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Kane County officials approved two new tax measures aimed at shoring up next year’s budget — one on fuel, another on groceries.
Both will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Gas tax hike proposal
The board green-lit a plan to raise the county motor fuel tax from 5¢ to 8¢ per gallon, despite pushback from some members and residents.
One supporter said the 3-cent bump will cost the average driver about $14–15 per year while generating more than $6 million for the county.
Opponents argued that the hike would still leave the county’s transportation department several million dollars short and add to already high fuel costs for residents.
County grocery tax proposal
The board approved another ordinance to create a county “grocery retailers occupation tax” — essentially keeping in place the 1% state grocery tax that expires at the end of the year.
The tax applies to unincorporated areas of Kane County, where gas-station markets and small convenience stores are more common than typical grocery stores.
One official said it’s roughly estimated to raise between $60,000 and $400,000 annually for the county’s general fund.
The proposal passed despite pushback suggesting that it effectively re-imposes a statewide tax voters thought would be ending in 2026.
What it means
Some residents criticized budget growth and argued for spending cuts before tax hikes, raising concerns about inflation and “taxing families to death.”
A few speakers defended the board, pointing to public safety and judicial services as core needs that require funding.
Watch the full meeting recording.
Read more about the county’s budget issues in this Aurora Beacon-News article.
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