Beecher village officials are giving serious thought about enacting a 1% grocery tax in 2026, but it won’t have any impact on residents.
The state already has a 1% grocery tax and the money goes to the various municipalities throughout Illinois. The state is dropping that after 2025, and Beecher has the right to pick it up.
“The 1% grocery tax never went to the state in the first place,” Beecher Mayor Marcy Meyer said at the June 23 meeting. “The tax went to each of the municipalities to help them run. It’s small amounts to small towns, to millions of dollars for some of the big cities.”
Non-home rule towns are welcome to reinstate it. Meyer said the village normally collects $202,000 per year in grocery tax money.
The board did not take a vote or make any decisions. Meyer said she brought it up because it’s a decision that will need to be made in the future and wanted the board to be informed.
“The state continues to collect it,” Meyer said. “The state continues to send it back to the municipalities exactly the way it is going on now. It’s just that this legal step is required.”
The village needs to let the state know of its intentions by October 1.
According to information supplied by the Will County Governmental League, the tax would amount to $1 for $100 spent.
If the board gives the green light, revenue will continue to go into the budget for maintaining roads and water systems, supporting police, fire and emergency services, and other local needs.
New flagpole and book box coming
Businessman Artie VanBaren donated a 60-foot-flagpole, and the village has started work in erecting it in Firemen’s Park. The pole will be built north of the park’s stage.
Plans are moving forward for a book box to be built in front of the new police station, 250 W. Church St. Residents can drop off books and take books.
Chief lauds Krug
Police administrative assistant Linda Krug is retiring after 27 years, and Chief Terrence Lemming said she will be missed.
“She’s a model employee and a great person to work with,” he said. “She’s a great person and a great employee. She’s dedicated to the village and has always been there for us.”