A
lderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez's plan to expand the Pilsen tax increment financing (TIF) district is facing opposition from community members and some of his colleagues. Despite being a progressive voice who has criticized TIFs in the past, Sigcho-Lopez argues that expanding the district will help fund public works and alleviate rising property taxes for residents.

    However, signs along Ashland Avenue read "Pilsen no se vende se defiende | No TIF expansion | Pilsen is not for sale," reflecting community frustration. Under his proposal, the Pilsen TIF district would grow by over 685 acres, capturing nearly $1 billion in property tax revenues over a decade.

    About $440 million of this budget would go towards public works such as school repairs and affordable housing projects. Yet, many remain skeptical, including Alderperson Nicole Lee, who expressed concerns about the expansion's size and scope. Others, like Alderperson Julia Ramirez, are unsure how the expanded TIF would benefit nearby neighborhoods.

    Critics argue that Pilsen's growth and rising property values make it an unsuitable candidate for TIF funds, which are intended to spur development in "blighted" areas. Tenant organizer Javier Ruiz notes that TIFs divert property taxes from essential services like CPS and Cook County, regardless of their intended use.