West Cook News

The Town of Cicero has announced its 2025 budget, marking the fourth consecutive year without an increase in property taxes. Cicero Financial Director David Gonzalez presented the budget at a public hearing on Tuesday, addressing concerns about rising property taxes for some residents.

Gonzalez clarified that any increases in property taxes are due to higher property assessments by Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi over the past two years, which have shifted more tax burden from businesses to homeowners. He emphasized that "the Town of Cicero is not receiving any additional property tax money from residents than it has in the past four years."

“For four years in a row, we have not increased the levy. From 2021 to 2024 it has been the same amount,” Gonzalez stated, reaffirming that this year’s levy will also remain unchanged. He added, “Property taxes are up because of the assessment increase by the Cook County Assessor. But the amount of taxes collected by the Town of Cicero has not increased.”

The town's budget saw a $12 million increase due to additional revenues from Cook County and the State of Illinois under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). This funding will support departments such as Police, Fire, and Public Works. Specifically, $12 million is allocated for new equipment for the Cicero Fire Department and $2.2 million for the Police Department.

Gonzalez noted that while federal approval has been granted for $96 million to address flood damage concerns, these funds have yet to be received. He attributed this award to proactive measures taken by President Dominick and the Board last year.

President Dominick reiterated his commitment to maximizing service delivery without raising property taxes and by securing funds from various government levels. “The only way the town of Cicero will make more money in a property tax levy is if we increase the levy," Gonzalez explained, addressing public confusion over rising assessments.

The full budget can be viewed on TheTownofCicero.com.

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