McHenry Times

Transit funding remains a central issue as Illinois lawmakers return to Springfield for the final days of the veto session. Chicago-area transit agencies have released updated 2026 budgets, showing that while the region’s financial challenges have been postponed, a long-term state funding solution is still needed.

The combined shortfall for CTA, Metra, and Pace was initially projected at $771 million. Due to expanded sales tax collections on online products, fare increases, and internal efficiencies, the estimated gap has dropped to $230 million. These measures have delayed the funding crisis from early 2026 to later in the year, but reserve funds are being depleted quickly.

CTA and Metra expect their reserves to run out by late 2026; Pace’s reserves could last into 2027. Without legislative action, regional deficits may rise to $834 million in 2027 and $937 million in 2028. This could affect service levels, maintenance, and mobility across the region.

As legislators meet this week for the final three days of session this year, public transit reform is a key agenda item. Lawmakers discussed these issues during a recent hearing and reviewed new revenue proposals. Decisions will need to be made about whether new revenue streams or structural reforms are necessary for sustainable public transportation funding.

CTA, Metra, and Pace also plan fare increases ranging from 25 cents up to 13 percent in their new budgets for 2026. Cost reductions are planned as well to extend reserve funds.

Senator Craig Wilcox recently hosted about 70 students from several high schools in his district for his Student Advisory Council event at Lake Villa Public Library in Lake County. Students were selected by teachers and counselors from Antioch, Grant, Johnsburg, McHenry, Prairie Ridge, Woodstock, and Woodstock North High Schools.

During the event: "Students get to hear from three different community leaders who share their experiences and what drove them toward a career in the public sector," Wilcox said. "It is a non-partisan opportunity with a goal of energizing the next generation of leaders and driving home the importance of being an involved member of society."

Speakers included Dr. John Burkey (Illinois Large Unit School District Association), Mr. Bill Bruce (McHenry County States Attorney’s Office), Deputies Caitlyn Kelly and Paul Coseman with their K9 partners (McHenry County Sheriff’s Office). Each presenter spoke with students and answered questions during Q&A sessions.

After lunch provided by Meridian Health Plan Inc., students worked together on legislative proposals they would like to see become law in Illinois. The group voted on one proposal that will be drafted into bill language for consideration at a follow-up meeting in spring 2026.

At that meeting: "The bill will move through a mock legislative process complete with committee hearings and votes," Wilcox explained. Students will assume roles such as legislators from both parties, lobbyists, members of the public giving testimony, journalists/bloggers, or even Governor.

Wilcox thanked all speakers who participated: "My thanks go out to the speakers who took time out of their busy days to interact with the students."

Wilcox is also partnering with State Senator Darby Hills for a free Veterans Appreciation Luncheon & Expo on November 15 at Knights of Columbus Hall in Lake Zurich from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. The event offers veterans and their families lunch along with information about various programs and resources available locally.

"Each November we pause to honor all veterans who served their country in defense of the freedoms we all enjoy," Wilcox stated regarding this annual tradition.

In legislative news related to property taxes on renewable energy projects: Senate Bill 2706 has been filed aiming to update how wind and solar energy companies are taxed in Illinois. Under current law base values are set at $360,000 per megawatt for wind projects ($218,000 per megawatt for solar). SB2706 proposes raising those figures starting tax year 2026—to $588,000 per megawatt for wind systems and $446,000 per megawatt for solar systems—reflecting changes since original formulas were established when these industries were new.

"Illinois’ property tax code currently establishes a uniform statewide method for valuing commercial wind and solar systems," according to Wilcox's office; however base figures have remained unchanged leading renewable developers' tax bills lower than other property owners'. SB2706 awaits assignment before Senate committee review.

Wilcox has represented Illinois’ 32nd Senate District since his election as a Republican senator in 2018 following Pamela Althoff's tenure.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Wilcox_(politician)