Endorsement: The Daily Herald backs Jesiel over Mason for Illinois House District 61

Property tax relief is a key issue in Illinois House District 61, which encompasses the northeast tip of Lake County. Both candidates share the belief that the tax burden must change to encourage economic growth and to stop residents and businesses from moving out of state.

Incumbent Shari Jesiel, a Republican from Winthrop Harbor, says moving education funding away from property taxes and eliminating unfunded mandates will lead to tax relief and encourage economic development. Democratic challenger Joyce Mason, a Woodland Elementary Dist. 50 board member from Gurnee, proposes a freeze on property taxes, as well as a change in state funding for education. While both are strong candidates, Jesiel has shown a commitment to the district and Lake County, and therefore gets our nod.