C
hicago City Council members are pushing back against Mayor Brandon Johnson's 2025 budget proposal, which includes a $300 million property tax increase. The city faces a $982 million budget shortfall, and council members are urging Johnson to explore alternative revenue sources instead of raising taxes. Budget Director Annette Guzman defended the proposed 4% property tax hike, citing limited options aside from layoffs or service cuts.

    However, at least 37 out of 50 council members appear unwilling to support the tax increase, with Alderman Matt O'Shea questioning whether some colleagues are being dishonest about their opposition. Aldermen Pat Dowell and Byron Sigcho-Lopez suggested reducing managerial positions and pension payments as potential solutions to the budget shortfall.

    Alderman Michael Rodriguez countered that a reduction in pension payments could lead to a credit downgrade, increasing debt service costs by $400 million over five years. The city's chief financial officer, Jill Jaworski, echoed this warning, stating that the proposed payment is essential for fiscal responsibility.