C
hicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is set to unveil a budget plan that addresses the city's $982 million deficit without resorting to union layoffs. Instead, the proposal relies on property tax increases and surplus funds from tax-increment financing districts, according to sources at City Hall. This approach aims to maintain labor support in the City Council, where 26 votes are needed for approval.

    Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez has voiced his backing for Johnson's plan, attributing the city's financial struggles to decades of "mismanagement" and missed revenue opportunities. However, not everyone is on board, with Alderman Timmy Knudsen criticizing the reliance on property tax hikes without sufficient cuts in spending.

    Johnson's budget proposal also relies heavily on TIF surplus funds, which could reach over $500 million to help bridge the shortfall. A portion of this money will go towards Chicago Public Schools, which is seeking additional funding for pension and labor costs. The City Council's approval hinges on Johnson balancing fiscal demands with calls from the Progressive Caucus for $75 million in funding for city programs like housing, childcare, and violence prevention initiatives.

    Alderman Maria Hadden, co-chair of the Progressive Caucus, emphasized the importance of these programs, which have become essential to Chicagoans' quality of life. The stakes are high, as many of these services were previously funded through federal relief, making Johnson's allocation choices crucial for their continuation.