During the pandemic, Governor Pritzker eliminated the grocery tax in order to help citizens who were financially impacted by the pandemic. During his recent budget request, he announced his desire to get rid of the tax permanently in Illinois.
During the most recent Sterling City Council meeting, the members were asked to send a letter of opposition to the eliminating of the grocery tax.
City Manager Scott Schumard said it is easy for the governor to ask for getting rid of the grocery tax because it would not affect state income. On the other hand, the city would be losing between $500,000 and $1 million yearly.
Alderman Jim Wise said if the city voices opposition to the Governor in this, they would look like the bad guys. However, it was pointed out that the city might have to make choices involving the police, fire and public works departments that would affect every resident in the city.
