CHICAGO (WLS) — Mayor Brandon Johnson is expected to craft a city budget for next year, which will likely call for property tax increases.
The city faces a $1 billion budget deficit.
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Johnson’s budget proposal must be approved by the City Council, and more than a dozen councilors have already written a letter asking the mayor to “reject property tax increases” that are “unpopular with voters.” It is said to be a “start”.
In the letter, the aldermen also asked the mayor to renew the contract with ShotSpotter, create a new Southwest Side Police District, maintain the CPD budget and finalize the firefighter contract.
The proposed property tax increases come after many people are already paying more taxes due to higher assessed values, and any property tax increases that CPS may impose This will be added to.
Chicago residents ABC7 spoke to said they were frustrated after hearing they could potentially pay more in property taxes.
“I’m really disappointed,” said Chicago homeowner Terrin Leake. “I still love my city, but I question its leadership at this time.”
“I think people are moving out of the city for these reasons, and if this kind of behavior continues, it’s going to get worse,” said Nilisha Patel, a Chicago homeowner.
City leaders are scheduled to hold two weeks of budget hearings starting next week.
By law, the budget must be passed by December 31st.
For the mayor… raising property taxes means breaking a campaign promise.
He is scheduled to deliver a budget speech at 10 a.m.
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