Written by Noland Staff Monday, 22 March 2010 11:03
As a legislator, I take seriously the responsibility to help U-46 resolve this financial crisis. This week, I passed legislation through the Illinois Senate that could result in $10 to $13 million more for the district annually. Senate Bill 2499 corrects a flaw in state law that unfairly penalizes multi-county school districts. These districts use a combination of actual and estimated property tax value limiting rates when they apply to the state for funding. My legislation requires the State Board of Education to use the property tax value rate from the county that will most benefit the district when determining state aid. The way the law works is complicated, but at the end of the day, it means the school district will have millions more to invest in our struggling area. Ultimately, this legislation helps our schools provide the best education possible. I am supporting other measures that will help U-46 and schools throughout the state as well. Last year, I supported legislation that would have modernized the State’s revenue code, cut property tax bills by $600 million statewide and provided hundreds of millions of dollars more funding for schools. This legislation, House Bill 174, adjusts the income tax rate to levels comparable to our Midwestern neighbors, establishes tax fairness exemptions for middle class taxpayers and, ultimately, helps balance and stabilize Illinois’ budget. I pledge to continue my fight for education funding. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 847.214.8864 and share your ideas and opinions.
As a parent with children in Elgin’s public schools, I am very concerned about the hundreds of layoffs announced last week—particularly the more than 300 teachers. I am also very concerned about the $12 million dollars the State owes the school district in late payments.
Senator Noland Menu
22nd District
Years served: 2007 - Present
Committee assignments: Judiciary; Public Health; Criminal Law (Chairperson); Energy; Committee of the Whole; Licensed Activities; Subcommittee on Special Issues; Subcommittee on Transparency (Sub-Chairperson).
Biography: Bachelor's degree and MBA from the University of Illinois at Chicago; Law degree from John Marshall Law School. Served as a Corpsman in the United States Navy at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital. Community volunteer with local organizations protecting the environment and assisting homeless persons. Resides in Elgin with his wife, Veronica, and their two children.