Chicago City Wire

Terry Nguyen Le, a candidate for House District 13, has proposed measures aimed at strengthening the local economy. In an interview, he said that cutting commercial property taxes, offering targeted job-creation incentives, and investing in workforce training would be beneficial.

"I am committed to driving economic development and job growth in Illinois' 13th District by fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts investment and creates opportunities," said Nguyen Le. "First, I'd advocate for reducing the state's high commercial property taxes and regulatory burdens, which deter small businesses and startups from thriving. Second, I support targeted incentives, like tax credits for businesses that create jobs in high-unemployment areas of the district, ensuring economic growth benefits all residents. Third, I'd push for investments in workforce development programs, partnering with local industries to provide vocational training and apprenticeships that align with market needs, equipping workers for sustainable careers."

Illinois’ 13th House District on Chicago’s North Side faces several economic development challenges. According to the Illinois Policy Institute, these include high commercial property taxes and rising operating costs. However, the district also benefits from strong demographics, transit access, and real estate demand that support growth. Chicago businesses face commercial property tax rates more than twice the national city average, which discourages expansion despite the district’s educated workforce and entrepreneurial base.

Commercial property tax rates in Illinois are among the highest in the nation. The Lincoln Institute of Land Policy reports that Chicago’s effective rate on commercial properties reached 4.08% in 2023. This is more than double the average of 1.81% across major U.S. cities and is a factor that undermines business competitiveness while contributing to Illinois’ economic challenges.

Unemployment data for Illinois’ legislative districts, including House District 13, is tracked by the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). These dashboards provide local labor market information; however, detailed statistics on small business growth at the district level are limited, making it harder to assess entrepreneurial activity specific to District 13.

Nguyen Le is a Chicago-born son of Vietnamese war refugees and a U.S. Army veteran who represents a new generation of leadership grounded in service and grit. His experience spans caregiving, small business management, manufacturing, restaurant management, and casino operations, along with years of community volunteering. He is running for State Representative with goals to lower taxes, cut wasteful spending, strengthen public safety, and expand school choice—especially for working-class and low-income families. He advocates pension and transparency reforms to stabilize Illinois’ finances, spur job growth, and restore trust in government.

The Illinois House of Representatives is part of the General Assembly's lower chamber consisting of 118 members elected to two-year terms without limits. According to the Illinois General Assembly website, this body works with the Senate and governor to pass laws and budgets. House District 13 covers neighborhoods such as Uptown, Edgewater, and Lake View on Chicago’s North Side.