Doing the work, being accountable, and showing up to lead – those are the tenets of Liz’s work as Treasurer.
Proven Results
Precise Tax Collection
Successfully managed the collection, distribution, and reporting of more than $90 million in property tax revenue with fine-toothed-comb accuracy each year.
Investing for a Better Jackson County
Increased county interest revenue from an annual average of $25,000 to $300,000 or more annually through conscientious investment strategies.
Modern Solutions
Implemented an online payment system for property taxes as well as for various other county fines and fees.
Preventing Fraud and Delivering Faster
Switched all 100 taxing districts receiving property tax revenue to ACH deposits to reduce risk of fraud, cut down on lost checks, and get deposits faster.
More Transparency
Expanded transparency by providing clear, consistent financial reporting to the County Board and building website content to share with the public.
Added Flexibility
Changed the number of days between property tax due dates to 60 days (from 30) and added an online property tax pre-payment option so that taxpayers can pay what they can, when they can.
Accountability
Accountability to the public is at the core of Liz Stevenson’s work as Jackson County Treasurer. She is committed to making sure taxpayer dollars are handled with accuracy, transparency, and care, while providing clear, accessible information about how funds are collected and distributed. By maintaining strong financial practices and working closely with the County Board and other offices, Liz ensures that decisions are made openly and responsibly so residents can hold their local government accountable.
Key improvements:
- Expanded transparency by providing clear, consistent financial reports of monthly cash balances, monthly revenues and expenses, as well as cash flow projection to the County Board and the public.
- Strengthened internal controls with updated policies and procedures to ensure accurate handling and tracking of public funds.
- Worked collaboratively with auditors to ensure clean, accurate, and timely audits in compliance with the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB).
- Increased oversight and clarity around non-routine deposits and revenue classification.
- Prioritized responsiveness and follow-through with taxpayers, districts, and county offices
Leadership
★★★★★
Liz Stevenson’s leadership extends well beyond her role as Treasurer, with years of active involvement in organizations that strengthen communities across Jackson County and Illinois. She has served on boards, committees, and leadership teams focused on public service, rural development, healthcare collaboration, and professional advancement. From leading the Rotary Club of Carbondale Breakfast as President to serving in statewide roles with the Illinois County Treasurers’ Association, Liz brings practical experience, collaboration, and a steady approach to leadership. Her work reflects a consistent commitment to building partnerships, supporting local communities, and helping organizations operate effectively and responsibly.
Golden Rainbows of Illinois South (GRIS)
Treasurer · Jan 2023 – Present
GRIS’ mission is to support members of our 50+ LGBTQ community and those aging with HIV in Southern Illinois. Many LGBTQ elders face barriers to equitable legal, health, housing, medical, and social services, and as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, GRIS is committed to improving their health, well-being, and sense of purpose through advocacy, education, and meaningful engagement.
Illinois Women’s Institute for Leadership Training Academy
Executive Board Member · Jan 2023 – Present
Committees: Communications, Programming, Budget
Delegate: 2017
The Illinois Women’s Institute for Leadership Training Academy (IWILTA) is a hands-on training program that prepares women across Illinois to run for public office and serve effectively in government. The program brings together women from diverse backgrounds for an intensive experience focused on campaign strategy, messaging, fundraising, and leadership development, while also building a strong network of women leaders across the state.
HopeTrust Health Options for Public Entities
Executive Board · Jan 2021 – Present
Vice-Chair: 2023 – Present
The H.O.P.E. Trust (Health Options for Public Entities) was created by a group of four founding Illinois counties which banded together in 2012 to create an innovative alternative to both traditional commercial insurance markets and self-funded health plans. By having local governmental entities partner together for the purpose of creating a larger pool of insured individuals, the Trust is able to negotiate better insurance rates for the group participants in the Trust while still maintaining a variety of plan options and personalized service.
Illinois County Treasurers’ Association
Member – Oct 2019 – Present
Secretary · 2025
President Elect – 2026
Illinois County Treasurers’ Association Zone 1
Member – Oct 2019 – Present
Secretary and Treasurer 2020-2023
Chair 2024 – 2025
Rural Partners | The Voice of Rural Illinois
Board of Directors · Jan 2020 – Present
Rural Partners is a member-driven forum that links individuals, businesses, organizations and communities with public and private resources to maximize the potential of rural Illinois.
Rotary Club of Carbondale Breakfast
Member & Past President · Jan 2018 – Present
Treasurer 2019-2021
Vice President 2021
President Elect 2022 President 2023
Carbondale Township
Trustee · Oct 2016 – Present
Government Financial Officers Association
Member · 2016 – Present
United Counties Council of Illinois
Member · May 2015 – Oct 2019
Jackson County Board
Member · May 2015 – Oct 2019