When assessment data is missing or wrong, the system doesn’t correct itself—it shifts costs onto taxpayers, often forcing families to pay more than they should when tax bills are issued each year.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

I bring nearly three decades of experience in both the public and private sectors, collecting and maintaining the data used to value real estate. Today’s tools for managing large data sets are far more advanced than when I began my career. Cook County taxpayers deserve competent, experienced, professional leadership that delivers accurate assessments—and earns public trust.

That’s why we will:

• Restore field inspectors to the staffing levels that existed before the incumbent cut their ranks.

• End the practice of ignoring building permit data that is shared with the Assessor’s Office.

• Invest in training and professional development so frontline staff can provide accurate information quickly and consistently.

Right now, nearly 40% of property record cards and building sketches—essential components of an accurate assessment—are missing. Without accurate property descriptions, it is impossible to produce credible valuations. A random sample of residential data used in Cook County assessments shows errors far beyond professional standards, making the incumbent’s assessments unreliable and untrustworthy.

And the human impact is devastating.

Taxpayers in North Lawndale, West Garfield Park, Austin, West Pullman, and Englewood are rightfully outraged by the incumbent’s decision to double assessed values. Many households cannot absorb such a sudden increase, and too many are now facing delinquency—and the risk of property tax foreclosure. South suburban Cook County experienced the same kind of assessment spike last year. In some communities, 40% or more of homeowners are already behind on payments, with foreclosure looming.

If a taxpayer has not seen their market value double over the past three years, they should not be forced to endure a doubling of their assessed value. This is especially true in our poorest and most vulnerable neighborhoods.

Assessment accuracy matters. We cannot afford four more years of the status quo.