1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing about the CTA bail out plan that includes increasing property taxes by 600% on only suburban properties. For what it's worth, I myself have been unemployed for almost 6 months barely surviving on UI benefits. My property also has an expensive repair coming up soon that is mandated by village ordinance that I am unable to pay. I have been going to the food bank monthly along with getting $38 monthly in SNAP benefits. A property tax increase would completely wipe me out and would likely force me to sell. I do not want to sell my home or have a tax lien placed on it so it could be stolen from under me. I am not the only one in a difficult situation. And while I lived in Chicago and understand the financial difficulties of its residents, there needs to be some more equitable way of raising funds. You've already increased the gas tax which disproportionately affects more suburban residents than city residents. I am a huge proponent of public transportation and the CTA in particular. When I lived in the city, it was the only way I traveled. Real talk: Consider cutting your salaries. I'm not kidding. Maybe not everyone in the legislature, but those representing Chicagoland. This won't solve the whole burden, but it will lessen the burden on all of us, especially those struggling.