Bolingbrook Voters Say Cut Trash Tax, No To Video Gaming Machines

BOLINGBROOK, IL— With all precincts in Will and DuPage counties reporting, the Village of Bolingbrook appears to have their answers to three non-binding advisory questions. Unofficial totals show most Bolingbrook voters were in favor of trashing a 40 percent garbage collection tax, were not in favor of allowing video gaming in the village and liked the idea of a hotel/motel tax to fund promotion of tourism and leisure in the village.

Here's what voters said about these three, non-binding questions:

Shall the Village of Bolingbrook rescind the approximately 40% tax increase for fees to collect garbage?

• Yes: 6,933
• No: 3,118

Shall the Village of Bolingbrook allow video gaming to operate within the Village of Bolingbrook?

• Yes: 4,551
• No: 5,612

Shall the Village of Bolingbrook use hotel/motel tax revenue to promote tourism, and to support local leisure, recreational and cultural programs and events?

• Yes: 8,050
• No: 2,084

The first question asked whether Bolingbrook should get rid of the 40 percent tax increase that is currently associated with garbage collection. According to an FAQ page from the mayor's office, the Village has never taxed residents for trash collection as it is a service provided. However, the amount it costs to have trash picked up was previously added onto property tax bills, and is now paid separately which caused the price to increase slightly. This was a question posed by citizens and not the Mayor's office.

Stay up to date with election results and local news by subscribing to Patch. Like what you're reading? Invite a friend to sign up for free Bolingbrook newsletters and real-time news alerts.

The second question asked if residents want to allow video gaming to operate within the Village. Video gaming refers to virtual gambling played on machines. Those against video gaming argue that gambling machines reflect poorly on restaurants and businesses where they are present. Those for video gaming think the added income could help relieve bars and restaurants after losses in revenue due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Village would have some control over where gaming machines were allowed.

The last advisory question asked if the Village should use hotel/motel tax revenue to promote tourism and various cultural events. Currently, hotels and motels are taxed and a portion of the funds could be used to support recreational activities and boosting tourism to Bolingbrook. It is unclear if funds would be redirected from any current programs to accomplish this.

Check back in with Patch for updates on referendum questions.