For Immediate Release:
For more information contact: Jessey Neves, (562) 453-6342


The Cook County Board met today to vote on whether to roll back half of the one percent sales tax increase. President Todd Stroger overturned the Board's decision - again failing to provide the progressive leadership that Cook County needs. 

"This is a considerable roadblock for the progress of the County. Citizens have become distrustful and dissatisfied with County government's waste and abuse. The outer edges of Cook County have especially felt the impact because it has driven shoppers and businesses to our neighboring counties," said Toni Preckwinkle. 

President Stroger's sales tax increase was an effort to balance his budget without having to evaluate and cut wasteful spending, patronage hires or inefficient programs throughout the County's varying departments. "It's irresponsible of President Stroger to insist on such fiscally wasteful practices," remarked Preckwinkle. 

The sales tax should be rolled back in conjunction with implementing responsible spending practices, eliminating wasteful programs and ensuring that the County fully captures its income (e.g., the billing practices of the Bureau of Health). 

"This rollback was a critical part of the real, responsible reform that Cook County needed," said Preckwinkle. "Cook County is currently operating with an unemployment rate of 11.6 percent. We must fight to improve the County's economy, not only by repealing the sales tax increase but also by assessing arenas of economic development, prioritizing job training programs and allocating additional funds for new, growing sectors, such as 'green collar' businesses and jobs."

In current economic conditions, it will take true leadership to both stabilize and grow Cook County's economy. As Cook County Board President, Preckwinkle will work with businesses to bring new industries to the region, stimulating our economy and encouraging job creation. 

Additionally, in order to support a transitioning workforce, Preckwinkle will support critical job training that focuses on the new and growing sectors of the economy.

Many were hopeful that today would bring a rollback of the sales tax increase. Supporters of the rollback included newly-appointed Commissioner Edwin Reyes, appointed to replace former Commissioner Roberto Maldonado.