On the Doors This Week: Property Taxes Came Up Again and Again
This week, I officially kicked off canvassing and had the chance to meet so many wonderful neighbors in Palatine. I’m always grateful for these conversations—they’re honest, thoughtful, and rooted in real-life concerns.
By far, the number one issue I heard at the doors was property taxes.
Families told me they feel squeezed: costs keep rising, incomes aren’t keeping pace, and property taxes are often the bill that pushes household budgets to the breaking point. Seniors worry about being taxed out of the homes they’ve lived in for decades. Young families worry about whether they can afford to stay in the communities they love.
Property taxes fund essential services—our schools, first responders, libraries, and local infrastructure—but too much of the burden has been shifted onto homeowners. That’s not sustainable, and it’s not fair.
Here’s what I’m focused on changing:
Expanding and strengthening property tax relief for seniors and working families, including reforms to make exemptions and credits easier to access and more meaningful.
Reducing the overreliance on property taxes to fund schools by increasing the state’s share of education funding—so ZIP code doesn’t determine opportunity.
Demanding transparency and accountability in how tax dollars are spent, ensuring families can see where their money goes and that it’s delivering real value.
As your next State Senator, I’m committed to easing the pressure on homeowners while protecting the services our communities depend on.
We can be fiscally responsible and compassionate—and the conversations I’m having at the doors only reinforce how urgent this work is.
If you see me out canvassing, please say hello! These conversations are shaping this campaign every single day.
Thank you for your support, your trust, and your belief in what we can build together.
Let’s keep going—because together, we’re stronger.
With gratitude,
Carina Santa Maria
Candidate for Illinois State Senate, District 27