Kotowski Fights for Taxpayers: Puts More Checks on Cook County Board President

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Kotowski Fights for Taxpayers: Puts More Checks on Cook County Board

SPRINGFIELD-State Senator Dan Kotowski (D-Park Ridge) is pushing a measure that will give the Cook County Board of Commissioners more power over the County Board President.

Senate Bill 1868 will allow the County Board to override the County Board President's veto with a three-fifths majority. Currently, a veto override takes a four-fifths majority.

"It only takes three-fifths of the General Assembly to override the Governor," said Kotowski. "I don't see why it should be more difficult to check the power of the County Board President than the Governor. Cook County is one of the most populous counties in the United States. Its residents deserve a stronger voice in their government."

Senator Kotowski's attention was drawn to this issue by some of County Board President Todd Stroger's recent decisions.

"President Stroger's decision to raise the Cook County sales tax did not reflect the will of the people," said Kotowski. "By strengthening the County Board's veto override authority, we'll help make sure that doesn't happen again."

Senate Bill 1868 has passed the Illinois Senate and awaits the consideration of the House.

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