Readers React: Oak Forest Residents 'Mad as Hell' Over Sales Tax

Beginning July 1, shopping in Oak Forest is going to cost just a tad bit more. 

Aldermen Tuesday signed off 

Officials stated the tax is a "last resort" to recover from a $4.2 million shortfall in revenue citywide, over the last four years. Mayor Hank Kuspa said the aldermen refused to cut more staff or services that would impact the city—one suggested alternative to the tax. 

The tax could bring in as much as $1.1 million, which would help fill several roles essential to public safety and service.

Patch updated Facebook fans live from council chambers as the aldermen voted 5–0 (Aldermen Toland and Simon were absent)—and set off an avalanche of response. Below is a small sampling of what our fans had to say.

• Danielle Abendroth said: Ugh. Really wish I didn't have to work so late so that I could have been there. So disappointed. This is not going to solve the problem. Nothing is ever enough for this city county and state.
• Michael Master said: Will county here i come!
• Jenelle LePinske Slaviero said: Way to push people out of Oak Forest! It's clear the people who voted yes are making too much money if they can afford this! How about all City officials take a pay cut!!!! Let's vote on that!
• Brian Koehler said: Now that it has passed, we have two options: have a voice on how that additional money gets spent or vote these trustees out if you're unhappy. I can live with the increase but I want to know how that money gets spent. It's your money and mine so let's be more involved in how our money gets spent.
• Mike Ziak said: Of course they're going to say that. Im sure that there has been numerous discussions on it, but since the majority of us do not have the time to attend every meeting or read through all of the minutes and agendas how are we to know?
• Michael Merino said: Figures that the governed are not being listened to by the politicians. I think it is time that we change our city council. One step closer to running.
• Ed Morris said: Hmm. Really interesting that this particular meeting wasn't broadcast live as most others are routinely. I personally expected Simon to vote against, but he wasn't there. And Toland, who is rather outspoken on the net, wasn't either. Why do I get a call about power aggregation via reverse-911 but not about a sales tax hike? How were the citizens notified by the city about this proposed change, and what timeline did this follow. Kinda fishy, eh?
• Bill Wnenk said: I thought Oak Forest was trying to attract business not drive it away! Good incentive to start a new business
• Tricia Booth Worthan said: And now more of us will shop in another town and Oak Forest businesses will lose more money and close down....seriously? How about getting rid of pensions and going to a 401K like most of the rest of us! Nobodys saving for MY future!
• Richard D. Nowak said: On my way to Will and Kankakee County ~ Yippee-Kai-Yay Mo-Fo !

Where do you stand? What's your biggest concern about the tax?

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