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Cook County board approves ordinance to grant surviving‑spouse property tax abatements
Summary
The board approved an ordinance implementing surviving‑spouse property tax abatements under section 74‑47 of the Cook County Code, with commissioners clarifying the process and noting two names were being added this cycle.
The Cook County Board of Commissioners voted to approve an ordinance implementing surviving‑spouse property‑tax abatements pursuant to section 74‑47 of the Cook County Code and to accept an exhibit listing qualifying properties.
The Board of Review presented findings that applicants met the ordinance’s qualifications — including that each decedent died in the line of duty as a police officer, firefighter, rescue worker or member of the U.S. Armed Forces — and recommended abatements of 100% of the Cook County portion of property taxes for qualifying residential properties. The ordinance directs the county clerk’s office to provide the certified ordinance to the Board of Review and to process the exhibit for the individuals listed.
During discussion, Commissioner Diggs asked how the two‑step process works; a county official explained that the county clerk is responsible for certifying the ordinance and providing it to the Board of Review. The board noted the ordinance is processed annually and that two additional individuals were being added to the list at today’s meeting.
The board approved suspension of the rules to consider the ordinance directly, then approved the ordinance by voice vote. The action takes effect upon certification and placement in the official records.
Next steps: the county clerk will certify the ordinance and provide required documentation to the Board of Review so abatements can be reflected in tax records.
