Chicago City Council Rejects $300M Property Tax Hike in Unanimous Vote

The City Council voted 50-0 against Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposed $300 million property tax hike. Johnson had argued that the tax increase was essential to closing a $1 billion gap in the city budget, aiming to prevent layoffs and cuts to city services. “We’re not cutting services,” Johnson said at a press conference. “Which day do you think Chicagoans want police, firefighters, or sanitation workers off the job? Tell me the day.” But public frustration has been building. After a recent property tax reassessment and with additional costs expected from Chicago Public Schools, homeowners citywide were alarmed at the thought of yet another increase. A letter from 29 aldermen opposing Johnson’s plan sparked this special meeting, yet no other budget solutions have been laid out. Alderman Bill Conway of the 34th Ward called for the city to look at its own expenses first. “We can’t keep going back to taxpayers without doing our homework. We need to make sure the city is efficient before asking for more,” he said. Behind closed doors, aldermen have discussed other revenue options, like tweaking alcohol, cigarette, and garbage collection fees. Budget Committee Chairman Jason Ervin hinted that a property tax increase might still be...