Lyons Township Assessor Patrick J. Hynes announced last week he will run against Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi in the 2026 Democratic primary.
Hynes made the announcement at a Lyons Township Democratic Organization fundraiser.
“Sometimes, when I advocate for the taxpayers, I run into a bit of an obstacle,” Hynes told the crowd. “That obstacle has a name — Fritz Kaegi. It’s time we get rid of that incompetent assessor.”
Hynes was elected Lyons Township assessor in 2021. He previously worked in the Cook County Assessor’s Office.
He’s a familiar face in the township and said he was proud of the work his office does for local residents.
“I love my vocation and like advocating for my taxpayers in Lyons Township,” Hynes told the Desplaines Valley News.
He credited his staff — Carrie Bernardoni and Jenny O’Sullivan — for helping serve residents effectively. He also cited a $15 million county rebate program as an example of the office’s ongoing efforts.
“The county has allocated $15 million to do rebates for taxpayers who have seen a 50% or greater year-over-year increase in their property tax bill,” he said. “They may qualify for a rebate of $1,000. We will be out making sure people know about it and see if they are eligible to receive it. We will be working to make sure they can compete for the money allocated, because once that money is gone, it’s gone. We’ve fought before and will continue to. It never stops.”
Since summer 2024, Hynes and his team have expanded their Mobile Taxpayer Services program, traveling around the township to help residents secure exemptions and, in some cases, recoup money.
The Illinois Property Assessment Institute recently honored Hynes with its 2025 Outstanding Achievement in Property Assessment Award, recognizing his decades of service and dedication to the field. The award was presented during the institute’s 67th annual conference in Normal.
Nominees are submitted from across the state and chosen by the institute’s board of directors. Hynes was nominated by colleagues throughout Chicagoland.
Hynes has worked in property assessment for 27 years. In addition to serving Lyons Township, he holds the Certified Illinois Assessing Officer designation and serves on the Cook County Assessors Association Board. He is also a firefighter and EMT with the Western Springs Fire Department.
“Pat has consistently demonstrated exceptional knowledge of property assessments,” Lyons Township Supervisor Chris Getty said. “Through his strong relationships with neighboring communities, he has fostered collaboration and the sharing of best practices. Both local officials and residents alike know they can rely on him to act with integrity and prioritize the best interests of the community.”