Local Reps Want Business' Input on State Tax Review

After passing a , Democratic leadership in the state wants to review that tax structure to keep businesses from leaving Illinois for cheaper options.

Local representatives say the best way to find solutions is to have an open dialogue with the businesses and chambers of commerce in the state. Both Sen. Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) and Rep. Renee Kosel (R-New Lenox) said they've heard from businesses in their districts that have explored leaving the state.

Locally, though, CEO Deb Hypke said she hasn't heard many complaints from business owners about the tax rate, which increased to 7 percent, or about leaving the state.

"We were very disappointed by the tax hike, but I think people still see New Lenox as a very viable location," Hypke said.

According to Crain's Chicago Business, a joint House-Senate Revenue Committee will review the tax structure and controversial tax exemptions that have been used to retain large firms. Illinois Senate President John Cullerton (D-Chicago) announced the review and said input would be sought from the Illinois and Chicagoland chambers of commerce.

"The first cue will have to come from the job creators," Radogno spokeswoman Patty Schuh said. "It’s the business community that can tell us what’s most harmful to them and what’s making Illinois less competitive with other states."

Both elected officials said the tax hike has got to go, and they're eager to make things fairer for small, locally owned businesses that haven't gotten the tax exemptions other large corporations have.

"If you’re a Sears or a Motorola, you can get a tax break. But if you’re the guy down the street in New Lenox or Frankfort and you have 20 employees, they don’t care about you," Kosel said. "Small business like that is the backbone of this state."

A schedule of public hearings on the issue will be posted later, according to Crain's.