Treasurer candidate late on property taxes

The Democratic candidate for Illinois treasurer is being asked to explain why he didn't pay more than $1,800 in back taxes and interest to the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Crain's Chicago Business reported that Champaign state Sen. Michael Frerichs owes the Champaign County treasurer $1,814 in back taxes and interest for his legislative office. The Champaign treasurer's office says the bills date back to 2008.

Frerichs and Senate President John Cullerton say the legislative office shouldn't have been billed because it is used for public purposes. But the Department of Revenue has so far ruled the money is owed.

Frerichs is running for treasurer against Republican Tom Cross of Oswego. Cross says the flap raises issues about Frerich's ability to be an "honest and careful" steward of funds.