Dear friend, I know many families in Illinois are feeling the weight of the highest property taxes in the nation, along with rising state fees that make everyday life harder. That’s why I’m committed to supporting our community in every way I can — from visiting local groups like Citizens for Conservation in Barrington, who are doing inspiring work to protect our environment, to hosting programs that directly benefit families, like our Summer Reading Challenge and Back to School Drive. There’s still time to get involved in both before August 8, and together, we can help ease the challenges our families face while building a stronger, healthier community.
Darby Hills
Illinois Ranked Highest for Property Taxes in the Nation — and Families are Paying the Price.
According to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation, Illinois homeowners paid an average effective property tax rate of 1.83% in 2023. That’s higher than anywhere else in the country—and a lot higher than what families in our neighboring states are paying.
This news comes just weeks after Governor Pritzker signed the largest budget in state history, loaded with nearly $1 billion in new taxes, fees, and one-time gimmicks.
I believe Illinois families are being asked to do more with less, while state government continues to tax and spend without any real accountability. Families are tired of being overtaxed and overlooked. We need to get serious about reforms that actually lower the cost of living and give homeowners the relief they deserve, not make life more expensive.
Visit to Citizens for Conservation in Barrington!
Recently, my interns, staff, and I had the opportunity to visit Citizens for Conservation (CFC) in Barrington. We learned so much about their incredible work restoring and protecting native habitats across more than 700 acres in the area.
CFC has helped preserve over 3,500 acres through land acquisition, donations, and conservation easements. We saw firsthand how they remove invasive species like buckthorn and work to bring the land back to its natural state. Their Barrington Greenway Initiative is an exciting plan to connect and expand conservation areas for the benefit of our community and future generations. I’m grateful to everyone at CFC who took the time to share their knowledge and passion. This visit was inspiring and a reminder of how local conservation efforts can make a lasting difference.
Visit to Citizens for Conservation in Barrington!
Recently, my interns, staff, and I had the opportunity to visit Citizens for Conservation (CFC) in Barrington. We learned so much about their incredible work restoring and protecting native habitats across more than 700 acres in the area.
CFC has helped preserve over 3,500 acres through land acquisition, donations, and conservation easements. We saw firsthand how they remove invasive species like buckthorn and work to bring the land back to its natural state. Their Barrington Greenway Initiative is an exciting plan to connect and expand conservation areas for the benefit of our community and future generations. I’m grateful to everyone at CFC who took the time to share their knowledge and passion. This visit was inspiring and a reminder of how local conservation efforts can make a lasting difference.
Kids Fair in Lake Zurich!
Family and friends! Join me for a fun-filled Kids Fair on August 16!
Families can explore local and state resources, enjoy face painting, a live animal show, studio performances, and even check out fire trucks and police cars at our Touch-a-Truck experience!
Don’t miss it — 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Foglia YMCA in Lake Zurich! Learn more about it at https://www.senatordarbyhills.com/events/
Children’s Summer Reading Program – Ready, Set, Read!
This is the last week of my summer reading program! I invite all students entering 1st through 12th grade to participate in the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge! Read 8 books by August 8th and earn an official certificate from the Illinois Senate — plus, you’ll be invited to a fun ice cream social celebration! To get started, visit www.senatordarbyhills.com/events/
Back to School Drive!
This is the last week to donate! It’s time to gear up for back to school! I’m teaming up with Barrington Children’s Charities to collect backpacks and school supplies for students in need right here in the 26th District. If you’re out shopping, grab a few extras and help us make sure every student starts the year ready to learn! Drop-offs are open now through August 8. For more information, visit www.senatordarbyhills.com/events/