Casey Chlebek calls for property tax referendum amid survey showing strong voter support



The Social Security Tax Freedom Act is the second pillar of Chlebek’s MAGNA Agenda, which aims to reduce taxes, reward work, and restore opportunity. Property taxes remain a defining issue for Republican primary voters.


PARK RIDGE - Republican U.S. Senate candidate Casey Chlebek on Monday renewed his call for the Illinois General Assembly to place a statewide advisory referendum on the 2026 ballot that would give voters a direct say on abolishing property taxes.

A new campaign survey of 350 registered Republican voters across Illinois shows overwhelming support for reforming or abolishing the state’s property tax system. According to the results:

  • 92% believe Illinois property taxes are too high.
  • 83% report they or someone they know has been directly impacted by high property taxes—losing a home, being at risk of losing a home, or struggling to afford one.
  • 86% want property tax reform to be a top issue in the 2026 elections.
  • 63% support replacing property tax funding with alternative funding sources so that schools, police, and fire departments remain fully funded.

“These numbers confirm what I’ve been saying from the start: Illinois families are being crushed by the highest property taxes in America,” Chlebek said. “Homeownership should mean freedom—not perpetual rent to the government. Voters are demanding change, and I am the only candidate with a plan to deliver it while protecting schools, police, and fire services by exploring alternative funding options.”

Chlebek emphasized that only the legislature and the governor can authorize an advisory referendum but argued that Springfield has no excuse to delay when voters so clearly demand relief. His Property Tax Freedom Plan, the first pillar of his MAGNA Agenda (Making America the Greatest Nation Again), ensures that essential local services remain fully funded through replacement revenue while families finally get relief.

The survey results provide the clearest evidence yet that property taxes are not only a financial burden but also a defining campaign issue for Republican primary voters in Illinois.

Casey Chlebek, a business leader, public policy advocate, and proud Polish-American, has officially declared intention to be the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate in Illinois. His MAGNA Agenda also includes the Social Security Tax Freedom Act, the second of seven pillars designed to reduce taxes, reward work, and restore opportunity.


TAGS: Casey Chlebek property tax reform, Illinois Senate 2026, MAGNA Agenda tax plan, Republican primary Illinois, Property Tax Freedom Plan

Lydia Kilgus leads Prairie Central to convincing victory over Heyworth



Prairie Central dominated Heyworth in straight sets, winning 25-7, 25-23 to close their early-season schedule.


FAIRBURY - The Prairie Central volleyball team made a powerful statement in their final non-conference matchup of the season, sweeping Heyworth in straight sets, 25-7, 25-23. The victory on September 29 brings the Hawks' overall record to 12-9 as they head into the heart of their conference schedule.

The Sentinel's Illini Prairie Conference sports coverage Serving was a key factor in the Hawks' success, with Lydia Kilgus delivering 8 service points and Charlee Popejoy adding 7 service points and an ace. On offense, Miranda Hari led the attack with 10 kills, while Kyah Creek orchestrated the plays with 15 assists.

"The girls came out and wanted the win tonight in their homecoming week," said head coach Kirsten Smith. "It was great to see them really come out strong and together, especially that first set."

The defensive effort was anchored by Paige Young, who tallied 17 digs. Prairie Central now turns its attention to a busy week of conference play.

The Hawks will travel tonight to face Rantoul (10-8 overall, 0-2 conference) before returning home on Thursday to host St. Joseph-Ogden (7-11 overall, 1-1 conference).


Prairie Central volleyball 2025, high school sports Fairbury, IHSA volleyball scores, Lydia Kilgus performance, Heyworth volleyball match recap



Editor's Choice


Judge rules Illinois cannot be denied federal emergency funds

A federal judge rules that Illinois cannot be denied emergency funding for refusing to cooperate with federal immigratio...



More Sentinel Stories