Happy Autumn to all in Cuba Township. I know we were all caught a bit off-guard by last week's historic Halloween snowstorm-let's hope it's not an omen for the upcoming winter!
Another storm that has recently blown into our Township is the recent arrival of our property assessments. Like many of you, I was greeted at the mailbox with an increase in my home's assessed value. As a Barrington Hills resident, I know for a fact that my property is in a depressed real estate market. I was shocked to see Lake County actually increased my home's value in a down market - how could that happen?
It's very important for all residents to know the Cuba Township Assessor's Office worked extremely hard this year to accurately and fairly assess all properties in the township. They understand, far better than Lake County, the nuances of assessing properties in different neighborhoods and communities. Unfortunately, the State of Illinois has a different formula resulting in a township-wide factor on our properties. In many cases, the factor resulted in an increase in the assessed value of properties.
I would like residents to know that Cuba Township, your most local and accessible branch of government, is working diligently to keep your property taxes as fair and reasonable as possible. I would also like to suggest that you contact your elected legislators and ask them if they have any solutions to reduce the property tax burden. Also, remember if you want to appeal your assessment, the deadline is Monday, November 25, 2019.
On a separate, and brighter topic, The Cuba Township Road District is ready for snow "events" heading our way. The plows are prepared, the salt barn is loaded, and TJ and his crew are awaiting another tough winter. Cuba Road District plows the unincorporated areas of our Township and is contracted by several municipalities. These contracts, known as IGA's (Intergovernmental Agreements), are an excellent example of local governments working together to reduce operating costs. The bottom line is that a locally maintained road district provides higher quality service at a lower cost than many larger governmental units.
In closing, Cuba Township would like to wish you and yours a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving!