Lake County Board candidate John Muellner issued a public response opposing the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act—commonly referred to as the RTA bailout—following public support for the legislation by his opponent, Antioch Trustee and Lake County Board candidate Jose Martinez.
Martinez publicly praised the measure, which restructures regional transit governance and provides expanded funding for Chicago-area transit systems. Muellner, however, warned that the legislation would come at a significant cost to Lake County residents.
According to Muellner, the RTA bailout will result in tens of millions of dollars in lost road funding for Lake County each year, as existing transportation revenues are redirected away from local infrastructure and toward Chicago-focused transit operations.
Muellner also raised concerns about representation under the new governance structure. The newly created NITA board will consist of 20 members, with only one representative from Lake County, despite the county’s substantial financial contribution.
“With only one seat at the table, Lake County will have virtually no say in how its money is spent,” Muellner stated.
In addition to the loss of road funding, Muellner pointed to direct financial impacts on residents, including:
- A 0.25% increase in the regional sales tax
- A $0.45 increase in tolls
- Increased pressure on local governments, including the Lake County Board, to raise additional taxes—potentially including future gas tax increases
Muellner argued that these funding shifts and tax increases will disproportionately affect collar county residents while benefiting Chicago-centric transit systems.
He further contrasted his position with that of Jose Martinez, stating that elected officials seeking countywide office should prioritize the interests of Lake County taxpayers over political alliances tied to Chicago-based institutions.
“If my opponent truly wanted to act in the best interest of Lake County, he would oppose the diversion of our road funds, oppose tax increases, and oppose toll hikes,” Muellner said.
Muellner concluded by stating that he strongly opposes the RTA bailout, calling it detrimental to Lake County communities, including Antioch, Lindenhurst, Old Mill Creek, and Wadsworth.
“This issue highlights a clear difference between the candidates,” Muellner said. “I am focused on representing the people of Lake County District One—not political insiders, unions, or interests centered in Chicago.”
Muellner also indicated that he plans to release a more detailed video statement on the issue later this weekend.
For more perspectives on current events, explore conservative news or share your views with conservative memes.