are Home Rule communities. Some include: Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Downers Grove, Elk Grove Village, Evanston, Glenview, Mount Prospect, Palatine, Northbrook, Northfield, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Wheeling, and Wilmette.
What effect does Home Rule have on my property tax?
There is no municipal property tax in Prospect Heights because the city has always budgeted with revenue from state income taxes, state and local sales taxes and local fees for vehicle and pet licenses, permits, inspections, and fines. Home Rule will not automatically change any taxes whatsoever.
What are the benefits to residents from Home Rule?
Home Rule gives the City Council the authority to change the allocation of hotel/motel taxes and add or increase other taxes and fees that would mainly come from non-residents to help pay for high cost flood control and other major infrastructure projects.
Are there any drawbacks for residents from Home Rule?
The City Council would have the ability to levy a property tax and increase the sales tax rate without a referendum. It would also have the ability to borrow money without a referendum, although the cost of that borrowing would be less expensive. When residents shop in town, buy gasoline, or stay in a local hotel they may pay slightly more tax.
Does Home Rule give unlimited power to the local government?
No. Municipalities in Illinois are restricted by state statutes that prevent a municipality from enacting specific laws that are reserved for the state to legislate.
Original source can be found here.
Source: City of Prospect Heights
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