County Leaders Oppose Costly Expansion of Government

Sangamon County Clerk Don Gray and Treasurer Joe Aiello are urging residents to oppose HB644, a bill they argue would create unnecessary government positions and increase costs for taxpayers. The legislation proposes dissolving Capital Township’s current structure and replacing it with a separate governing body, adding an estimated $695,000 in new salaries and expenses.

“This is exactly what taxpayers don’t want—more government and more politicians that cost more but do nothing to improve services,” Gray said. “This bill would create unnecessary positions, including a township road commissioner for a township with no roads. Total salaries for elected officials could increase by more than 600%, putting an unnecessary burden on taxpayers.”

Gray emphasized that Capital Township currently operates efficiently through intergovernmental agreements with Sangamon County. He noted that his office serves as both Township Clerk and Assessor, reducing costs and eliminating redundancy. Under HB644, those responsibilities would be divided among three separate elected positions.

Aiello echoed these concerns, highlighting the county’s ongoing efforts to streamline government operations. “A bipartisan proposal is already in motion to reduce government waste by eliminating the County Recorder’s office and consolidating its responsibilities—a move that will make local government even more efficient,” Aiello said. “Over the years, we have successfully merged offices like elections, public health, animal control, and 911 dispatch, all to streamline services and save taxpayers money. HB644 does the exact opposite—expanding government when we should be reducing it.”

According to county officials, Capital Township has significantly reduced its tax burden, cutting township taxes by 80% over the past four years while maintaining essential services. They warn that HB644 would reverse this progress by creating costly new government positions with no added benefit to taxpayers.

While the bill was not called at the recent committee meeting, Gray and Aiello remain hopeful they will have the opportunity to testify when and if the bill is heard. They continue to encourage Sangamon County residents to take action by filing witness slips in opposition and contacting their legislators to demand a NO vote.

Residents who wish to oppose the bill can file a witness slip online at this link. To do so, fill out the Identification Section, then enter “Self” in the Representation Section. Under the Position Section, select “Opponent.” In the Testimony Section, choose “Record of Appearance Only.” Finally, agree to the ILGA Terms of Agreement and click “Create Slip” to submit.