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Chicago Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
Column: Property tax exemption issue could put disabled vet's Fox Valley home at risk
Few homeowners look forward to getting that property tax bill in the mail every spring, especially when the bottom line contains a number higher than the previous year. But no one could have been more surprised — and discouraged — than Kyle Moser, who saw that amount go from zero to $7,049. Moser is a double amputee U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was awarded two Purple Hearts for injuries sustained in November of 2011 during combat operations in Afghanistan. After suffering a concussion from a bomb hitting his vehicle, 10 days later while leading his squad on foot patrol, the young corporal from Oswego stepped on an IED and lost both legs above the knee, while also permanently injuring his right hand and arm. All of which resulted in a more than three-year rehabilitation stay at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. But here's where another big hit comes, this one financial and more local: Under Illinois state law, veterans with at least 70% service-connected disability have not been required to pay property taxes on homes up to $750,000. But as inflation upped values on homes, more veterans were being excluded from that exemption, and so the law was amended last year to allow eligible veterans to only have to pay taxes on the difference between $750,000 and their assessed valuations. Which would not have impacted Moser because his ranch house in an unincorporated area near Batavia, a specially-adapted home built for him six years ago by former NFL player Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors, had been appraised in 2023 at $720,258. With inflated real estate values, however, the Batavia Township Assessor's Office last year raised that assessed valuation to $1,042,175, which requires Moser to pay taxes on the almost $300,000 difference past the exemption cap of $750,000. Moser was shocked when he received a bill for $7,064.98 this spring, a financial whammy that hit particularly hard as he's also going through a divorce that, he says, is taking a third of his disability pay for alimony and child support. In fact, the money situation became so dire that last year Moser started a GoFundMe account because, as he wrote on the crowdfunding website, 'mathematically this is putting me on a path of bankruptcy.' Moser insists he never received any information about changes in the Veterans with Disabilities Homestead Exemption, nor does he recall receiving notification last September of an assessment adjustment, which gives taxpayers 30 days to file an appeal. The updated statute is based on the notion that disabled veterans owning more expensive homes should be able to pay the difference, say officials. Which makes some sense. But that reasoning does not apply to Moser, whose home was given to him for the sacrifices he made in defense of this country, points out state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, a Marine veteran herself who serves as vice-chair of the Illinois Veterans Affairs Committee. Plus, the fact the ranch house is modified for his needs does not make it as marketable, and if anything, she said, 'that should mean a lower appraisal.' Batavia Township Assessor Tammy Kavanaugh is aware of Moser's unique and unfortunate situation, but insists his home was 'brought up to fair market value' and that there is little she can do because there was no appeal and she's obliged to follow state statute. But Kifowit isn't buying the first part of that argument, pointing to comparisons of other homes in Moser's neighborhood, including a large executive-style house that has a square-foot appraisal far below Moser's home but is twice as large. 'It's as if Kyle himself is being discriminated against because his home is modified,' she said. There are of course factual errors that can be made on property value assessments, officials say. 'As I understand their concern, I will review the value for these properties,' said Kavanaugh, also pointing out that Moser's ranch home must be compared to other ranch styles. That aside, the Batavia Township assessor, expressing empathy for Moser and a willingness to help wherever she can, told me 'I do believe legislation should be changed. … Your disability should not be tied to a tax bill beyond what you can afford.' While the 2024 changes have given some tax relief to more disabled veterans, increased property values the last five years means more are falling into similar situations, according to Kane County Supervisor of Assessments Mark Armstrong, particularly in less-populated Illinois counties that tend to have a higher percentage go into the military and return home after service. The good news is that Moser's predicament has made officials more aware of the flaws in the current law, and Kifowit, who is clearly upset with the situation, says she will 'push for a legislative fix,' if possible. At the very least, she told me, there should be more than a 30-day window to appeal an assessment notice, which would be beneficial even for 'average people who don't understand the process and how it can impact their property bill. 'Imagine how hard it could be for a disabled veteran with a lot going on,' she said. More positive news, at least short term, is that when notified of Moser's tax obligation, the Allen J. Lynch Medal of Honor Veterans Foundation sent a check for $3,600 to pay for the first installment of this wounded warrior's bill, with Medal of Honor recipient Lynch noting 'we hope that this can be corrected as soon as possible so Kyle does not have to fear' losing the home that was custom-built for his needs. 'We are grateful for partners like the Lynch Foundation for supporting our veterans,' said Jake Zimmerman, supervisor of the Kane County Veterans Assistance Commission who has been working to resolve this issue. 'I don't know how a property like Kyle's can increase in value by more than $300,000 in a single year, but I do know Kyle has given enough for our country,' Zimmerman said. 'And we're going to make sure he is taken care of.'
