Counties Count!

Housing Pressure Builds: What Illinois Voters Want—and What It Means for Counties

A new statewide poll, first reported by Capitol Fax, reveals overwhelming concern about housing affordability—and strong bipartisan support for legislative action. In this episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, we look at what voters are saying, how proposed solutions like “missing middle” housing could reshape communities, and what it all means for counties navigating the balance between state policy and local control.

Solar Mandates and Diminished Discretion: Reviewing Equity Solar v. Grundy County

In this episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast we break down the landmark appellate decision in Equity Solar Illinois v. County of Grundy, which clarifies the limited role of non-home-rule counties in siting commercial solar facilities. The court affirmed that under the 2023 "Solar Amendments," a county must approve a special use permit if the applicant meets all technical state standards, effectively rendering the board’s role ministerial rather than discretionary. This ruling signals that traditional zoning considerations, such as community compatibility or future municipal expansion plans, are no longer valid grounds for denial if state requirements are met. We explore how the "shall be approved" statutory language strips local boards of their traditional legislative authority to block compliant renewable energy projects. Join us as we discuss the significant implications this loss of local control has for county officials navigating Illinois’ aggressive clean energy mandates.

Affordability, Uncertainty, and the Road Ahead: What to Expect from Illinois’ Spring Legislative Session

As Illinois lawmakers return to Springfield for an election-year legislative session, one theme dominates the conversation: affordability. In this episode of Counties Count, we break down what House and Senate leaders from both parties are signaling for the months ahead — from budget pressures and shrinking federal support to energy policy, insurance regulation, and revenue debates.

From Lincoln to Today: How Thanksgiving Became What It Is

This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast explores the fascinating journey of Thanksgiving as a national holiday, spotlighting President Abraham Lincoln’s pivotal role and the cultural changes that have reshaped the celebration over generations. This interesting journey connects the threads from Illinois history to the Thanksgiving table of today.

The Property Tax Puzzle: Counties, Cashflow, and the CPI Squeeze

In this episode of Counties Count, host Joe McCoy breaks down Illinois’ complex property tax system and how it affects county governments across the state. From the behind-the-scenes administrative role counties play to the challenges of funding essential services under tax caps and regional disparities, we explore why property taxes are both a lifeline and a constraint. Whether you’re a policymaker, public official, or just trying to make sense of your tax bill—this episode sheds light on the structural pressures facing counties and what reform could look like.