Concord Township’s Power Struggle Leaves Residents and Seniors Paying the Price
By Anonymous, Lake County Resident
In Concord Township, a quiet but consequential power struggle is placing an unjust load on local property owners—especially seniors and those on fixed incomes. Despite having grown to nearly 20,000 residents—almost four times the minimum population required to incorporate as a city—Concord remains a township by deliberate choice.
Why? Because in the current township system, two out of the three trustees effectively control all decision-making. This small group of officials can dictate policies, pass legislation, and shape the township’s financial landscape without the checks and balances of a full city government.
As a result, Concord Township relies on property taxes for about 75% of its revenue. This is a staggering and disproportionate burden, especially on seniors and those living on fixed incomes, who feel the pinch of these rising property taxes the most. Instead of transitioning to a more balanced system—such as incorporating and adopting a modest income tax that a city might implement—the trustees choose to preserve the township model to maintain their grip on power.
In other words, this is about control. The trustees would rather preserve their authority than ease the financial strain on the people they were elected to serve. And in doing so, they’re making life harder for the most vulnerable members of the community.
It’s time for Concord residents to reclaim their voice. Let’s incorporate and take away these local dictators’ control over our township. The future of our community belongs in the hands of its people—not a ruling few clinging to outdated power.
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Categories: Concord, Lake County - General, Lake County Cities & Townships