Wait till it's too late

Lifetime Illinoisan and 46-year resident of Arlington Heights. Family are career educators. A lifetime of hearing, "taxes are bad." Tony Accardo to King Madigan, Illinois has been hostage to criminals. Theft, legal stealing under laws created to hide/protect the theft or boldface stickups in the middle of the day are the Illinois way. One constant; blame someone else, cheer when others are snared and press 100% to keep the focus on, "the one who got caught" - because it wasn't them yet.

Programs are accidents in Illinois. Any idea sparks counter opinions designed to garner voter agreement and reelection. Morals, cost and blame enter every idea to appeal to voters. The nuclear option - "your taxes will go up" - is invoked to stop progress.

The most beautiful racecourse in the world, which has contributed hundreds of millions to education, local economies and taxes is going away. Decades of community efforts and two votes to put slots at the track were rebuffed, until every surrounding state, local bar and deli in Illinois reaped the economic benefits of slots, Too late.

Medical marijuana, then recreational pot OK'd in many states. Illinois - nope. Until it was too late.

Today, Illinois legislators (after thorough investigation of buzz words; taxes, morals and the ability for self enrichment) say no, to the possibility of public money to save one of the largest economic engine possibilities in Illinois.

Next time incumbents campaign, remember, these Mensa members publicly funded the White Sox and Bears, who generate zero for Illinoisans except an annual bill. Until the elected are guaranteed a theft avenue, they'll "wait till it's too late."

Alan P. Murdoch

Arlington Heights