News Local/State

State Sen., Treasurer Candidate Frerichs Late On Property Taxes

By The Associated Press
 

A candidate for Illinois treasurer, Champaign Sen. Mike Frerichs is being asked to explain why he didn't pay more than $1,800 in back taxes and interest to the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Crain's Chicago Business reports that Champaign Democratic Sen. Michael Frerichs owes the Champaign County Treasurer $1,814 in back taxes and interest for his legislative office at the Illinois Terminal in Champaign.

The Treasurer's office says the bills date back to 2008.  
 
Frerichs and Senate President John Cullerton say that office legally shouldn't have been billed because the office is used for public purposes.

But the Department of Revenue has so far ruled the money is owed.
 
Frerichs is bidding for treasurer against Republican Tom Cross of Oswego. Cross says the flap raises issues about Frerich's ability to be an "honest and careful'' steward of funds.