Updated: May 28, 2028…Brian Falkowski’s response to our request to rescind 1/4% sales tax
By Brian Massie, A Watchman on the Wall
Upon reviewing Laketran’s current balance sheet, I noticed that they continue to have massive cash reserves. As of March, 2026 they had $51,869,601in cash and cash equivalents. Accumulation of cash seems to be a favorite past time of the Lake County taxing authorities.
In addition, Laketran’s “Unrestricted Net Position” (Assets over Liabilities) is $79,860,008. That is very impressive, extremely strong balance sheet.
We contacted Mr. Ben Capelle, Executive Director, and asked that their Board of Trustees rescind their 1/4% sales tax for at least six months. After following up with Mr. Capelle, he indicated that he mentioned it to the Board of Trustees, but did not hear back from them. Therefore, I sent the following email to Mr. Brian Falkowski, Chairman of Laketran’s Board of Trustees.
Mr. Falkowski:
Mr. Capelle indicated that he mentioned to the board about my request to rescind the 1/4% sales tax for an extended period of time because of the massive cash reserves held by Laketran.
Has the board made a decision yet so that I can let the citizens of Lake County know? Inflation, cost of gasoline, food, PROPERTY TAXES, etc. are all creating financial problems for most Lake County residents, especially seniors on a fixed income. We cannot continue on the path of the taxing authorities amassing unneeded cash reserves. We are on an unsustainable path.
Thank you,
Brian Massie
Stay tuned…we will let you know how the Board rules. Do they really support the citizens of Lake County? You will soon find out.
Updated May 28, 2026
Well, here is Mr. Falkowski’s response. He is not aware of any plans to rescind the sales tax levy. Just as we thought, the socialists can NEVER give up their money even it will help the citizens that they claim to support.
They will continue to amass millions to the determent of the citizens of Lake County. The Lake County Commissioners also bear a portion of this blame because they appoint the board members. They recently replaced board member Lane Sheets because he was far too conservative and challenged the decision makers. You must “toe the line” in Lake County, and not “make waves”.
President Brian Falkowski’s response:
Mr. Massie,
Thank you for your note.
At this time, I am not aware of any plans for the Board of Trustees to consider rescinding the voter-approved sales tax levy. As one of nine Trustees, however, I do not speak on behalf of the full Board, and any Trustee may request that a matter be placed on a future agenda for discussion.
If you are interested in a detailed review of Laketran’s financial position, I would be happy to connect you with our CEO, Ben Capelle for a comprehensive discussion. You are also welcome to attend a future Board meeting and share your perspective during the public comment portion.
Thank you again for reaching out and for your interest in Laketran’s operations.
Sincerely,
Brian Falkowski
President, Board of Trustees
Laketran
Categories: Lake County - General