Steve Fernlund and The Long Way Home

Cook County Independent School District 166 has put a levy renewal request on the 2022 general election ballot. In 2016, county voters approved an operating levy of $800 per pupil to support smaller class sizes, elective opportunities, and some extracurricular activities. That levy is set to expire on December 31st this year. According to a letter sent to voters from Chris Lindholm, Superintendent of Cook County Schools, if that levy expires it would reduce the annual revenue of the district by $350,000 to $400,000 a year. That loss, according to Lindholm’s letter, would force the district to reduce some teaching positions and program offerings for the kids. The ballot question asks voters to approve a ten-year extension of the 2016, $800 per pupil levy. A vote to approve the levy request will not result in an increase in current property taxes however allowing the levy to expire may reduce property taxes. ISD 166 has scheduled informational meetings to meet with voters. A virtual mee...

The General Election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 8th, and the ballots will be full. In addition to voting for Governor, Lt. Governor, and the rest of the statewide offices, there will be candidates for the US House, state representative, and state senator. Due to redistricting, all five County Commission seats will be on the ballot in addition to the County Attorney, Auditor-Treasurer, Recorder, and Sheriff. Other local positions will also be on the ballot. Candidates for election to Cook County offices must file their intent, in person, with the County Auditor by Tuesday, May 31 at 5:00 pm. Filing opened on May 17th. Candidate filings for the hospital board, school district, and city offices must file between August 2nd and August 16th. Candidates are subject to State law for campaign finance disclosures. If more than two candidates file for election to a specific position, a primary election will be held on August 9, 2022. If you have ever thought about running for public offi...