It's interesting that you say your taxes have gone up. I live in Plano. I moved there in 2006, and my taxes have declined for at least the last two years ( maybe even the past three years ).

TC
Plano

Of course your property taxes have gone up.
Were you not paying attention to all those spending referendums on the ballot?

Did you think they were free?

Watched the video and it sounds good to me. I think our state is so far gone that we'll have no choice but to file bankruptcy. From what I'm hearing Mark you have stirred more than one pot down at the county. It's about time we stood up and did something. I have no problem paying my fair share but that's not what's happening. We're being over assessed time and time again.

A little off topic but are we still on the states watch list? I have a cousin in Lemont and they've closed one school now they're looking to close more. Operating deficit is going to hit Oswego before too long, empty additions because we have no more.

Andy McKenna ran for governor last election and was brushed aside, despite winning in Kendall county. He is an extremely astute businessman that has little tolerance for waste in spending and had some very workable ideas to reduce this financial burden and reverse the bleeding that Illinois is experiencing.
While he has no intention to run again, there are a few individuals that would make a very desirable governor. Maybe we should actually "draft" someone else with an advanced knowledge of business and finance and an ability to work bi-partisan in order to clear up this mess. That person should be so financially secure as to be immune to bribery and corruption and so motivated to resolve our financial problems as to care less if they are re-elected.
Unfortunately, until both major political parties set aside their party line stances and learn to work together to resolve the sad state of affairs Illinois is mired in, ain't diddly-doo going to happen...unless we as the public command it.

Let's all remember the big picture here. If the county required $X dollars last year to operate, then they will require at least the $X dollars this year to operate - possibly more. Don't forget all the raises (cost of living and regular) for law enforcement, fire, teachers, etc. that they expect every year. If the taxes decrease the county will be forced to get the revenue from other sources (increase in sales taxes, utility taxes, etc.). The only other way is to cut the police force, teachers, fire, etc. Who among them want to volunteer to be laid off? I think you would see very few hands...
Anyone have a good idea on how they can make up the revenue difference speak up. Possibly in light of the economy - a pay cut? Many have had their pay cut when they have been force to take other work positions for less pay. Why not have the police, fire, and teachers do the same?

The County allows you to 'protest' your value assessment....the rate which determines your tax share. Their website will explain how you do that and also the petition form.

Here's something that will have an impact. How much will this cost us in property taxes.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-illinois-house-panel-votes-to-cut-education-funding-by-4-percent-20120526,0,5830705.story