West Frankfort, Ill. – The issue of home rule will appear on the ballot this November in West Frankfort.

The city decided not to appeal a petition by local landlord John Mize to place a question on the ballot asking residents if home rule should cease in West Frankfort.

Home rule allows the town to control more aspects of their finances, but Mize argues it gives city leaders too much power.

He reportedly has an issue with a $438,000 loan given to Morthland College from a local bank. If Morthland defaults, the city will pick up the payments, but officials say the money will come from TIF funds.

Mize is also part of a group suing the city over owner-occupied housing codes that took effect last year.