Entrepreneur
02-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Social Equity in Action: The Real Impact of Work in the Cannabis Industry
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Michael Halow is more than a social equity advocate and multi-sector entrepreneur; he is an architect of structural repair. He achieves this quietly by dismantling systemic barriers beneath the surface. Halow's approach is like an engineer's: focused, patient, and deeply embedded in the back-end systems that move change forward. Halow has made a name for himself in the cannabis industry. He hopes to grow the industry by passing his knowledge to underrepresented individuals. From Conviction to Construction Halow is an influential leader in the cannabis industry, boasting over 15 years of comprehensive experience. He is also profoundly committed to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the sector. Although it is easy to highlight Halow's numerous accomplishments, his most fulfilling work comes through his philanthropic efforts. His community initiatives and educational endeavors, such as Tech My School, allow Halow to organize charitable events benefiting esteemed organizations like Toys for Tots, El Paso Children's Hospital, and Wounded Warriors. Halow also donates his time volunteering at Mostly Monkeys, a respected animal sanctuary. The Invisible Work Halow is adept at reverse-engineering policy red tape and financing candidates himself. He also creates step-by-step infrastructures, including application templates, legal prep systems, and lease networks that people cannot see but rely on. The heart of his company is creating pathways to success and empowerment within the cannabis industry, particularly for individuals from marginalized communities. Through social equity partnerships, Halow and his team transform lives by supporting those with cannabis convictions, guiding them through the application process, and allowing them to own and operate dispensaries across numerous states. This community vision builds thriving businesses and fosters real change and inclusivity in the industry. The Philosophy of Second Chances Halow's background in MMA and his studies in criminal justice shape how he approaches his businesses and life today. His past and contributory work have built his social equity philosophy by linking discipline, endurance, and empathy for redemption that resonates with the mentees he guides. Holding numerous cannabis licenses spanning multiple states, Halow serves as the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Investing in the Future, where he orchestrates strategic initiatives aimed at propelling the industry forward. Halow incorporates his academic and growing background to help pave the way to success for others, which is the core of his business philosophy. His message and mentorship extend beyond local borders, with a hope to change other state laws and influence others on how to succeed as entrepreneurs, even if there are specific legal roadblocks. Future Blueprints Halow aims to transform the cannabis industry by designing a blueprint for others to adopt in new states or industries. He has a diverse background in the business, including an esteemed tenure as a Master Grower and invaluable contributions as a sought-after consultant. Today, Halow's focus is championing social equity within the cannabis landscape, offering valuable mentorship, resources, and support to empower underrepresented candidates through licensing. His steadfast dedication to cultivating a vibrant, inclusive business ecosystem underscores his unwavering commitment to driving positive change.
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Graham Academy students take over top Wilkes-Barre positions
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — In celebration of April's World Autism Awareness Month, a group of students got to experience first-hand what it's like to be a city leader. A group of students from the Graham Academy took over the top positions in the city of Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday. Each student sported a sash with their new title: Mayor, police chief, fire chief, and city councilman. All were sworn in before heading out to their respective offices. 'Our Light It Up Blue event is to bring awareness to the community for children and students who are going through the daily routine of having autism,' said Graham Academy Regional Director Carol McGrane. 13-year-old Aiden Temple, the honorary Mayor of Wilkes-Barre, got right to work in the mayor's office. He requested a sparkling water before the questions started flying in. Cruzin' the Square Car show returns for 2025 'These are cameras that we have in the city. Do you think maybe I can get another 20 cameras like this?' Rob Slicker with Wilkes-Barre Parking Enforcement asked. 'Maybe?' Aiden replied. It was a tough call. When 'Mayor Aiden' gathered more information, his answer changed. 'It costs us nothing,' Slicker said. 'Then yes,' Aiden stated. Mayor George Brown says this is the fifth year the Graham Academy has partnered with the city of Wilkes-Barre for Light It Up Blue Day. 'It's a wonderful way to make it a special day for these great people and see what the future might be like. I just love it,' Mayor Brown said. Each student's family was also along for the big day. 'It's exciting, I'm sure he's nervous, but it's very exciting. It's a big position for him to be in for him,' Aiden's Dad, Jason Hawkey, said. Aiden was asked 'So what are your plans as Mayor? What would you like to do?' 'Help the homeless and the homeless animals,' Aiden replied. Archery club's PA Wounded Warriors fundraiser Honorary Police Chief Connor Jacukowicz hit the lights and sirens on the police cruiser. The 14-year-old hopped in the passenger seat to take a ride around the Diamond City. 'I want to help the city,' Conner stated. Police Chief Connor also made a few requests in the mayor's office. '20 police cars?' Connor asked. 'You want the mayor to buy 20 new police cars?' Mayor Brown asked. 'Yes?' Conner replied. The two leaders were able to work together to come to a compromise. 'What about 11?' Aiden proposed. 'Good,' Conner stated. This year's Light It Up Blue event for Autism Awareness will be held on Sunday, May 4. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
