Mayor Speaks Out Against Quinn's Threat to Withhold Money from Local Governments

Welcome to "Community Corner," a new column dedicated to announcements and important information straight from . All items included in this post were provided by officials and administrators from the Village of Lemont.

Oppose the Stealth Tax

Mayors all over Illinois are justifiably upset at the to balance the state budget by withholding all money from the Local Government Distributive Fund.

The fund is not the state's money. It has belonged to cities and counties since the income tax was instituted over 40 years ago. The state is supposed to collect the money on behalf of local governments and distribute it, and is now at least five months behind in its payments.

Over three years ago when the recession began, municipalities — including Lemont — began cutting expenditures, freezing hiring and salaries, and making the economics of scare necessary to balance budgets based on lower revenue projections. There is simply no other place we can cut and still provide police, public works and other vital services to our residents.

The state is already keeping 100 percent of the recent 66 percent income tax increase, and now wants to keep money that goes to provide direct services to you, the taxpayers.

I am urging every Lemont taxpayer to contact our legislators to make our voice heard on the detrimental effect this scheme will have on our community, and our ability as a local government to provide basic services to protect the safety and welfare of our citizens.

— Brian K. Reaves, Mayor of Lemont

Vehicle Stickers Go on Sale June 6

Vehicle stickers are required for all vehicles registered in the Village of Lemont, and the two-year stickers must be displayed by Aug. 1. Purchase before July 31 to receive a discounted price. The cost for passenger vehicles is $48. Stickers go on sale
June 6 at Village Hall, 418 Main Street.

Farmer's Market Begins June 7

Purchas fresh produce, fruit, gourmet items, French pastries and handmade crafts from more than 30 vendors at the Lemont Farmer's Market. The market begins June 7 in the Talcott Square parking lot, located at Talcott Avenue and Stephen Street. It runs every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lemont Cruise Nights Start June 1

The Lemont Legends Cruise Nights will kick off the summer season June 1 in downtown Lemont.